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Dalhousie

Dalhousie

Popular Himachal Pradesh hill resort Dalhousie offers vistas of the Dhauladhar range’s snow-capped peaks. Dalhousie is well known for its waterfalls, lush vegetation, and meadows. Families and couples on honeymoons particularly enjoy it.

The Lord Dalhousie Valley, which bore his name and was one of the British colonists’ favourite summer vacation spots, was founded in 1854. Dalhousie offers a titillating old-world ambience, breathtaking misty mountains, pine-covered valleys, and captivating natural scenery. Churches’ Scottish and Victorian styles serve as a reminder of their colonial past.

Woollen Himachali shawls, Tibetan crafts, Chamba handkerchiefs, and other accoutrements are very popular in Dalhousie. The town’s primary market, The Mall Road, is where you can get these.

You have to have Khajjiar on your schedule if you’re going to Dalhousie. Khajjiar, sometimes known as the Little Switzerland of India, is only 21 kilometres distant. The tiny hill hamlet is renowned for its breathtaking views of mountains covered in snow and lush green meadows. The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary in Khajjiar is renowned for its magnificent collection of critically endangered animals and breathtaking mountain scenery. Nearly 50 kilometres away from Dalhousie, Chamba is also worth seeing.

Places to visit

Overview of Panchpula

Panchpula, a well-liked picnic area in Dalhousie, is 3.5 miles from Gandhi Chowk and is surrounded by a canopy of lush pine and deodar trees. It is best known for Burma Bridge, Saptdhara Waterfall, the beginning of the Ganji Pahari Trek, and adventures like ziplining.

In honour of the heroic revolutionary, Sardar Ajit Singh (the uncle of Martyr Bhagat Singh), who passed away here, a Samadhi (monument) is constructed next to Panchpula.

Activities in Panchpula

  1. Local Snacks: Take advantage of the adjacent booths and restaurants’ offerings of local snacks and tea.
  2. Trekking: Panchpula serves as the starting point for a variety of fun excursions to Dalhousie and other neighbouring locations. The Panchpula to Ganji Pahari trek is the most well-traveled route.
  3. Ziplining: Prices range from INR 300-500 for 300 m to INR 1000 for 1 kilometre.

Khajjiar Tourism “Mini Switzerland of India

Khajjiar, a little village near Dalhousie (20 km away), is frequently referred to as the “mini-Switzerland of India” and is a fantastic destination for a day trip or overnight stay. For its picture-perfect green meadows, Khajjiar is renowned. A tiny lake sits in the heart of the meadow, where you may relax by yourself or engage in adventurous activities like paragliding, zorbing, and horseback riding.

Khajjiar, which is situated at an elevation of 6,500 feet, is also well-known for its nine-hole golf course, which is surrounded by rich vegetation and a stunning scenery. However, due to excessive snowfall, the road to Khajjiar may occasionally be closed throughout the winter. 

Many nations over the years, notably the Rajputs and Mughals, have been tremendously impacted and inspired by the captivating beauty of this location. Since it was constructed in the 12th century, the Khajji Nag temple has drawn a following of followers.

Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary

The Kalatop Species Sanctuary is made up of dense deodar trees, a wide variety of wildlife, snow-capped mountains, carpets of verdant grasslands, and attractive streams of fresh water. It is situated in the Himachal Pradesh state’s gorgeous hills Chamba district and is also known as the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary.

The name Kalatop, which translates to “black cap,” alludes to the dense, dark forest cover that covers the sanctuary’s highest mountaintop. It is reputed to be abundant in flora and fauna and is located on the river Ravi just a few kilometres from the Chamba dam and Chamera reservoir. North of the sanctuary, hundreds of little freshwater streams empty into the Ravi river.

Great nature walks can be had on the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary’s well-maintained walking and hiking trails.

  1. Be cautious of the bears in the region before visiting Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary.
  2. To drive into and remain in the protected area, you must obtain authorization from the District Forest Officer, Chamba.
  3. The forest department doesn’t provide any guided excursions.
  4. If you want to see the area, Dalhousie’s taxi services are simple to use.

Highlights of the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary

Trekking

From Dalhousie to the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, many people go on hiking expeditions. The well-planned hiking pathways wind among massive deodar, fir, oak, and rhododendron trees, creating a scene straight out of a fairy tale.

Sunset Viewpoint

From the mysterious sunset perspective at the summit of the sanctuary, views of the towering and beautiful Pir Panjal range are delightful.

  1. Adventure Park The sanctuary has a little adventure park that is great for kids to enjoy themselves.
  2. Foods There is a tiny canteen inside the animal sanctuary where you may enjoy some regional snacks and tea. Pakoras, chai, and Maggi are essential.
  3. The Forest Inn

There is a modest guesthouse inside the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary. Its inclusion in the Bollywood film “Lootera” is what makes it intriguing and well-liked.

Wildlife at the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary

The exotic wildlife refuge is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Black bears, Himalayan black martens, barking gorals, leopards, wild cats, deer, serow (a goat-like/antelope-like creature), and other animals live in the woodland area. An ornithologist’s paradise, the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of aviary species, including the Eurasian jay, chestnut-billed thrush, blackbird, grey-headed canary, pheasant, and Himalayan monal

Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary’s past

The area was well-known as the Chamba monarchs’ hunting and recreational grounds while the princely kingdoms were ruled by the British. The region that makes up the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary was designated as a natural reserve in the early 1960s, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that efforts were made to safeguard and maintain the pristine environment. The lush paradise has always been an open forest refuge, with no barriers preventing animals from entering or leaving the region.

The Ideal Season to Visit the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary

Aside from the rainy season, when travelling might be difficult, the summer months of March to May are when the forest area is at its greenest. From September forward, the post-monsoon season is pleasant and a good time to take advantage of all that nature has to offer.

How to Get to the Sanctuary at Kalatop Khajjiar

The significant hill station and tourist town of Dalhousie is the nearest nearby major settlement to Kalatop Khajjiary Sanctuary, and it is located 8 kilometres away. To enter the forest area, take a taxi from Dalhousie and drive to the Karelnu road or onto the Chamba/Khajjiar route.

Overview of Satdhara Falls

Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh is home to the magnificent Satdhara Falls. Fantastic vistas of the Chamba valley, including snow-capped mountains and lush, green pine and deodar trees, surround it. Satdhara is Sanskrit for “seven springs.” This waterfall combines the waters of seven exquisite springs at a height of 2036 metres, cascading majestically in unison. It is rumoured that the water in this area contains mica, which has therapeutic properties to treat skin conditions.

For those seeking some peace in their stressful lives, this is the ideal location. As little drops of water bounce off the rocks and land on us, the beautiful Satdhara Falls’ crystal blue water gurgles with delight. The water streams into a smooth and brilliant aquamarine pool, filling the air with the wonderful aroma of wet dirt. You are overcome by the flower’s sweet nougat aroma as you take in the majesty of the white water surging and diving below you. Although loud, the sound of the rushing surf is soothing. In the sunlight, the fall’s borders are framed by silver lines.

Top features of Satdhara Falls

The Satdhara Falls are restorative, unlike many other waterfalls. The mineral mica, which has therapeutic characteristics and may be able to treat a number of ailments, is claimed to be present in the springs. These breathtaking waterfalls are situated en route to Panchpula, another well-liked destination in Dalhousie.

You can choose to hike through the woods to reach Satdhara Falls. Trees are rustled by gentle winds, and when leaves fall to the ground, your steps become crunchier. A melody to the soul is the sound of birds, and it appears as though you are strolling through a mirage when shafts of sunlight shine through tall trees. A journey to this entrancing waterfall is certain to purify you and renew your mind and soul.

Activities close to Satdhara Falls

Chamera Lake: The Chamera Lake is a stunning man-made lake that is a part of the Chamera Dam’s reservoir. This enormous pool of turquoise water, which is regularly nourished by the Ravi River and is situated at a height of 1700 metres, is a sight to behold. Among the activities offered here are boating, fishing, and water sports.

Dainkund Peak: Dainkund is the tallest mountain in Dalhousie and receives the most snowfall here. One of the most popular tourist destinations close to Satdhara Falls is the peak. From a height of 2755 masl, it provides a 360-degree panorama of the beautiful green valleys, tall trees, and snow-capped mountains!

The charming Chamunda Devi Temple, which is devoted to Goddess Kali, has been around for more than 750 years. According to legend, the goddess killed Chanda and Munda there, ending a battle that had lasted for thousands of years, at the same spot where the temple now stands. A Shivalinga, which symbolises the presence of Lord Shiva, is also kept at the shrine.

The Bhuri Singh Museum is well known for its collection of Basohli, Chamba, and Kangra School miniature paintings. All of the family artefacts and paintings that depict Chamba culture were donated to the museum by King Raja Bhuri. The museum bears his name and was founded in 1908.

Visitor Advice for Satdhara Falls

  1. You are welcome to enter and play in the waterfall area. Bring an additional set of clothes with you.
  2. Aim to arrive in time to see the falls around sunset.
  3. Put on slip-resistant footwear because the mossy rocks are slippery.
  4. Keep an eye out for insects and frogs. Put on some bug repellent.
  5. Bring a camera.

Getting to Satdhara Falls

The Satdhara Falls are simple to find because they are located directly on the Panchpula route. There are buses that go to Gandhi Chowk, where you can simply catch a taxi to Satdhara Falls.

The closest airport to Dalhousie, which has its own airport, is Pathankot Airport, which is only 75 km.

Overview of Chamera Lake

The Chamba Lake serves as the artificial reservoir for the Chamba Dam, which is situated close to Dalhousie in the Himachal Pradeshi Chamba District. It is a well-liked picnic and boating area. One can engage in activities like kayaking and canoeing while exploring the lake on a rowboat or a speedboat.

The perpetual carpet of deodar conifers and the immaculate purity of the environment at 763 masl make the location unique.

Highlights of Chamera Lake

1. Chamera Lake Water Sports

At Chamera Lake, the Himachal Pradesh Department of Tourism organises a number of water sports, including boating, river rafting, kayaking, and canoeing. Lifeguards are stationed there.

Picnic at Chamera Lake

A picnic can be put up on the lake’s banks, especially between the months of March and June when the weather is generally agreeable.

  1. Photography The lake is a great location for nature photography because it is surrounded by mountains on all sides.
  2. Shops and Food Stalls

Around the lake, there are food stands selling snacks and drinks.

How to reach

Getting to Dalhousie

It is around 85 kilometres to the nearest broad gauge railroad station and airport, which is located in Pathankot. From Delhi, there are buses that run overnight.

How to travel via air to Dalhousie

Kangra Airport: 108 kilometres; cab fares range from INR 2500 to 3000.

Jammu Airport: 170 kilometres, around INR 5000 for a cab

Amritsar Airport: 208 kilometres, cab fare around INR 7000–8000

Dalhousie is 107 kilometres from the closest airport, Jammu.

Lookup flights to Jammu

Estimated round-trip airfare from major Indian cities to Jammu.

How to travel by road to Dalhousie

Major cities in Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and other states in this region can be reached easily from Dalhousie. A number of buses, both private and state-owned, go daily from Delhi’s ISBT to Dalhousie (590 kilometres). There are buses to Dalhousie that are deluxe, a/c, and non-a/c.

How to get by rail to Dalhousie

Dalhousie is 86 kilometres from Pathankot Railway Station, the closest railway station. Local buses cost about INR 120 and a taxi from Pathankot to Dalhousie costs about INR 2000.

How to get by bus to Dalhousie

A typical bus from Delhi costs about INR 700, or about INR 1550 for an overnight Volvo. On the hrtchp website, buses can be reserved.

Dalhousie’s local transportation

Although you can walk most of Dalhousie, taxis are widely accessible there. Dalhousie also provides guided horseback or pony rides through the city. The guides and handlers are trained.

Dalhousie’s local transportation

Although you can walk most of Dalhousie, taxis are widely accessible there. Dalhousie also provides guided horseback or pony rides through the city. The guides and handlers are trained.

Best time to visit

What time of year is ideal for a trip to Dalhousie?

With its excellent climate, Dalhousie is one of the very few locations that can be visited all year long. However, March to June is the ideal time to explore Dalhousie. In the months of March and April, the snow starts to melt, and the sun’s rays shine brilliantly on the snow-covered mountains and meadows. During this time, the weather is still quite comfortable, and the shivers are still possible.

June marks the start of the warming trend. For those who love the outdoors, the summer months offer pleasant weather all throughout. The moderate rainfall and monsoons here are both very pleasant.

More information on When to Visit Dalhousie

Summertime in Dalhousie (April-June)

Dalhousie is best visited between March and May. With temperatures that keep below 30 degrees Celsius throughout these months, the weather is still lovely. It becomes the ideal location for a brief getaway from the oppressive heat of the rest of the nation. Evenings are more laid-back, so a cup of hot cocoa is necessary to enjoy as you watch the sunset behind the mountain peaks.

Additionally, this time of year is perfect for going on nature hikes, taking in the sights, and just relaxing in the great outdoors. Dalhousie has an odd appearance in the summer. With this spectacular location covered in every colour under the sun and more, the floral diversity experiences incredible expansion.

In addition, Dalhousie offers a wide range of summertime sports, such as river rafting, trekking, hiking, and river crossing. The bright sun’s rays paint the attractions a golden yellow, which enhances their beauty. All things considered; the summer significantly adds to Dalhousie’s appeal.

Wintertime in Dalhousie (October-February)

Winter lasts from October to February in Dalhousie. However, avoid booking your flights before December if you want to see the ethereal snowfall. The months of October, November, and February are the best for planning adventure-related activities. At this time, sightseeing is another popular pastime. You are welcome to visit Ganji Pahari, Chamba, Bakrota Hills, Dainkund Peak, Satdhara Falls, and Panch Pulla since the temperature ranges from 1 to 10 degrees Celsius.

Monsoon in Dalhousie (July-September)

The monsoon season, which lasts from July to September, does not bring heavy rains to Dalhousie. Along with modest rains, the temperatures remain about between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. Such circumstances won’t at all interfere with your journey. The lush vegetation further enhances this location’s captivating charm. You can venture out to enjoy yourself fully by visiting the Chamunda Devi Temple, St. John’s Church, Khajjiar, Subhash Baoli, and Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary.

Food

Dalhousie has a variety of dining alternatives with varying styles, ingredients, and genres. Many restaurants, as well as eateries connected to hotels and resorts, serve international cuisines.

Here, one can eat Italian, Tibetan, Mughlai, South Indian dishes, and occasionally even some of the regional Himachali cuisine. While you may find some of the freshest continental and Chinese snacks and classic North Indian cuisine, the most mouthwatering meals are offered at low prices in the neighbourhood dhabas. Himachali cuisine is relatively straightforward because it mostly consists of Chapati, dals, vegetable sauce, and curd in all of its variations. In the majority of the restaurants here, pickles are frequently provided with meals.


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