Dalhousie is like no other regular holiday hill station. The little 'Switzerland of India', is the ultimate getaway because Dalhousie is not just one thing - from mountains to lush green grasslands, to numerous rivers flowing around to the deep green valleys and end number of places to visit; this place will leave you awestruck with how much it has to offer.
Named after the Governor-General Lord Dalhousie, who was one of the emissaries of India during the British rule, Dalhousie takes you back in time with its Scottish architecture and Victorian-style mansions and buildings spread all over the town.
Given that Dalhousie is situated in the far north of Himachal Pradesh at 1,970 meters above sea level, facing the Pir Panjal Range of the Western Himalayas; the climate here stays pleasant and welcoming throughout the year. The best time to visit Dalhousie is March till June and then October to December as you can make the most of your trip during these periods with pleasant weather and exciting cultural festivals being hosted around the town.
If you're a family, the picnic spots and charming homestay in Dalhousie would bring you closer to one another. If you are a couple seeking calm and quiet, Dalhousie is the ultimate spot for you. The beautiful Victorian-style architecture of this place sets the right tone for a romantic time with your loved one here. And if you're a group of friends and solo travelers, the adventure activities and delicious dining options of this town would keep the fun alive for you.
Unlike some other spots of Himachal, Dalhousie till today remains unexploited and unspoiled with over-tourism and loss of charm because Dalhousie is like no other regular holiday hill station. This hilltown is a quiet one with little to no nightlife and a calm atmosphere. Hence, it is best suited for tourists and travelers seeking serenity.
Dalhousie is a place for nature lovers and happening people alike, it's for rejuvenating and adventure-seeking both. So the things to do and places to visit are innumerable, hence, we have a list for you below:
Dainkund Peak: Dainkund Peak, which is one of the highest points of Dalhousie is a must-visit spot and is a loved one by trekkers. Popularly known as the singing hill, this place boats a colorful flower valley, calm deodar forest, and lush green grounds which makes a perfect spot to spend a picnic day here with friends and family. So do take out a day or two for trekking at Dainkund Peak to get a perfect dose of nature, away from the hustle-bustle of the city.
Panchpula: Panchpula meaning five bridges which are a blend of five streams coming together to form one fall is a magnificent waterfall, making it one of the major attractions of Dalhousie. The fresh, foamy water of this waterfall serves as the main source of the water supply of this town. Hence, your trip to Dalhousie would be absolutely incomplete without being at Panchpula.
Rang Mahal: A palace built in the 18th century, Rang Mahal is one of the grandest monuments of the region boasting an incredible amalgamation of Mughal and British architecture. This palace was augmented by Raja Umed Singh which till today remains one of the most popular attractions of Dalhousie. Embellished with royal paintings, traditional arms and armor, musical instruments, ancient coins, and ornamental objects, the palace has a lot to take in and admire.
Conserved and maintained beautifully and set in a picturesque, lush green location in the Chamba Valley, this is a must-visit location in Dalhousie
Old Sher-e-Punjab Dhaba: There are almost three restaurants in Dalhousie with the same name hence, we would like to emphasize the word "Old" here because that is what is best out of the three. One of the oldest eateries of Dalhousie, Old Sher-e-Punjab Dhaba makes it to our best locations of Dalhousie list because it is authentic, it's appetizing and it's incredibly flavorsome. Located in central Dalhousie at Subhash Chowk, it is the only dining option that makes it to this list because we cannot recommend it enough. Amritsari kulcha, chana masala, biryani, chat-pata buttermilk, and tandoori paratha are some of our favorite picks from an elaborately delicious menu.
Tibetan Market: A trip to the hill station is incomplete without shopping right? So be ready with your large shopping bag and comfortable walking shoes to hop around the Tibetan Handicrafts market located in the Subhash Chowk area. From traditional carpets to wallhangings, from intricate jewelry to bags, from warm shawls to fashionable scarves; you will get it all and it's bound to fill you with joy. Hence, support Make in India and the local business by shopping for these remarkable handcrafted products.
Subhash Baoli: Named after Subhash Chandra Bose, is actually a recurring and enduring natural spring that is known for its medicinal properties. It is a must-visit spot for a couple on vacations as it is situated within dense trees and makes it a perfect location for taking beautiful, long strolls.
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore the authentic Himalayan flora and fauna along the hike up to the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. Also known as the Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary, this place is home to a wide range of animal species like Eurasian Jay, Black Headed Jay, and the Black Bird.
Chamera Lake: Enjoy a relaxing boating experience on crystal clear water while enjoying the panoramic view of the mountains at Chamera Lake. Whether you are a honeymooner, an adventure buff, a nature lover, or just a casual holiday seeker, a day spent at this lake is sure to leave you with wonderful memories of the trip.
Chamunda Devi Temple: Pause and pay homage to the Gods at Chamunda Devi Temple. Built around 750 years back, this temple is considered to be one of the oldest in the region and is believed to have a spiritual aura attracting both national and international tourists alike.
All this place asks for is to unwind and breathe, find the quiet and loosen up to recalibrate your life. These nine amazing places to visit in Dalhousie will do its best to make the most of your trip here. This amazing hill station in Himachal Pradesh is a quiet one with a calm atmosphere hence; it is best suited for tourists and travelers seeking serenity.