Imagine a cozy summer morning, overlooking the mountains, accompanied by your beloved chai. Dalhousie, a hamlet in Himachal Pradesh, can make this imagination a reality, especially if you are looking for a 3 to 4 day relaxation from your hectic work schedule. Having some chai and doing nothing sure is relaxing but Dalhousie has more things for you to do than just sip on chai for rejuvenation.
Earl of Dalhousie, the British Governor-General in India had created this town as a summer retreat and that term holds even today. Usually, in a hill station, you would either relax in your room while looking at the awestruck view. Or you would probably be busy climbing one of the higher peaks. But Dalhousie has more to offer. And that’s why, we bring to you the 11 things to do in Dalhousie!
11 Things To Do In Dalhousie
- Go Boating On The Beautiful Chamera Lake
- Climb The High Tops Of Dainkund Peak
- Shop From Tibetan Markets At Gandhi Chowk
- Experience The Peaceful Silence Of Panch Pulla
- Drive Or Stroll Through The Garam Sadak
- Explore The Exotic Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
- Have A Sumptuous Meal At Cafe Dalhousie
- Feel The Spiritual Energy Of The Chamunda Devi Temple
- Take A Dip At The Satdhara Falls
- Go Paragliding At Khajjar
- Get A Peek Of The Beautiful Architecture Of St. John’s Church
1. Go Boating On The Beautiful Chamera Lake
Located in the Chamba District, Chamera Lake is a popular tourist attraction and of course, a sight you cannot miss when you plan a trip to Dalhousie. A boat ride across this lake, while expensive, is worth every penny. Why? It enables you to gaze around at the stunning landscape and nature in its summer splendor while hearing the splashing of the lake waters in the background.
This tourist attraction in Dalhousie becomes the perfect end to a day of sightseeing with the setting sun’s reflection falling in the middle of the lake. What more can you ask for than a quiet and peaceful evening accompanied by the calm waters?
2. Climb The High Tops Of Dainkund Peak
If you’re visiting Dalhousie, trekking the hilltops should make it to your to-do list. To satisfy your inner trek enthusiast, consider the Dainkund Peak, one of the highest points in the town. This spot is a sought-after trekking spot as it is easy to climb and has a scenic trail to follow. But the best part comes at the end of the hilltop when you get to witness the majestic view of rivers, abundant waterfalls, and meadows from high above. The hill also houses an Air Force base and the popular Pohlani Devi Temple. So, if you are an amateur at trekking, Dainkund Hill can be your first chapter of an endless trekking journey ahead!
3. Shop From Tibetan Markets At Gandhi Chowk
Interestingly, Dalhousie is home to a significant chunk of the Tibetan population. And so, it doesn’t come as a surprise that the town is known for its Tibetan markets. Although these markets are located throughout the hill station, the most notable one is situated at Gandhi Chowk.
You can shop from a long list of items at the Tibetan market. These include artefacts, caps, handicrafts, and clothing. These are broad categories but some of the specialities include eccentric carpets, shawls, scarves, jewelry, and wall hangings. In simple terms, you name it and they have it. The Tibetan artefacts are exquisite enough to entice you to hog the entire marketplace. So, if you have a weakness for local specialities, Tibetan markets should be high on your list.
4. Experience The Peaceful Silence Of Panch Pulla
Panch pula, literally means ‘five streams’ which explains the origin of another popular tourist attraction in Dalhousie i.e., the Panchpula Waterfall. This waterfall was created by the integration and blending of five streams and thus, the name came about. If the weather is too dry, this waterfall is a simple cure for your soaring eyes. Accompanied by pine trees, Deodar trees, and meadows, the waterfall is a sight worth visiting.
Apart from the intense scenic beauty, this waterfall is also famous for a monument of a revolutionary named Sardar Ajit Singh, located nearby. This place is the perfect combination of peace and solace that any hiker, photographer, or trekker wishes to see. The silence is so evident that it almost feels like nature is trying to whisper something in your ears. Dalhousie has many such peaceful spots but Panch Pulla tops the list.
5. Drive Or Stroll Through The Garam Sadak
Anyone who has ever visited Dalhousie will recommend you stroll or drive around the iconic Garam Sadak. It gets its name from the fact that in summer, the road acquires a hot temperature. This road offers a mesmerizing view of the entire city as well as the valleys. So, most hikers and nature lovers prefer to walk across this road instead of driving through it.
Garam sadak also comprises famous Tibetan rock paintings, restaurants offering sumptuous meals, and small shops selling local items. So, if you wish to get a taste of the local cuisine or want to carry a remnant of this trip back home, this road is a recommended spot!
6. Explore The Exotic Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
Dalhousie is known more for its hilltops and majestic view of nature, dancing in its full glory. However, a lesser-known but worth-visiting tourist attraction is the exotic Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. For nature and animal lovers, this sanctuary is nothing short of a paradise. The entire region is endowed with wild trees, Fiona, grasslands, and a beautiful view of snow-capped mountains. Of course, the thrill and exhilarating feeling of adventure will make for a memorable trip. So, if you are planning a trip to Dalhousie, add this sanctuary to your itinerary for sure!
7. Have A Sumptuous Meal At Cafe Dalhousie
Can you experience the true essence of any new place without trying its local cuisine? The answer is ‘no’. And Dalhousie is no exception to this fact. And the best place to enjoy the delicious local eateries is Cafe Dalhousie. Imagine enjoying a tasty meal with a beautiful view in front of you. This is exactly what this café has to offer. You get to view the hills and valleys while sipping on your hot lemon tea.
Apart from the local cuisine, Cafe Dalhousie also serves international and popular Indian delights. So, if you feel homesick while visiting Dalhousie, this warm outlet can help you out. You can simply pick up the menu and choose your selection. But if you are feeling particularly experimental, you can always ask the staff for recommendations.
8. Feel The Spiritual Energy Of The Chamunda Devi Temple
Located in the Chamba Valley, the Chamunda Devi Temple is dedicated to the Goddess Kali and hence, is of great mythological importance. According to mythology, Goddess Kali, with great courage and valor, killed two demons named Shumbh and Nisumb at this very temple. So, to appreciate her strength, this temple was constructed. Inside the Temple, one could see Lord Bhairav and Lord Hanuman protecting the Goddess Kali.
Chamunda Devi temple is enshrined and endowed with a number of deities. And so, moving around this temple is nothing short of a 2 km trek. The temple is known for its intricate and beautifully carved designs along with lush green patches and colourful flags. The entire temple radiates a strong spiritual feeling, bringing peace and serenity to the visitors. Hence, if you wish to feel one with God, you need to pay a visit to this temple.
9. Take A Dip At The Satdhara Falls
Satdhara, as the name suggests, means “seven springs”. These seven springs unite and integrate to fall at a great speed below. And it makes for a site worth visiting. People who love tranquil surroundings must visit the Satdhara Falls to listen to the splashing waters. The sound is loud enough to engulf and overpower all other sounds. So, the splashing waters indeed provide you with peaceful surroundings.
If you feel particularly adventurous on your trip to these falls, you can always take a tip. Provide an all-natural and fresh relief to your soaring eyes. With that, experience the scent of vegetation, wet mud, and droplets of natural water, all mixed to create an unusual scent – the scent of peace. But, if you plan on taking a dip, don’t forget to carry an extra set of clothes.
10. Go Paragliding At Khajjar
Khajjar is famously known as the “mini Switzerland of India” for its lush green surroundings, view of the snow-clad mountains especially in winter, green meadows, and the charming dense forests located at the edge of the smaller hills. Of course, it gets its name due to the uncanny resemblance with Switzerland’s topography. However, this place has more to offer than just a resemblance.
Khajjar is a beautiful and picturesque location, catering to the whims of trekkers, hikers, photographers, and those vacationing with their families. You can also enjoy various recreational activities such as paragliding, zorbing, horse-riding, and much more. People from across the country come here specifically for paragliding. Hence, the inner daredevil in you will feel at home in Khajjar. However, this place is ideal to visit only during spring and summer seasons to avoid the excessive amount of snowfall.
11. Get A Peek Of The Beautiful Architecture Of St. John’s Church
St. John’s Church, located 3 to 4 km from Dalhousie, is one of the many beautiful reminders of old-style British-style stone architecture. This catholic church was constructed in 1863 and to this day, is still standing tall with its beauty and intricate architecture. If you are impressed with the exteriors, you shouldn’t miss the interiors. The walls are filled with glass paintings with a glorified color scheme, narrating stories of two saints – John and Peter.
There’s also a library located near St.John’s Church. It contains a large number of books, shedding insights into the local history and culture of Dalhousie. If you wish to have an all-encompassing experience of the church, you must come here on a Sunday morning when mass prayers are happening.
Summing Up
It’s not possible to visit all these places on your very first trip to Dalhousie. So, all these suggestions are merely to give you an idea of what the hill station has to offer. But when you embark on this journey, prepare to be mesmerized and amazed at the various versions of nature, culture, history, spirituality, and of course, the local cuisine!
FAQs
Which Thing Is Famous In Dalhousie?
Dalhousie is famous for its wooden artefacts. There are lots of stalls and shops across the town where you can find these artefacts. Dalhousie is also known for hanging telephone stands, dry fruit trays, tea coasters, and much more.
Is One Day Enough In Dalhousie?
No. Ideally, one needs at least 3-4 days to explore the hill station in its entirety.
Why Is Dalhousie Famous?
Dalhousie is one of the most sought-after hill stations of Himachal Pradesh, known specifically for its chilly climate, unending list of tourist attractions, and natural beauty.
What Should I Pack For Dalhousie?
If you are planning to go in the summer and in general pack light cotton clothes but just in case carry a jacket this is to save you from the unpredictable weather. Keep your body covered in multiple layers as the weather tends to change accordingly.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Dalhousie?
Summer is the best time to visit Dalhousie. The weather is usually pleasant and beautiful.
Which River Flows In Dalhousie?
The river which flows in Dalhousie is the Ravi River.
