Dalhousie – A Place where nature meets with architecture marvels!
Situated in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie is one of the most renowned hill stations in the country. Set at the height of 1970 meters, Dalhousie is blessed with scenic natural beauty, year-old heritage, historic churches, ancient temples, pleasant climate and surrounding snow-cover mountains.
Away from the hustle & bustle of modern city life, a visit to Dalhousie will make you forget all your problems. Therefore, it is a popular getaway for honeymoon couples and family vacationers.
In this guide, we shared a list of the best places to visit in Dalhousie that surely make your trip memorable. From the amazing vistas of Khajjiar to the adventurous activities of Panch Pulla and from the trek of Ganji Pahari to romantic stroll on Garam Sadak we covered all the possible tourist attractions in Dalhousie.
Best time to visit – Dalhousie is blessed with a pleasant climate throughout the year, which means you can visit it any time of year. Dalhousie gets frequent snowfall in winter.
Famous for – Dalhousie is popular for its picturesque viewpoints, white blanket of snow during winter, historical buildings, ancient temples, tranquil surroundings and pleasant temperature. The mini Switzerland of India, Khajjiar is located just 24 KM from Dalhousie.
How to reach – Dalhousie is well connected by road, railways and flights to other parts of India. The nearest railway station is located in Pathankot 82 KM away from Dalhousie. The nearest airport Gaggal is located in Kangra which is 108 KM from Dalhousie. And if you want to travel by road then regular buses are plying between Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Pathankot to Dalhousie.
Best Places To Visit In Dalhousie
1. Panch Pulla
Panch Pulla is one of the major tourist attractions in Dalhousie. Situated 3 KM from Gandhi Chowk, it is a popular picnic spot in Dalhousie. There you can spot lots of families enjoying adventurous activities like Ziplining, Burma Bridge etc.
Panch Pulla is the starting point of the Ganji Pahari Trek. Also, there is a small waterfall, streams and the samadhi of freedom fighter Sardar Ajit Singh. Panch Pull has some streams that fill the need for water supply to the town and another nearby village.
- Time Required – 2 hours
2. Khajjiar
The mini Switzerland of India, Khajjiar is the most popular spot to visit near Dalhousie. Located 20 KM from Dalhousie, Khajjiar is famous for its unparalleled natural beauty, lake, scenic views, tranquil surroundings and adventurous activities.
It is a perfect place to enjoy paragliding near Dalhousie. Watching the scenic beauty from the top is like witnessing the drone view with real eyes.
- Height – 1920 Meters
- Best time to visit – Throughout the year
- Time Required – one day
3. Chamera Lake
Situated 35 Km from Dalhousie at a height of 753 meters above sea level, Chamera lake is formed by the Chamera Dam on the Ravi river. It is a famous picnic spot and boating location. There you can enjoy various kinds of water activities like motor boating, river rafting, canoeing, paddle boating and kayaking.
Chamera lake is situated in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh which is 1-hour drive away from Dalhousie. On the way from Dalhousie to Chamera lake, there are various viewpoints where you can click instagrammable pictures.
- Time Required – 3 to 4 hours
- Best time to visit – March to June is the perfect time to visit Chamera Lake. Try to avoid it in the monsoon season due to the risk of landslides and heavy rainfall. The weather stays pleasant throughout the year.
4. Satdhara Falls
Situated on the way to Panch Pulla, Satdhara fall is another famous tourist attraction in Dalhousie. The name of this waterfall derives from its origin which is a mix of seven streams (sat river). It passes through the hills & cliffs of Chamba valley from a height of 2036 meters.
The water of these springs contains mica which has medical properties and healing powers. Due to that, it is a great place for relaxation and rejuvenation. The scenic surroundings of snow-capped mountains and forest of pine & Deodar trees make it a perfect picnic spot.
You can even take a refreshing dip inside the water of the falls. It is quite famous among honeymoon couples and family travelers.
- Time Needed – 2 to 3 hours
- Best time to visit – Monsoon is the perfect time to visit when the falls flow in their peak form.
5. Ganji Pahari
Situated on the Pathankot road in Bakrota Hills, Ganji Pahari is a famous trekking destination in Dalhousie. Ganji Pahari means bald Hills (Ganji means bald and pahari means hills). The name derives from its interesting nature which is the complete absence of any kind of vegetation on the top of the hill.
5 Km away from the Dalhousie bus stand, Ganji Pahari is famous for its stunning sunset & sunrise and mud house cafe. The trek starts from Panch Pulla and it takes around 1 hour to reach the top. The trek level is moderate and it is advisable to carry snacks & water.
During summer there you can enjoy spectacular views of the surroundings while in winter it gets covered in white layer of snow. There you can set camp and enjoy the fresh air & amazing views.
- Trekking distance – 3 to 4 KM
- Trek Level – Moderate
- Time Needed – 1 hour for trek (one way).
- Best time to visit – Throughout the year except monsoon.
6. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated in the picturesque Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, Kalatop wildlife sanctuary boasts exotic flora and fauna. It is a great picnic spot near Dalhousie. Black bears, serow and pheasants are some of the most common animals found in this sanctuary.
The name Kalatop means black cap which derives from its thick black forest covering the hilltop of the sanctuary.
It is located near the Chamba dam and Ravi river, so you can spot various streams of fresh water. A visit to Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary will take you to the carpets of lush green grasslands, thick foliage of deodar trees, a plethora of wildlife and wonderful surroundings of snow-capped mountains. Overall, it is a great place to spend quality time with family and kids.
- Time needed – 3 to 4 hours
- Distance from Dalhousie – 14 KM
- Best time to visit – September to June.
- Things to do – Wildlife watching, jungle safari, photography and trekking.
7. Dainkund Peak
Popularly known as Singing Hill, Danikund peak is the highest point of Dalhousie with a staggering height of 2755 meters. It gives you 360-degree views of the entire valley and Khajjiar lake. The open views from the top of the peak are something every photographer craves to capture.
Rich vegetation, the verdant carpets of grasslands, calm forests, colorful flowers and magnificent views are the main highlight of Dainkund Peak. Also, while trekking up there you can listen to the fresh passing breeze through the forest which sounds like musical tones.
At the top of the peak, there is a temple of Pholani Devi which is very popular among locals. And few meters away from the temple there is the Air Force base. Also from the top, you can capture the views of three rivers – Chenab, Ravi and Beas.
- How to reach – You can easily get a taxi or cab to reach Dainkund peak. You can also opt for trekking which is a very interesting way to reach up there. 2 KM down the peak there is a perfect place for camping.
- Best time to visit – Throughout the year. For snow lovers, winter is the best time to visit Dainkund peak as it gets maximum snowfall in Dalhousie.
8. St. John Church
Situated amidst the lush green landscape and pine valley at Gandhi Chowk, St. John Church holds the colonial beauty of Dalhousie. It is the perfect blend of history and beauty. The architecture of this church reminds the British regime in Dalhousie.
Along with historical significance, St. John’s Church has great religious values in the Protestants community.
On the premises of the church, there is a library where you can find rare collections of books that depict the history and culture of Dalhousie.
- Timings – 5 Days a week from 7 AM to 7 PM
- Time Needed – 1 to 2 hours
9. Mall Road
Like Manali, Kasauli, Shimla and other hill stations of Himachal, Dalhousie also has a Mall Road. Blended with lots of shops, hospitals, ATMs, hotels and restaurants, Mall road is the most famous shopping place in Dalhousie.
Strolling on the street while enjoying your favorite food and buying traditional Himachali dresses is the best thing you can do at Mall Road. It is the perfect place to buy unique handmade items, local souvenirs and famous woolen Himachali clothes.
From taxi stands to Hospitals, ATMs to restaurants, Mall road is the place where you can find almost every important building of Dalhousie.
- Time Needed – 2 hours
10. Chamunda Devi Temple
Situated on the banks of the Baner river in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Chamunda Devi Temple is the most religious place to visit near Dalhousie. This 750-year-old temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, the incarnation of Goddess Durga. Chamunda Devi Temple has great religious significance among Hindus therefore it is one of the most visited temples in the country.
Along with the shrine of Goddess Kali there, you can find sculptures of other Hindu Gods while Lord Shiva, Lord Bhairav and Lord Hanuman are the most notable ones. On the temple premises, you can find the marble staircase which takes you down to the cave of Lord Shiva where you can see Lord Shiva in the form of Stone Lingam.
- Time Required – 2 to 3 hours
- How to reach – Chamunda Devi temple is located 130 KM from Dahousie in the Kangra district of Himachal. You can easily get a bus or private taxi to reach the spot.
- Best time to visit – March to June
11. Tibetan Market
Situated at Gandhi Chowk, Tibetan Market is one of the best places to visit Dalhousie for those who love Tibetan and Himachali handicrafts. There you can find various handicrafts, woolens, craved jewelry, home decor items, handmade carpets and famous Chamba slippers & shawls. There you can also find cheap electronic items and toys. Overall, the Tibetan market is the place that every shopaholic should visit.
- Time Needed – 2 Hours
12. Subhash Baoli
Subhash Baoli is an everlasting spring that is named after the great freedom fighter Subhash Chandra Bose. It is believed that around 1937 he lived up in Dalhousie and used to take a walk and meditated at this place. Due to that, this place is named Subhash Baoli. It is also believed that the water of this spring has medicinal properties.
Apart from the history, it is one of the most scenic places to visit in Dalhousie. The tranquil surroundings of snow-covered mountains and towering trees make it a perfect place to take a walk or spend some quality time. There are some famous eateries where you can enjoy traditional Himachali dishes.
- Time Needed – 1 to 2 hours.
- Location – 1 KM from Main Gandhi Chowk.
13. Rock Garden
Located on the way from Dalhousie to Chamera Lake, Rock garden is a scenic place where you chill and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings of the mountains. It is filled with lots of natural streams with boulders thrown across them. Away from the hustle and bustle of Dalhousie city life, Rock Garden is the perfect place for nature and photography lovers.
Rock garden is meant for a rejuvenating time where you simply relax by sitting on the boulder along with a natural gushing stream. There you can also enjoy adventurous activities like Zip Lining.
- Time Needed – 2 Hours
- Location – Devi Dehra, Chamba, Dalhousie.
14. Rang Mahal
Built-in the 18th Century by Raja Umed Singh, Rang Mahal is located in the Surara Mohalla area of Dalhousie. It is one of the few monuments of India where you can see the influence of the Mughal and British emperors. Rang Mahal was built to serve the residence of royal women. The wall of the Mahal is adorned with many paintings depicting the life story of Lord Krishna.
Surrounded by the picturesque setting of lush green valley, Rang Mahal houses a handicraft shop where you can shop the woolen shawls, handicrafts items, famous Chamba slippers and handmade handkerchiefs.
- Time Needed – 2 to 3 hours
- Location – Mohalla Surara, Dalhousie, Chamba
- Timings – 6 days a week except Sunday from 10 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM
15. Sach Pass
Situated at an altitude of 4141 meters, Sach Pass is one of the most dangerous roads that connects the Chamba valley with Pangi Valley. Surrounded by snow-covered mountains and virgin natural beauty with low crowds, Sach Pass is truly an offbeat place that you should visit while you’re in Dalhousie.
Other than scenic natural beauty Sach Pass offer various trekking trails that can excite any adventure lovers. The trekking trails of Sach Pass would takes you through the rugged landscapes, dense forests, lush green grasslands and unexplored natural beauty. Therefore, every year it attracts thousands of adventure seekers from all over the country.
- How to reach – Sach Pass is located 150 KM from Dalhousie via Pathankot-Dalhousie road. It would take around 6 to 7 hours drive to reach the spot. Either you can drive on your own or take a taxi from Dalhousie which would cost around 6000 to 7500 INR. If you haven’t good experience in driving especially in mountains then hiring a good driver is recommended.
- Best time to visit – Sach pass is open from June to October. So, the first, few weeks of July and September end would be the best time to visit.
16. St Patrick’s Church
St Patrick’s Church is developed by British officers in 1909. This 104-Year-Old church is situated just 2 KM away from the Dalhousie bus stand on the Military hospital road near Balloon falls.
This dome-shaped church is one of the best attractions in Dalhousie for history buffs. It is one of the largest churches in Dalhousie. Surrounded by natural splendor, it is a great place for photographers and nature lovers.
- Time Needed – 1 to 2 hours.
- Timings – 7 AM to 7 PM
17. Bakrota Hills
Love to capture splendid mountain views, visit Bakrota Hills which is one of the highest points in Dalhousie. Blessed with pure refreshing air, stunning views, an amazing landscape of oak & pine trees, and surrounding white snow-covered mountains, Bakrota is a perfect place to spend a good time in the lap of nature.
Located 5 KM away for Dalhousie on the way to Khajjiar, it is a great place for trekking, hiking, photography and sightseeing. If you visit it during winter then be ready for dipping temperatures and lots of snowfall.
- Time Needed – Around 2 Hours.
- How to reach – To reach there either you can private taxi or use public transport. A private taxi or cab would cost you around 800 to 1000 INR while the public transport bus would cost you 150 INR. The way to reach Bakrota hill is splendorous.
18. Garam Sadak
Garam Sadak is nothing but a road connecting Gandhi Chowk to Subhash chowk. Blessed with perfect valley views and amazing Tibetan rock paintings, it is the most popular place to visit in Dalhousie. It is the perfect place to take a long evening or morning walk while enjoying the amazing vistas of Dalhousie.
- Time Needed – 1 to 2 hours.
19. Laxmi Narayan Temple
Built-in 10th Century Laxmi Narayan Temple resembles the Shakira style architecture. This ancient historical temple is the oldest and largest temple in Dalhousie. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Also, it is the adobe of three other famous shrines Gauri Shanker temple, Radha Krishna temple and Shiva Temple.
Situated 53 KM away from Dalhousie, it is the most famous religious attraction near Dalhousie that can not be missed.
- Time Needed – Around 2 hours
- Location – Sadar Bazaar, Dalhousie.
20. Chamba Town
Boasting the scenic views of pir panjal, Zanskar and Dhauladhar mountain ranges, Chamba is a picture postcard town located near Dalhousie in the Chamba district. This secluded town is famous for ancient temples (Chamunda Devi temple & Laxmi Narayan temple), amazing treks, splendid views, pristine lakes, vast verdant meadows and diverse wildlife.
Chamba is the base of many treks in the Himalayan ranges. So, if you’re in Dalhousie then don’t miss out this picture-perfect Himachali town.
Conclusion
So, this is the complete list of the best places to visit in Dalhousie. Now you can plan the perfect itinerary for Dalhousie. If you love snow then Ganji Pahari, Khajjiar, Dainkund peak, and Bakrota hills are the top tourist attractions in Dalhousie and if you’re coming here in summer then Chamera lake, Panch Pulla, Satdhara falls, Dainkund peak, Khajjiar, rock garden and Bakrota are perfect to enjoy amazing views. If you’ve any questions and suggestions then put them in the below comment section. Happy Journey!