The quaint hill station of Dalhousie has been popular among the tourists for its colonial charm and tranquility. Nestled between the beautiful Dhauladhar ranges of Himachal Pradesh it is one of the popular destinations where people come to unwind and relax amidst the peaceful and mesmerizing beauty.
Dalhousie Town earned its name in honor of The Earl of Dalhousie, the distinguished British Governor-General in India, who played a pivotal role in establishing this serene location as an enchanting summer retreat. The place has the old world charm intact in the British architecture of the churches and bungalows.
Suitable for all kinds of travelers Dalhousie offers adventure, tranquility, history, and abundance of beauty. The place is perfect for a getaway from the crowded cities to feel closer to nature and experience the pleasant weather of Himachal Pradesh. If you are planning to take a trip to this mesmerizing town, here are some of the top things to do in Dalhousie and places you absolutely must-see.
1. Chamera Lake
Chamera Lake, situated about 25 km from Dalhousie, is a must-visit destination for those looking to enjoy the beauty of nature. Surrounded by picturesque hills, this serene lake is a great place to relax and soak in the sun. It is also a popular spot for thrill-seekers, as it offers boat rides for visitors. You can choose to take a leisurely paddle boat ride with your family, or fulfill your need for adventure with a speed boat ride. Chamera Lake is definitely one of the top activities to include on your list when visiting Dalhousie. Chamera lake has it all and is one of the top 15 things to do in Dalhousie.
2. Dainkund Peak, Dalhousie
Dainkund Peak is the highest peak in the area and for the same reason it the base of the Indian Air Force. It is a sought after trekking destination among seasoned travelers for the spectacular views at the top. To take a trek to Dainkund Peak, you need to start from Lakkadmandi. From Dalhousie, take a taxi or a bus heading towards Khajjiar and deboard at Lakkadmandi, from there it takes 30 to 45 mins of trekking to reach the Dainkund peak. For those of you who do not wish to trek, Dainkund Peak is also reachable by a motorable road, you can hire a private cab to reach there. Private Taxis offers a one-day trip package to Dainkund Peak and Khajjiar.
Lakkadmandi is the place, from where the road dissect, one goes upward towards dainkund peak, one goes towards khajjiar & one goes towards kalatop wildlife sanctuary.
Travelers also visit the ancient Pohlani Devi Temple, It is located a short hike of about 2 km away from the Dainkund peak. The unique temple has a Trident placed in it and the locals consider it a very sacred place. Enjoy the views with some hot Maggi and chai alongside local stories of the place.
Another really interesting experience of this peak is the sound of the singing winds. Well, it’s not really singing, but the flowing breeze and winds create a sound that has given this place the name of ‘singing hill’. It is an experience in itself and we definitely recommend you to visit it.
Distance from Dalhousie: 15 km
Elevation of Dainkund Peak: 2755mtr
3. Sathdhara Falls
The Satdhara Falls is a must-see destination in Dalhousie. The waterfall gets its name from the seven water springs that flow through the Chamba valley, and it’s known for its therapeutic properties due to the presence of mica in the water. Visitors often take a dip in the falls to refresh and reap the benefits of the mica-infused water. In addition to its medicinal properties, the falls also offer a peaceful and serene setting surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of gushing water. It’s definitely one of the top 15 things to do in Dalhousie for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
4. Khajjiar - Mini Switzerland of India
Khajjiar is a stunning meadow located in the Chamba valley and is known for its beautiful setting of a lush green meadow and a lake. The area is surrounded by tall pine trees and snow-capped mountains, earning it the nickname of “Mini Switzerland of India” due to its topographical resemblance to Switzerland. This destination is suitable for all types of travelers and offers a range of activities such as paragliding, zorbing, horseback riding, and a 9-hole golf course. It is also a great place for families to have a picnic and for trekking enthusiasts to go hiking and enjoy the 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. To reach Khajjiar from Dalhousie, visitors can take a state transport bus or hire a taxi.
Distance from Dalhousie: 24 km
Elevation of Khajjiar: 2000 mtr
5. Panch Pulla Waterfall Dalhousie
Another famous tourist attraction in Dalhousie is the Panch Pulla Waterfall. A perfect place to just take along a group of friends and enjoy the weekend. You can choose to trek or hike or even take a refreshing dip in the natural plunge pool created by the impact of the waterfall at panch pulla. Nestled inside the pine and deodar forests, it gives a wide view of the hills surrounding it making panch pulla one of the places where you can just sit and connect with your inner self. Situated just about 2 km from Dalhousie, it is a popular picnic spot for families. You may enjoy a nice sunny day with packed food on the banks of the river and soak in the views of Himachal surrounding you. If you plan to visit Panch pulla during the monsoons, the massive river and its gushing waterfall is a spectacular view, you wouldn’t want to miss it.
6. St. John Church, Dalhousie
The colonial architecture of the city is a specialty of Dalhousie. And one such place that exhibits this grace is the St. John’s Church. Pay a visit to this beautifully designed church that stands tall even after a century and more. With the beautiful backdrop of the Dhauladhar ranges, it makes for a sight in itself. Inside the chapel, there are beautiful glass paintings adorned on the walls and windows that will remind you of the churches in Europe. For those who love reading, this church also houses a library where one can get a chance to go through some rare books and images of the colonial history of the town.
7. Tibetan Handicraft Market
The Tibetan market in Dalhousie is a must-visit destination for tourists looking for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Located in the main Gandhi Chowk area, this market offers a wide range of items, from small trinkets to warm woolens. After a day of shopping, visitors can also enjoy a meal at one of the many Tibetan restaurants in the area, giving them a chance to fully immerse themselves in the Tibetan experience. Don’t miss the chance to browse the stalls and find some special items to take home with you from your trip to Dalhousie.
8. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Dalhousie
The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Located about 14km from Dalhousie, this beautiful forested area is home to a variety of native flora and fauna, including the Himalayan Bear, leopards, deers, and langurs. It is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with many rare species of avian life. In addition to offering the opportunity to take a safari tour or hike through the sanctuary, there is also a dedicated picnic spot where visitors can relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings. The sanctuary also has Forest Guest Houses available for overnight stays. The best time to visit is from September to March, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. Those interested in trekking can also take the 12km trek from Kalatop to the Bara Pathar Temple through the sanctuary.
9. Ganji Pahari
As the name suggests, this tourist spot is actually a bald hill. A place with no true vegetation, the Ganji Pahari is another one of the top things to do in Dalhousie. It is a small hike from the town and makes for a refreshing place to have the perfect alfresco picnic. The top is not as commercialized as many other spots and imparts a nice place to disconnect with the crowds and the chaos of cities. Make sure you carry your own food. If you plan to visit Dalhousie in winters, this is a great place to take a hike to and enjoy snow-covered trails and views at the top. The Ganji Pahari is also a place of a small temple that you can visit and connect with your spiritual side.
10. Subhash Baoli
For the beautiful history of this place and to soak in the calm it offers, pay a visit to the Subhash Baoli when you visit Dalhousie. It is a perennial and natural spring that is known to have medicinal properties according to locals. Named after the legendary freedom fighter Subhash Chandra Bose, this spring is known to have gotten the name as he stayed in Dalhousie for a few months in the year 1937. He would visit the serene spot and drink from the spring that is today named after him. A visit to the place will make you understand exactly why he loved spending time there. With the backdrop of the snowclad mountains with a breeze fresh as a flower, this place will instantly put anyone at peace. You must experience the tranquility of Subhash baoli when in Dalhousie. The place is also surrounded by some amazing food stalls and that gives you another reason to visit it at least once.
11. Don't miss Chamba in top things to do in dalhousie.
Chamba is a must-visit destination in Dalhousie for those who appreciate history and old-world charm. Located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, it offers stunning views of the Pir Panjal range and is known for its temples, caves, and treks. The region is also famous for its traditional handicrafts, such as miniature Pahari paintings. Visitors can experience the local culture by attending the Suhi Mata Mela in August or the Minjar Mela. Trekking enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of routes through the area, and those looking for a more relaxed visit can take in the beautiful scenery and explore the town’s many temples and other landmarks. Overall, Chamba is a unique and rewarding destination for travelers of all kinds.
Distance from Dalhousie: 53.5km
Elevation: 996m
Founded: 920 AD
How to reach: Chamba can be reachable via Dalhousie or Banikhet. Banikhet is a small town that comes on the way towards Dalhousie just 5km back.
12. Jot - A Hidden Treasure
For adventure seekers, a visit to Jot Pass is a must. Located at an altitude of 2406m, Jot offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains throughout the year. It’s an ideal place to relax and connect with nature, as well as a starting point for treks to places like Dainkund Peak. The views along the way are breathtaking and make for an unforgettable experience.
13. Laxmi Narayan Temple, Chamba
The Laxmi Narayan Temple, located in Chamba, is a sacred and ancient place of worship that dates back to the 10th century. It was built by Raja Sahil Verman and features a shikara-style design with stunning marble carvings of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The temple is open to all visitors who seek to experience the peaceful atmosphere and marvel at the beautiful architecture. The roof of the temple is shaped like a wheel, and the idol of Lord Vishnu is particularly noteworthy. Take a trip to the Lakshmi Narayan Temple to immerse yourself in the spiritual energy of this sacred place.
14. Mehar's Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Dalhousie, the Mehar’s Hotel is a century-old property that offers comfortable accommodations for travelers seeking to experience the historical charm of the town. Set on a sprawling 5-acre campus, the hotel features a range of amenities and rooms to suit various needs. Conveniently located in the center of Dalhousie, the hotel is just a short walk away from attractions such as Gandhi market and Subhash Baoli.
15. Adventure Activities
This is one of the definite must-do things in Dalhousie and depending on the thrill and adventure appetite of all travelers, Dalhousie offers all sorts of adventure activities you can do. Starting with one of the best things to do in Dalhousie in April, Paragliding is for the thrill seeker. Enjoy the bird’s eye view while gliding over the pir panjal range with this adventure activity and you will see the true beauty of this place. There are also paragliding options from Khajjiar you can take. For those of you who do not enjoy heights, Zorbing is another adventure activity almost anyone can do in Dalhousie. It is safe, it is simple, and absolutely thrilling.
Other than Paragliding and Zorbing, here are a few other adventure activities for all those adventure buffs.
- Rock climbing
- Boat cruise and speed boats
- Horse riding
- River rafting
- Camping
- Golfing
- Mountain biking
How to reach Dalhousie
Dalhousie is reachable by Road, Air & Train throughout the year:
- Train
The nearest railway station to Dalhousie is Pathankot. From Pathankot, Private Buses, State Transport Bus & Private Taxis are available.
- Road
Dalhousie is very well connected by road to major cities like Karnal, Ambala, Ludhiana, Pathankot, Delhi, and Jalandhar. It is 560 Km from Delhi by road.
- Air
Nearest Airport is Jammu & Amritsar.
For More Information on Dalhousie, Please Visit Official HP Tourism Website
These were some of our Top Things to do in Dalhousie, Even if some of them are offbeat and simple, just the sheer beauty of this stunning place will leave you amazed. We hope this list pushes you to take the plunge and finalize that trip to the beautiful town of Dalhousie. And when you’re there, you will know exactly what to do in Dalhousie. Leave a comment below and share with us if we have missed your favorite spot in Dalhousie, we would love to hear and share it.
