Dalhousie, known as the “Switzerland of India,” is a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh that offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, Victorian-style mansions, and mesmerizing natural beauty. Spread over an area of only 14 sq. km, the town has an old-world charm and pristine air, making it a favorite destination for honeymooners and travelers seeking solace amidst nature. The town is home to ancient Hindu temples, handicrafts, and art.
Some of the most popular places to visit in Dalhousie include Dainkund Peak, Bakrota Hills, Kalatop Forest, Karelanu, Village Lohani, and Tibetan Market. The best time to visit Dalhousie is during the summer season from April to June when the weather is cold but warms up towards June, making it perfect for sightseeing and scenic walks.
Named after ‘The Earl of Dalhousie,’ who established the town as a summer retreat in 1854, Dalhousie is a treasure trove for architecture and history buffs. The town is surrounded by five hills close to the Dhauladhar mountain range and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
So lets explore the 11 most amazing places to visit in Dalhousie among all.
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1: Khajjar
Khajjiar, located just 22 km from Dalhousie, is a small picturesque plateau surrounded by dense pine and deodar forests. It is known as ‘Mini Switzerland of India’ and is one of the most stunning Dalhousie attractions. Khajjiar is a delightful picnic spot, and the Khajjiar Lake adds to the natural beauty of this little town. The best time to visit Khajjiar is in December when you can indulge in fun activities like paragliding and play with snow.
Khajjiar is exquisitely nestled in the foothills of the imposing Dhauladhar ranges of the Western Himalayas, and visitors can enjoy a panoramic and breathtaking perspective of this place. The town is officially designated as ‘Mini Switzerland’ and has an abundant natural beauty that attracts travelers from near and far. Khajjiar also has a nine-hole golf course located amidst lush greenery, making it an ideal place for golf enthusiasts.
Travelers visiting Khajjiar can plan a visit to the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Cozy Swiss Meadows, Valley View rooms near Khajjiar Lake, Smart Hill Kalatop, and Birds & chirps. The town is an ideal place for a picnic, relaxation, horse riding, and forest trekking, and has several places to stay like Mystic Village, Heart Beat Resort, Nature, Kailash island view, Hotel Country Resort, and 2bhk Apartments near Khajjiar Lake.
2: Ganji Pahari Trek
Ganji Pahari is a small hill located 5 km from Dalhousie Bus Stand, offering mesmerizing views of surrounding snow-capped hills and valleys. The name means ‘bald hill’ as the peak has no trees, giving it a bald appearance. Visitors can enjoy an easy to moderate trek from Panchpula to the top, which takes around 20-30 minutes. The trek is perfect for nature lovers, and the hill is an ideal spot for trekking, camping, and picnics.
Ganji Pahari is located in the Bakrota Hills and can be visited throughout the year. It is an hour’s walk from Dalhousie, and visitors should carry food and water for the trek as there are no shops or hotels on the trail. The hill is one of the most adventurous spots in Dalhousie and offers spellbinding views from the top.
Visitors can stay at RedHomex 101 Mudhouse, Nomadic Dalhousie, Camping & Outdoor Adventures, Himalayan camping, or Dalhousian camping. The hill is an excellent place to visit on a trip to Dalhousie and should not be missed.
3: Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular wildlife sanctuary located between Dalhousie and Chamba in Himachal Pradesh. Covering an area of 30.69 sq km, the sanctuary is filled with deodar trees and has an abundance of lush grasslands, freshwater streams and more. It is a great place for wildlife lovers and offers trekking, hiking, bird watching and wildlife safaris.
The sanctuary is home to 117 species of rare birds, including the Eurasian Jay, Chestnut Bellied rock thrush and white-winged blackbird, as well as a variety of wildlife, such as bears, deer, leopards, and langurs. The best time to visit Kalatop Sanctuary is between March and May or September to November, and it remains open from 7 AM to 6 PM every day.
There are various places to stay near the sanctuary, including Smart Hill Kalatop, Birds & Chirps, Aaroham By Aamod, Zostel Dalhousie, and Comfort Homestay. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect destination for those looking to escape into the tranquility of nature and explore the flora and fauna of the region.
4: Dainkund Peak
Dainkund Peak Trek is a must-visit place & a thrilling experience in Dalhousie. It is a 5 km trek starting from Dainkund basecamp, situated in Lakkad Mandi, covered with a dense forest of fir and deodars. After reaching the top of Dainkund Peak, visitors can relax at the Pholani Mata Temple and enjoy the mesmerizing scenery.
It is advised to carry warm clothes, jackets, and gloves as the peak gets very cold sometimes. If you visit during the winter months, there is a high chance of finding snow, so make sure you have proper shoes. The best time to visit the Dainkund Peak Trek is during the months of March to May and October to June.
The Dainkund Peak Trek is a popular place to visit in Dalhousie, known as the ‘Singing Hill.’ It is one of the best tourist spots in Dalhousie that offers refreshing views of the green hills, valleys, and plains. The enchanting view of the three rivers – Chenab, Ravi, and Beas, that weave through the greens below, enhances the beauty of this place manifold. There are many places to stay in Dalhousie, including Aamod Resorts, Zostel Dalhousie, and Comfort Homestay.
5: Satdhara Falls
Satdhara Falls, located in Dalhousie, is a popular tourist attraction due to its pleasant climate and natural beauty. The falls consist of seven streams and are said to contain mica, which is known for its healing properties. This spot is ideal for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers.
To avoid crowds, visitors are advised to go early on a weekday. The falls are rocky, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The falls offer an opportunity for rejuvenation and relaxation, with a pool of water for swimming.
Located on the route to Panchpula, Satdhara Falls is a great place to explore the natural beauty of Dalhousie. It is a popular sightseeing and picnic spot that is not to be missed on a trip to the area. Visitors can take a walk, bus, or tourist car to reach the falls and enjoy the therapeutic value of the seven streams.
6: Chamera Lake
Chamera Lake, a man-made reservoir, is located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh and is a major source of water supply for the surrounding villages. The lake is surrounded by deodar conifers and snow-covered mountain tops, which makes it an ideal location for photography and offers a mesmerizing view. Visitors can indulge in various water sports like motor boating, river rafting, kayaking, and canoeing here. Additionally, tourists can also visit the nearby Bhalei Temple, which is equally famous.
The lake and dam are a part of the Chamera Hydroelectric Project, and during monsoon season, the lake gives a majestic view due to the flood caused by the rising water of the Ravi River. The dense pine forests of Bhandal Valley surrounding the dam add to its scenic beauty. Chamera Lake is an ideal location for people looking for adventure as well as peace, making it a perfect place for picnic, trekking, fishing and boating. It is located approximately 30 km from Dalhousie and must be included in Dalhousie Tour Package.
Visitors are advised to indulge in water sports early in the morning or late in the evening, which is the best time to avoid the crowd and capture unobstructed pictures. Chamera Lake is a captivating and mesmerizing place that offers visitors an opportunity to admire the shimmering sunset or indulge in adventurous activities.
7: St. Francis Catholic Church
St. Francis Church is a Catholic church located in Dalhousie, built-in 1894 with European architecture and décor. It’s known for its exquisite interior stoneworks, Belgian glass decorations, and Victorian-era architecture. The church is a major tourist attraction, making it one of the famous Dalhousie tourist spots. The interior walls are adorned with words and illustrations narrating the history of the establishment.
This church is a prominent religious and tourist site in Dalhousie, visited by numerous tourists. It’s also known for celebrating festivals like the Feast of Our Lady, Feast of St. Francis, Christmas, Easter, and Good Friday with great zeal. The best time to visit is during Sunday mass prayers, and if you’re in Dalhousie during Christmas, Easter, or Good Friday, do not miss out on the special prayers.
St. Francis Church is a must-visit attraction in Dalhousie and is ideal for art and history lovers. The church’s exquisite architecture, rich history, and spiritual significance make it a respite for those looking for a break from adventure-packed hubs of Dalhousie.
8: Chamba
Chamba is a town in Himachal Pradesh known for its ancient temples, monuments, and caves, and it’s a great offbeat location to explore. Chamba sits at an elevation of 996 meters on the banks of the Ravi River and is the base camp for many treks in the Himalayan ranges.
The town is dotted with historical and architecturally significant landmarks, and there is much to explore in and around Chamba. It is a treasure trove of scenic attractions, sparkling streams, primeval lakes, meadows, dense alpine tree covers, rich wildlife and fertile valleys. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Zanskar, Dhauladhar, and Pir Panjal ranges, shop for traditional handicrafts and art, go trekking, or attend the renowned festivals of Suhi Mata Mela (March/April) and Minjar Mela (2nd Sunday of August).
The town has a lively population endowed with a vibrant culture that stretches back thousands of years. It has a splendid artistic heritage that includes fine temple architecture, beautiful miniature paintings, and the exquisite embroidered Chamba Rumal. The temperature in Chamba can rise to around 35 degrees Celsius in summer and hover near zero degrees Celsius in winter. Visitors should pack accordingly with light cotton clothes for summers, light woolens for spring and autumn, and heavy woolens for winters.
9: Sach Pass – The Trekker’s Paradise
Sach Pass is a top tourist destination located in Sach town of the Chamba district, approximately 15 km from Killar. This trekking trail is an amazing getaway for adventure enthusiasts, offering picturesque landscapes, rugged terrains, and scenic vistas. It leads all the way to the remote and enchanting Pangi Valley, a popular destination for trekkers.
The trek to Sach Pass takes you through dense woods, snow-covered crests, and verdant plantations, providing a challenging experience to the trekkers. The trek is open from June to October, with September being the best time to visit. The journey can be perilous, but the breathtaking views of hanging glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Pir-Panjal ranges keep the trekkers motivated.
Located in the Pir Panjal of the Himalayas, Sach Pass is the oldest route used by the locals to cross from Chamba valley to Pangi Valley. It offers an exceptional trekking experience, passing through lush green landscapes, dense forests, and old hamlets. Travelers should avoid visiting during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and the possibility of landslides and cloud-bursts.
10: Gandhi Chowk – Mall Road
Dalhousie offers a variety of shopping options and retail centres including the popular Gandhi Chowk. Tibetan Market, Himachal Handloom Industry Emporium, Himachal Handloom and Crafts Centre, and Tibetan Handicrafts Centre are just a few of the small stores to visit. The Dalhousie Mall Road begins at Gandhi Chowk, and is a great place to relax, shop, and eat. It offers breathtaking views of the Pir Panjal mountain ranges and is a popular tourist destination.
The Mall Road is an excellent location for shopping, eating, relaxing, and photography. It’s a perfect spot for meeting with friends and exploring small gift shops. Tourists can buy unique handmade items and enjoy the local talent. It’s especially refreshing to indulge in these activities amidst the surrounding nature. There are many eateries, clubs, bars, inns, hotels, and banks on the road. Visitors love to spend the day slowly walking along the winding road, taking in pleasing vistas around, shopping for trinkets, and eating their favourite snacks.
11: Garam Sadak
Garam Sadak is a pedestrian road that gets direct sunlight during the daytime, making it a warm and pleasant area in Dalhousie. It is popular among locals and tourists who enjoy taking a nature walk through the beautiful trees that line the road. It connects Gandhi and Subhash Chowks, making it a great spot for a quick stroll.
It is an ideal spot for nature lovers and honeymooners who want to take a peaceful walk amidst lush greenery. The road looks stunning in the night, but it is not well-lit, so it is recommended to carry a flashlight. The road gets direct sunlight, which makes it warm even in the evening.
There is no fee to visit Garam Sadak, and it takes about 1-2 hours to explore. This is a great place to spend some time with nature and enjoy the warm and cozy atmosphere that the road provides.
