I wonder if there would be anything more apt than this line by John Muir: “The mountains are calling, and I must go”.

I totally feel him, his words. For me, when the travel bug infects me, nothing can prevent me from going out, not even my poor bank balance. In the months of April–May 2023, I felt the urge to explore my all-time favorite Himachal. This time, I wished to explore the Dalhousie-Dharamshala side, a long-cherished destination.

But before I proceed about the main topic – the best places to travel in Dalhousie, I have to highlight my travel experience in this blog…

Due to my sudden travel plan I found out that U needed to deal with so many obstacles: my poor travel fund, unavailable train tickets, compact work schedule, failure to get TATKAL tickets… and the list is pretty long.

Finally, we decided to travel on an alternative route. Instead of getting a direct train from Howrah/Sealdah to Pathankot, we divided the route into three parts – Sealdah to Dhanbad, Dhanbad to Jalandhar, and then Jalandhar to Pathankot. Accordingly, we booked tickets in Jalianwala Bagh Exp., Ganga-Sutlej Exp., and Himgiri Exp. Then, Pathankot to Dalhousie by public bus.

As per our plan, we started the journey on April 27, 2023, and after two days of a long, hectic journey, the exhausted and drained me reached Dalhousie.

The moment I got down from the bus at Dalhousie Bus Stand, a gust of wind ran through my face, hair, and other bare parts of my body. There was a chill in the air. Such a refreshing welcome after such a tedious journey! From Kolkata’s 41.2°C to Dalhousie’s 11°C! What a contrast in weather I had seen in just two days!

Some Words about Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh

Dalhousie—this picturesque hill station has been mesmerizing travelers with its serene beauty, colonial charm, and captivating landscapes since time immemorial. Nestled amidst the enchanting Dhauladhar mountain range of Himachal Pradesh, the place was named after the British Governor-General Lord Dalhousie.

Whether you are looking for solitude, pristineness, adventure, or cultural immersion, this town has everything. Besides, there is a treasure trove of natural wonders and historical sites that promise an unforgettable getaway.

Best Places to Visit in Dalhousie

1. Panchpula

We started our Dalhousie sightseeing with Panchpula, which means “five bridges”. The name aptly justifies the place, as multiple streams converge here to create cascading waterfalls. To our dismay, it started raining heavily just the moment we reached there. Heavy rain in April – it was not something we expected! But you can’t control nature’s mood!

A short trek from Panchpula leads to Satdhara Falls, where seven springs come together to form a serene spectacle. As we waited in a tiny café just beside Panchpula’s gushing stream for the rain to stop, we came to know that these falls are the source of potable water for all nearby localities in Dalhousie.

2. Khajjiar

A trip to Dalhousie is incomplete without Khajjiar – heard it many times and now realize it. Khajjiar is prominently referred to as ‘the mini-Switzerland of India. Well, I strongly oppose this kind of comparison. To me, every place has its own beauty and charm, which make it unique and raise its standard. No comparison with a foreign destination is required to elevate this uniqueness.

So, Khajjiar was on the top of our list – best places to travel in Dalhousie. The journey from Dalhousie to Khajjiar was thoroughly enjoyable due to the breathtaking view. Amid the rain, when we reached Khajjiar, we were instantly mesmerized by the meadow surrounded by dense forests and towering cedar trees. Though we couldn’t ignore the scene of a muddy road outside the enclosed area, the lush green pastures and a serene lake compensated for everything.

Many people in search of tranquility decide to spend the night at Khajjiar, but our tight travel schedule didn’t permit that. You can engage in various activities like horse riding, zorbing, and trekking in this valley.

3. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

Nature enthusiasts will find solace at the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna. Due to heavy rain, we couldn’t proceed much through thick deodar forests.

The dense forest trails provide opportunities for wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and a tranquil communion with nature. The sanctuary is also a great place for a leisurely picnic amidst tall pine trees.

4. Daikund Peak

If you are just like me, seeking panoramic views and a little bit of adventure, then Daikund is the place. Considered the highest point in Dalhousie, this peak offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding valleys and the mighty Himalayan range.

A short hike through its train surrounded by deodar forests led me to the top with a 360° panoramic view, as if I were in the world of a cloud of mist! The peak will also give you a glance at two attractions: one is the Indian Air Force base, and another is the Pholani Devi temple.

5. St. John’s Church

Located in Gandhi Chowk, Moti Tiba, this Scottish-style church bears the colonial charm of Dalhousie. Beautifully preserved, this church is adorned with stunning stained-glass windows and intricate wooden architecture. We learned that the church belongs to the Protestant community.

While entering the church, we were deeply captivated by the tranquil surroundings and serene ambiance inside the church. It gave me a mixed feeling of history, beauty, and mystery.

6. Chamera Lake

On the second day of our sightseeing in Dalhousie, we proceeded towards our next destination – Chamera Lake, to explore the serenity of the water. It’s literally difficult to explain the beauty of this dam, as we witnessed from the road on our way.

As we visited in the summer, we saw this man-made waterbody surrounded by lustrous green forestlands and hills. Then, we came to know from our boat instructor that another ideal time to visit Chamera is in the winter when the nearby mountains turn snow-white, seeing the landscape painting with a blinding light.

Here, you can indulge in boating, peaceful strolls along the banks, and exploration of nearby waterfalls.

• Chamera Lake Activities: Boating, Speed Boats
• Entry Fee: Nil
• Normal Boating Charge: Rs. 300 for adults and Rs. 200 for children for 30 minutes (*price as of May 1, 2023)

7.      St. Francis Church

After returning from Chamera Lake, we went for a stroll to explore the nearby areas and came to know about this popular church in Subhas Chowk. Built in 1894, St. Francis Church is located on the top of a small hill. Just like other churches, you get a sense of relaxation and tranquility while ascending your way to this Catholic church. Then inside there, you’ll find the exquisite interior stonework and multi-colored Belgian glass decorations in murals, depicting the life and tribulation of Jesus Christ.

• St. Francis Church Timings: 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m., open all days.
• Entry Fee: Nil

8. Tibetan Market

After reaching Dalhousie and spending two days sightseeing, we decided to explore its local market and soak in the local culture. And when it comes to souvenirs, there is no better place than the Tibetan Market in Gandhi Chowk. From woolen garments to jewelry, a variety of handicrafts, and Tibetan artifacts, this place seems like a paradise for shopping lovers who want to collect souvenirs as travel memories.

Bonus Travel Destinations in Dalhousie

9. Ganji Pahadi

This is another ideal hiking destination that ensures breathtaking scenery through the trail and its peak. Though it was on our itinerary, we couldn’t make it due to heavy rain during our stay in Dalhousie. However, we heard a lot about this easy-to-moderate-level trek for its panoramic views. During the winter, the place becomes more serene with snowfall, which adds charm to this place.

10. The Beauty of Chamba Valley

While in Dalhousie, we just can’t miss Chamba Valley, and I bet you have to fall in love with its beauty. This picturesque valley is well-known for its exquisite natural beauty, gushing streams, green and yellow contrasting meadows, and whatnot!

Final Realization

To conclude, we must say that the best thing to do at Dalhousie is to relax and get soaked in the beauty of nature. With its breathtaking landscape, cultural richness, and colonial charm, Dalhousie is a destination catering to a wide range of interests. Though in our 3-night, 2-day trip to Dalhousie (as we reached Dalhousie at 7 p.m.), we were unable to explore more places due to heavy rain, even in the months of April and May, we left the hill station with a different experience—memories of rain in the mountain. The truth is, light to moderate rain is always enjoyable in the mountains.

Step outside or just sit on the balcony of your hotel and view the enchanting mountain range of Dhauladhar, enjoy the lush greenery of deodar and pines, and listen to the relentless pitter-patter of a billion raindrops—make me realize how precious our lives are!