Welcome to the breathtaking mountain town of Dalhousie, India. Situated in the Himachal Pradesh region of Northern India, it is a popular hill station and vacation destination for tourists from all over the world. Offering amazing views of snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, gushing rivers and quaint old-world charm, it is no surprise that this mesmerizingly beautiful town has been featured in movies like Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani and Rockstar.
Aside from the beauty of this peaceful hill station town, there is also so much that you can enjoy while here. From sightseeing to taking walks down memory lane and getting lost in nature’s arms; Dalhousie offers something for everyone. So, without further ado, here are 5 best things to do in Dalhousie:
Explore the Khajjiar Lake
One of the best things to do in Dalhousie is visiting Khajjiar Lake for a spectacular view. Located 20 kilometers from the town, the lake is surrounded by a lush green meadow and surrounded by trees giving it an incredibly beautiful look. The lake itself is surrounded by a thick growth of trees, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful picnic and exploration. There are also several activities to do at the lake, and you can even take a boat ride on the lake.
Location
Khajjiar Lake is located in the Himachal Pradesh district of Dalhousie, India. It is situated at an altitude of 6372 feet and is surrounded by thick cedar forests, deodar and oak, making it an ideal destination for trekkers looking for a holiday full of nature and adventure.
The lake draws its water from the nearby Dauladhar range and provides fantastic views of the snow-capped mountain peaks in the background. This heavenly place can easily be one of your favorite spots in all of India.The lake itself looks like a saucer filled with sparkling emerald green water with an elevated grassy meadow land around it to provide much needed respite from the clamor outside.
Around this meadow are located a series of small stone temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and other gods which further adds to the charm of this place. A picturesque 9-hole golf course has also been set up on the western side of the lake alongside 10 temples, adding even more to its appeal among locals as well as tourists visiting from afar.
Activities
The Khajjiar Lake is an artificial lake situated in Dalhousie town of Himachal Pradesh, India. It offers a range of ways to explore the region, from leisurely boat rides to thrilling watersports. Along with the breathtaking natural beauty of Dalhousie nestled in the Himalayas, here are five activities that visitors can enjoy by Khajjiar Lake:
1. Boating: Relax on a pedal or motorboat as you take in stunning views of pine trees and rolling hills from the middle of Khajjiar Lake.
2. Horse Riding: Take a horse ride from Khajjiar Lake to Panchpula and back. Enjoy an invigorating experience as you admire diverse landscapes against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks in sheer bliss.
3. Fishing: Prospect for trout and catch them for fun or breakfast! Here, professional fishermen can facilitate your fishing trips with their boats and equipment across Bhullran stream next to the lake, so keep an eye out for that too.
4. Paragliding: Enjoy breathtaking views over this picturesque glade while suspended in midair! Professional pilots offer paragliding therapies directly above KhajjiarLake during which they take you into heights ranging from 2,500 feet up to 2700 feet up above sea level.
5. Trekking: The lake is surrounded by mesmerizing scenes covered with green meadows intersected by small brooks making it perfect for trekking trails with birds singing amidst fresh air filtering out pollution giving travelers a feeling of being amidst nature’s paradise Treks through forests carpeted with fallen pine needles across small streams meandering its way are attractions not be be forgotten easily!
Timings
Khajjiar Lake offers its visitors a wonderful view throughout the day. You can visit the place early in the morning and enjoy its natural beauty, or you can plan your visit late at night and admire how the stars light up the lake. It’s always a good idea to get there a bit before sunrise and catch the first rays of sunshine.
The opening hours at Khajjiar Lake depend on two factors — whether or not it has snowed, and when sunset falls. When it snows, it’s closed longer due to slippery conditions. The organisers recommend giving yourself enough time to take photographs without being rushed.
During winter: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
During summer: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
during monsoon season: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
It is recommended to reach the lake before sunset and enjoy the beautiful view of an evening with your loved ones. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing that is suitable for trekking in higher altitudes while planning your trip to Khajjiar Lake.
Visit the Dainkund Peak
Dainkund Peak is located in the majestic mountains of Himachal Pradesh and is the highest peak in the region. It stands at an elevation of around 3,000 meters and provides breathtaking views of the nearby snow-covered peaks and valley. Visiting this picturesque peak is one of the most popular activities that tourists indulge in while in Dalhousie. With its rich flora and fauna, beautiful surroundings, and panoramic views of the valley, it is no wonder why people flock here to spend some time in the lap of nature.
Location
Dainkund Peak is an awe-inspiring hill station situated in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. The hill station provides captivating views of various snowcapped Himalayan peaks like the Pir Panjal Range and Dhauladhar Range. The hill station stands tall with an elevation of 8,552 feet (2,610 meters) above sea level and is located at a distance of about 8 km from the magnificent town of Dalhousie.
The lush forests surrounding it are abode to various species of birds and animals like the Monals, Eurasian Jays, Pheasants etc. It’s shallow pond often lures migratory birds in droves each year during winter months. The place also has facilities for horse riding due to which it attracts a lot of tourists annually who come here to explore its pristine beauty. Every single time you visit this place you are sure to be mesmerized by its ever-changing terrain and captivating panoramic view, thus making it one of the most alluring tourist spots near Dalhousie
Activities
Dainkund Peak has long been a treasured destination for visitors of the Dalhousie region of India. It is one of the highest peaks in the Dhauladhar Range, standing at an impressive height of 2755 meters. From here, visitors can enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of nature, including far off villages, valleys, and snow-covered mountains.
The trek up to Dainkund peak from Khajjar is not overly strenuous, but it will take you through varied landscapes and varies in difficulty according to the individual’s level of fitness. During the journey, naturally beautiful landscapes crafted by Mother Nature will complete your experience by continually mesmerizing your senses.
For those wanting to explore further than just the peak itself, there are a number of adventurous activities available to try out in this part of Himachal Pradesh. Listed below are five activities you can enjoy at Dainkund Peak:
- Trekking: Trekking up through different trails is a great way to explore this section of Himachal Pradesh’s countryside as you get closer and closer to Dainkund peak.
- Camping: Enjoy camping under millions of stars in nature’s lap near or around Dainkund peak with family or friends for an unforgettable experience.
- Paragliding: An exciting activity that everyone should try at least once! Challenge glory by tandem paragliding adjacent to Dainkund Peak in Khajjiar Valley and experience a whole new level adventure.
- Photography: If you have an eye for capturing beautiful moments on camera then here is your chance! Capture stunning visuals as your subject will be nature’s infinite beauty from different vantage points during your trek or hiking trip toDainkund Peak
- Goat Safari: Take a unique ride on unique black face mountain goats through dales and forests around Khajjiar Lake for an intriguing adventure!
Timings
Due to its location, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Dainkund Peak year-round. During summer, the best time to visit this peak is between April and June. The climate here is chilly but pleasant during these months and perfect for mountaineering activities.
On the other hand, tourists often prefer visiting Dainkund Peak in winter (November – January) because of its snow-covered slopes. Skiing and sledging make this place even more fun during wintertime as well as it has plenty of natural attractions such as waterfalls and vast mountain ranges on its sides.
The admission charges for visiting this peak are minimal and there are no restrictions on timings. However, for indulging in any adventure activities like skiing or trekking at Dainkund Peak, it is preferable to stick to the recommended timings depending upon the situation of weather conditions or temperature outside at that particular time of day. It is advisable not to engage any adventure activities in monsoon due to heavy rainfalls that can cause extreme slippery slopes in icier regions.
Explore the St. John’s Church
When visiting Dalhousie, be sure to take a tour of the St. John’s Church. This beautiful building was built in 1891. It is a reminder of the region’s British colonization and serves as a place of worship for those in the area. The building features a stunning Gothic architecture with intricate details and lush green surroundings. Aside from the exterior, the interior of the church is also worth exploring. The stained-glass windows and paintings depicting scenes from the Bible are truly captivating.
Location
The St John’s Church is one of the oldest churches in Dalhousie and is located in the heart of the town. You can easily reach the church by taking a bus or taxi from nearby locations. The church is built on an elevated site which can be reached after walking a few steps up a steep hill. The beautiful garden, full of exotic trees, makes it even more appealing. This magnificent structure stands proudly against the sky as an ideal representation of history and old-world charm to anyone visiting Dalhousie. With over 150 years of history, this church has been witnessing many great moments and holds them close to its heart overtime.
Activities
St. John’s Church is one of the most visited religious sites in Dalhousie and is a top destination for families, groups and believers alike. Visitors can explore this historical and spiritual space to learn more about religion, architecture, art and local culture. Here are the five best activities to do while visiting St. John’s Church:
1. Witness Sacred Events: As one of Dalhousie’s oldest churches, St. John’s attracts many visitors who come to attend services or take part in other sacred events like baptisms and confirmations. Visiting this church during special occasions provides a unique opportunity to experience its history come alive.
2. Participate in Prayers: Visitors can participate in prayers by attending regular Sunday services or joining other members for special prayers on different occasions throughout the year. Praying at St. John’s Church in itself is an amazing experience due to its awe-inspiring architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
3. Explore the Craftsmanship: The craftsmanship of St. John’s Church is one of its major attractions along with its majestic interior structure which was designed by some of India’s best architects from colonial era days long gone by today! Taking a closer look at the fine details such as stained-glass windows, intricate mosaic floor tiles and magnificent vaults give visitors an insight into the history that this place holds within it walls.
4. Listen to Bell Ringers: Listening to bell ringers under the grand dome atop St. Johns Church gives visitors a glimpse into another world altogether! The bell ringing accompanied with energetic singing is bound to leave you entranced for hours on end! Do make sure you bring your camera along as this is one sight not be missed out on!
5. Take a Religious Tour: A great way to learn more about religion, local beliefs and culture is by attending a religious tour that takes participants around key areas inside the church such as sacristy, altar or main nave but also includes various conversation sessions related religious matters led by tourists’ guides trained specifically for that purpose. It ‘a great opportunity for visitors who want insight into essential aspects of faith while gaining better understanding religious stories told through sculptures found inside or outside structures like these ancient churches around Dalhousie area.
Timings
The St. John’s Church is open to visitors every day of the year, all through the week. For convenience and safety of everyone, we have a designated time for visitors:
Monday-Saturday: 10 am – 4 pm
Sunday: 12 pm – 4pm
During this time period, there will be an on-site supervisor to answer your questions and provide any assistance you need. We recommend that groups who wish to visit should book an appointment prior to their visit for speedy entry and access to exclusive tours.
Visit the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
If you are looking for the ultimate outdoor experience, the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary near Dalhousie is a great choice. Here, you will get to explore the vast wilderness of the Himalayan foothills. You can see various wild animals, some of which are endangered species such as the Himalayan Black Bear, Barking Deer, Leopard, and Barking Deer. The sanctuary also offers guided walks so that you can learn more about the wildlife and culture of the area.
Location
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is located at an altitude of 9,200 feet and covers an area of about 10sq km in the Himalayan foothills of Dalhousie. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife like leopards, black bear, musk deer, barking deer, and ghoral. Even apex predators like the snow leopard have been known to traverse this region in search for prey. Many endangered species can also be found in Kalatop such as the brown palm civet or the western tragopan.
The sanctuary also provides a safe refuge for many local species including birds such as rose finches and great tits that flock to its waters during summers; while winter sees a massive influx of migratory birds like Brahminy ducks, white-capped water redstart, blue whistling thrush, Indian robins etc. Other notable inhabitants include common langurs, goral (mountain goats), jackals and porcupines.
Rampant deforestation has hurt essential habitats of various species within Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary over the years but thanks to constant efforts by volunteers and local authorities, rehabilitating efforts are showing results with threatened animals making a comeback within the sanctuary’s boundaries
Activities
The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the main attractions in Dalhousie, India. Located just 13 km away from the city centre, it offers an opportunity to view a wide variety of flora and fauna. Ideal for nature lovers and those who would like to explore the local wildlife, there are plenty of activities that can be done at Kalatop Sanctuary ranging from Jeep Safari, Bird Watching to Nature Walk.
Jeep Safari: Jeep safaris are available inside the reserve where you can ride through dense jungles. You will have a chance to spot rare and endangered species such as Leopard, Musk Deer, Black Bear as well as few species of birds like Hill Partridges, Goshawks and Red Junglefowls.
Hiking/Nature Walk: Apart from Jeep safari a lot of people opt for guided hikes or nature walk where you get to explore untouched beauty by walking along trails. During these walks you can spot spices such as Deodar trees, Rhododendron shrubs or wildflowers which are quite popular in this part of the world
Bird watching: Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary encourage bird watchers too with ample number bird sightings being reported regularly. If you are enthralled by colors or diverse shapes, then a simple stroll around the sanctuary will provide plenty of visuals for diving into pleasant memories for a long time.
Wildlife Photography: Photography lovers always find immense delight when they visit any wildlife sanctuaries in India due to its wide variety of flora and fauna. The collection here presents an ideal platform for shutterbugs to explore intriguing species including mammals and several other animals while capturing the most beautiful moments on camera.
Fishing: Fishing is common activity among visitors at this sanctuary because it provides opportunities to spend some leisure moments with family or friends enjoying an exciting fishing experience.
Timings
The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the beautiful district of Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh. It is a known picnic spot by the locals and a major tourist attraction for those travelling to Dalhousie. The sanctuary was established in 1960 and its wide area houses many species of flora and fauna.
The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary has specific timings when it can be visited by tourists. The sanctuary offers morning safaris during peak season which kickstart at 6 AM and end at 11 AM while evening safaris start at 3 PM and extend up to 7:30 PM. Timings may seem too early or too late for some, but this is done so that visitors can experience wildlife in its most natural state during sunrise and sunset respectively.
It is important to note that all visits to the sanctuary are subject to weather conditions, as safaris may be cancelled due to rain or extreme cold temperatures, making it important for visitors to check before planning a visit there.
Explore the Panchpula
The Panchpula, one of the most amazing places to visit in Dalhousie, is an ideal spot for a day trip. Located at a distance of six kilometers from the town, Panchpula is popular for its serene surroundings, panoramic view of the Dhauladhar Mountains and the cascading stream. It also boasts of a fall, a pond and a necropolis. It is a great place to spend time in the lap of nature, far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. So come and explore the Panchpula!
Location
The Panchpula is located in the lower regions of Dalhousie, in the lovely valley of Banikhet. The site is a chain of five old-fashioned and picturesque brooks snaking their way through rough terrain. It’s located around 4 km from the main market Road, making it a convenient getaway if you’re looking for some peace and quiet. This natural wonder has much to offer those who take the time to explore it, like plenty of picnic spots and some lovely easy-to-moderate hiking trails for trekking enthusiasts. The site also offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar mountains, an ideal destination for photography buffs or nature lovers alike. The Panchpula truly deserves to be on your Dalhousie itinerary if you’re visiting this beautiful region.
Activities
Dalhousie is home to some of the most beautiful and breathtaking natural attractions in India. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy while visiting here, and some are true Dalhousie classics that must be experienced. Here are 5 of the best activities to do when at Panchpula:
1. Trekking: With its hillside location among towering mountains, Dalhousie offers plenty of opportunities for trekking. The region’s trails feature a variety of terrain, ranging from dry hillsides with sensational views to jungle tracks and alpine meadows.
2. Paragliding & River Rafting: Paragliding and river rafting opportunities in the region make it a great adventure destination for thrill seekers looking for a unique experience in nature. Season-wise, both experiences tend to be most popular during summer months when the weather is reliable and temperatures hover below 30C.
3. Bird Watching & Wildlife Tour: The rich flora and fauna offer abundant opportunities to witness nature’s finest beauty such as exotic bird species like Robins, Golden Orioles and Red-Vented Bulbuls calling from atop trees or if you’re lucky even spot an Indian fox or Chinkara deer dancing through the shrubs.
4. Shopping: When it comes time for souvenirs shopping, one can find everything from traditional handmade cashmere shawls with intricate embroidery to quaint figurines made out of Himalayan stone or silverwork crafted by local artisans -all sold at affordable prices.
5. Sightseeing & Boating: Take in views from four thousand feet above sea level, saunter through elegant colonial-era churches or just spend leisurely hours boating across a lake – these experiences will have your heart skipping with joy all throughout your stay.
Timings
Nearly everyone who visits Dalhousie, India makes a point of including Panchpula in their itinerary. This popular tourist spot is located just a few kilometers from the city itself and features a picturesque stream with seven bridges that span its length. It’s also home to three monuments dedicated to freedom fighters Subhash Chandra Bose, Mohan Singh, and Bhagat Singh.
If you’re looking to explore Panchpula, we suggest visiting early in the morning as it’s generally cooler and offers the best chance to see wildlife at its most active. The official opening time is 8:00 am but can vary depending on season and holiday timetable. The monuments close at noon each day but those planning on taking photos should be aware of light risers who are particularly sensitive to shooting during early morning mist and fog.
We also recommend arriving before 9:30 am as traffic starts to build soon after this time. There is a minimal admission fee per person which helps cover the cost of maintenance throughout the year. If you want to witness spectacular sunsets, try getting here between 5 – 7 pm when most people start leaving for their hotels in Dalhousie town centre or Chamba-Khajjiar Roadside stops.
Whether you’re planning for a half-day trip or an overnight stay, there are plenty of activities available at Panchpula throughout the day but do bear in mind that last entry is allowed at 4:30 pm and all visitors must vacate at 6:00 pm local time when it closes down completely until next opening time in the morning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dalhousie is an amazing destination to visit with many attractions and activities available. The spectacular natural surroundings are breathtaking, and the colonial architecture adds to the old-world charm. It’s the perfect place for nature lovers, history buffs and adventurers alike.
Take a stroll through the historic buildings of St. Andrew’s Church, hike up Minnie’s peak to take in some of the best panoramic views or take a leisurely boat ride down River Beas. Enjoy shopping at The Tibetan Market or explore the area’s countless temples. From wildlife watching tours to adventure activities like mountaineering or kayaking on River Kinner – there is something here for everyone no matter what your interests are.
We hope this guide has provided you with everything you need to know about Dalhousie for your next trip! Don’t forget to check out all that this amazing city has to offer – from cultural attractions like heritage sites and museums, lush green forests full of abundant wildlife and many unique experiences that come from living in a remote mountain town. Whether it is family-friendly attractions or exciting experiences such as treks into nearby villages; make sure not to miss out on any opportunity that comes your way. Enjoy your stay in Dalhousie.
