Hey there, fellow travelers! This article is about how to plan a budget trip to Dalhousie.
If you’re anything like me, Himachal Pradesh is always a go-to name on our weekend trip list. I mean, this state has so much to offer, it’s almost overwhelming! And let me tell you, if you’re a traveler seeking new adventures and planning a budget trip, there’s one place in Himachal that deserves a special spot on your must-visit list. I’m talking about none other than the enchanting town of Dalhousie. Trust me, it’s a hidden gem that will steal your heart.
When it comes to planning a budget trip to Dalhousie, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the affordable options available. From budget-friendly accommodations in Dalhousie to various travel hacks that help you make the most of your budget, there are plenty of ways to explore this beautiful town without breaking the bank.
So, fellow travelers, consider adding Dalhousie to your itinerary for a budget trip that combines affordability with enchanting landscapes. It’s a destination that promises to leave you with unforgettable memories while being gentle on your wallet.
Budget Trip to Dalhousie - Travel wallet-friendly Transportation options
For the sake of this article, I am assuming you are traveling from Delhi. If you are not, still this article should be relevant to you. So let’s say you are traveling from Delhi you have 4 options by which you can visit Dalhousie i.e. Roadways, Bus Transportation, Railway Transportation, and Flights. I will give a brief about each and then you decide whichever works for you.
Travel to Dalhousie by Roadways:
Roadways are a great way to travel especially in mountain regions because of the mesmerizing view throughout the journey and the thrill, and adrenaline rush when you ride your bike on the hills and mountains. That’s a different experience. Although it comes with the cost of risk, time, and uncertainty. Although the route from Delhi to Dalhousie is super smooth still you have to be a little conscious.
Route: “Delhi – Panipat – Karnal – Kurukshetra – Ambala – Rajpura – Ludhiana – Phagwara – Jalandhar – Pathankot – Dalhousie”
There can be a few other variations to the route but the one I suggested above is probably the shortest and quickest one. Even if you were coming from Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Pathankot, or Amritsar, the same route will still apply.
Time: It will take you about 10 to 11 hours to reach Dalhousie
Distance: Your total journey will be about 560 kilometers if you follow the suggested route.
Although when we were planning for our trip, most of my friends don’t have a vehicle and few of them don’t know how to ride a bike also we were bound by the time so we avoid roadways. I encourage you, if you love riding and your time then you should choose roadways.
Travel to Dalhousie by Railways from Delhi to Pathankot:
If you’re looking to plan a truly budget-friendly trip to Dalhousie, there’s a convenient and cost-effective method to reach this charming destination. The nearest railway station to Dalhousie is the Pathankot Railway Station, located approximately 71 kilometers away. It serves as a well-connected hub, offering deluxe, super-fast, and express trains to various destinations across India.
Opting for rail travel can be a great way to save money while enjoying the journey to Dalhousie. From Pathankot Railway Station, you can easily find affordable transportation options to continue your budget trip to Dalhousie. Embrace the cost-effectiveness and convenience of rail travel as you embark on an unforgettable adventure in this captivating hill station.
Train booking: You can book your train from the IRCTC Official website
We went for this option, this was cost-efficient, it just took us 350rs/- each from Delhi to Pathankot, then from Pathankot to Dalhousie we’ve taken the bus. There are only limited buses available from Pathankot to Dalhousie. you can check the timing and availability below.
Here is the Pathankot to Dalhousie bus timetable
Check out the availability of Govt. Buses, and Private Buses.
Travel to Dalhousie using HRTC Bus Transportation:
Being a major tourist destination, there are plenty of buses to Dalhousie from almost every major city, making it an ideal choice for a budget trip to Dalhousie. If you were planning to travel from Delhi by bus, you can easily find one at ISBT Kashmere Gate.
Additionally, nearby towns such as Chamba, Dharamshala, Mcleodganj, and Shimla are well-connected to Dalhousie. Himachal Road Transport and Haryana Road Transport Corporations provide a mix of ordinary and semi-deluxe buses, ensuring affordable transportation options.
Moreover, private travel companies operate luxury sleeper, semi-sleeper, and Volvo buses, giving you the flexibility to choose based on your budget and comfort preferences. Embrace the convenience of budget-friendly bus travel and embark on an unforgettable journey to Dalhousie.
Bus Booking: Tickets for HRTC Buses can be booked at Himachal Roadways Bus Booking. For private companies, you can either buy one via the travel agency itself or online sites like RedBus or Paytm Tickets
I’ve listed down how you can come back to Delhi from Dalhousie.
- Dalhousie to Chamba Bus via Banikhet. Departure at 7am, 7.30am, 7.45am, 9am, 10.30am, 11.15am daily. The fare per person is Rs. 80. Travel time of about 3 hours.
- Dalhousie to Chamba Bus via Khajjiar. Departure at 9 am, 9.30 am, 4.30 pm. The fare per person is Rs. 80. Travel time of about 3 hours.
- Dalhousie to Delhi Bus. Departure at 2.55 pm, 6.30 pm, 7.40 pm daily. The fare per person is Rs. between Rs. 500 – 1400. Travel time of 14 hours.
- Dalhousie to Dharamshala Bus. Departure at 7.15 am, 11.50 am, 1.20 pm, 2 pm. Travel time of 2 hours and the fare per person is Rs. 230.
- Dalhousie to Pathankot Bus. Several buses throughout the day. Fare of Rs. 100 per person and travel time of 3 hours.
Visit Dalhousie by Flight:
Although, flight seems not a budget trip to Dalhousie, but if you plan prior, you may get tickets on very reasonable price. The nearest airport is Pathankot Airport, 75 kilometers away from Dalhousie. This airport operates commercial flights, private chartered flights and provides helicopter landing pads.
However, it only operates flights to New Delhi. The second one is Gaggal Airport nearby in the Kangra district. This airport is connected to domestic and international locations. A private taxi from Gaggal to Dalhousie can cost up to Rs. 3000 in peak season. You can also board a direct bus from Gaggal to Dalhousie which will cost you about Rs. 150 per person.
Flight booking: You can book cheap flights from Skyscanner
Where to visit in Dalhousie
I’ll write an in-depth article on where to visit, where I will try to add all on-beat and off-beat places, until then here are a few recommendations.
Panchpula
Surrounded by a lush cover of green pine and deodar trees, Panchpula emerges as a popular picnic spot for travelers on a budget trip to Dalhousie. This picturesque location is best known for the mesmerizing Saptdhara Waterfall, which cascades down in seven streams, creating a soothing ambiance.
Panchpula is not just about natural beauty; it also offers thrilling activities to add excitement to your visit. Adventure enthusiasts can embark on the Ganji Pahari trek, starting from this very spot, or indulge in exhilarating experiences like Zip Lining and Burma Bridge. So, if you’re seeking a budget-friendly adventure that immerses you in nature’s splendor and provides opportunities for thrilling escapades, Panchpula should definitely be on your Dalhousie itinerary.
Mall Road
Gandhi Chowk, or GPO, is the bustling and vibrant street of Dalhousie, perfect for those on a budget trip to Dalhousie. Unlike other hill stations, Dalhousie doesn’t have a mall road, but fear not, as Gandhi Chowk steps in to fill that role. Explore this lively market to shop for simple local souvenirs, affordable woolen clothes, and everyday treasures.
Embrace the budget-friendly charm of Gandhi Chowk while immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dalhousie. It’s the ideal destination for travelers looking to make the most of their budget while enjoying a memorable shopping experience.
Khajjiar
Located just 20km away from Dalhousie, Khajjiar is often referred to as the “mini-Switzerland of India,” and it’s a must-visit destination for those on a budget trip to Dalhousie. This small town is famous for its picturesque grassy meadows that will leave you in awe. Khajjiar offers a range of adventure sports, including paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding, making it an ideal spot for thrill-seekers.
Don’t miss the chance to explore its nine-hole golf course, nestled amidst lush greenery and a breathtaking landscape. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an overnight stay, Khajjiar is a budget-friendly option that promises unforgettable experiences and stunning natural beauty.
Chamba
Chamba, a charming Himalayan town in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, is an excellent destination for a budget trip to Dalhousie. Situated just 55km away from Dalhousie, it offers a perfect opportunity for a memorable day trip. Known for its rich traditional handicrafts, captivating art, and exquisite miniature Pahari paintings, Chamba showcases the cultural heritage of the region.
Moreover, it serves as a convenient base camp for various treks in the majestic Himalayan ranges. Whether you’re exploring the intricate art forms or embarking on an adventure in the mountains, Chamba is a must-visit destination that perfectly complements your budget trip to Dalhousie.
Bottom Line
Well, folks, that wraps up our discussion about Dalhousie. It’s definitely a place worth planning a visit to for your next budget trip. However, I want to take a moment to emphasize the importance of being a responsible citizen during your travels. Let’s make sure we don’t leave behind any trash or harm the pristine beauty of nature. It’s disheartening to witness the exploitation of our natural surroundings.
Instead, let’s cherish and preserve the incredible landscapes that Dalhousie has to offer. With that said, have an absolute blast during your visit! Make wonderful memories, immerse yourself in the wonders of Dalhousie, and enjoy every moment of your budget-friendly adventure.
This article is purely intended for how you can plan to visit Dalhousie on a tight budget. I know I could have added more about places to visit, things to do, and stories. But those will be some other articles otherwise this would have been too long and overwhelming for you guys to read. I’ll add them.
Cheers 🍻
If you like this article, then you should check this out: 5 Best Things to Do in Dalhousie in 2023: Complete Guide
