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Dalhousie is not surprising that the heat-fearing British built 80 hill stations within a span of just 30 years. Named after the Marquess of Dalhousie, a British Governor General, this resort came up as the solution to the man’s search of leisure holiday. Thanks to the whim of Brits like him, our delightful hill stations got a head start right away.
The Scenic Beauty Dalhousie stands at the foot of one of the main spurs of the Dhauladhars. The views are spectacular to the north; range upon range of hills culminating in the snow of the Pir Panjal mountains of Kashmir and to the south the plains of Punjab. Far below runs the valley of the Ravi, while the Beas and Chenab can be seen snaking across the plains. Dalhousie retains much of the ambience of the Raj. The town spreads around five hills – Kathlog, Portreyn, Tehra, Bakrota, and Balun – and is clothed extensively in stately groves of deodar and oak. Its two busy points, Gandhi Chowk and Subhash Chowk, are connected by the Mall which is actually two roads intertwined like the figure of eight. You’ll probably find yourself at the bus stand on reaching here first, which is the scruffiest part of the town. The main parts of Dalhousie lie above this terminus. Its tin-roofed, half-timbered houses present the most delightful sight. ![]()
![]() Khajjiar
Khajjiar is the most scenic picnic spot near Dalhousie. It is located twenty-two kilometers from Dalhousie, at an altitude of 1920 meters (6400 ft). This saucer-like, green meadow, with a small glacial lake in the center, and surrounded by a dense forest of deodar trees and mountains is definitely worth a visit.There are several rest houses and hotels for accomodations. In the past, the only way to reach Khajjiar was by horse or by foot. The government of Switzerland has recognized this site for its Alpine beauty. Golf, horseback riding, and strolling are among the many activities tourists enjoy. An ancient temple devoted to Khaji Nag, after whom Khajjiar is named, is a popular attraction. ![]() Subhash Baoli
A short drive down the side of the hills in Dalhousie is Subhash Baoli. This tiny, pretty little lake against a backdrop of snow covered mountains and Pine Trees is where Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, the freedom fighter spent many hours in meditation in 1937. Other sources say that he would drink water from this lake. But at the monument itself, you'll find a large plaque that bears his story. He was very attached to this area. And so, when he died, a small shelter was built here so anyone inspired by either him or the surroundings, or even both, can sit here and find peace. You can also walk around this area. Even though it’s not exactly tucked away or off the main road, there is a sense of peace here.
More Places to Visit
Churches There are four beautiful churches in Dalhousie. These are St. Andrew's Church and St. Patrick's Church at Balun, St. Francis' Church at Subash Chowk and St. John's Church at Gandhi Chowk. Panchpula(3 km) This is picturesque spot where a stream feeds a series of pools. A monument has been built here in memory of the freedman fighter, Sardar Ajit Singh Access By Air The nearest airport is at Gaggal (Kangra), 140-km from Dalhousie. By Rail The nearest railhead is Pathankot, which is well connected to Amritsar, Jammu, Delhi and Jalandhar. By Road Onward journey from Pathankot to Chamba and Dalhausie is by road. Punjab and Himachal Roadways run services, as do private operators. Best Time To Visit :Mid-May To Mid-October. |