Dalhousie is located at an altitude of 2700 metres. A hill Station in North India, it is considered to be the getaway of the Chamba district. Dalhousie is a perfect hill station to spend a summer vacation. Located close to the Dhauladhar range, Dalhousie is nestled amidst snow clad mountains.
Here, I have designed a 2 day itinerary for Dalhousie. It will surely come handy for your next summer retreat.
Day 1
Start the day by visiting the Dainkund Peak. Located near an air-force base, this peak gives you spectacular views of the himalayas. There is a temple located here which allegedly keeps away spirits from the peak. To reach the Dainkund peak, you need to trek a bit. If you take a cab, you will be dropped at an air-force base. From here, it is straight up in the whistling woods.
However, the trek is not that difficult. A stroll in the woods will help you reach the peak. Dainkund peak in Dalhousie is a must visit. It is located at a distance of 15 kms from the town.
Dainkund Peak, Dalhousie
Dainkund temple, Dalhousie
Trek to Dainkund
Return back from the trek and spend some time lazing around in the Dalhousie town. As you explore the town, you can visit St Patrick’s church. This is a very artistic church and extremely serene. There is something special about churches nestled in the hills. Once you have worshipped the almighty, light a candle and return back to your hotel as the cool breeze soothes your senses and caresses your hair.
St Patrick’s Church, Dalhousie
Day 2
For Day 2, start early morning and reach Khajjiar. Located at a distance of 23 KMs from Dalhousie, Khajjiar is called the switzerland of India. However, that is more of an exaggeration. But, that does not make this place average. Khajjiar provides you spectacular views of sun-kissed, stalwart, deodar trees. This place has many eateries where you can relish the delicious north indian dishes.
You can take part in horse-riding activities here. If you want to spend more time, get lost in the woods and enjoy the closeness to nature.
Khajjiar, Dalhousie
Tall Deodar trees
Lost in the woods
There is an 80 Feet statue of Lord Shiva located in vicinity. You can visit it to admire the magnanimity of the artificial masterpiece.
Shiva Statue Khajjiar
After spending some time in Khajjiar, you can visit the Chamera Dam/Lake. It is a vast dam and you will be able to see reservoir 15 KMs before you reach the dam. Entry might not be allowed on the dam. However, we managed to sneak in by requesting the authorities. But, Chamera Lake is a tourist spot and there is no entry restrictions here. But, again, it is just like another lake in a hill station. Hence, make a point to visit the Chamera Dam first. Post that you can visit Chamera lake if possible.
Chamera Reservoir, Dalhousie
Chamera Dam, Dalhousie
While returning back to Dalhousie town, you can halt at the Rock Garden. Not that spectacular a place. But, you can have some evening maggi and hot tea as the sun hides behind the mountains. Finally, as the sun sets, head back to your hotel and prepare yourself to leave this town nestled between the hills.
Rock Garden, Dalhousie
Hope you liked this crisp itinerary for a weekend getaway. Do let me know in comments about your experiences in Dalhousie.
Dalhousie