Places to visit in Dalhousie | My Personal picks

Named after the British Governor Lord Dalhousie, this delightful hill town is a great option for a getaway from Delhi. A perfect mix of provincial flavor and charming grand beauty, you will see a lot of places to visit in Dalhousie to add to your list.

The sprawling lodges, enchanting cabins and impeccable holy places here, set against the setting of blanketed Himalayan peaks ooze an old world appeal that helps everybody to remember lovely towns, found some place in the European countries. It doesn’t matter whether you are an adventure freak, nature lover, a passionate trekker or a wildlife lover, this quiet and mitigating spot is certain to abandon you charmed. If you are thinking of visiting this picturesque destination, I have put together recommendations of places to visit in Dalhousie. This list can be helpful as a travel guide for Dalhousie tourism.

1. Panch Pulla:

The meaning of Panch Pulla is five bridges. The place is surrounded by a lush green blanket of fresh pine and deodar trees. Panchpulla is a waterfall, at which five rivers meet each other. Out of these 5 rivers, the major river supplies water to the various towns of the Dalhousie District. This major stream originates from the northern side of Dain Kund. The all 5 rivers meeting Panchpulla makes this place an eye catchy sight.

Panchpulla is a very well known for hiking, trekking and its spectacular beauty. A monument (Samadhi) is constructed here in the memory of a great revolutionary, Sardar Ajit Singh (the Uncle of Martyr Bhagat Singh), who took his last breath here. This place is most enjoyed during the monsoon season when the water flows down the falls and the atmosphere makes you feel dazed. Though it can be visited in the summer season also. Panchpulla is 3.5km far from Gandhi Chowk of Dalhousie. On can start walking towards it as you can enjoy the beautiful scenery all your way. For the sight, this spot offers, including Panch Pulla in your places to visit in Dalhousie is highly recommended.

2. Khajjiar:

Khajjiar is a small town which is located near Dalhousie, which offers the tourist a combination of lakes, forests, and grasslands. Khajjiar is also known as the ‘mini-Switzerland of India’. Khajjiar is a place which has always inspired many kingdoms years after years, including the Mughals and the Rajputs. This place is situated at a high altitude of 6,500 feet. The naturally beautiful, and attractive scenery of this place are assured to make an unforgettable impression on the tourist who visits. Khajjiar is very well known because of its nine-hole golf course which is located in the between of lush green forest and an amazing landscape. A bit of road trip as a part of your Dalhousie trip plan will be a good choice.

Khajjiar is small plateau with a small lake, which is one among the most preferred tourist places in that town. Khajjiar is bounded with green grazing land and a dense forest. It is also famous because of the beautiful temples present the town. Khajjiar also is a destination for the adventure freaks and offers a wide range of adventure sports like horse riding, paragliding, trekking, zorbing, etc.

Many times during the winter season it tends to have heavy snowfall which restricts tourists from visiting the place. However, in the dry season, the lake is almost nonexistent. But, you can still enjoy the beautiful landscapes and horse riding here. For a nature lover, Khajjiar goes straight to the list of places to visit in Dalhousie and around.

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3. St. John’s Church

St. John’s Church is the oldest church in the Dalhousie and this doesn’t only have religious significance but also has historical significance. St. John Church is also a most preferred place by the photographers. Besides the church is a library where you will find books related to the past and present of the town. Every Sunday the church performs service. To get a sense of peace, do include John Church while planning your Dalhousie trip. You can also visit St. Patrick’s Church which is also nearby.

4. Satdhara Falls

The Satdhara Falls in Dalhousie are one of the fascinating waterfalls of Himachal Pradesh. These waterfalls are surrounded by the attractive and peaceful atmosphere, which makes it the most visited place in Dalhousie region. Satdhara Falls got its name from the seven peaceful springs. These falls flow in full pressure through huge mountains of the Himachal Pradesh. In the dry season, it is recommended to check with the locals about water levels in the waterfall before including it in your places to visit in Dalhousie.

These waterfalls are located in the Chamba valley and at an altitude of 2036m from the sea level, surrounded by the incredible view of the mountains covered with snow, and lush green pine and deodar forests. Satdhara Falls is the right place for the wanderers who are in search of some serenity from their hectic routine. The water in the Satdhara Falls is said to contain mica. Mica has the medicinal belongings to cure skin diseases. In its local language, it is also called as ‘Gandhak’. The water at the Satdhara Falls is clear crystal and quiet. It is highly recommended to visit these falls during the monsoon season by including it in your Dalhousie itinerary.

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Also read: Dalhousie Itinerary, a detailed account of spending 2 days in Dalhousie

5. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary:

At the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, you can find a wide variety of plants and wildlife. Various wildlife which can be spotted like Leopard, deer, bear, jackal, langur, Barking Goral, Himalayan Black Marten, and uncountable stunning birds. The sceneries are densely covered with the Deodar trees combined with small streams flowing into the Ravi river. In history, this wildlife sanctuary was called as the gaming reserve Chamba rulers. This area is preferred by tourist for picnics, nature walks, and trekking. The wildlife sanctuary takes you amidst the purest of nature and is a must recommendation for Dalhousie places to visit.

6. Subhash Baoli:

The Subhash Baoli is named after the famous freedom fighter Subhash Chandra Bose as a tribute to him. Subhash Baoli is situated 1km away from the Gandhi Chowk. This is a persistent spring which has medicinal belongings and believed to have cured the freedom fighter of his ill health. Subhash Baoli is a perfect place for short picnics and evening wanders. Near the Subhash Baoli is located a fascinating waterfall which flows into the cold stream. You don’t need to travel a lot to reach this attraction in Dalhousie. It is very close to the town.

7. Bakrota Hills or Upper Bakrota:

Baktrota Hills is the highest hill in Dalhousie area and a road around the hill known as Bakrota walk which goes towards Khajjar. With very few of plantations here, this area doesn’t have anything else to attract the tourists thought it is perfect for wanderers and to view around enjoying the nature. The Bakrota Hills are also known as Upper Bakrota and is surrounded by deodar trees and hills all over. Again, a picturesque inclusion in your Dalhousie travel plan, a highly recommended inclusion in your places to visit in Dalhousie.

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8. Chamba:

Chamba is one the most famous getaway everyone has always dreamed off visiting.The temperature at Chamba is very well balanced which makes it the appropriate destination for the tourist throughout the year. The Ravi river goes across the town and adds a beauty to the view. The major area of sub-Himalaya is adequately gifted with a wide variety of flora and fauna, which makes it a perfectly charming scenery for you vacation diaries.

At Chamba, there are many wildlife sanctuaries, lakes and temples which make the tourist feel like this are have everything to offer you. One goes back from this place with full of memories. The best thing about Chamba is that how it stays hidden from the swarm of tourists. Frankly, Chamba will not extend jaw-dropping landscapes for you. But, include Chamba in your Dalhousie plan to experience the chilled out scenes.

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9. Chamunda Devi Temple:

Chamunda Devi Temple is one of the most visited temples of Holy Goddess which is about 15 km from the Kangra Valley. This temple offers a magnificent panoramic view of the Dhauladhar ranges. The temple is dedicated towards the Goddess Kali and Goddess Ambika killed the demons, Munda and Chanda. The name Chamunda comes from the demons which were killed, Cha-Munda. If you are religious, you can visit to offer prayers at Chamunda Devi Temple by including in your list of places to visit in Dalhousie.

10. Gandhi Chowk Shopping Plaza:

The busy and lively streets of Gandhi Chowk are very well known as the lifeline of Dalhousie. If you are looking for uniquely designed handicrafts and want to experience the native talent, then the streets of Gandhi Chowk are the perfect place for you. This place is also called as GPO, it is filled with a variety of markets and shops.

The Tibetan market here is a famous place, which sells a variety of products which included dolls, bags, carpets, handicrafts and purses. The Himachal Handloom Industry on Thandi Sadak is well known for its traditional Kashmiri shawls; which depicts the difficult craftsmanship of the local people. Include this attraction to your places to visit in Dalhousie and indulge in some shopping!

11. Dainkund Peak:

Dainkund Peak is the highest peak in the nearby area which gives the view of the stunning pine laid scenery of Dalhousie. This location is nearly 10 km away from Dalhousie and is at a great height of 2755m above the sea level. You can get a panoramic view of the hills and rivers from this location. Dainkund Peak is also called as the ‘Singing Hill’ as the wind is blowing through the trees which create a musical tune. Near the horizon, you will see beautiful snow capped mountains. The trek is not that tedious and is just around 1 KM. You can include Dainkund peak in your Dalhousie places to visit to be amidst purest of nature and for the lovely hike.

12. Chamera Lake:

Chamera Lake is an artificial lake which was constructed as a reservoir for the Chamera Dam. Chamera Dam is the main hydroelectricity project which is located around 15 km from Dalhousie. The backwater lake of Chamera Dam is the Ravi River which has fresh water and is around of 5 km. Tourist often visits the Chamera Lake for boating which gives a beautiful experience in the Himachal Pradesh. Include Chamera lake for the beautiful landscape and the huge dam built on it. However, the dam and lake are two different attractions which are close to each other. These two attractions definitely go in your list of places to visit in Dalhousie.

13. Ganji Pahari:

Ganji Pahari by actual meaning is the place where it is actually a bald hill with completely no trees, no vegetation on it. Ganji Pahari is situated nearly 5 km from the town of Dalhousie. On the hill, there is a complete patch which is completed bald. This place can be visited by you any time during the year but usually preferred to visit during the winter season as the hills around it are covered with snow completely.

During summer season, Ganji Pahari might not be one of the best Dalhousie attractions to add to your trip plan. But, in winters, due to the snow, you can add it to your places to visit in Dalhousie.

14. Jandhri Ghat:

Jandhri Ghat is 2 km far from Dalhousie and is a ghat which is covered with pine and deodar trees. Jandhri ghat is a good addition to your places to visit in Dalhousie. The view from Jandhri ghat offers streams amidst the mountains which ensure that you stay in the lap of nature. The European palace which was constructed by Raja Gopal Singh back in the year 1870-71. This palace is situated within the dense pine forest and one should visit it. You can include this attraction in your places to visit in Dalhousie.

15. Bara Pathar Temple:

If you are planning to visit Dalhousie in the month of July, then you must think of visiting the Bara Pathar Temple which is just 4 km from the town center. A grand festival is celebrated at the Bara Pathar Temple in the honor of the goddess, Bhulwani Mata. This famous temple is situated in the village Aha, which is on the way towards Kalatop. The temple also gives an exciting scenic view apart from the religious appearance. Include this temple in your places to visit in Dalhousie if your travel dates are coinciding the festival. If not, you can skip this.

16. Garam Sadak:

‘Garam Sadak’ as the name says, the temperature on this road is warm and pleasant excluding few sunny days when it is too warm during the day as this area receives direct sunlight. The road is adjoined with trees and meets the two most renowned chowks in Dalhousie town which are Gandhi Chowk and Subhash Chowk. Many people prefer coming here a walk with nature. If you wish to visit this road during night time then make u are carrying torches. You don’t need to travel to this separately in your places to visit in Dalhousie. Garam Sadak is in the Dalhousie town itself.

17. Norwood Paramdham:

Norwood Paramdhan is located on the upper side of Bakrota Hill and is covered by deodar trees. This place was the religious residence of Swami Satyanand in 1925 who wrote many religious books during their stay at this place. It is said that Satya Swami meditated here and took their last breath, since that time it is known as Paramdam. The local people call it is Kainth Wali Kothi and it is located around 5 km from the Gandhi Chowk. Norwood Paramdham has a capacity of adjusting over 250 people as various ‘satsangs’ are held by Bhagat Hans Raj ji which is attended by many people. You can pay a quick visit here and include it in your places to visit in Dalhousie.

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18. Moti Tibba:

Moti Tibba was acquired by the Government from the Chamba’s King back in 1853. This place is most of the time visited by tourists in a huge number to appreciate the charming beauty of the hill station and its pleasing weather. This place is completely surrounded by pine, rhododendron, fir, and oak trees. There are high chances that while walking you may spot some langurs and macaques twirling around the trees. Again, an attraction with natural settings, Moti Tibba is a good addition to your list of places to visit in Dalhousie.

19. Sach Pass:

If you are wishing to plan for a long trek, the Sach Pass trek at Dalhousie is a perfect getaway. It is a high mountain pass which is located in the Pir Panjal range of Himalayas. Sach Pass is the most known trek which is around 127 km from the Chamba district and 175 km from Dalhousie. If you wish to appreciate the outstanding cliffs and high mountains then you need to plan a trek for Sach Pass. If you are an adventure junkie or love heights, you can include Sach pass on your list of places to visit in Dalhousie.

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       20. Rock Garden

You can visit Rock garden for a quick spot. Just rocks strewn around with streams passing through is what you will see.  Not a great attraction but, you can unwind here and relish some Maggi along with tea. If you are looking to relax, you can include the Rock garden in your list of places to visit in India.

I hope you liked my recommendations for Dalhousie tourism. Feel free to reach out to me in case you require any help with your Dalhousie trip plan.