Sightseeing and Activities, Dharamshala Dalhousie Tour
Location | Places to visit | Activities |
Dharamshala | Mall Road Mcleodganj, Tibetan Market, Bhagsu Temple, Bhagsu Waterfalls, Naddi, Dal Lake, Namgyal Monastery, Dalai Lama Temple, St, John Church, Tea Gardens Dharamshala, Dharamsala War Memorial, HPCA Dharamshala Cricket Stadium. | Paragliding, Zipline, Trekking |
Dalhousie | Khajjiar, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Dain Kund, St. John Church, Chamera Dam, St. Francis Church, Beeji’s Park. | Paragliding, Horse riding, Zorbing, Boating |
Notes:
In case of unforeseen events or government restrictions, the tour may be cancelled and in such cases, you can reschedule your dates. However, no refund will be provided in any condition.
The city of Dharamshala is a delightful town in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The city is divided into two major halves. The lower Dharamshala is the trading area of the city with the markets, courts and the Kotwali Bazaar. The upper Dharamshala is the favourite holiday destination with Mcleodganj and the age-old architecture the city has to offer its travellers. The city caters to mainly two categories of people, the ones who visit the city for the scenic beauty and the others who come looking for spirituality or peace of mind.
The hill station of Dalhousie was founded by Lord Dalhousie in the state of Himachal Pradesh in the year 1850. This city is home to beautiful churches along with the serenity the Tibetan culture adds to the state. The market here has the Himachali shawls, Chamba handkerchiefs, handicrafts inspired by the Tibetan culture and of course the traditional jewellery items along with a variety of other things.
How to reach Dharamshala?
By Bus: You can catch a bus from the major cities in North India. For instance, you can get to Pathankot which is 85 kilometres from Dharamshala, it has many buses coming and going to Dharamshala since it’s the closest city which has other road connections with other cities. You then have direct buses from Jalandhar at 194 kilometres, Amritsar at 201 kilometres and Chandigarh at 240 kilometres. Volvo and luxury buses are comfortable to travel in for long distances which is why there are many buses from Shimla and Delhi at fixed hours of the day.
By Train: Pathankot is connected with the major cities of the country and so it is the main transportation hub to get to Dharamshala. Getting into Dharamshala via train is possible by the Kangra Valley Railway which connects Pathankot to Kangra and Joginder Nagar. The Kangra station is 19 kilometres away from Dharamshala which should take you about 30 to 40 minutes to reach via cab or bus. The Joginder Nagar station would be a longer route since it is further away at 75 kilometres and would take you about approx. 2 to 2 ½ hours. In any case, you can get a cab or bus from either of the stations and get to Dharamshala.
By Air: The main airport supporting tourism in Dharamshala is the Gaggal domestic airport which is 13.7 kilometres from the city. There are frequent flights from Delhi and Chandigarh which makes it easier to get into Dharamshala. You can easily get a cab or bus to continue your journey further.
Places to visit in Dharamshala
Mall Road Mcleodganj: The Mall Road in Mcleodganj is famous for its Tibetan culture and crafts which you can see in the traditional mats, carpets, jewellery and many sculptures of the Lord Buddha. Along with the food and scenery present here, you can purchase a few souvenirs to take back home for your friends and family like- the Singing Bowls used for meditation, Prayer flags, Tibetan styled handicrafts and decorative items and of course jewellery and other accessories as well.
Tibetan Market: The Tibetan market is home to many products you could take home as souvenirs. Some of the best items to purchase are handicrafts, vibrant carpets and some lovely traditional jewellery. The best feature about the market is that you will find Tibetans running their shops which refreshes your shopping experience.
Bhagsu Waterfalls: You are left mesmerised as you see the stream of water flowing at the Bhagsu Waterfalls. This beautiful place is where you find peace and tranquillity you came in search of to Dharamshala. The Bhagsunath Temple is located near the falls which are visited by many worshippers of Lord Shiva. Many tourists visit this place for the view it offers along with it being the perfect spot for you to picnic with your friends or family. On the other hand, you can also try out the cafes nearby and indulge your taste buds in a hot cup of coffee and relax.
Naddi Village: This village is situated 3 km away from McLeod Ganj and is also globally known for the presence of Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of the Tibetans. The village is popular among travellers for the thrilling trails it has to offer. People who visit this town often admire the natural beauty it offers them along with the peace of mind which you find here being away from the city. Once you take in all the serenity you will be able to cleanse yourself of all the stress of the city life and finally be ready to head back home to face your day-to-day life. Make sure you visit the Naddi viewpoint for a gorgeous sunset and enjoy as the day ends into the beginning of a lovely crisp evening.
Dal Lake: This pleasantly calm lake is surrounded by mountains with thick forests around them. You also find a Shiva temple on the banks of this beautiful lake. The greenish water of the lake reflects the scenic beauty of these majestic mountains. You can capture the lake, the mountains and the forests in one frame on many spots around the lake.
Dalai Lama Temple: The temple is visited by many tourists all year round. It is also visited by monks from all over the world for meditation and rituals. Famous for its exquisite interiors, the temple is an important pilgrimage place for Buddhists. Brimming with the Tibetan heritage, the Dalai Lama Temple is an ideal place for some meditation and religious introspection of one’s soul. The temple is famous for the large statues of Buddha along with the many ancient books you can find here on religion.
St, John Church: This alluring church is constructed in McLeod Ganj and is about 5.5 km away from Dharamshala. This Anglican Church is dedicated to John the Baptist. The St. John Church has a neo-gothic set up with stained Belgian glass being carried throughout in the windows. They were given to the church by Lady Elgin who was the wife of Lord Elgin, he was one of the viceroys of India who was buried here after his death.
Tea Gardens Dharamshala: The tea gardens in Dharamshala are one of the smallest tea regions of the country. There are a limited number of things for you to do here, so after completing those you can relax by taking in the scenic views and picking up some fresh tea from the gardens. The tea gardens are in the foothills of this region that also offers you a heavenly view of the landscape around. You can also enjoy a picnic with your friends or family in these mountains next to a lovely stream and make some unforgettable memories for a lifetime.
Dharamsala War Memorial: War Memorials are built to remember those who laid their lives for their country. You come across the Dharamshala War Memorial as you enter the town. The memorial is made of black marble and consists of three massive stone walls with the names of the war heroes carved onto the stone walls. The main attractions here are- the GPC College made during the British era and a café that serves refreshing beverages and snacks.
HPCA Dharamshala Cricket Stadium: The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association is a stadium that offers sports fanatics to root for their favourite team playing along with the magnificent views of the soaring high Himalayan Mountains in the background at an altitude of 1,457 m above sea level. The HPCA stadium was chosen among the six new venues for conducting Test matches in 2015.
Kangra Art Museum: Kangra Art Museum is famous for the history and insights into the Tibetan culture it offers visitors. This Art Museum is located in Kotwali Bazaar. You can also find many crafts and miniature paintings of the Kangra Valley on display here. The artefacts on display here date back to the 5th century and you get to look around through a plethora of phenomenal: pottery, paintings and sculptures. Visitors can also check out the library further and peek at the marvellous creations of artists and photographers. The main attraction still belongs to the miniature paintings for their attention to detail.
Norbulingka Institute: The Norbulingka Institute is committed to safeguarding the literature and art forms depicting the Tibetan culture. The name of the institute originates from the customary residence of the Dalai Lamas in Tibet who would stay there during summers which were named Norbulingka. The Tibetan community gets an encouraging ambience in which its family values thrive while creating international recognition about the Tibetan values and how they are portrayed in art and literature.
Gyuto Tantric Monastery: Visited by monks and people from all around the world, to witness the Gyuto Tantric Monastery establishment which was constructed to preserve and promote the ideology behind tantric at the same time. Many monasteries are built among other temples and churches which shows the cordial equilibrium honoured here.
Kangra Fort: Built by the kings of Katoch, it is a flawless union of our history and picturesque natural beauty which leaves you awed. The perfect location for soaking in some scenic views and an equally great chance for the shutterbugs to capture some incredible nature. You get to see many olden doors and gateways which are absolutely exquisite and ancient temples inside the Kangra fort.
St. John Church: This architecturally prestigious church is located en route to Mcleod Ganj at Forsyth Ganj. The Belgian stained-glass windows along with tall deodar trees complement the whole neo-gothic architecture aesthetic. The grave memorial of James Bruce one of the viceroys of India is also to be found here. This church endured an earthquake back in 1905 which damaged many buildings in Kangra, Dharamshala and McLeodGanj.
Places to visit in Dalhousie
Khajjiar: This heavenly little plateau is encircled by forests on all sides. The dense pine and deodar trees along the enchanting green fields are set in the foothills of the enormous Dhauladhar ranges of the Western Himalayas. Among the 160 places around the world called “Mini Switzerland,” the Khajjiar is one of them, located at an altitude of 6,500ft above sea level. It was named by the Vice Counsellor and Head of Chancery of Switzerland, Swiss Envoy Willy P. Blazer on 7th July 1992 that put Khajjiar on the map by naming it the “Mini Switzerland” of India. A stone was taken back to Switzerland by the counsellor which will be a part of a collage made out of stone surrounding the Swiss Parliament.
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary: The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is an animal sanctuary in Kalatop which comes under the Chamba district. This sanctuary accommodates many trekking trails at Kalatop and Khajjiar spread throughout the area. Some of the common animals that can be spotted here are the pheasants, Himalayan Black Marten, black bear and the serow. The Ravi River runs alongside a thick forest area next to the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. The lavish greenery and magnificent snow-clad mountains are what attracts the tourists to this location, you can enjoy the views of the nature around you while picnicking or over a nice hot cup of tea or coffee.
DainKund: Quite a popular tourist attraction in Dalhousie, Dain Kund is the highest peak here. The lush green valley here is filled with tall deodar trees at an altitude of 2,755 m. Along with tall and gigantic trees, you can catch a glimpse of few delightful wildflowers and also the magnificent views of Khajjiar Lake. The most popular activity around here is trekking especially the trails around the peak which offers a captivating panoramic view. The tourists also visit the Pholani Devi Temple here and enjoy the tranquillity while capturing the spectacular view with their cameras.
Chamera Dam: The Ravi River is confined here which in turn holds up the hydroelectricity project of the area. Since there are no underwater animals it is the perfect location to head down to enjoy a variety of water sports. Water sports like- sailing, rowing, motor boating, canoeing, kayaking and many others are available here. All these amenities are arranged by the government for the tourists. You can also hire a houseboat to take you around for a spin of the reservoir.
St. Francis Church: This marvellous church is a popular destination among the tourists visiting Dalhousie. The exterior architecture portraying the Victorian era and the interior filled with colourful glass décor along with the stonework with illustrations. The interiors also have the narrative of the British India Army when they were building the church. The colours of stone and wood together complement each other, giving a very elite look to the church along with the huge deodar trees.
Beeji’s Park: This defence park is made to honour all the mothers who dedicate their lives to their families. You can locate many weapons installed throughout the park, it really is interesting for those who enjoy learning more about the weapon systems of our country as a hobby or just are looking for some inspiration. Hi-tech defence and some state-of-the-art equipment are on display along with write-ups that state- where it was used, what it is and when it was launched. You can visit this park on your way to Dalhousie back from Khajjiar.
St. Patrick Church: Made in the early years of 1909 in the cantonment zone of Dalhousie, this church was made by the British Army. This is the largest church in Dalhousie with a massive main hall and a stunning building. Being in Dalhousie you can expect a valley of pine trees and tourists here at all times. Taking you back to the early days of skilled craftsmanship, you can find yourself awed by the artistry.
Polanyi Devi Temple
This temple is devoted to the Hindu goddess Pohlani. You can find this temple at a distance of 8.1 km from Dalhousie, with a teahouse and mesmerizing views of the Pir Panjal range.
Jot Pass: Jot Pass located at a height of 2,880m above sea level is one of the highest tourist spots in Chamba. Although it remains out of bounds for vehicles during winters due to the thick coating of snow, it, however, re-opens during summers which is the best time to visit since it does not receive much crowd. This in turn leaves the Jot Pass less crowded so you can enjoy the views without the hustle-bustle or chaos of a crowd.
Activities to do in Dalhousie
Paragliding: One of the most adventurous activities to do here is paragliding. You can choose between skydiving and hang gliding. The ideal time period to enjoy this sport is January to June and September to November. A highly recommended activity to do since you never truly experience Dalhousie without gazing over the heavenly mountains and clouds way above ground level.
Horse Riding: You can indulge in this activity throughout Dalhousie at many different locations. Horse riding is one of the most relaxing and exciting activities to do here. You get to enjoy a peaceful ride overlooking amazing views of the valley Dalhousie has to offer you.
Boating: The most famous lake in Dalhousie for boating is Chamera Lake. Though a bit pricey it’s worth every penny spent. The boating options range from a lazy ride on a houseboat which allows you to take in the magnificent views of the scenery during the sunset while still being on the lake to a speedy ride on a speed boat that zips you through the lake at a high speed for the thrill of it.
Zorbing
Who doesn’t like running around in a giant plastic bubble! Zorbing is one of the activities that has been growing rapidly among the tourists. This activity is enjoyed by a wide range of age groups, from kids to teenagers to adults you can find them all experiencing this activity. You can have fun while zorbing and getting that adrenaline rush in Khajjiar.
Activities to do in Dharamshala
Trekking The best part about trekking the trails in Dharamshala is that these trails can be trekked by beginners as well as experts. The ideal time period for trekking here would be April to mid-July. Some of the popular treks here are Bhagsu Nag trek, Triund trek and Kareri Lake trek. Make sure to read the guidelines related to your fitness; also do choose the right footwear before you start out on your journey.
Meditation: The fresh air and the natural beauty of Dharamshala that is offered to its tourists is the perfect location for those who are looking for some tranquil meditation. Dhamma Sikhara is your quintessential peaceful location for meditation. With three acres of beautiful deodar, cedar forests spread in a vast area and at the height of about 2000m on the Dhauladhar range. Located next to Dharamkot village you can find this centre in Upper Dharamshala.
Paragliding: The hilly landscape here in Dharamshala makes you want to paraglide through these hills and enjoy the adrenaline rush. The ideal time to indulge in this activity would be during the summers since the winds are more controlled and favourable for gliding. This is the perfect adventure sport to check off your bucket list while soaking in the enchanting views from a great height.
Zipline: The zipline takes you on an exhilarating and speedy ride till the end of the line. Let down by a harness from the suspended cable, you can now fly low to the ground and experience the aerial journey. The ideal time to indulge in this activity would be March to June.
Food to try in Dharamshala and Dalhousie
Dham: Dham is a local delicacy that is an essential dish in Himachali cuisine. This dish is made with a variety of pulses such as the moong dal, rajma, spiced curd and rice with a side of chutney and kali dal.
Momo: It is a kind of dumpling that has a growing demand all over the country. What makes the momos here unique from the ones you eat anywhere else is the preparation and flavours borrowed from the Tibetan culture.
Thukpa: This popular dish is adapted from the Tibetan culture which is a staple food for many families in Tibet, Dharamshala and Dalhousie as well. The noodle soup is served with fresh-cut vegetables and one or more choices of meat.
Chowmein: If you’re looking for something with a little more spice and hotness this is the dish you should be eating. Filled with many vegetables and a variety of sauces combined with spices, these fried noodles will definitely quench your desire for spicy food.
Siddu: Another authentic Himachali dish called the Siddu is something you should definitely grab a bite of. It basically is bread made out of wheat flour to which stuffing is added. Usually served with dal, ghee, pudina chutney or Imli chutney.
Maggie: During your visit to Dharamshala or Dalhousie, you can find Maggie available at every nook and corner. Although it isn’t a local food it is something that you can truly relish. Eating that hot bowl of Maggie while you take a break from exploring the streets during the cold evening is a feeling no other food can substitute.
Cafes to visit in Dharamshala
Shiva Cafe: A pocket-friendly café with good music and a very chill vibe. The food on popular demand here is pizza which has quite a few options in toppings for your liking. People enjoy the food with music and some hookah, which is like a cherry on top of the cake.
Illiterati Books and Coffee
This is the perfect café for you to dine and binge read. Enjoy your meal while sitting on the balcony overlooking the breathtaking views of the hills of Dharamshala. You have access to a library which has all kinds of books here old, used and new which you can either buy or just borrow for a quick read and also have some music being played in the background by the owner himself or his friends on the piano. Here you also find European delicacies which range from soups to pizzas and lasagne to garden fresh salads. You can definitely enjoy a lazy brunch here and recoup for your day ahead.
Woeser Bakery: As all dine-in bakeries make you feel- cosy with a constant aroma of something baking. Famous for their experimental coffees, cakes, chocolate lollipops and tarts you can find a variety of food here. They also have a pretty impressive collection of books available for you to read from, along with good food and music at your disposal. This bakery is stashed away in the basement of a restaurant called Black Magic so it might not be easily found but it’s worth the wait.
Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen: What brings you here is not just the food but also the amazing view of the valley from here. The interiors complement the tranquil environment which makes it quite unique. The menu is decently priced and caters to a range of pizzas, pasta, smoothies, juices and desserts as well. The food on popular demand here is the Lemon Cheesecake.
Dharamshala is situated in the state of Himachal Pradesh which is quite popular among tourists.
Mcleodganj is the residential district of Dharamshala which falls under the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Given that Tibetans are present largely here in the community, Mcleodganj is also known as the “Little Lhasa” or “Dhasa” (short form for Dharamshala).
This charming hill station is located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. Packed with beautiful architecture dating back to the colonial era and views of the snow-clad mountains, this city keeps inviting you to visit here over and over again.
The nearest airport connecting to Dharamshala is the Gaggal Airport, also called the Kangra Airport which is about 15 km away from the city. If you choose to travel via train you can book the tickets till Pathankot railway station, which is approximately about 85 km from the city. In addition to the above modes of transport, there are many interstate and state buses travelling regularly from the neighbouring cities for Dharamshala.
Dharamshala is 472kms away from Delhi which takes approx. 9 to 10 hours to cover via road transports.
The weather in Dharamshala is quite pleasant. The temperature here is as high as 21 degrees Celsius during the day and low at 12 degrees celsius during the night.
If you’re planning to visit Dharamshala the prime seasons are winter and summer. The winter season in Dharamshala is from December to February which is usually quite delightful whereas the summer season from March to June is the perfect time to enjoy paragliding and trekking for sports adventurers.
Dharamshala is famous for adventure sports, meditation retreats, traditional Tibetan food and scenic views from anywhere in the city. You will leave the city with at least one or more prayer bowls and some good handicrafts. You can definitely unwind at the nearest Monastery or just spend some time admiring the lakes.
An ideal time span is two days but it’s always recommended to spare at least 3 or 4 days so that the trip does not exhaust you and it also gives you enough time to explore and relax in the lap of nature.
The winter season in Dharamshala starts in October and goes on till the end of March so you can expect snowfall during these months from December to February. It’s the perfect time to enjoy those snow-clad mountains and sit around a bonfire on a chilly night.
The Tibetan culture in Dharamshala has a number of languages commonly spoken among the locals like Hindi, Tibetan, English and Pahari. You should be able to converse with the locals without any difficulty.
The appropriate wardrobe for travelling to Dharamshala during any season is warm and woolly clothes to cover yourself up with as much as clothing required to keep you warm. Make sure you wear them in layers so you can take off or add a layer if it gets warmer or cooler. Do carry heavy jackets, thermals and thick socks to keep your feet warm during winters.
Located in the Kangra Valley of the Dhauladhar Mountains is the city of Dharamshala. It has an average altitude of 1,457 metres.
Some of the famous treks near Dharamshala are:
Triund Trek: A very famous Trek in the Dharamshala region.
Shri Guna Devi Mandir: This one day hike starts from Naddi village which leads you up to Una Devi Temple. Since it’s a day’s trial you won’t be needing any place to stay but you can definitely stay at McLeodGanj in any of the hotels or homestays available. You can hike this trail all year long except the monsoons. This trail can be hiked by beginners too.
Bhagsu Nag: The main spots that are covered on this trek are the Bhagsu Temple and the Bhagsu waterfalls which are merely 20 minutes away from the temple. Although in order to reach the waterfalls from the temple you will have to cross an approx. of half a hill which can be difficult for some. The most popular café around here is the Shiva Café which serves good food, soulful music and pleasant service which is the perfect relaxation you need after a hike. This trail can be hiked by beginners too.
Kareri Lake: Located 9kms away from the city of Dharamshala is a trek in the south of the Dhauladhar ranges. The lake here freezes in the winters since it is at a high altitude. The majority of the trail is a smooth sail but some parts do get rocky and you can definitely expect some uphill climbs. The difficulty level for this trek is medium.
Indrahar Pass:Indrahar Pass trek is the perfect trek when you are here with your friends. This trek involves camping up to Triund for a day and then trek to Lahesh cave then camp there for the day and trek the next day to Indrahar pass. The trek from the Lahesh cave to the Indrahar pass usually takes 6 to 7 hours. During all this camping and trekking you are undoubtedly to make many memories and enjoy views which will be cherished by you for a lifetime. The difficulty level for this trek is medium to difficult.
Minkiani Pass: This 14km trek starts from McLeodGanj and takes 8 hours to complete. This trail offers you the entire package- clouds, narrow lanes and high peaks. You can also camp overnight in the nearby villages as you trek along with the pine forests. The pass is steep so that makes it really exhilarating for the pros but is a challenge for the beginners. You also get to see the Dhauladhar ranges as you trek to the peaks. The difficulty level for this trek is difficult.
Dalhousie is a charming little hill station in the district of Chamba which is in the state of Himachal Pradesh.
By Air: The city does not have an airport but the cities nearby do have. The nearest airport is Pathankot which is 75 kilometres away while the second airport is Gaggal airport that comes under the Kangra district and is 140 kilometres away from the town. The airport is well-connected to domestic and international cities. You can get a bus from Kangra to Dalhousie, which costs approximately INR 150 or you can hire a private cab according to your comfort.
By Train: The Chakki Bank railhead is the nearest railway station in Pathankot at 71 kms from Dalhousie. You can get a cab from the station which takes 2 to 3 hours to reach Dalhousie. The other nearest station from Dalhousie is Delhi which connects to most of the Indian cities. You might have to take a train from these cities to get a direct route to Delhi. It is directly connected to some of the main cities like, Delhi, Jammu, Bhatinda, Jaipur, Ahmedabad and Jodhpur. You can also take an overnight train to Dalhousie.
By Road: Roads connected to Dalhousie are long and tedious but it’s worth the road trip. You can get many private and state buses of Himachal Road Transport Corporation and Haryana Road Transport Corporation; they provide transportation from nearby cities. From New Delhi, it takes around 11 hours. Other major places of the region like Chamba (45 km), Amritsar (200 km) and
Shimla (365 km) is also recommended to travel from.
Since the roads and the highways leading to Dalhousie are well-built, you can also choose to drive your own vehicle and reach here. Generally, the preferred route from New Delhi is Karnal, Ambala, Ludhiana, Jalander and Pathankot. From Pathankot, the rocky terrain starts and the distance is approximately 72 kilometres from Dalhousie. It is recommended to take breaks in case you are not comfortable with an uphill drive. However, the drive offers scenic views making it a pleasant experience.
Dalhousie is at a distance of 570kms from Delhi by road and it should take you an approx. 9 to 10 hours to reach the city.
The weather in Dalhousie right now is a bit cold since it touches as high as 14 degrees celsius at day and as low as 2 degrees celsius during the night.
The best time to visit Dalhousie would be during March to May. The city is very popular during the summer season for the cooler temperature it has to offer. The maximum temperature Dalhousie reaches is 30 degrees celsius while the entire country hits a minimum of 30 degrees celsius during summers. This is why it’s a popular destination during the summer season.
Dalhousie is popular for adventure sports, authentic Tibetan and other delicacies and views of the majestic mountains from anywhere in the city. You will definitely find yourself questioning if you should try another adventure sport after you have just finished doing one, the adrenaline leaves you wanting more.
Even though you won’t feel like going back home after your visit to Dalhousie, 3 nights and 4 days is long enough to check off all the things you want to do in Dalhousie while taking your time and enjoying it.
You can expect to see snow in Dalhousie from December to February. Even a month or so after February , when the snow starts to melt, it is quite a pleasant experience standing on the snow and soaking in the warm sun.
You definitely should be carrying warm clothes irrespective of when you visit Dalhousie. Pack cotton clothes if you visit during April to June but also a thin jacket just in case. Also remember to dress in layers so it is easy for you to add or remove layers according to the temperature variations outside throughout the day.
Stationed at an altitude of 1970m above sea level is the destination of Dalhousie. The perfect place for a weekend getaway or a mini vacation.
Some of the famous treks near Dalhousie are:
Ganji Pahari Trek: The trek starts from the Bakrota Hill which is an old-fashioned area covered with 18th century British architecture. After you cross this area, you hike through the lush green forests to reach the Devi Mata Temple after 30 minutes of walking. The trek then continues through the village of Chitrayara to the Ganji Pahari picnic point and then finally to the Top Point of Ganji Pahari where you get a 360 view of the wonderland Dalhousie.
Daikund to Jot Trek: This one day trek to the highest point in Dalhousie, also called the flower valley of Dalhousie is easy and thrilling. The best part about this trek is that you get to walk among the clouds as you proceed.
KalaTop Sanctuary to Khajjiar: This one day trek takes about 4 to 6 hours and includes walking through a jungle. You come across nature, wildlife and a forest filled with Deodar trees that make you feel small in this huge place.
Khajjiar is 571.6kms away from Delhi which would take you 11 to 12 hours on a road trip to reach from Delhi to Khajjiar by car.
Satdhara falls is close to the main city. The Satdhara falls are on your way to Panchpula and can be easily reached with the help of a bus, taxi or even your own vehicle. It should take you an approx. of 10 to 15 minutes to reach here. Or just 5 minutes if you are coming in from Gandhi Chowk.
Khajjiar to Dharamshala distance is about 20kms which should take you not more than an hour to reach via road.
What makes Khajjiar special is the adventure you get to experience along with the mesmerising nature and the culture that it offers. Also the food which gives you a taste of authentic food and its flavours.
Mainly for the reason that Khajjiar depicts a similar environmental structure as of Switzerland. It was called the Mini Switzerland by Willy Blazer, the Vice Chancellor and Head of the Chancery of Switzerland in India at that time.
Compared to the temperatures throughout the country during Summers, visiting a hill station is still cooler and pleasant. The nights do get cooler than the days but you can always balance it out by soaking in the sun during the day. You can also indulge in many activities here like horse riding, trekking and zorbing. Unlike the other seasons you can do many activities without any hindrance.
With below freezing point temperatures and road blocks, Khajjiar is totally worth visiting during the Winters. You can take one of the most romantic road trips of your life from Dalhousie or Chamba. Drive down to Khajjiar for some incredible views of the snow covered landscape on the road trip. People trek to the Lord Shiva Statue here which is quite popular among the tourists.
The pleasant weather during Monsoons invites sports adventurers to experience paragliding and boating with a change of scenery. And also the people who would like to see the added colours of the mountains when the flowers bloom and the waterfalls come pouring down giving you that absolutely divine stream of sparkling water.
Khajjiar is open during December which is when the city experiences the winter season. The icy flakes falling and layering up to miles of snow in December is when it starts to get chilly.
Khajjiar goes through its winter season in the month of January and is open to the public. You get to enjoy winter sports and experience some quality sight-seeing of a few spots that are absolutely marvellous covered in snow.
Khajjiar turns into this magical hill station in February where the snow runs for miles and you can enjoy the scenery with a cup of hot coffee around the bonfire as you unwind from your exploration of the city.
The hill station of Khajjiar comes under the district of Chamba and is a small road trip away from Dalhousie.
Khajjiar is not located in Dalhousie but is easily accessible by taking a train or cab from the hill station to Dalhousie.
Khajjiar is a hill station situated in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh at the foothills of the Dhauladhar ranges.
Khajjiar to Dharamshala distance is about 25kms which should take you an hour or so to reach via road.
You can take a flight from Delhi to Dalhousie and then take a cab or bus for the journey ahead which would take you 2 to 3 hours or you can take a direct bus from Delhi which would take about 12 to 13 hours.
From Shimla you can take a flight to Dalhousie and then continue your journey via road in a cab or bus which should take you 2 to 2 and a half hours to reach. Or just directly take a bus from Shimla which would take 9 to 10 hours to reach Khajjiar.
The distance from Dalhousie to Khajjiar is approximately 25kms which would take you just a bit more than an hour to reach there via road.
You do have local buses plying from Dalhousie to Khajjiar.
You do have local buses plying from Dalhousie to Khajjiar.
You can take a cab to the camping site of the Dainkund Peak, the trek to the peak which would take you about 30 to 40 minutes to reach.
The Dainkund Peak is positioned at an altitude of 2,755m above sea level.
The Dainkund trek takes approximately an hour to an hour and a half to trek up and down the peak.
Weather at the Dainkund Peak remains cold since it is located at an altitude of 2,755m above the sea level. The current temperature reaches as high as 11 degrees celsius and as low as 0 degrees celsius.
Uncia Trails Pvt. Ltd. Dharamshala
Mon - Sat 09.00 - 20.00 Sunday CLOSED