Dalhousie, located 336 km from Shimla, is a beautiful British Hill station built on and around five hills Kathlog, Potreyn, Tehra, Bakrota and Balun. Situated on the western edge of the Dhauladhar mountain range of the Himalayas, one feels encompassed by the breathtaking scenery of snow-capped peaks and thick forests. Being at an altitude of 6000-9000 ft. above sea level, this is the perfect retreat into the nature during summers.
Nestled in the Chamba valley with the Dhauladhar ranges on one hand and the Pir Panjal on the other, this hill station also provides a vantage view of the Ravi, Beas and Chenab rivers. Dalhousie, derives its name from Lord Dalhousie who was the then British Viceroy of India. It is commendable that the British built nearly 80 hill stations within 30 years of their rule.
The lush green pine, cedar and deodar forests provide a perfect surrounding for some long walks and treks. While in Dalhousie, one can eat at the local roadside dhabas which offer good fresh food at very reasonable rates.
There are many stunning churches in Dalhousie like 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. Some other tourists spots are Panchpula, Subhash Baoli – Named after Subhas Chandra Bose, Bara Pathar - A famous temple in the middle of the thick forest. Kalatop - A wild life sanctuary, where one can see the 'ghoral' and black bear. Gandhi Chowk – Known previously as GPO is a vibrant square with a number of restaurants and shops. Sadar Bazar – Known for a Hindu temple, a Gurdwara, an Arya Samaj mandir and a mosque all located beside each other. Jandrighat Palace, Dalhousie Cantonment Hill, Lakarmandi, Dainkund - The tallest peak around Dalhousie, a vantage point for viewing the rivers.
All in all, this hill station is a paradise for nature lovers, travelers and just about everyone.
