Dalhousie

Dalhousie

Located at about 2000 meters above sea level , Dalhousie is spread over five hills. It is located in Chamba in the Dhauladhar range of mountains in Himachal Pradesh. It was named after a British General- Lord Dalhousie. Because of its natural beauty and climate Netaji Subhash Chadra Bose stayed here for a few months in 1937. It has forests, rivers, waterfalls and cliffs that create the right environment for a pleasant and exciting holiday.

History

The history of Chamba dates back to the 7th Century, however it was only in 1850 the place opened up as the ruler of Chamba State allowed the British to build a settlement in Chamba for their soldiers who had been awed by the pleasant weather and tracts of forest land so that they could convalesce at the sanatorium built by them. They called it Dalhousie after Lord Dalhousie who was the Chief of British rule in India then. The first hotel was built here in 1895 to cater to the traders who came from the plains with supplies for the British soldiers. In the early 20th century tourists started flocking here and more hotels started coming up. The British also built many churches in Dalhousie.

Dalhousie is home to colonial buildings, churches i.e. St Francis, St. Johns, St. Patrick churches all built under British rule in the 1800s.

Khajjiar

It is close to Dalhousie and popularly known as the Mini Switzerland of India. it is at a height of 6500 feet and features a small lake in its midst. Adventure activities are also available like trekking, zorbing and one can also play a game of golf in lush greenery and great views all around.

Satdhara falls

One kilometer from Dalhousie, the falls are located in lush green deodar trees and snow capped mountain ranges. Satdhara means “Seven Springs” meaning the falls get their water from seven springs who flow from an elevation of 1036 meters. This is a peaceful place to visit.

Chamera Lake

Located 25 Kms from Dalhousie amongst green trees and valleys this artificial lake at an altitude of 763 meters is a reservoir formed by a Dam- the later is at an altitude of 1700 meters. The lake, fed by Ravi River acts as a source of water to the nearby villages. The tourists can indulge in fishing, boating here and in case one wants to enjoy the snow then a winter visit is recommended to the lake and its surroundings.

Bakrota Hills

Situated 5 Kms from Dalhousie these peaks offer a splendid view of the snow-capped mountains, serene landscape and oak, pine and deodar trees. It is also ideal for trekking.

Chamba

14 Kms from Dalhousie is a medieval town called Chamba amongst green hills and a river. It has an ancient Museum showcasing ancient history of Chamba and its rulers.

Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary

Lying 4 Kms from Dalhousie one finds rich wildlife, snow-capped mountains, grassland, streams etc. to combine to make the Kalatop Sanctuary a worthy visit. The park is spread in an area of 31 Sq. Kms. approximately. Some of the wildlife here includes Himalayan blabk bear, leopards, langurs, and more than a hundred bird species. Good place for hiking and trekking. One also gets a panoramic view of the Pir Panjal range of mountains from here.

Laxmi Narayan Temple

The ancient temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva and located in the City. It has three sanctums i.e. Gauri Shanker, Shiv and Radha Krishna.

Dainkund Peak

The peak offers a great view of the valley. One can also hear the breeze- like a bird song- as it blows through the woods. Also visit the Pholani Temple showcasing a Trident.

Prashar Lake

The lake is situated in the Kulu Valley at a height of 2730 meters. Legend has it that the lake was created by the Pandavas while returning after the battle of Mahabharata. A 13th century pagoda shaped temple is also situated next to the lake. There is also a little floating island here that keeps moving and changing its position.

Other Locations for visit

Amritsar, Shimla, Dharamshala, Mcleod Ganj, Palampur, Barot are some interesting places one can travel to from Dalhousie.