Dalhousie

In western Himachal Pradesh, the hill station of Dalhousie is full of 'Old world' charm and holds lingering echoes of the 'Raj'. It covers an area of about 14 sq. km and is built on five hills - Kathlog, Potreyn, Tehra, Bakrota and Balun.

It is name after the British Governor - General of the l9th century, Lord Dalhousie. The town's height varies between 1,525 m and 2,378m, and it is surrounded by varied vegetation - pines, dodders, oaks and flowering rhododendron. Dalhousie has charming colonial architecture, including some beautiful churches. Its location presents panoramic views of the plains - and like a long silverline, the river Ravi twists and turns below Dalhousie. The spectacular snow-covered Dhauladhar mountains are also visible from this enchanting town.

Attractions of Dalhousie

Jandhri Ghat

Around half a kilometre away from the Subhash Baoli, Jandhri Ghat enfolds an elegant palace in the midst of tall pine trees. Chamba's erstwhile rulers governed from here till the advent of Lord Dalhousie. The palace houses a number of shikhar trophies. Beside the palace, Jandhri Ghat offers heavenly spots for picnicking-gushing streamlets in the midst of fragrant pine-scented breezes. Bakrota Hills and the 'Round' (2085m): Less than 5 km from the town centre, the Bakrota Hills frame a breathtaking view of the further snow-clad peaks. The 'round' is a walling circuit around the hill, very popular with residents.

Satdhara

On the way to Panjpulla, at an altitude of 2,036m. (6,678 ft.), these seven springs are reputed to have great therapeutic value as they contain mica with medicinal properties.

Subhash Baoli

Commanding a view of the snowcapped mountains, 1.6-km away from the G.P.O. (check spelling) Square, the spring of Subhash Baoli is situated at an altitude of 2,085 metres (6,678 ft.).

Kalatop-Khajjiar Trail

No trip to Dalhusie is complete without going through this trail, through the thick forests of Deodar (Cedar) trees and alpine hills.

Hiking is the best way to appreciate the beauty of the flora and fauna. However, most tourists use taxis and buses to traverse this 43 km motorable route to Chamba through Khajjiar. Khajjiar is officially proclaimed the mini-Switzerland of India. It is 24 km from the GPO. Daily return bus trips are available from the bus stand by Himachal Tourism

Churches

There are four beautiful churches in Dalhousie. These are St. Andrew's Church and St. Patrick's Church at Balun, St. Francis Church at Subhash Chowk and St. John's Church at Gandhi Chowk.

Shopping

Tibetan handicrafts including pullovers and carpets at Dalhousie. Chamba slippers, 'rumals' and shawls at Chambe.