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Overview
Tour Overview:
Dalhousie reminds you of an era that would never come to an end – Victorian England. Travellers will experience the scent of old deodar with a big green meadow nestled away like a secret paradise. Our Dalhousie Khajjiar Tour of 5 Days is popular for being labelled aptly “Mini Switzerland of India” in 1992. Dalhousie is 150 kms from Chamba in Himachal Pradesh, founded in 1854 as a “British Army Summer Sanctuary.” As a history lover, natural photographer, or couple in search of a honeymoon destination, this 4 nights 5 days tour is perfectly placed for your trip to one of the most breathtaking sections of the Himalayas.
Itinerary Details:
Day 1: Dalhousie Arrival
Your tour may begin from the nearest railway station/airport in Pathankot. A scenic 3-hour drive of around 80 kms leads you to the Dhauladhar range. As the plains of the province of Punjab disappear, the road turns into dense forests. Every loop of the mountain road reduces the temperature and chills the surroundings. Complete the check-in formalities in a colonial-style hotel or a boutique guesthouse. Dalhousie lies on five hills – Bakrota, Bhangora, Potreyn, Terah, and Kathlog.
In the evening, visit the Gandhi Chowk, the hub of the bustling town of Dalhousie. The Mall Road of both Dalhousie and Chamba is quite peaceful compared to the hustle and bustle that one often finds at a hill station. Walk to the Subhash Baoli and then have dinner at a local café, relish the “Sidu” or any North Indian cuisine.
Day 2: Dalhousie sightseeing
The day is reserved for discovering the history and beauty of the town. Panchpula or “Five Bridges” is located 3 kms from Chakrata town. A memorial named the Sardar Ajit Singh Memorial is in remembrance of the great freedom fighter. It is a place suited for a morning walk with water in full rush and pine forests.
St. John’s Church is the oldest in the town and was erected in 1863. Its Victorian structure and library have a rare collection of images and books, making it a must-see for history buffs.
St. Francis Church was built in 1894, renowned for its beautiful stone carvings, as well as its stained-glass windows, which have a mystical effect when the afternoon sun passes through.
Spend the evening at Bakrota hills, offering the most spectacular views of the snow-capped ranges of the Pir Panjal Mountains.
Day 3: Khajjiar Excursion
The day 3rd is to explore the crown jewel of this tour – Khajjiar. Visit the
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a thick forest at such a high-altitude, habited by Himalayan Black Bears, langurs, and many varieties of birds.
Khajjiar lake and meadows unfurl before your eyes. In the meadow is a small lake full of reeds. The Swiss equivalent is because of the large grassy area surrounded by cedars.
Khajjiar Nag Temple is the 12th century dedicated to the snake god. The lovely wooden carvings inside are a fine example of Hindu-Mughal architecture.
The activities to enjoy in Khajjiar include zorbing, horse rides, and lying down in the grass. The island in the lake is a collection of grass and weeds, is an interesting sight to behold.
Return to Dalhousie in the evening, visit Dainkund peak, where you get to see a 360-degree view of the Chamba valley.
Day 4: Leisure Day
A peaceful pace of life characterizes Dalhousie. On the 4th day of this tour, experience and soak in the mountain culture at your own pace.
Option 1: You may take a trek to the Pholani Devi temple at Dainkund. The trekking pathway is easy and offers breathtaking views.
Option 2: Visit the Chamera Lake, built on the banks of the river Ravi. This makes it an ideal spot for boating and viewing the stillness of water against the mountainside.
Option 3: Chamba Town is 50 km from Dalhousie, the old capital of the Pangi hill. The Laxmi Narayan Temple and Bhuri Singh Museum, contains antiquities of the Chamba dynasty, are worth visiting.
Spend the last evening at the Tibetan Market, get hand-woven carpets, vibrant woollens, and traditional chamba slippers, chappals that are GI tagged for their exceptional craft.
Day 5: Departure
After a healthy breakfast with a view of the Dhauladhars, you start preparations to leave.
Take a final walk to Satdhara falls, which contains mica in the water and has therapeutic qualities.
Return to Pathankot offers a new perspective on the landscape; you’ll see sights missed on the first day.
Leave Pathankot by train or plane, carrying with you the memories of the tranquilness of the cedars and the greenery of Khajjiar.
Tips for Dalhousie Tour:
Evenings are cool even during summer. A light jacket is a must-have. If travelling in winter, then carry warm woollens and waterproof shoes for snow in Khajjiar.
Local cabs are available at Gandhi Chowk, but hiring a dedicated cab for the whole 5 days is far more convenient.
Dalhousie is among the cleanest hill stations. As far as possible, avoid single-use plastic bottles. Most hotels provide filtered water.
If you are not a vegetarian, you should not miss tasting the “Madra” – a preparation of chickpeas cooked in curd – and the native mountain trout.