Dalhousie ,Himachal Pradesh,
India: Genaral information-
Dalhousie ,located in the state of Himachal Pradesh on the western edge of Dhauladhar peak of Himalyas. The place has been named after one of the British Governor General of 19th centuryi, Lord Dalhousie. One of the important and famous hill stations of India, Dalhousie has charming colonial architecture, including some beautiful churches. The spectacular snow-covered Dhauladhar Mountains are also visible from this fabulous town of Himachal Pradesh.
The altitude of Dalhousie town varies between 1500 mts to 25500 mts and lies on and aroud five hills named- Kathlog, Patreyn, Tehra, Bakrota and Balun. HPTDC has best described the beauty of Dahousie by saying-
Its location presents panoramic views of the plains and like a long silver line, the river Ravi twists and turns below Dalhousie. The spectacular snow-covered Dhauladhar mountains are also visible form this enchanting town.
How to reach Dalhousie-
Although Dalhousie is accessible by Air, train as well as by road but by far the most convenient way to reach here is by bus from adjoining cities in Himachal Pradesh and other states.
Reaching Dalhousie by Air-
The nearest airport to Dalhousie is Gaggal airport in Kangra which is about 134 kms away from Dahousie.From Gaggal airport you have to hire a taxi or travel by a bus to reach Dalhousie. Furthermore, There are not too many flights that operate from Gaggal airport and to add to it many a timess flights are cancelled due to bad weather or due to fog. So, reaching here by flight is certainly not a good option.
Reaching Dalhousie by Train-
The nearest railhead from Dalhousie is Pathankot which is about 84 kms away from here. Trains from many parts of India arrive and depart from Pathankot. From Pathankot you can hire a taxi or rde on a bus to reach Dalhousie.Buses and taxis are easily available from here.
Reaching Dalhousie by Road-
I regard bus journey as the best to reach Dalhousie.Firstly it is convenient as you don't have to break your journey and secondly the view of the mountains from the bus and road is simply astounding. Buses from adjoining states operate on a regular basis. Dalhousie is well connected by other cities of Himachal Pradesh like, Shimla, Chamba, Kullu and Manali. Apart from this buses also operate from Chandigarh , Delhi, Ambala and Amritsar.
Where to stay in Dalhousie-
Being one of the famous hill place in India , Dalhousie has ample number of hotels to meet the needs of every type of tourists.Most of the hotels are located in the main market around the GPO which is at the heart of the town. But generally hotels in this area are dearer so to get a budget hotel you have to move towards either Subhash Chowk or Mall road.
In the month of July you should make prior arrangements for hotel as this is the peak season and most of the tourists flood into the town to get respite from the heat of the summer.
Where to eat in Dalhousie-
There are a few quality restaurants situated in and around GPO which serve delicious north indian, south indian and western recipes.The options are few if you want to taste some local cuisines.Just ask locals for a a restaurant which serves local delicacies and they can lead you to some good restaurants.By far the most convenient and quality place to get your foods is your hotel itself.
Best time to visit and clothings in Dalhousie-
Best season to visit Dalhousie is between June to November as weather is pleasant during these months.July is the peak season when most of the tourists flock in here.
You need light woolens during summer months (June to mid september). During winters you need heavy woolens as the region is extremely cold during winter with temperatures sometimes reaching below freezing point.