Chamba – Hill Tripping

Duration of Visit: Plan to spend about 3-4 days in Dalhousie to fully experience its beauty, explore the nearby attractions, and enjoy leisure activities.

Subhash Baoli: Named after Subhash Chandra Bose, this is a peaceful spot with a natural spring believed to have medicinal properties. It’s a perfect place for relaxation amidst nature.
Panchpula: A scenic locale just a few kilometers from Dalhousie, known for its gushing streams and waterfalls. It is also a memorial site where several streams converge on their way to the sea.
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary: Offers a chance to see a variety of flora and fauna in a serene environment. The area is ideal for trekking and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Dainkund Peak: The highest point in Dalhousie, offering a panoramic view of the entire valley. The peak is accessible via a scenic hike and is known for the Pholani Devi temple at its summit.
St. John’s Church: This is the oldest church in the town, representing the rich history and architecture of the colonial era.

Summer (April to June): The weather is pleasant and cool, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This is the peak tourist season in Dalhousie.
Autumn (September to November): The monsoon has passed, leaving the landscape lush and vibrant. The weather is cool and conducive for exploring the outdoors.

Local Cuisine: Dalhousie offers a mix of Himachali and colonial-influenced cuisine.
- Momos and Thukpa: Reflecting Tibetan influences, available at local eateries around the town.
- Siddu: A local bread made with wheat flour, typically filled with poppy seeds, lentils, or walnuts, steamed and served with ghee or lentil soup.
Eateries: There are several quaint cafes and restaurants that offer good food and views.
- Kwality Restaurant: Known for its good range of North Indian dishes.
- Café Dalhousie: Offers great coffee and light snacks, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Getting There: The nearest airport is in Pathankot, about 85 km away, from where you can take a taxi or bus to Dalhousie. The nearest major railhead is also in Pathankot.
Accommodation: There are several accommodation options ranging from luxury resorts to budget stays. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during the peak season.
Packing: Even in summer, evenings can be chilly, so packing some warm clothing is advisable. Don’t forget to carry an umbrella or raincoat for unexpected showers.
Respect Nature: Dalhousie is known for its natural beauty, so it’s important to respect the environment by not littering and adhering to local guidelines.

Duration of Visit: A stay of 1-2 days is ideal to fully enjoy Khajjiar and participate in the activities available.

Khajjiar Lake: Centrally located, this small lake is surrounded by saucer-shaped lush meadows and a dense forest. It’s a picturesque spot perfect for relaxation and photography.
Khajjinag Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Khajji Nag, dating back to the 12th century, known for its intricate wood carvings depicting various episodes from the Mahabharata.
Adventure Sports: Khajjiar offers various activities such as zorbing, horse riding, and paragliding in the meadows, providing fun for all ages.
Trekking: For the more adventurous, there are several trekking routes that start from Khajjiar and go to Dalhousie, Chamba, and other nearby places offering scenic views of the landscape.

Summer (April to June): The weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for exploring and participating in outdoor activities.
Monsoon (July to September): The rain enhances the beauty of the green meadows and forests, although outdoor activities may be hindered.
Autumn (October to November): With clear skies and cooler temperatures, this is a great time for sightseeing and photography.

Local Cuisine: While dining options in Khajjiar itself might be limited, local dhabas and small eateries offer delicious North Indian food along with some local Himachali dishes.
- Madra: A local delicacy made from various beans and lentils cooked in a rich yogurt gravy.
- Siddu: A wheat flour bread filled with poppy seeds, walnuts, or ground peanuts, usually served warm with ghee.
Restaurants: In and around Khajjiar, most hotels and guest houses have their own restaurants that cater to tourists with a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes.

Getting There: Khajjiar is well connected by road. The nearest airports are in Dharamshala and Amritsar, from where you can hire a taxi or take a bus. The nearest railheads are at Pathankot and Chakki Bank.
Accommodation: There are several options from budget hotels to luxurious resorts in and around Khajjiar. Advance booking is recommended especially during peak tourist seasons.
Pack Accordingly: The weather can be unpredictable so it’s wise to pack both light and warm clothing.
Preserve the Natural Beauty: Khajjiar is a delicate ecosystem, so tourists are encouraged to avoid littering and to maintain cleanliness in the natural surroundings.