Dalhousie Tourism

Dalhousie (2036 m) is a hill station full of colonial charm that holds lingering echoes of the Raj. Spread out over the five hills (Kathlog, Potreys, Tehra, Bakrota and Balun) the town is named after the 19th century British Governor General Lord Dalhousie. It was popular with the British Army personnel in 1860's. The town’s varying altitude shades it with a variety of vegetation that includes stately grooves of pines, deodars, oaks and flowering rhododendrons. Rich in colonial architecture, the town preserves some beautiful churches. St. John church is the oldest one built in 1863, St. Francis was built in 1894, St. Andrew in 1903 and St. Patrick in 1909.

Lord Dalhousie was drawn to this region in 1854 because of its peaceful atmosphere and pleasant climate. Eventually, the British acquired five hills — Kathalagh, Potreyn, Terah (or Moti Tibba), Bakrota and Bhangora — from the ruler of Chamba State for developing the area as a retreat. In return, his taxes were reduced. Soon it became a popular resort for Englishmen, military officials and soldiers to escape the scorching summers of the plains.

There are several tourist attractions in Dalhousie. Khajjiar, a beautiful valley is quite a favorite among tourists. Tibetan market, Bakrota hills, Dainkund peak, Kalatop and Lohali village are few other popular places to visit in Dalhousie. Karelanu is a spot famous for its healing water spring. Subhas Chandra Bose, who was suffering from tuberculosis drank regular water from the natural spring in Karelanu. He recovered from the deadly disease! The best time to visit this lovely hill station is during summer. The peak tourist season is from May to September