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Dalhousie is a beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Established in 1854 by the British Empire in India as a summer retreat for its troops and bureaucrats, the town was named after Lord Dalhousie who was the British Viceroy in India at that time.

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Introduction

Dalhousie is built on and around five hills. Located on the western edge of the Dhauladhar mountain range of the Himalayas, it is

Dalhousie in winter, courtesy of U-Like Studio
surrounded by the beautiful scenery of snow-capped peaks. Dalhousie is situated at 6000-9000 feet above sea level. The best time to visit is in the summer, and the peak tourist season is from May to September. Scottish and Victorian architecture is prevalent in the bungalows and churches in the town.

Lakshmi-Narayan group of temples at Chamba, courtesy of Mohan Gupta, Cincinnati, USA
Dalhousie is a gateway to the ancient Chamba Hill State, now Chamba District of the Himachel Pradesh, India. This hill region is a repository of ancient Hindu culture, art, temples, and handicrafts preserved under the longest running single dynasty since the mid-6th century. Chamba is the hub of this culture. Bharmour, the ancient capital of this kingdom, is home to Gaddi and Gujjar tribes and has 84 ancient temples from 7th-10th century AD.
Pangi Valley is remote and highly inaccessible most of the year. It is located between the Pir Panjal and the Greater Himalayan ranges. It is home to Pangwal and Bhot tribes.
Pangi View from Dalhousie (click for larger version)
Rivers Ravi and Chandrabhaga (Chenab) take origin and nourishment from its glaciers. There are several hydroelectric projects and dams being developed. There are several national forest and wildlife sanctuaries including Kalatop-Khaijjar located within its confines. Pilgrimage to Mani Mahesh Temple and Lake is an annual trekking event. Many trekking routes over Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges present a challenge to the serious trekker, while there are ample opportunities for the budding trekker.
Ravi River at base of Chamba, courtesy of Mohan Gupta
Khajjiar lake, courtesy of Mohan Gupta

Please e-mail any questions or comments to: dalhousienet@aol.com