Thursday, November 6, 2008

Dalhousie hill station

Area : 14 sq. Km

Population : 8,600

Altitude : 2,030m

STD Code: 01899

Temperature : Summer (max) 24° C, Winter (min) 1° C

Annual rainfall :1,500 mm

Dalhousie - Introduction

Dalhousie is a quiet town, with a sense of enchantment. This hill station spreads over five low-level hills at the western edge of the Dhauladhar range, just east of the Ravi River. The picturesque town is interspersed with the colonial-era buildings, low roofed stalls and hotels. The pine-covered slopes around it are intersected with paths and treks, which are ideal for short undemanding walks.The gateway to the Chamba Valley, this colonial town was established in 1854 by the British governor-general Lord Dalhousie. Covering an area of 14 sq.-km and surrounded by alpine vegetation, Dalhausie has charming architecture and panoramic views of both plains and the whitecapped views of the mountainous ranges.

History of Dalhousie
Credit for discovering Dalhousie goes to the British governor-general Lord Dalhousie, who found this hill station in 1854. Dalhousie is the gateway to the Chamba Valley. It soon developed the summer retreat of the British who were attracted by its enchanting beauty.

Accessibiility

By Air : The nearest airport is at Gaggal (Kangra), 140-km from Dalhousie.

By Rail : The nearest railhead is Pathankot, which is well connected to Amritsar, Jammu, Delhi and Jalandhar.

By Road : Onward journey from Pathankot to Chamba and Dalhausie is by road. Punjab and Himachal Roadways run services, as do private operators.

Places to Visit

Churches - the St. Andrew's Church, St. Patrick's Church at Balun, St. Francis' Church at Subhash Chowk, and St. John's Church at
Gandhi Chowk, are some of the beautiful churches that Dalhousie houses.

Panchpula (Five Bridges) - located 3km from Dalhousie, is a picturesque spot where a stream feeds several pools. A monument is built here in the memory of a freedom fighter, Sardar Ajit Singh
Subhash Baoli - is a captivating spot, surrounded by soaring trees. It served as the great freedom fighter Subhash Chandra Bose's retreat.
Kalatope Wildlife Sanctuary - located about 8km from Dalhousie, is the home of a variety of species like the ghoral, Himalayan black bear, barking deer and an abundant bird life.