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On the edge of Dhauladhar and in the shadows of the Pir Panjal range, this circuit comprising
Dalhousie, Chamba & Khajjiar as its main centers, has remained comparatively secluded from the onslaught of tourism. Far away from
the popular Tourist places, this region is, nevertheless, bestowed with its share of grand colonial architecture and ancient
culture. It is the ideal gateway for a quiet holiday.
The hill station of Dalhousie, named after a former British governor – general, is full of old-world charm and exudes a lingering
aura of colonial times. Covering an area of 14 sq km and surrounded by alpine vegetation, Dalhousie has charming architecture and
panoramic views of both and plains and the white-capped Pir Panjal range, Cold in winter, mild in summer.
SIGHTS OF THE CITY
Panchpula
Panchpula, a beautiful spot, is barely 3 km from G.P.O. On the way to Panchpula is Satdhara springs gurgling with refreshing water,
believed to contain some medicinal properties. Panchpula stream is the main source of water supply to Dalhousie and Bahloon. The
stream springs from the north side of Dayan Kund and runs down a picturesque ravine to the waterworks of Panchpula. There is an
elegant monument erected at Panchpula where several streams meet at one point.
Subhash Baoli
Just approximately 1 km from G.P.O. is a charming natural spot called Subhash Baoli. Neta ji Subhash Chander Bose during his 7
months sojourn in Dalhousie in 1937 is believed to have spent most of his days by the side of this water body, meditating amidst
dense woods of Cedar and meeting his party workers. This place lies on the G.P.O. - JandriGaht Road. A canopy with seating facilities
has been created by the local administration at this place.
Kalatop
Kalatop and Khajiar are best explored if you take a three days walk from Dalhousie to Kalatop, Khajjiar and back Dalhousie.The trek
is more or less level and requires good health, a pair of sturdy walking shoes. Kalatop is 10 kms from G.P.O. at an altitude of 8000
feet. Walking along the secluded and forested road through upper Nakorota hills, one reaches Lakkarmandi. Between G.P.O. and Lakkarmandi
lies the Dalhousie water system, Tibetan Handicraft Centre and Dalhousie Potato Farm at Ahla. Lakkarmandi is nestled between 8600 feet
high DayanKund peak on its right and Kalatop on the left. Dayan Kund has military installations and is closed to civilians except the
local people who visit Bhulwani Mata temple near DayanKund.
EXCURSIONS
Chamba
Chamba Town situated on the banks of the Ravi River was one of the oldest princely states in the country dating back to the
sixth century. It is known for its splendid architecture and as the base for numerous excursions. It is also the district
headquarters. In winter, the temperature gets very low although it gets hot in summer, often as high as 38 degrees
Celsius.
Khajjiar
A pretty lake surrounded by an emerald meadows cropped carpet soft by cattle and sheep, and enclosed in deeply
wooded hills is what prompted the Swiss to christen Khajjiar “Switzerland of India”, originally the Gaddis’ pasture, it has today
become one of the most sought after pleasure grounds for visitors.
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