'Maaye Ni Meriye', popularly known as 'The Chamba Song' says it all "Chambe Jaana Zaroor".
This NorthWestern district of Himachal Pradesh- Chamba, has a lot to offer especially exotic hill station destinations. To name a few- Khajjiar, Dalhousie, Chuari Khas, and the list goes on. Basically, any pitstop you take is itself a destination in the Chamba district.
My stop-off was Dalhousie. Not really happy with the name though. Dalhousie was once a summer place for all the British. Governor General of India at that time Lord Dalhousie declared this place for the Retreat, hence the name.
The first blush of Dalhousie for me was, tall leggy Deodar trees nestling on both sides of curvy inclined beautiful roads. The roads here seemed never-ending. Coupled with huge mountains on the backdrop. To accessorize the mountains, those stone-tiled houses or buildings with a pinch of English flavour.
Frankly speaking, you would not need any site-seeing activity, Can just soak in by strolling around on foot and talking to the locals.
However, over a weekend let us see the places to be covered in and around Dalhousie:
Dainkund:
If you are looking for some good short and easy hike, this is for you. At Summit, you will be offered some viewpoint viewpoints and Pohlani Devi Temple. But let's really not talk about it.
The trail is something that you should be looking for. The path is so as if a carpet of stoned tile is rolled out on teeming green meadows for you to walk on. As you approach a certain height you will start observing tiny Lil vibrant flowers appearing in the valley. And at one side of the trail, at a distance, you would see curvy roads. On the other side, some mules are grazing and a grove of Deodar trees shadowing them.
Entry Fee: Free
Khajjiar:
Khajjiar, called the mini Switzerland of India is approx 25km from Dalhousie. This site is a must-visit during both white and spring. A Lil over crowded, apart from that this place is magical. Seeing the cows grazing in this green lush pastureland with rangy deodar trees bordering it and a chimney house at one corner reminds me of Heidi on Cartoon Network (Only millennial kids would know 😜).
Also, there is a waterbody in the middle of the meadow. Locals said us that there were many white snakes back then. As tourism picked up, you really don't see any white snakes nowadays.
Entry fee: Free
Kala Top:
A wildlife sanctuary. It is at an altitude of 8000 ft above sea level. It stands out for its flora and fauna. Mostly you see Deodar trees in Dalhousie. But here Oak and Pine trees are also in abundance. It's just that you should know to spot the difference. You can learn from the locals. And if you are lucky enough you would also spot some black bears.
Entry Fee: Free/250 INR
Either you can hike 3 km from the entry point to the main point. Flat land. Easy hike. I highly suggest the trail is beautiful.
Or reach Kala Top via vehicle. 250 INR/vehicle.
Panjpulla:
Nothing extraordinary here. You would mostly witness small streams all over. Also, a Lil crowded. But not to worry. There are many cafes set up on the stream. You can choose any and relax while spending your gala time.
We loved the time used up here. Running hands through the stream and putting bare feet in the water while sipping some hot chocolate.
Entry Fee: Free
St. John's Church:
As any other old Church, this has the touch of British impression incorporating color-painted glass windows and bricked walls. It is open post 3 pm only.
Don't miss the Sunday mass.
Entry Fee: Free
Magic Top Cafe:
This Cafe (In between Zostel and goSTOPS, near Zostel) is close to my heart for many reasons. So adding to the list.
First thing is, this place has its own vibe. Very calm, green patch terrace like land with beautiful trees and mountains around, the seatings are interesting, food is a bit expensive but amazing. Of all, the people here, are very cordial. Especially Shamsher Bhaiyya.
Our evenings would mostly be in this cafe. So many reasons to be blamed. For me, one of the reasons is to chit-chat with Bhaiyya about treks and adventures. People love lazying here with spicy Momos and hot soupy Maggi on the table. Also, you get an amazing view of mountains suddenly turning red during sunset. It seems so unreal that you would place your index finger on your wide-open mouth for sure 😁
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This itinerary would need good 2 days. If you have more time in Dalhousie, you can take a day tour to Sach Pass or Chamera Lake, or Ganji Pahad.
Personally, I feel Dalhousie is all about soaking in and taking it all. Also compared to other hill stations in India, Chamba is less crowded so you can make the best use of it.
Caution
Black bears are a big hazard here. There is no public transport and mostly you will be traversing on foot. So when you walk around after Sunset, Villagers warn you. Sometimes even scold you.
The reason is very simple. The Bears. In case you encounter them more likely you will be dead. Yes! sorry to say this. So what you can do:
1) Try hitchhiking. Taking a lift is safe in Himachal. Also, locals would offer you before you ask them.
2) If you have no option but to walk, go in a group.
3)Play loud music/ talk at top of your voice, and make some noise while walking. (Basically some noise pollution 😜)
4) You would need two flashlights. One for the front and another rear.
(One Torch and flashlight from Mobile would do)
5) Read the guidelines below.
Hostels
GoSTOPS
Zostel
300-500 INR
Surprisingly not up to the brand standards. Hearing bad reviews about Zostel, we stayed in goSTOPS and it was just ok.
Commute
There is no public transport to roam around within Dalhousie as said earlier. Would need to hire a cab for site seeing. Usually, they charge 1600-2500 INR for a day trip which would cover 2/3 of places.
Please leave a message in case any cab contact is needed.
However, there are local buses scheduled daily to nearby major towns.
So happy tripping.💖
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Thank You for stopping by.
Special mention: @lomesh_kg