One of the most beautiful tourist destinations, Himachal Pradesh is truly a sight to behold. The state is studded with beautiful hill towns, each with its own cultures and unique things to see. However, if you’re planning a 5-6 day Himachal tour, it is advisable to see these three hill stations- Dalhousie, Khajjiar, and Dharamshala.
you can plan a wonderful Himachal tour that would allow you to experience the state
Day 1 & 2
Dharamshala
Popularly called the Little Lhasa of India, Dharamshala is known for being the holy residence of the exiled Tibetan monk Dalai Lama. One of the most popular destinations in Himachal Pradesh, the town is not only spiritually and culturally significant but also filled with nature’s bounties including snow-capped peaks and thick deodar trees.
Reaching Dharamshala
Dharamshala is only 491 km and 250 km from the major cities of Delhi and Chandigarh respectively. The route from Delhi to Dharamshala would take you through Chandigarh, Kiratpur, and Bilaspur, taking a total of 12-13 hours on the road.
Best places to see in Dharamshala
1. Dal Lake
One of the most popular tourist spots in Dharamshala, Dal lake is a magnificent pond located on the McLeod Ganj Naddi Road. The place offers panoramic views of the hills and holds the reputation of being among the best spots for boat riding, trekking, and fishing. A shiva mandir is located in proximity where you can offer your prayers as well.
2. Bhagsu Falls, McLeod Ganj
Connecting the two beautiful towns of McLeod Ganj and Dharamshala is the Bhagsu falls, a magnificent waterfall ideal for day picnics and spending time in serenity. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery which makes it an ideal spot for activities like hiking and rock climbing. Given the place’s elevation, you can take a bird’s eye view of the town when you’re at the top.
3. Namgyal Monastery, McLeod Ganj
A must-visit in Dharamshala, Namgyal Monastery is the largest Tibetan Temple located outside Tibet. Believed to be the final abode of Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, the monastery witnesses travellers and religious/spiritual followers from all over the world. Here, you can meditate and chant prayers and spend some time in self-reflection, away from the worries of city life.
Day 3
Dharamshala to Dalhousie
Dalhousie is just 117 km away from Dharamshala. It takes about 3 hrs 40 mins in a car to reach Dalhousie from Dharamshala.
Dalhousie
A quaint town located in the laps of Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie is perhaps one of the least commercialised places in the state and still in touch with its local roots. Featuring ideal weather, stunning peaks, lush greenery, and an abundance of adventure activities, the town is perfect for travellers looking for tranquillity.
Best places to see in Dalhousie
1. St John’s church
One of the oldest churches in Dalhousie, St. John’s church is a popular destination known for its beauty and spiritual qualities. The protestant church features Victorian-style architecture and hosts a rich collection of books, rare photographs, historical artefacts, and paintings. Given its extensive collection of memoirs and aesthetic beauty, it is also a popular spot for photography.
2. Dainkund peak
Overlooking the mesmerizing Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges, the Dainkund peak is one of the highest peaks in Dalhousie. An ideal place for adventure enthusiasts, the place offers numerous options for trekking and camping keeping the adrenaline quotient high. The base of the camp is just 30 minutes from Gandhi chowk, and from the base, the journey to the mesmerizing peak begins.
Day 4
Bhuri Singh Museum
If you’re someone who loves to explore the culture and history of a place when visiting it, then the Bhuri Singh Museum is the ideal place for you. An offbeat destination, the museum is a significant historical and cultural sight founded in 1908. It was initially founded to preserve the heritage of Chamba and is now home to a rich collection of more than 8500 antiquities and art objects including carved doors, copper plates, miniature paintings, and frescoes.
Shopping in Dalhousie
No trip is complete without shopping and especially a trip to the hills. Dalhousie is a popular shopping place in Himachal Pradesh given the abundance of shopping destinations in the town and the presence of a rich culture of local art. Some of the best shopping places in Dalhousie are-
1. Tibetan Handicrafts market
One of the oldest and most popular shopping spots in Dalhousie, the Tibetan handicrafts centre is home to the finest traditional artefacts. Whether it is exquisite carpets, wall hangings or, jewellery, bags, shawls, and scarves, you’ll find an array of good quality products in the market that would act as a keepsake for the trip.
2. Bhuttico
Established in the year 1944, Bhuttico is one of the oldest and most renowned shopping places in Dalhousie. Initially founded by a group of local women, Bhuttico has grown into a full-fledged shopping centre with a reputation of offering great quality, exclusive products. The place is known for its Kullu shawls made of authentic raw materials like lambswool, angora, and pashmina which would be perfect for the coming winter months.
Day 5
Dalhousie to Khajjiar
Distance between Dalhousie and Khajjiar is around 20km and takes about 1 hr to travel by car.
Khajjiar
Popularly known as the “mini-Switzerland of India”, Khajjiar is a natural splendour that totally lives up to its name. Offering the best of nature and adventure, Khajjiar is the perfect spot to end your Himachal tour and take some time off to bask in tranquillity.
Best places to see in Khajjiar
1. Khajjiar lake
One of the most popular destinations in Khajjiar, Khajjiar lake is a stunning lake located at an elevation of 1920 metres. The lake offers panoramic views of Mount Kailash and makes up for an ideal place for a day trip. In the vicinity of the lake is a large green land hosting adventure activities like zorbing, paragliding, and horse-riding, which offer a blend of thrill and serenity.
2. Kalatop Wildlife sanctuary
Gateway to Himachal’s exotic flora and fauna, Kalatop Wildlife sanctuary is the perfect place for travellers who love nature and wildlife. The sanctuary is home to leopard, bear, langur, and jackal, and an abundance of great bird species like Black Headed Jay, the Black Bird, and Eurasian Jay. It also features crystal clear lakes and scenic views of snow-capped hills which make the entire experience even more magical.
BOTTOM-LINE
A holiday to these beautiful destinations can be elevated by staying at the luxurious and comforting homestays in Himachal Pradesh, among the best in the country. Hopefully, this guide helps you experience the majestic state of Himachal Pradesh at its best. So pack your bags today and indulge in an amazing 5-day Trip To Himachal Pradesh.