If travelling is something that you like and mountains are your preference, then Dalhousie should be your next destination. You must have seen this city in many Bollywood movies. so here we bring you how to reach Dalhousie and how to plan your vacation at Dalhousie.
Called the “Mini Switzerland of India”, Dalhousie stands over 5 hills surrounded by misty valleys, snow-capped mountains, enchanting cottages, and colonial-era buildings. No matter which part of the country you live, here we bring you a detailed guide on how to reach Dalhousie hassle-free.
How to reach Dalhousie by Air
While Dalhousie does not have its own airport, the nearest airport is in Pathankot which is around 75 km away from the town of Dalhousie. So, if you choose air travel, then the best way to reach Dalhousie is ‘Your current destination – Delhi- Pathankot and then from Pathankot, you can either take a bus or car or self-drive to Dalhousie’. The distance between Pathankot to Dalhousie would take like 3 hours.
How to reach Dalhousie by the Indian Railways
Though travelling by air saves a lot of time, it is not something that everyone can afford. Therefore, for those who are looking for a budget-friendly travel option, then the best way to reach Dalhousie is via train.
The nearest railway station to Dalhousie is Pathankot’s Chakki Bank which is about 82 km away. Pathankot Railway Junction is well connected with Delhi and other prime cities including Bhatinda, Amritsar, Jaipur, Jammu, Ahmedabad, and Jodhpur. If you are travelling from Delhi, the train journey would take you about 10 to 11 hours for which you can also choose the option of taking an overnight train.
From Pathankot, you can either take a bus or car or self-drive to Dalhousie. As said earlier, the road trip from Pathankot to Dalhousie would take like 3 hours.
The second major railway station which is closest to Dalhousie is the Kathua Railway Station, Jammu, and Kashmir, located about 91 km away from Dalhousie. Like Pathankot, it takes about 3 hours from Kathua Station to reach Dalhousie by road.
How to reach Dalhousie via road?
If you love road trips, then exploring Dalhousie via road can prove to be the most memorable trip that you could ever do.
If you are travelling from Delhi, it would take around 10 hours and the route would cover Karnal, Ambala, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and finally Pathankot from where the hilly terrain starts. The 72-minute drive from Pathankot to Dalhousie not only offers a pleasant experience but also lots of panoramic views for you to capture.
If you are travelling on a budget then you might want to take a bus ride to Dalhousie. There are daily buses that are provided by the Haryana Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) and the Himachal Roadways and can be directly taken from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Delhi. It would take about 13.5 hours to reach Dalhousie from Delhi (560 kilometres) and would cost around INR 1500 if you opt for a Volvo AC bus.
However, if you are looking at the next best option to reach Dalhousie via road, then Amritsar is the answer. The fastest and the most affordable way to get from Amritsar to Dalhousie is by personal car or by taking a taxi directly from Amritsar. The distance from Amritsar to Dalhousie by road is about 200km and usually takes around 3-4 hrs depending on the traffic and weather conditions.
Staying at Dalhousie
Choosing your comfortable and affordable mode of travel, you have finally reached Dalhousie. The immediate question that pops when you reach Dalhousie is, “Where to stay in Dalhousie?”
There are many stay options that are comfortable, budget-friendly and luxurious. Depending on how long you wish to stay and the budget you have, you can choose the best stay option.
However, if you are someone who is looking for a luxury leisure stay, then Elgin Hall, one of the best luxury homestays in the Himalayas should be your choice.
Bottom-Line
Built in 1857, this boutique property named after Lord Dalhousie is in the lap of the Himalayas. Victorian architecture, luxurious amenities and great customer service ensure your stay turns memorable. The facility and staff follow all COVID-related protocols!