Famous Food of Himachal Pradesh

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Himachal Pradesh known for its breathtaking landscapes, serene environment, adventures also offers a delicious journey where you'll get to taste the savory famous food of the region. The savory flavor of rich and diverse cuisines reflects the vibrant culture and traditions of the region as evident in the age old recipe passed down from generations after generations. From flavorful  and comforting delicacies like Siddu (steamed buns) to mouth watering sweet dishes like Mittha Bhat (dessert), there are many dishes to try. Through this blog post let's go on a savory journey and explore the famous food of Himachal Pradesh. Dham-The flavorful delicacy of Himachal 1. Dham- The Traditonal Festive Feast Dham in Himachal Pradesh is a traditional feast that people enjoy during vibrant festivals and  various celebrations in the region. Popular varieties of Dham include Kangri Dham and Mandi Dham. This famous delicacy is prepared by Botis (known as traditional chefs) and is served on Patt...

Dalhousie Places to Explore

Dalhousie is an enchanting hill station in Himachal Pradesh that exudes traditional charm and tranquility. This beautiful hill station attracts tourists seeking peace, rejuvenation and provides an escape form daily hustle and bustle. Dalhousie is a picturesque hill station that is snuggled in midst of majestic Himalayas that allures tourists with its stunning landscape, colonial architectural, rich cultural heritage and peaceful ambience. Especially for nature lovers, Dalhousie will prove to be a delightful retreat. 

   
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The Stunning scenery of Dalhousie


Dalhousie has a lot to offer to tourists, from exploring the beautiful landscape to enjoying adventure activities, this scenic hill station is ready to enchant you. For the tourists wondering what is famous in Dalhousie, here are the must visit popular places that you can explore.


Let's explore the enchanting places in Scenic Dalhousie

1. The Magic of Khajjiar: A journey beyond expectations

Khajjiar, also known as Mini Switzerland of India, is a captivating destination that charms the tourists with its scenic lush green meadows, thick dense forests and snow clad peaks. Khajjiar is one of the most famous family friendly destinations in Dalhousie. This beautiful destination is ideal for nature walks, picnic with family and those who love adventure can enjoy adventure activities like zorbing and paragliding.


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Gorgeous lush valley of Khajjiar

Special places in Khajjar

  • The Placid Khajjiar Lake: One of the main attraction in Khajjar, this serene lake is surrounded by lush green meadows and Deodar forest that adds more to its charm.
  • Recreational activities: Tourists can enjoy peaceful recreational activities like having a picnic with family by the khajjar lake and admiring the stunning natural landscape.
  • Khaji Nag Temple: This place holds religious and cultural significance. Khaji Nag temple was built in 12th century and is one of the oldest and holiest temple in Himachal pradesh.
  • Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary: Tourists can admire the precious and diverse flora and fauna while taking a relaxing nature walk in Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Adventure activities: Tourists who love some adrenaline pumping activities can enjoy wide range of activities like paragliding, zorbing and horseback riding.


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Zorbing in Khajjiar Himachal Pradesh


2. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Chamba district, is spread across 30.69 square kilometres. It is home to diverse flora and fauna and has a perfect natural ambience ideal for nature lovers and trekkers.

Special things about Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Remarkable scenery: This sanctuary is nestled in midst of Dhauladar range, offering spectacular views of snow capped peaks and dense Deodar forests.
  • Rich Biodiversity: Kalatop Khajjar Sanctuary has a rich biodiversity including several species of birds like Koklas, Cheer Pheasants, Snow leopards, Himalayan Brown Bear, Musk Deer etc.
  • Adventure: Tourists also get chance to do trekking , bird watching and do photography.
  • Serene atmosphere: The peaceful and calming atmosphere of this place provides a retreat from daily hustle and bustle of fast paced city life.

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Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary Khajjiar


3. Panchpula

Panchpula means five bridges, it is one of the most popular places in Dalhousie. This breathtaking spot is known for its five natural springs, offering a revitalising experience. Panchpula is known for its wonderful cascading waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

Special things about Panchpula

  • Satdhara Springs: These natural springs are believed to have medicinal properties, it is popular among people who seek healing.
  • Stunning Waterfalls: Waterfalls are a major tourist attraction, which cascade down the slopes of Dhauladhar range looks spectacular in midst of lush greenery. Get ready to get awe-inspired.
  • Relaxing Ambience: The sound of water falling down and rushing waterfall create a relaxing and soothing ambience, ideal for those who seek a peaceful and refreshing escape.
  • Photography: Tourists who are photography enthusiasts are in for a treat. The cascading waterfall and lush greenery offer a spectacular backdrop for photographs as it captures the beauty of nature.


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    Beautiful Panchpula Satdhara falls Dalhousie


4. Daikund Peak

Daikund Peak is also known as Crown Jewel of Dalhousie, is situated at splendid 2,755 metres above sea level offers panoramic views of majestic Himalayas will leave you bewitched.

Special things about Daikund peak

  • The Singing hill: There is a fascinating phenomenon behind the name "The Singing Hill", as the winds sweep across form peaks, it whistles through the dense forests which produces sweet sound that echoes through the air. It adds a magical charm to already enchanting Daikund peak, leaving people spellbound.
  • Pholani Devi Temple: Pholani Devi temple is situated at top of the Daikund peak, has spiritual significance. It offers peace amidst stunning scenery.
  • Breathtaking Tapestry of hues: Daikund peak offers astounding panoramic views of snow clad majestic peaks of Dhauladhar range with verdant valleys stretching from below, create a breathtaking tapestry of hues.
  • Trekking adventure: For nature lovers who love trekking, Daikund peak offers a moderate trekking. Trailing through the abundant greenery with glimpses of diverse flora and fauna along the way is quite a rewarding experience.

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Daikund Peak Dalhousie


5. St. John Church

St. John Church is a historic and cultural landmark, built in 1863, is the oldest church in Dalhousie. The church is one of the finest example of British architecture. St. John Church is ideal place for peace and meditation.

Special thing about St. John Church:

  • Architectural features: The Church has a stone structure, giving it a strong presence, beautiful stained glass windows, interiors comprise of intricate woodwork reflecting the beauty and craftsmanship of that era.
  • Popular tourist attraction: The Church draws in visitors with its beautiful architecture, reminds visitors of the colonial past.
  • Religious significance: St. John Church holds significant religious importance for local Christian communities.

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St. John Church Dalhousie


Exploring Dalhousie further

Dalhousie is a charming hill station, a favourite among the tourists. You can make most out of your trip by exploring Dalhousie even further. The stunning natural beauty, rich culture and tradition, traditional local handicrafts, delicious cuisines etc , there is lot more to add in your bucket list. Let's see them one by one.
  • Tourists can visit the Tibetan market for a unique shopping experience, there you can find the Tibetan artifacts, souvenirs and handicraft items. You'll also get to experience the local culture and tradition.
  • Bara Pathar is a local village where you can interact with the locals and get to know their daily lifestyle and learn about their culture. It is a picturesque village where you can stroll and also do photography of stunning landscape.
  • You can visit the Chamera lake which is just 26 km away from Dalhousie, it is a serene lake where you can enjoy boat ride, you can capture the scenic views of mountain and lake through your lens and admire the the natural beauty all around.
  • For those who love trekking, you can visit the Ganji Pahari, it offers a moderately challenging hike but rewarding as you'll get to admire the breathtaking views of lofty peaks surrounded by gorgeous valleys. It will give you a refreshing experience.
  • Tourists can also visit the Jot Pass which also offers a challenging trek, it will not only give you a thrilling experience but also give you a sense of accomplishment because to do trekking in this pass a good physical fitness is required.
  • Tourists can try local traditional cuisines like Madra, Siddu and a festive meal served during celebrations like Dhaam.
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Tibetan handicrafts market Dalhousie


Best time to visit Dalhousie

For those who are wondering what is the best time to visit Dalhousie, worry not. I have listed best time to visit Dalhousie which will help you in getting the most out from your trip.
  • Summer Season (March to June): Summer season is the best time to visit Dalhousie as it is a peak tourist season. The weather is quite pleasant, it is best time for outdoor activities, making it ideal for adventure enthusiasts. The landscape blooms with beautiful flowers and lush greenery all around which increases it's charm making it ideal for nature walks and picnics by the serene lakes of Dalhousie.
  • Monsoon Season (July to September): You can admire the lush valleys and beautiful mountains but there will be risk of landslides and road blockages so travel with caution. Usually monsoon season is off season so you can expect to have cheaper tour packages at this time around.
  • Winter Season (October to February): If you love chilly temperature and see charming Dalhousie transforming into a winter paradise, you must visit during winters. Tourists can enjoy winter sports in midst of Majestic mountains covered in snow and frozen lakes, which will make it quite a spectacular experience.


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    Dalhousie in Winter season

How to reach Dalhousie

  • By Air: The Gaggal airport is the nearest airport to Dalhousie, around 130 km away. Upon reaching there you can hire a taxi or take local bus to reach Dalhousie.
  • By Road: If you love to do road trips and want to explore the nearby areas, going through roadway might prove to be an unforgettable memory. If you are travelling from Delhi, it might take 10-11 hours of road trip. If you want to travel on a budget, you might want to opt for Buses ( there are various HRTC buses and several private long route buses), it will take 13.5 hours to 15 hours to reach Dalhousie.
  • By Train: The nearest train station to Dalhousie is the Pathankot railway station, it will take 10-11 hours to reach Dalhousie if you are travelling from Delhi. The Pathankot railway junction is very well connected to major cities like Amritsar, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur , Bhatinda, Jammu and Jaipur. Upon reaching there, you can hire a taxi or take local bus to reach Dalhousie.

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Dalhousie beautiful landscape photo


Accomodations in Dalhousie

  • Tourists seeking luxury hotels can look for accommodation in Grand View Hotel and Snow Valley Resort.
  • Tourists seeking accommodations in mid range hotels can look for Hotel Mount View and JK Clarks Exotica.
  • Tourists seeking budget friendly accommodations can look for Hotel New Palace and Hotel Kings.

Dalhousie Travel Tips

  • Dalhousie is a high altitude hill station in Chamba district, that is why stay hydrated because at higher altitude body loses water quickly due to increased breathing rate, lower humidity and lot of walking and trekking. Make sure to drink ample water throughout your journey.
  • Always dress warmly, even during summers because Dalhousie is a cool hill station, and evenings get chilly. So make sure to pack warm clothes, no matter which ever season you choose to travel.
  • Always follow the rules and regulations and do not throw litter on the ground. Respect the nature, do not harm the flora and fauna of beautiful hill station Dalhousie and travel safe. 

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Dalhousie winter scenery images


Conclusion

Dalhousie is an enchanting hill station, charming throughout the seasons and allures the tourists from India and abroad. There are plethora of activities be it for leisure, for adventure junkies, for nature lovers, for photography enthusiasts, this picturesque hill station has never ending charms. In relaxing environment, you can experience spiritualism, admire the natural beauty, explore the majestic mountains to your heart's content and what not. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to experience the magical wonderland Dalhousie, happy and safe travels. Don't forget to comment and share with your friends if you like the post!!




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