Though spread over five distinct hills - Kathlog, Portreyn, Tehra, Bakrota and Balun, covering an area of 13 sq km - the main center of Dalhousie continues to be at Portreyn. The Figure of Eight of Portreyn is the most popular walk in Dalhousie. Starting from the Portreyn Mall, it crosses the meeting places of Subhash Chowk and Gandhi Chowk. Along the rocks on the way, Tibetans have carved colorful pictures in relief. One of the best views of the glorious surroundings of Dalhousie can be obtained from Kalatope, 8 km from the center of Dalhousie. At Panchpulla (Five Bridges) - a good spot for picnics - can, if one is lucky to run into an old Dalhousie resident, be heard interesting snippets that intertwine India's freedom struggle with Dalhousie. Satdhara has long been known for its mineral water which was once shipped to England on a regular basis. Dalhousie also has Dainkund - the Singing Hill.The passage of mountain winds through the forest at Dainkund produces a series of effects - depending on the wind's velocity - ranging from a gentle humming to an eerie wail.

Weekend Trips/Excursions

There are several places of tourist interest near the hill resort of Dalhousie like Khajjiar and Chamba. At a distance of 7 kilometers from Dalhousie is Khajjiar. The nature lovers and the adventure seekers alike throng Khajjiar. The marvelous meadow, lovely lake and the captivating cedar trees add to the beauty of Khajjiar. The ancient, golden domed temple of Khajinag lends its name to Khajjiar. Whilw holidaying at Khajjiar you may check out the nine-hole golf course. Then there is the jewel of the Himalayas- Chamba. Chamba is 56 km away from Dalhousie. Chamba could have derived its name from the abundance of fragrant Champa flowers in the area or the princess Champavati. In Chamba you must visit the Lakshminarayana temple complex. The temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu reveal the elegance of the Hindu style of architecture. Then there is the Rang Mahal. The palace is in the shape of a feudal castle and boasts of marvelous murals. The Bhuri Singh Museum is also worth visiting in Chamba. Amongst the many exhibits are the paintings, sculptures, stone inscriptions, wonderful embroideries, ancient weapons, and other rare artifacts. In the Dauladhars itself is the other hill resort of Palampur. At 1269 meters Palampur is indeed a valley of flowers. Roses, wisterias, gardenias, tea gardens, brooks, rice fields and the soothing breeze add to the beauty of Palampur. In the Palam Valley visit to Palampur is refreshing to the soul. Trekking in and around Palampur is the best way to explore and enjoy it!

Baijnath is another pilgrimage and place of tourist attraction in the Dauladhar range. The spire temple of Baijnath-the abode of the Lord of Physicians is the landmark in Baijnath. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The pilgrims and the devotees throng to the Baijnath to be granted with a boon and be freed of all ailments. The water at Baijnath is believed to possess medicinal properties. Bir and Billing make other excellent tour options in the Dauladhar range. The ancient and picturesque village of Bir was once the seat of the powerful Pal Rajputs, Bir is renowned for the annual fair that is traditionally a part of the Holi Festival. You may also enjoy the song, dance and the festive celebrations at Bir. 14 km away from Bir is billing. Billing is the renowned venue of an annual hang gliding tournament. Billing happens to be one of the finest sites for hang gliding in the world. McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala, Triund et al are some of the other places worth visiting around Dalhousie.