
Dalhousie
india
About Dalhousie
Dalhousie is a small Indian town that stretches across five hills close to the Dhauladhar mountain range, making for picture-perfect views. Surrounded by pine valleys, it's an ideal spot for walking, hiking and climbing. Dalhousie was founded in the 1850s and by the early 20th century had become a major holiday destination; much of the grandeur of the era remains in the architecture you'll see around town. Its serene scenery makes it popular with honeymooners.
Get a view of the pines at a hostel in Dalhousie with a wraparound terrace. Look out for hostels in Dalhousie with free Wi-Fi and private rooms with flatscreen TVs or check into accommodation that hosts regular movie marathons. You can try some of the flavourful local dishes at a Dalhousie hostel with its own restaurant. To get chatting with other travellers, join in with organised activities like board game competitions and walking tours around the town.
Dalhousie has an easy-going character. Around the town centre, there are yoga and meditation retreats and tea houses for simply sitting with a cup of chai. Nearby Panchpula is a popular spot for a picnic, and it's here that you'll find the Satdhara Springs and tumbling waterfalls. For a taste of local life, you could visit Khajjiar. Often referred to as the Switzerland of India, this picturesque village has a small lake, lush green hills, a temple and an animal sanctuary.
You can admire fine Victorian architecture in Dalhousie, starting with St John's Church, which still remains from the town's days as a holiday destination. Pick up your souvenirs in the Gandhi Chowk area, where you'll find shops and stalls selling everything from rugs to jewellery. The Rang Mahal Palace represents the region's blend of Mughal and British influences, with its colourful wall paintings. For a trek that takes you into nature, try the 'Singing Hill' of Dainkund Peak and take in views of the Chenab, Ravi and Beas rivers. The name comes from the musical sound of the wind in the trees.
From New Delhi, the journey by train and bus takes about 12 hours. You can also fly into Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar, the nearest major airport. From there, the bus trip to Dalhousie takes around 5 hours. Around the town, you could hire a motorbike, hail a taxi or walk to local sights.
City Info
3 Hostels in Dalhousie

Located in Dalhousie
Located in Dalhousie, The Birds Hostel, Dalhousie welcome your stay with us.
Located in Dalhousie
Situated only 10 km from Dalhousie, Banikhet is a lesser-known village in Himachal Pradesh, enjoy your stay in Zostel Banikhet.
Located in Dalhousie
The Hosteller Dalhousie offers accommodation with cozy rooms.
Dalhousie is a fantastic destination for backpackers offering a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and affordability. Whether you're planning a short trip or making it part of a longer backpacking journey, this city should definitely be included in your travel itinerary. When looking for accommodation in Dalhousie, hostels provide the best value and opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
Whether you're looking for a social party hostel, a quiet retreat, a centrally located base for exploring the city, or something in between, Dalhousie has options for every type of traveler. Many hostels in Dalhousie offer additional amenities like free breakfast, communal kitchens, outdoor spaces, and organized activities.
When visiting Dalhousie, don't miss the opportunity to:
- Explore the local cuisine and nightlife
- Visit historical landmarks and cultural sites
- Connect with other travelers at hostel events
- Discover hidden gems off the tourist path in Dalhousie