Professional commitments, traffic blues, daily chores and living alone was getting onto my nerves. Weekend haunts to multiplexes and nightclubs seemed boring. I decided to make the most of 4-day vacation during Durga Puja in October.Destination Dalhousie (without bookings)! I was game for a bit of risk, if it called for.
A 7.5hr train journey to Pathankot, followed by 2hrs on road to Dalhousie. I started on October 8 and reached my final destination early morning , next day. All smiles, the white peaks were clearly visible from my hotel room! After a quick nap and brunch, I set out with a route map around 11am. I singled out places to visit during my train journey.
A hired Indica took me to Kalatop Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary, 26km from Dalhousie.
What a sight!! Mighty peaks to my right bordered with coniferous forests. The sanctuary had a blue stream (originating in Ravi River) meandering through it. Subtle color combination — white, green and light blue.
The dense forest cover favored flora and fauna. Deodar, pine, oak trees graced with rhododendrons at the bottom. The nature guide guided me and two foreign nationals on jeep safari. He told us about the sanctuary being home to serow, a goat-antelope which we couldn’t see. But all three of us had our mouths opened when our jeep drove across bear, deer, squirrels, langur and barking goral. I fed my eyes, kept clicking.
First destination was worth it. Super hit!
A few kilometers away was Khajjar lake. Again a perfect view, pristine waters beside a huge ground, somewhat rocky. Tourists were spotted exploring the surroundings on horse back. Kids had a gala time. The horses are trained enough to give you a safe ride. After having shared my part of glory I returned to our hotel around 4pm. Apple orchards and alpine meadows graced our way.
I retired early because the next day would be hectic. Post sunset, a few of us at the hotel asked the authorities arrange for a bonfire. And there it was. Good music, wine and simple continental dinner. Mercury dipped to 10 degrees at night.
Around 130kms from Dalhousie is Chamunda Devi Temple, my next stop.As the name suggests, the holy shrine is dedicated to Goddess Chamunda. Located on the bank of river Ban Ganga, at the backdrop of white-clad Dhauladhar range, the temple is said to be a regular tourist spot because of religious sanction. The main shrine has Lord Hanuman and Lord Bhairav guarding the Goddess, decked in bright colored sari. Brief prayers and I set out for the next destination.
Dainkund — is the highest peak in Dalhousie. After a 3.5 hour drive from Chamunda Devi Temple, I rejuvenated myself with the scenic pleasure. The entire Dalhousie was visible from this point. People usually trek here. Daikund is 10km from Dalhousie and around 12km from my hotel. Owing to time barriers, I had to get here by car.
Pollution free, gentle breeze was all I needed. And now, I had it at my disposal. With a bonus. I got a clear view of Dalhousie valley, with meandering river thick green cover, spotted with vibrant hues at places
Next stop was Gandhi Chowk, the only bustling place I came across. Tibetan kiosks selling handicrafts items, carpets, fur products, jackets dominated the market place.
I headed to the Satadhara Falls next day. Seven brooks converge to make this waterfall. The water is said to have medicinal power. So, for all those with joint pain, you know where to head now, if you are in Dalhousie. Being away from the population, I could spot the crystal clear water, enticing enough to make me dip my legs. Stunning picturesque — mountains, greenery, waterfalls and chiripes all around.
From the abode of Himalayas, I had to return to Pathankot station and take a train back to Delhi. Short, unplanned vacation away from mainstream life, just the one I needed. For those, who are looking for a short vacation, here you go, a step close to Heaven.












