Surreal Scenes & Mountain Meals: Road Trip To Dalhousie In Under INR 6,500

Looking for the perfect escape away from the humdrum of urban life but feel that a cash crunch is dragging you down? Well fret not, because an escape to the lush green hills and breathtaking mountain views of Dalhousie and Khajjiar can recharge your city-drained souls on a budget for four – five days.

The time spent in every nook and corner of Dalhousie is not just a sight for sore eyes but can invigorate your very soul back to life. Sip on piping hot chai amidst the Panchpulla Waterfalls, witness the surreal sunset at Shubhash Chowk, marvel at the sight of the mighty Peer Panjal mountain range or be mesmerised by the breathtaking view from the Dainkund Peak.

Just a few hours away from Dalhousie is Khajjiar – the mini Switzerland of India. What we love about Khajjiar, other than the fact that there’s zorbing, paragliding and all sorts of exciting activities, is that the place with its lush green meadows, surrounded by flocks of sheep, beautiful cottages, hills and high Deodars, looks like a film set straight out of a Bollywood movie {Kuch Kuch Hota Hai was shot here}. You’re sure to experience the best of the hills on a budget as you can trek, enjoy a fun picnic under clear blue skies, even take the best nap of your life in the midst of the tranquil grounds near the Khajjiar lake and also get pictures clicked with cutesy, furry rabbits.

When in Dalhousie, browse through the bustling Gandhi Chowk Market and the Tibetan Market for locally handcrafted shawls, lamps and knick-knacks or eat at the quaint Cafe Dalhousie which takes you back in time with its colonial British interiors and serves stellar Fish and Chips, Chole Bhature and Reshmi Kebabs {impressed by the variety?}. Not far behind is Kwality Restaurant which is wining for its Chicken Saag.

Also, you can stay at budget hotels like Alps Resort, Hotel Dalhousie Grand or Chobhyal Cottage that might not be extremely glamorous but provide all the basic amenities to ensure an oh-so-comfortable stay.

City life can be overwhelming. We suggest that you pack your bag and a good book, switch off your phone {or at least try to} and head to Dalhousie & Khajjiar for a three-four day relaxing holiday to get your zen-mode back on.

Book hotel rooms way in advance to get the best deals and plan a trip preferably during the off-season {July-Oct}.