Introduction

Of the many walk trails in and around Dalhousie, this is a walk of around 5 kilometers (3 miles) that encircles the Lower Bakrota Hill and is one of easiest ones to take on. This trail can be extended, something like a figure of eight, to encircle the Upper Bakrota Hill and can extend even longer to the hill of Dainkund, the highest point in Dalhousie. The walk starts at the Gandhi Chowk and along the northern face, goes past Subash Baoli. Noted freedom fighter and creator of the Indian National Army (INA), Subash Chandra Bose spent a significant portion of 1937 in Dalhousie. He is believed to have walked and contemplated at this picturesque spot which has a spring, deodar (Himalayan cedar) woods and a clear view of the snowclad ranges. This is about 1.5 km from the Gandhi Chowk and even if one does not wish to go further, makes a good picnic spot and short excursion. Past the Subash Baoli, lies Jandrighat, the residence of the former rulers of Chamba. The estate is draped with by cedar woods and is one the few old stately homes of the town. You can encircle the hill without climbing up to Upper Bakrota and return to Gandhi Chowk. If you carry on, at the end of Upper Bakrota, you can turn down again and return to Gandhi Chowk. Of the several attractive places that lie on this route, or just off it, is the ‘sacred spot’ of Bara Pathar. This is dedicated to the local deity, Bhulwani Mata. It is customary for deities in these hills to move at different times of year to various spots in the area where they are worshipped. The main temple to Bhulwani Mata is at Dainkund (Dhyankund); she 'visits' this spot every July when a major fair is also held. One of the attractions of this fair are the wrestling matches, locally called 'chinnj'. Should you care to, carry on to Dainkund (about 10 kms/ 6 miles from Gandhi Chowk, mostly uphill) which at 2,700 meters (8858 feet) is the highest in Dalhousie and offers majestic views of the mountains. The route to Dainkund turns off near the old Lakkar Mandi which was a settlement of charcoal makers. On a clear day, you can even see the three main rivers of the area the Ravi, the Beas and the Chenab as they flow in the distance.

Special Attributes

One of the finest day-hikes in Dalhousie that offers excellent views

Nuisance

None, barring the occasional monkeys.

Dressing restrictions

Comfortable

Connectivity

Walking, or by taxi on the initial stretch

Enjoyed by

Nature lovers and walkers

Exposure

Yes. The UV is high at this altitude.

Avoidable Season

Mid-winter for the Dainkund area where there may be snow on the ground.

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Jandrighat is a private residence. Take adequate precautions regarding monkeys.

Type of site

Nature walk