The one place where you can smell the fresh, slightly sweet smell of pine mixed with the musky scent of Deodar trees is the Dainkund Peak in Dalhousie.If you love everything nature has to offer, such as snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, meadows, serene panoramic scenery, and beautiful sunsets and sunrises, then this place is perfect for you. This mountain peak is near the hill station, Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh. To make the most of your Dainkund Peak visit, read this article to know how to reach, what to do, which places to visit, and much more.
Things To Do In Dainkund Peak
Dainkund Peak comes with a lot of adventures and hidden gems. To experience these wonderful places, here’s a curated list for you.
1. Go Trekking To Dainkund Peak
This is a wonderful trek to the Dainkund Peak, filled with picturesque views. It is a 5 km trek starting from Basecamp Lakkamandi. The guide takes you on a trail filled with pine and deodar trees. The cool breeze and lush greenery around you are a sight to behold. You’ll lose yourself in nature’s charms and arms over here. Once you reach the ridge, the peak is only one and a half km away. As you climb the peak, you can visit other places, such as the Kalatop-Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary and the Pholani Mata Temple.
After a couple of hours of rest, sightseeing, and clicking millions of breathtaking photos, walking towards the end of the trail near the Dainkund viewpoint, don’t forget to kick off your trek around 10 am to maximize your time and visit all the highlights along the trail. The trek typically ends by 5 pm. Whether you are travelling to Dainkun Peak alone or with a group, be assured that the journey is safe. Our guides ensure the comfort and well-being of all tourists.
Must Read: Places To Visit In Dalhousie
2. Pholani Devi Temple – A Site of Worship, Culture and History
One of the attractions on the Dainkund Peak is the Pholani Devi Temple. According to the legend, witches used to reside on the Dainkund Peak, causing trouble for the villagers. The locals prayed to Devi to protect them from the evil witches. As their prayers were answered, Devi destroyed the witches. The name of the peak originates from this story, ‘Dainkund’ refers to ‘the abode of the Devi’
One of the most important factors that sets this Devi temple apart from other temples of Devi is that there is no idol of hers residing within the walls of this temple. Only tridents are placed where people can feel the presence, blessings, and power of Devi, leaving many devotees awe-struck. Opening hours are from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. It is a must pitstop in your itinerary if you want to pay your respects to Devi. You will not be disappointed.
3. The Oldest Church In Dalhousie – St John’s Church
Image Source: JustSomePics for Wikimedia Commons
If you ever want to see a Victorian structure from the past, this place is just right for you. Built in 1863, it stands amongst the tall pine, deodar trees with a Gothic spire, stained windows, a library with old and rare manuscripts, and wooden pews. A perfect place to see during your trek to Dainkund Peak as it is only 2 km away from the peak. Make sure to check out this old beauty on your trip to Dalhousie. You won’t regret visiting this marvel.
Suggested Read: Dalhousie Hotels
4. The Indian Air Force Base
Image Source: hemant rawat for Wikimedia Commons
The Indian Air Force Base at Dainkund Peak is India’s highest and most important base. It is an amazing and intriguing place located at the end of the Pholani Devi Temple trekking trail. The public can observe the fighter jets, radar equipment, and communication systems at the base while enjoying the serene view of the mountains.
One must conduct themselves with respect. The base is open to tourists from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and it is not advised to disturb the privacy of the Indian Air Force personnel responsible for protecting it. Tourists must get permission beforehand to enter the base, as it is a sensitive military zone.
How To Reach Dainkund Peak
All year round, Dainkund Peak attracts tourists, pilgrims, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers worldwide to experience the breathtaking views of the highest mountain peak in Dalhousie. There are three main ways to reach Dainkund Peak. A list has been curated for you to choose from according to your comfort.
By Air
The closest airport to Dainkund Peak is the Gaggal Airport in Kangra which is 130 km away. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Dalhousie. From there, hire another taxi or bike or board a bus to Lakkar Mandi, the last bus stop closest to the peak. A 3 km walk from Lakkar Mandi, you have successfully arrived at the Dainkund Peak.
By Rail
The Pathankot Railway Station in Punjab is the closest to Dainkund Peak. Cities like Delhi, Amritsar, and Chandigarh have well-connected, safe, and maintained roads to Dalhousie. It is wise to hire a local taxi from Dalhousie to the Dainkund Peak as the path is steep and narrow. An experienced driver will be helpful. Taking the road to reach the peak can be an excellent choice, as the views are spot on. Stop on the side to rest and take in the magical views of the hill station.
By Road
Cities like Delhi, Amritsar, and Chandigarh all have well-connected roads to Dalhousie that are safe and maintained. It is wise to hire a local taxi from Dalhousie to the Dainkund Peak as the path is steep and narrow. An experienced driver will be helpful because they know how to navigate the terrain and the roads with frequent landslides. Taking the road to reach the peak can be an excellent choice as the views are spot on to stop on the side to rest and take in the magical views of the hill station.
Further Read: Adventure Sports In Dalhousie
A solo traveller or accompanied by a group, this journey warmly welcomes people from all around the world. Leave behind your digital gibberish life and relax in India’s network-free Himalayan mountains. Alone or accompanied, your trip to Dalhousie to the Dainkund Peak, the highest peak, will be the best decision of your life. Hurry and book your tickets now!
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Cover Image Source: Mayuresham for wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Dainkund Peak
What is the best time to visit the Dainkund Peak?
The best time to visit is between May to October as the season is the most favorable around this time. The monsoons and winters are extremely tricky times to visit.
Are there any eateries or stalls at the Dainkund Peak?
No, the peak does not have any pitstops. Tourists are advised to carry food and water bottles to keep themselves energized for the trek.
Can you camp overnight at the Dainkund Peak?
It is prohibited to set up camp at the peak to protect the environment. However, lodgings are available at Dalhousie.
What kind of clothes should one carry to the peak?
It is best to carry a jacket to keep yourself warm and shoes that are comfortable to walk in. Also it is advisable carry proper warn clothes for the kids.
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