The Case for Slowing Down in Himachal Pradesh: Two Heritage Stays Worth the Journey

Himachal Pradesh contains multitudes. Its most accessible hill stations draw enormous visitor numbers and offer excellent infrastructure. And then there are Dalhousie and Dharamshala: two of Himachal's most beautiful and historically layered towns, each offering an experience that rewards the traveller willing to move at a slightly different pace.

Brij has a property in each - a 130-year-old colonial cottage in Dalhousie and a 161-year-old tea garden estate in Dharamshala - and together they make the most compelling case for Himachal's quieter, more considered side.

" Brij Anayra has been cultivating Kangra tea since 1862 - one of India's oldest continuously operating tea estates, and the only one where you can stay overnight. "

Brij Villa, Dalhousie: The Details

Built in the 1890s. Elevation: up to 2,036 metres. Location: Dalhousie hill station, Himachal Pradesh. Distance from Pathankot airport: 80km (approximately 2.5 hours).

The original Victorian wooden structure has been sensitively restored - original beams, window frames, and room proportions intact. Surrounded by deodar cedar and oak forest. Views of the Dhauladhar range on clear days.

Best seasons: April–June (summer escape, temperatures 15–25°C). October–November (post-monsoon clarity, autumn colour). December–January (snowfall, temperatures 0–10°C).

Brij Anayra, Dharamshala: The Details

Established 1862. One of the oldest tea garden estates in the Kangra Valley. Produces Kangra tea - a light, floral single-origin variety. Located 20 minutes from McLeodganj by road. Distance from Gaggal airport: 14km.

The estate's walking trails pass through active tea gardens. First flush harvest: March–April. Second flush: September–October. Dhauladhar range views from the property.

Best seasons: March–April (first flush harvest, spring). September–October (second flush, post-monsoon). December–January (Himalayan winter, snow on peaks).

" The drive between Brij Villa in Dalhousie and Brij Anayra in Dharamshala is 80km through Himachal's most beautiful mountain scenery - one of India's great road journeys. "

Choosing Between Dalhousie and Dharamshala

Dalhousie if: You want genuine hill station solitude, colonial architecture, forest walks, and a property that asks nothing of you except to be present.

Dharamshala if: You want the tea garden landscape, Tibetan cultural engagement - McLeodganj is 20 minutes away - and a hill station with its own intellectual and spiritual energy.

Both: The drive between Brij Villa and Brij Anayra is 80km through mountain scenery. A 6-night split (3 nights each) gives a Himachal experience that almost no other itinerary can match.

Coming soon: Brij Brook, Dharamshala - a riverside Himalayan retreat currently in development.

Quick Facts

Brij Properties in Himachal:  Brij Villa (Dalhousie) + Brij Anayra (Dharamshala) + Brij Brook (coming soon)

Brij Villa Age:  Built c. 1890s - 130+ years old

Brij Anayra Age:  Established 1862 - 161+ years old

Elevation:  Dalhousie: 1,525–2,036m | Dharamshala: 1,457m (McLeodganj: 1,457m)

Nearest Airport:  Pathankot (Dalhousie, 80km) | Gaggal/Kangra (Dharamshala, 14km)

Group Affiliation:  Part of the IHCL family since January 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best luxury hotel in Himachal Pradesh?

For boutique luxury with genuine heritage character, Brij Villa in Dalhousie (a 130-year-old colonial cottage) and Brij Anayra in Dharamshala (a 161-year-old tea garden estate) are the standout options in Himachal Pradesh. Both are part of the IHCL family since January 2026.

What is Kangra tea and where can I experience it?

Kangra tea is a light, floral single-origin variety produced in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is distinct from Assam or Darjeeling teas and considered among India's finest. Brij Anayra in Dharamshala is set within a 161-year-old Kangra tea estate - guests can walk the gardens and participate in the harvest during first flush (March-April) and second flush (September-October) seasons.

How cold does Dalhousie get in winter?

Dalhousie temperatures in December and January typically range from 0°C to 10°C, with snowfall at the property itself common during this period. The elevation range of 1,525 to 2,036 metres means genuinely cold mountain temperatures. Brij Villa is equipped for winter stays with heating throughout.

How far is Dharamshala from McLeodganj?

McLeodganj is approximately 9km from lower Dharamshala, or about 20 minutes by road. Brij Anayra in Dharamshala is approximately 20 minutes from McLeodganj, making it an ideal base for visiting the Tibetan cultural institutions, Namgyal Monastery, and walking trails of the upper ridge.

What is the best time to visit Dalhousie and Dharamshala?

October to November is optimal for both - post-monsoon clarity, comfortable temperatures, and excellent visibility of the Dhauladhar range. March to April is the best season for Brij Anayra in Dharamshala specifically, coinciding with the Kangra tea first flush harvest. April to June is the most popular summer season for both destinations.

→ Book your stay at Brij Hotels - Part of the IHCL Family  ·  brijhotels.com