The countryside north of Pathankot is where the Punjab plains begin to crumple into the Shivalik Hills — an underrated stretch of forested ridges and river valleys that serves as the antechamber to the main Himalayan ranges. The change in character from the flat agricultural plains is immediate once you leave the town behind: the road rises and dips, sal and shisham forests replace the wheat fields, and the air cools noticeably.
The road toward Dalhousie passes through this landscape and offers some of the best views in the district without requiring any detour — simply sit on the right side of the bus and watch as the hills unfold. For those with time, any of the minor roads branching off toward the river gorges and forest villages reward exploration on foot or by motorcycle. The Chakki River, which marks part of the boundary between Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, is particularly attractive where it runs through narrow gorges under the main road.