Catalysts with 0.5 and 1.0 wt.% Pd supported on alumina were prepared by impregnation and radiolysis methods. They were subjected to characterization by nitrogen adsorption, XRD, TPR, TEM and CO chemisorption. It is observed that the radiolysis method affords preparation of alumina supported metallic palladium catalysts in a single step. These catalysts also exhibit higher stability and activity during the hydrodechlorination of chlorobenzene, compared to the catalysts prepared by impregnation. The high activities of the catalysts prepared by radiolysis are related to the nature of Pd particles present on alumina.