dharamshala tourism information

The Complete Guide to Dharamshala, India

Dharamshala is a picturesque hill town in the lap of the Dhauladhar range. Located in the upper reaches of the Kangra valley, it serves as the winter capital of the Himachal Pradesh state. Often overshadowed by the more popular suburb of McLeodganj, Dharamshala is more of a laid-back and calm destination to spend a long weekend. Plan your trip to Dharamshala with this comprehensive guide.

Historically, the Kangra valley was part of the ancient Trigarth region that extended from the plains of Punjab to the hills of Himachal. It was ruled by the Katoch dynasty until the British invaded in 1810. In the year 1860, the 66th Gurkha light infantry moved to the site of an old rest house at the seat of Dhauladhar range—known in local parlance as Dharamshala—and converted it into a subsidiary cantonment. This soon grew into a cluster of 14 Gurkha platoon villages, and the battalion later became the 1st Gurkha Rifles. The town of Dharamshala was thus established.

In 1959, thousands of Tibetans, along with their leader His Holiness Dalai Lama, fled their homeland due to Chinese invasion and atrocity. They were given refuge in India, and resettled in the upper reaches of Dharamshala that has eventually come to be known as McLeodganj . Over the years, several Tibetans have settled here, establishing schools, monasteries, and temples.

The cantonment still exists in Dharamshala, coexisting with the Tibetan settlement and the local pastoral Gaddi tribe villages.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Dharamshala is from March to July and again from September to November. The months of December through mid-March are the coolest months, with temperatures dipping to single digits and heavy snowfall hitting upper Dharamshala.

The annual Dharamshala International Film Festival is an unmissable event held every year in the first week of November. It's a perfect time to catch exceptional Indian and international movies, documentaries, and workshops.

Things to Do

Stroll through the lush forested town and visit the Neo-gothic 19th-century St. John in the Wilderness church, nestled amidst oaks and pines. A little further along, you'll stumble upon Dal Lake, which draws tourists with its 200-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as well as boating facilities.

In the upper reaches of Dharamshala is the Tibetan settlement of McLeodganj , dubbed Little Lhasa. Be sure to check out the Tsuglagkhang Complex , the temple and monastery where the 14th Dalai Lama currently resides, before visiting the Tibet Museum and grabbing a helping of momos (Tibetan dumplings) at one of the local restaurants.

Drive down the hills of Dharamshala to watch a match at the HPCA cricket stadium . Even if you're not into the game, it's worth stopping to get a glimpse of it at the very least; with the Dhauladhar mountain range in the backdrop, it is one of the most picturesque cricket stadiums in the world. 

Further down (4.7 miles from Dharamshala) is the Gyuto monastery , where you can get a glimpse into Buddhist tantric rituals and traditions. Nearby is the supposedly 500-year-old Aghanjar Mahadev temple; also dedicated to Lord Shiva, it draws many devotees who seek spirituality and serenity. At a 1.9-mile distance from the Mahadev temple is the Norbulingka monastery.

Located on the banks of the rivulet Bindusaras, the Chinmaya Tapovan , Sidhbari (5 miles from Dharamshala) is the perfect place to attend spiritual classes and meditate. The ashram complex includes a Rama temple; meditation hall; 30-foot-high statue of Lord Hanuman; and the samadhi hall of Swami Chinmayananda, a noted exponent of the Bhagavad Gita. 

A detour from Sidhbari takes one to Kangra valley (12 miles from Dharamshala). Perched high on a hill overlooking this valley is the Kangra fort; considered one of the oldest forts in India, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Don't miss the 8th-century Masrur rock-cut temples, around 21 miles from the Kangra fort and 25 miles from Dharamshala.

Learn pottery at India's first pottery studio, Andretta artist village, which is around 28 miles from Dharamshala and near Palampur and Bir Billing. While you're here, you may want to visit the 13-century Baijnath temple, where Lord Shiva is prayed to as the god of physicians.

Dharamshala is also the perfect place to complete the pilgrimage circuit road tour of ancient and revered temples, including Bajreshwari temple in Kangra and Chamunda Devi temple near Palampur.

Foods to Try

Apart from the regular north-Indian fare, Dharamshala is famous for momos ; thukpas (Tibetan noodle soup), and hot tea with ginger, honey, and lemon. There are numerous food stalls and restaurants across town where you can find all of the above.

Where to Stay

There is no dearth of accommodation in and around Dharamshala. From guesthouses to homestays and five-star properties to dormitories, this Himachal town caters to every pocket. The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department Corporation (HPTDC) runs government-owned guesthouses and hotels at different locations around town; online bookings are available and room rates start at around $22 a day.

The five-star Hyatt Regency at Dharamkot is a 20-minute uphill drive from Dharamshala. With well-appointed rooms and an in-house restaurant that serves international and Indian cuisine, it offers exceptional comfort amidst luxury, plus stunning views of the snow-capped mountains.

The tea plantations of Dharamshala and Palampur are quite famous, and many of them conduct guided tours. If you fancy staying in a beautiful resort with a revolving restaurant and tea plantation views, then look no further than RS Sarovar Portico in the beautiful town of Palampur (22 miles away from Dharamshala, near the Gopalpur zoo). Room rates start at $53 (excluding taxes).

However, if you plan to stay in a typical Himachali architecturally-styled home, then your best bet is the boutique property of The 4Rooms . It's run by Frank Schlichtmann, an Indo-German artist who also manages the 4tables cafe, located a stone's throw away from the property. It's located in the village of Gunehar, around 42 miles from Dharamshala and close to the paragliding site of Bir Billing.

Getting There

To get to Dharamshala, you'll first need to get to Kangra, which is 8 miles away. You can take a domestic flight from Delhi to Gaggal airport in Kangra; alternatively, you could board a train that takes you to Pathankot, then hop on a toy train that chugs through a scenic route on the way to Kangra.

From Kangra, you can either drive up to Dharamshala in a hired taxi or get into a comfortable minibus. If you're on a budget, you can board a government or private Volvo bus and travel directly from Delhi to Dharamshala.

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Dharamshala Tourism

• Dharamshala
• John in the Wilderness
• Dal Lake Dharamshala
• Tea Gardens of Dharamshala
• War Memorial
• Dhauladhar Range
• Chamunda Devi Temple
• Nechung Monastery
• Sunset View Point
• Library of Tibetan Works and Archives
• Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts
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• FAQS about Dharamshala
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Dalhousie is a colonial gem in the Dhauladhar range, captivating with its old-world charm and scenic landscapes. From Victorian-style architecture to winding paths through pine-clad hills, Dalhousie offers a delightful blend of history and nature. 

In Himachal Pradesh , Dharamshala is enchanting with its serene landscapes and cultural richness. Divided into Lower and Upper regions, it serves as the spiritual haven of the Dalai Lama, resonating with Tibetan influences. Amidst majestic mountains, explore monasteries like Tsuglagkhang, embodying Dharamshala’s historical and spiritual tapestry. Immerse in vibrant festivals, from Losar to Diwali, celebrating diverse traditions. With its tea gardens and Kangra Fort, the Kangra Valley offers scenic explorations. With a perfect blend of tranquility and vibrant energy, Dharamshala beckons travelers seeking a soulful retreat, promising an enchanting journey through Tibetan spirituality, colonial history, and the breathtaking landscapes of the Dhauladhar range.

Dharamshala  Historical Significance

Dharamshala, beyond its Himalayan beauty, holds profound historical significance. It became a refuge for the 14th Dalai Lama and Tibetan refugees following their exile from Tibet. The Tsuglagkhang Complex, featuring the Namgyal Monastery and the residence of the Dalai Lama, stands as a testament to the town’s spiritual importance. The Tibetan Museum chronicles the struggles and resilience of the Tibetan community. Dharamshala’s history intertwines with Tibetan heritage, creating a unique blend of spirituality and historical narrative, making it not just a scenic retreat but also a sanctuary for those seeking solace in the arms of the Dhauladhar range.

Facts About Dharamshala 

Festivals in Dharamshala

International Himalayan Festival: Held in December, this festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region through dance, music, and art.

Dalai Lama’s Birthday: Celebrated in July, the town comes alive with prayers, cultural performances, and festive events in honor of the spiritual leader.

Hemis Festival: While not in Dharamshala, the nearby Hemis Monastery celebrates in June/July with masked dances and festivities, attracting visitors.

Travel Tips To Visit Dharamshala

• Altitude Awareness: Dharamshala is at a moderate altitude; take it easy initially to acclimate and prevent altitude-related issues.
• Respect Local Culture: Follow the serene ambiance by respecting Tibetan customs, particularly in monasteries, and maintaining a quiet demeanor.
• Pack Layers: Pack layers for cool evenings and warm days due to varying altitudes. A raincoat or umbrella is advisable during monsoon.
• Comfortable Footwear: Explore the town’s hilly terrain comfortably with sturdy and comfortable footwear.
• Cash Reserves: While there are ATMs, carry some cash, especially when traveling to remote areas.

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TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN DHARAMSHALA

Tibet Museum

The Tibet Museum, Dharamshala, is a notable tourist attraction located inside the Tsuglagkhang campus in McLeodganj. It is one of the famous tourist places in Dharamshala, which spread across a vast area. This museum has separate rooms for each class. Its architectural style shows a fusion of the original Tibetan and modern design. The visitors will have a lot to see here like the historical documents, manuscripts, paintings, pottery, and many Tibetan handicrafts. This place is surrounded by a lush garden. It is a very beautiful place in itself. The place is situated at a distance of 5 km from McLeodganj.

Tibetan Museum, Dharamshala Timings: 9:00 A.M to 6:00 P.M (in Summers) and 9:00 A.M to 5:00 P.M (October to March) – Monday and Saturday closed

Tibetan Museum, Dharamshala Entry Fees: Nil

Namgyal Monastery

The Namgyal Monastery was established way back in the 16th century. The spiritual leader of Tibet, Dalai Lama has his residence at the Namgyal Monastery in Mcleodganj. And that’s why the Namgyal Monastery is often called as the temple of "Dalai Lama" as the monastery is used personally by the Dalai Lama 14. It is the biggest Tibetan temple in the region. The tranquility and atmosphere that this place offers attract the tourists who have an affinity for this religion. The monastery is also recognized as a respected center of learning, meditation, and contemplation on the massive and profound Buddhist treatises.

Namgyal Monastery, Dharamshala Timings: 5:00 A.M to 8:30 P.M

Namgyal Monastery, Dharamshala Entry Fees: Nil

Jwala Mukhi Temple

The Jwala Mukhi Temple Dharamshala is also known as the Jwala Devi Temple. It is situated 30 km south of the Kangra valley. And about 60 km from Dharamshala. This temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Jwala Devi. It is believed the goddess spits fire from her mouth and hence her name is Jawala Mukhi. Another attraction of this place is the pipe made of brass through which natural gas is flowing. The temple has flames dedicated to six other fire-spitting goddesses, such as Maha Kali Annapurna, Chandi, Bindya Basni, Maha Lakshmi Saraswati, Ambica and Anji Devi.

Jwala Mukhi Temple Timings 6:00 AM -7:00 PM

Jwala Mukhi Temple Entry Fees: Nil

DHARAMSHALA TOUR PACKAGES

11 Nights & 12 Days

Himachal & leh bike tour package.

8 Nights & 9 Days

Manali & leh vacation package.

9 Nights & 10 Days

Lahaul & spiti bike tour package.

Srinagar-Leh-Manali Bike Tour Package

10 Nights & 11 Days

North india vacation package: amritsar, dharamshala & shimla.

Golden Triangle with Shimla Vacation Package

Things to do in dharamshala, yoga retreat.

Immerse yourself in the serenity of Dharamshala with rejuvenating yoga retreats. The town, enveloped by the Dhauladhar mountains, provides an idyllic backdrop for connecting mind, body, and spirit. Dharamshala’s tranquil ambiance and spiritual energy make your visit delightful.

Trek to Triund

Embark on a trek to Triund for panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range, offering a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. By doing this activity, you can get an unforgettable experience with the tranquility of the Himalayan landscape                                                                                            

Discover Cultural Fusion

Experience the unique blend of cultures in Dharamshala, where Tibetan traditions seamlessly intertwine with the essence of Himachali life. Wander through the colorful markets, savoring the aroma of Tibetan delicacies mingling with local flavors.                                                                     

BEST TIME TO VISIT DHARAMSHALA

SUMMER SEASON

(March to May)

Dharamshala shines in pleasant weather during summer, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to explore its scenic beauty. Lush landscapes, cool temperatures, and vibrant surroundings make it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

MONSOON SEASON

(June to September)

While the monsoon season brings lush greenery, caution is advised due to landslides. Dharamshala transforms into a verdant paradise, but trekking activities may be restricted during this time.

WINTER SEASON

( December to February )

Ideal for snow enthusiasts, the tranquil winter brings a magical charm to Dharamshala. Snow-capped landscapes and a peaceful ambiance create a serene haven for those seeking a cozy retreat.

HOW TO REACH DHARAMSHALA

Dharamshala is one of those hill stations that is well-connected with rest of the country

Popular Tour Packages

4 Nights & 5 Days

Shimla vacation package.

5 Nights & 6 Days

Dharamshala & dalhousie vacation package, popular places to visit in himachal pradesh.

• Dharamshala

FAQs about Dharamshala Travel Guide

What cultural experiences does dharamshala offer.

Dharamshala is a cultural melting pot, offering experiences like exploring Tibetan monasteries, attending yoga retreats, and engaging in local markets, reflecting the vibrant blend of Tibetan and Himachali traditions.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Dharamshala?

Dharamshala offers diverse outdoor activities, including trekking to Triund, exploring the Kangra Valley, boating at Dal Lake, and attending cricket matches at the HPCA Stadium, providing adventure and scenic experiences.

Is Dharamshala suitable for adventure enthusiasts?

Absolutely! Dharamshala offers a range of adventure activities. Trek to Triund for stunning views, indulge in paragliding, explore the Dhauladhar range, and engage in river rafting on the Beas River, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers.

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Dharamsala (also spelled Dharamshala) is known as the home of the Dalai Lama, though in fact the Tibetan spiritual leader is based about two miles up the hill in McLeod Ganj, and that's where most visitors are heading. Dharamsala proper is a market town mostly useful for bus connections.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tsuglagkhang Complex

Mcleod Ganj

McLeod's main focus for visiting pilgrims, monks and most tourists is the Tsuglagkhang complex, a custard-coloured concrete monastic village that's home…

Norbulingka Institute

Soothingly set amid bamboo, trees and flowing water, the delightful Norbulingka Institute, 6km southeast of Dharamsala, was established in 1988 to teach…

Tibet Museum

This must-see, two-storey museum sets out to remind visitors of Tibet's history as an independent nation, mourning the Chinese occupation (since 1949) and…

Men-Tsee-Khang

Men-Tsee-Khang is an organisation established to preserve the traditional arts of Tibetan medicine and astrology. The Gangchen Kyishong branch includes a…

Library of Tibetan Works & Archives

Inside the government-in-exile compound, nearly 2km downhill from the Tsuglagkhang complex, the Library of Tibetan Works & Archives began life as a…

Gyuto Tantric Gompa

Standing in for the 1474 Tibet original, this large monastic complex forms an attractive scene backed by mountainscape at Sidhbari village (7km from…

Men-Tsee-Khang Museum

Three floors of displays explain the sophisticated sciences of Tibetan astrology and medicine.

Kalachakra Temple

Visiting the Tsuglagkhang clockwise, as is required by Buddhist convention, you pass a prostrating area then a door leads into the westernmost building,…

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• 1.1 Climate
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.3 By train
• 2.4 By taxi
• 3.1 Orientation
• 3.2 By taxi or rickshaw
• 3.3 By cable car
• 5.1 Trekking and walking
• 5.2 Meeting the Dalai Lama
• 6.1 Yoga, meditation and healing
• 6.2 Cooking classes
• 7.1 Volunteer
• 9.3.1 Budget
• 9.3.2 Mid-range
• 9.4.1 Budget
• 9.4.2 Mid-range
• 9.4.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Coffee
• 10.2 Alcohol
• 11.1 Budget
• 11.2 Mid-range
• 11.3 Splurge
• 12 Stay safe

Dharamsala (Hindi: धर्मशाला, pronounced [d̪ʱərəmˈɕaːlaː] or [d̪ʱərmˈɕaːlaː]; Tibetan: དྷ་རམ་ས་ལ་), is a hill station in Himachal Pradesh , famed for its large Tibetan community centred on the activities of the Dalai Lama.

Understand [ edit ]

The Tibetan Buddhist roots of Dharamsala stretch back to the 8th century, although most of the local population long since reverted to (and remains) Hindu . "Dharamsala" literally means an "inn attached to a temple", and it was so until the district headquarters in Kangra became too crowded and the British moved 2 of their regiments in the late 1840s to what is now Dharamsala. Over the years, this grew to be district headquarters of Kangra, and the location is now known as the Police Lines.

Dharamsala was mooted to be the summer capital of India. But this was not to be, as much of the town was destroyed in the 7.8 magnitude earthquake of 4 April 1905. The disaster killed over 10,000 people in this sparsely populated area.

After falling into obscurity in the early days of Indian independence, Dharamsala regained some social standing in 1959 with the arrival of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government in Exile [dead link] . It is a very popular hang-out for foreigners and students of Buddhism. Indeed, it is now perhaps a little too popular and many would say the town, and especially McLeod Ganj, is little more than a backpacker ghetto. Don't come here expecting calm and tranquillity.

Climate [ edit ]

Lower Dharamsala is at an altitude of 1,400 m, while McLeod Ganj is at around 1,750 m, making them considerably cooler than the plains below. Temperatures in January can dip below freezing, while June can go up to 38°C. The monsoon from July to September is very wet. Even in March, when the Dalai Lama holds his teachings and the weather down in Delhi is balmy, you will still need a heavy winter coat. These can be purchased at reasonable prices in the town.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Kangra Airport ( DHM  IATA ) is at Gaggal near Kangra , a distance of 15 km from McLeod Ganj by road on MDR44 and NH 154.

By bus [ edit ]

• 32.2182 76.31726 1 Dharamshala ISBT Bus Stand . Most people arrive in Lower Dharamsala by bus. It has good connections with other parts of North India, although the journeys are often slow due to the narrow winding roads in the hills. Tickets for Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC, a state government body) can be booked online. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.219334 76.316161 2 Dharamsala Private Volvo Stop . ( updated Aug 2023 )

It was the case that some public HRTC buses to Delhi and Pathankot go all the way to the main square of McLeod Ganj, where you could also book advance tickets for the return trip, but this seems no longer to be the case.

Privately operated buses travel from Manali , Dehradun and Delhi . Overnight buses travel from Delhi with many leaving from the Tibetan colony of Majnu ka Tilla. These services take upwards of 13 hr and cost ₹450–1,000 for a Volvo.

Specific nearby destinations:

• From Pathankot – Unreserved HRTC buses from Pathankot cost ₹200 (Jul 2023) and take 3–4 hr to Dharamsala. Buses depart frequently throughout the day, 4PM last.
• From Amritsar – There are direct private buses leaving in the afternoon for ₹800 that are advertised as taking 5 hr. There are no direct public buses between Amritsar and Dharamsala. However, you could take the 9AM train to Pathankot first for ₹55 and then transfer to the HRTC bus.
• From Chandigarh – Even though just 236 km it's a gruelling 8–9 hr trip in an ordinary bus.

By train [ edit ]

The nearest mainline train station is at Pathankot and the neighbouring small station of Chakki Bank, a comfortable overnight journey from Delhi.

Train fans can continue from Pathankot on the slow and rickety but pretty narrow-gauge Kangra Valley Railway to Kangra , a journey of 4 hr. In Kangra walk or take a rickshaw to the bus stop from where buses to Dharamsala go. The train actually continues further to Jogindernagar from Kangra.

By taxi [ edit ]

A taxi from Pathankot to McLeod Ganj, 88 km and takes about 3 hours, and the official fare from Pathankot is ₹2,200 (one way). This is May 2019 rate for a small car such as an Alto/Indica.

Taxis from Delhi are often available leaving from Majnu Ki Tila Tibetan settlement in North Delhi on the ring road. Many people take a taxi to Delhi which takes about 10 hours and pay the return fare simply because they don't want to deal with the hassle and pain of taking a bus. These taxis need to return to Dharamshala, and many times will sell seats in their car for the same price as a bus ticket. To find these taxis, go to the Majnu Ki Tila Tibetan Settlement Bus Stand and look for taxis which have Himachal Pradesh licence plates. You can negotiate with a driver. Often the taxis will leave in the evening and you will arrive in Dharamshala early the next morning.

Get around [ edit ]

Orientation [ edit ]

Dharamsala is divided into several distinct areas that are separated by a 15 min or 12 km bus or jeep ride at most:

• 32.21778 76.31855 1 Lower Dharamsala – Consists of most of the government offices, Schools, the local hospital, and commercial areas. It also has a few tea gardens. One in the area of Chilgari and another just beyond Dari. It is a typical small Indian town that, other than for the bus station, is of little interest to tourists. One can enjoy the view while driving through.
• 32.23799 76.32397 2 McLeod Ganj – Known less commonly as Upper Dharamsala is named after David McLeod, who was once the British Lieutenant-Governor of Punjab, and the word Ganj , which is a common Persian word meaning "neighbourhood". At an altitude of 2,082 m and 5 km on foot from Lower Dharamsala, it is famous for Tibetan culture, natural beauty, mixed tradition, ancient temples, churches and monasteries. As of 2021, it is the home of famous 14th Tibetan Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso after his exile from Tibet , and thus home and centre to the Tibetan community.
• 32.24448 76.333 3 Bhagsu – Sometimes also called Little Tel Aviv , it is 2 km northeast of McLeod and has become a highly commercialised hotspot for many backpackers from Israel—Hewbrew is a common sight here.
• 32.24856 76.32828 4 Dharamkot – A 10-min climb above Bhagsu with a number of guesthouses. It is less busy than Bhagsu and offers many fancy restaurants and Yoga and meditation centers. There is a nice shopping and dinning promenade aka footway making half a circle around the hill.
• 32.25127 76.32914 5 Haini – Another 10 min climbing straight north and you will reach the last of the tourist centers of Dharamsala, sometimes called Upper Dharamkot . There are several good to great hostels with some of the best views in Dharamsala. This place seem to be popular with Russian speaking backpackers, even though many other tourists pass through here on their way to the Galu waterfall .

Villages near McLeod Ganj include Forsyth Ganj , in between Lower and Upper Dharamsala. And for a more quiet and basic experience, try Naddi (3 km, and a great viewpoint) or Talnu (11 km).

All these places are small enough to be navigated on foot—McLeod, Bhagsu, Dharamkot and Haini are closest to each other (max. 20 min on foot), while Lower Dharamsala is further away.

By taxi or rickshaw [ edit ]

Between McLeod Ganj and Dharamsala shared taxis run roughly hourly and cost ₹20. Chartered auto-rickshaws charge around ₹250. Trips from McLeod Ganj to nearby points (e.g. Bhagsu) cost ₹50–150. There are separate counters for auto-rickshaws and taxis near the center square. Walk to them and rent vehicles and avoid people who walk up to you and offer to take you to places.

• 32.23938 76.32363 3 Auto-rickshaw counter . ₹50–250 . ( updated May 2019 )
• 32.23933 76.32386 4 Taxi cab counter . ( updated May 2019 )

By cable car [ edit ]

• 32.21987 76.317 5 Dharamsala Skyway (lower station) , ☏ +91 1892 223302 . There is now also a cable car between Lower Dharamsala and McLoad Ganj. ₹450/675 one-way/return . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.23446 76.32441 6 Dharamsala Skyway (upper station) . ( updated Aug 2023 )

See [ edit ]

• 32.2 76.31002 2 Kunal Pathari ( around 3 km from the Dharamsala. ). People come to this temple every day to pray to the Goddess.  

• 32.25339 76.30281 4 Naddi View Point , Naddi ( around 10 km from Dharamsala. ). This is an ideal place for a complete scenic view of snow covered Dhauladhar range. There are manned telescopes (₹10–20) with which you can see the Triund campsite and Guna Devi Mandir. The hike from Dharamkot or Haini is the easiest, because the trail stays pretty much on the same altitude. But Naddi is of course also easily reached by taxi or rickshaw. ( updated May 2019 )
• 32.21968 76.32093 5 Peak Art Gallery , Temple Rd, McLeod Ganj ( 1/2 way down Temple Rd, below Cafe Nirvana ). 10AM-7PM .  
• 32.19716 76.37096 6 Rakkar . A picturesque hamlet on the outskirts of Lower Dharamsala, perched on the foothills of the snow capped Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Historically inhabited by shepherds of the Gaddi community, the hamlet is slowly attracting visitors who are interested in getting away from the busy tourist hub of McLeod Ganj in favour of having a closer interaction with the locals villagers in a pristine village environment.  

• 32.24263 76.31829 7 St. John Cathedral in the Wilderness ( around 5 km from Dharamsala ). It's a nice picturesque cathedral in the middle of greenery. 1 km from McLeod Ganj. Auto-rickshaw costs ₹70 as of May 2019. There is no auto stand near the cathedral, so it's a bit tough to get an auto back. If possible, ask the auto driver to wait and then take the same auto to other spots. Free . ( updated May 2019 )
• 32.22643 76.32523 8 Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts ( TIPA ). Stage performances of traditional Tibetan dance, music, and theatre. The shows are not only infrequently performed.  
• 32.22637 76.32533 9 Tibetan Library ( Library of Tibetan Works and Archives ), Gangchen Kyishong , ☏ +91 9218422467 , +91 9882255047 (reception) , [email protected] . Near the Tibetan government in exile, with a small but interesting museum. ( updated Sep 2017 )
• 32.23248 76.32431 11 Tsuglagkhang Complex , Temple Rd, McLeod Ganj . This is the largest Tibetan temple outside Tibet, and it has a large meditation hall containing some beautiful statues and thangkas, as well as a Kalachakra temple with beautiful murals. It is the monastery of the Dalai Lama, and is just in front of his residence. It also contains the largest Tibetan prayer wheel of about 2 m height—spin it!  

Do [ edit ]

• Roam around . McLeod Ganj is a beautiful place to roam around on foot. Hotels made on the slope of Dhauladhar range, market decorated with colourful Tibetan flags, hand made goods and stalls of tasty food makes it more beautiful. But also Dharamkot offers many small cafés and place to take a rest and watch the world go by. ( updated Aug 2023 )

Trekking and walking [ edit ]

• 32.24752 76.33838 2 Bhagsu Waterfall ( 3 km from Dharamsala ). Has many waterfalls, an ancient temple, numerous slate quarries and a fresh water spring. An easy walk down Bhagsu Rd through the village of the same name, then 1 km up to the waterfall itself. The trail up to the waterfall is stone most of the way and has fencing along steep sections. There are several vendors selling snacks and drinks at the base of the falls. Be careful if you decide to take a bath in the upper pools of the waterfall, as there may be shards of glass in the water, possibly thrown there by the villagers to prevent "indecent" behaviour by westerners at night. You can also start your walk in Upper Bhagsu, where a second trail remains pretty much at the same altitude towards the waterfall. When you reach the waterfall, a little further up there is Shiva Café, which has a nice little private pool filled with refreshing mountain water and a comfortable picnic area.  
• 32.268306 76.329428 3 Galu Waterfall . Also a nice hike, but first you will have to climb 300 m altitude from Bhagsu to the saddle behind Haini. From there the climbs and decents are not that extreme anymore and along the way there a 3–4 cafés and restaurants. There is a small water fall at the end with cascades and swimming holes. ( updated Aug 2023 )

• 32.25958 76.35649 4 Triund . If you are in for a brisk walk, climb the hill beyond Dharamkot to Triund ridge. It is one of the most popular treks to go over a weekend trip from Chandigarh and Delhi, and perhaps the easiest Himalayan trekTl, 6 km and 3 hr (one-way) from Bhagsu or Dharamkot, which are at 1,800–1,900 m. It goes through jungle and is quite a climb, and thousands of trekkers visit come on this trek every year. Triund provides beautiful views of the first peaks of the Himalayas and a wide view over the plains. In December and January this region turns white after snowfall which makes it more attractive for trekkers. As it is at 2,875 m altitude, make sure to wear good shoes, carry water, some food and an extra vest or coat. At the top, even in summer, the weather can change from hot and sunny to cold and cloudy very quickly. Every year some tourists get themselves into serious trouble this way, wearing only sandals and a T-shirt. It seems that the western track is better maintained, so try that one if you are in Dharamkot anyway. If you want to warm up before the Triund trek, try the trek to Guna temple. If you plan to stay overnight at Triund, there is a Forest Rest house (₹500–1000 per night). Take a double bedsheet, but be aware there is no running water or electricity. A torch is a must. If the Forest Rest house is full, then you can hire tents. You can also stay at Snowline tent camp, which is a bit higher up. Ask the staff at Sunset Café for details, they have their contacts. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Laka Glacier Trek . It's always exciting to reach a glacier, but in most of the cases reaching the glacier is a tough task. Laka Glacier is found at the lowest level in Asia. Trails of Laka Glacier treks pass through Triund top, so most of the time this trek is also known as Triund Laka Glacier trek. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.29778 76.38134 5 Indrahar pass . Further up from Triund, this is alpine hiking and you will probably need to book a tour to do it. It passes through the snowbound Dhauladhar Range in the Kangra valley, and ends at Lamu.  
• 32.26504 76.43062 6 Toral Pass ( 4,575 m ). It begins from Tang Narwana (1,150 m) that is nearly 10 km from Dharamshala. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.32556 76.27361 7 Kareri Lake Trek . Tucked between the greenery all around this glacier lake is the most attractive place for nature lovers. ( updated Aug 2023 )

Meeting the Dalai Lama [ edit ]

Meeting (or at least getting to see) the Dalai Lama is the dream of a lifetime for many people, an intensive spiritual experience for Buddhists and a memorable moment for people of other faiths. It's also very difficult to achieve, so don't plan on it. It requires a good deal of luck.

If you want to give it your best shot, the first thing to do is make sure that His Holiness is in town when you visit. He travels frequently. His website lists his yearly itinerary and an email to the office will confirm his travel dates. While he does give scheduled public teachings, these are crowded. There are some that are only scheduled a few days in advance, so keep your eyes and ears open in Dharamsala. The ultimate goal is a private audience. His website says he is no longer giving them. This isn't entirely true, but you have to have a very good reason or an "in." Go to the office of his secretary.

The Dalai Lama's administrative office is in the Tsuglagkhang Complex. When you face his house, which has a gate with Indian guards in front of it, it's the last door on your right, at the end of the complex. This office is open all day, six days a week. The man behind the desk will tell you to apply online and give you the website address. Go to an internet cafe and do it if you haven't already done it and been rejected months in advance so that you can say that you have, but it probably won't get you anywhere. If the receptionist is there alone, then His Holiness is not giving private audiences. If a bunch of people are there holding slips of paper with their personal information and their passports, he's giving private audiences, they usually occur around noon. There is heavy security and you need a reason. Chat with everyone.

Some people get in as a group, like a documentary crew or a family whose father is a politician. Talk to everyone in Dharamsala about His Holiness , and you're bound to run into someone who is on his staff or knows someone on his staff. At the office, drop the name of every person you met. If you are visibly ill, you may get an audience based on that. Granted, this "audience" will probably last the time it takes for him to bless you, which is about 10 seconds, and an additional ₹5 to pose for a photo. A photographer is provided and you are not allowed to bring your own camera.

To meet the Dalai Lama is something most Tibetans worldwide only dream of so count your blessings if you receive an audience. Bring a khata (white scarf), they can be purchased for a few rupees, but since you'll probably be treasuring that khata, you might want to shell out ₹20 for a nicer one. If he poses for a picture with you the security office will tell you to return with a blank CD and they will burn the picture onto a CD. Blank CDs can be purchased from shops on Temple Rd for about ₹50. Remember to show appreciation for anyone whose name you might have dropped to get in. Donate to their monastery, eat at their restaurant or whatever you feel is appropriate. This isn't expected but it's a nice thing to do.

Every year in February–March for ten days or so, and occasionally at other times, the Dalai Lama holds public lectures. Registration at the Tibetan Branch Security Office (near Hotel Tibet) is necessary, preferably 3–4 days beforehand although shorter notice may be possible. Bring a cushion to sit on, an FM radio with headphones to listen to the simultaneous translation from Tibetan to English, a cup for tea and a sunhat/umbrella, but as little else as possible since security is tight. The last day of teaching concludes with public prayers, for which no security pass is needed. Donations are welcome.

• 32.187282 76.368571 8 17th Karmapa ( Dalai Lama's alternative residence ). A temporary residence is at the Gyuto Tantric University in the town of Sidhbari near McLeod Ganj.  

Learn [ edit ]

Courses available include yoga, meditation, reiki, Tibetan and Indian cooking classes, Tibetan language classes and Thai massage. Many courses include vegetarian meals, and are offered at meditation centres.

Yoga, meditation and healing [ edit ]

Vipassana and Tushita (see below) seem to be the two most authentic and original names in the region.

• Asho Institute , Bhagsu Village . Courses in ayurvedic nutrition and tai-chi.  
• Amit Reiki & Meditation Centre , Jogiwara Rd, McLeod Ganj ( below Yongling School ), ☏ +91 94 18909046 .  
• Buddha Hall-Reiki with Usha' ( opposite the German Bakery ). Courses in reiki (I,II,III and master) as well as tarot and crystal healing from Buddha hall in Bagsu. Flexible and compassionate teacher.  
• Guerrilla Yoga ( go down the stairs at Yongling School; it's the big green building ). 5 day yoga courses of several varieties. Private instruction is available. Friendly staff. Also has local art for sale.  
• Kailash School of Yoga & Holistic Healing ( 100 m from the main square; walk down the stairs from the Green Shop ). Ashtanga Vinyasa and tribal hatha yoga classes are available daily on a drop-in basis. Treatments and sessions in reiki, ayurvedic massage, meditation and 'sound healing' are available but have to be arranged at least 1 day in advance. Short and long-term courses.  
• Kundalini Yoga , Thardoeling, Near HH Dalai Lama temple, Mcleod Ganj , ☏ +91 98 1685 1691 , [email protected] . Yoga classes.  
• Tibetan Buddhism and language , ☏ +91 98 0539 1799 , [email protected] . M-Sa 9AM-noon, 2–4PM . Courses include Tibetan Buddhism, Tibetan language, Hindi language.  
• Tushita Meditation Centre . 10-day Introduction to Buddhism/meditation courses, 5-day meditation courses, and more (mostly residential). Silence is held most of the day but there are also discussion groups after philosophy lessons. It's near Dharamkot, Tushita practices the Tibetan mahayana tradition. Register online or at Tushita. Prices are inclusive of all lodging, lessons and 3 meals a day of tasty vegetarian food. Set cost per day is around ₹500 including food & lodging, can provide a gradual introduction to those new to Buddhism. 10-day course starts at ₹4,800 .  
• Vipassana ( ☸ ) ( near Dharamkot ). A 10–day meditation course. You need to register in advance at their web-site, but courses are usually pre-booked for months here. In case you have a keen interest in the course and didn't get a place in Dharamsala, they are also offered in many other locations around India—check the website. The course will teach you the Vipassana technique. You have to be completely silent, and you are provided 2 meals and very light dinner. The course is free, but you can leave a donation if you please. The course is a fairly intense form of meditation retreat (14-hr days) in the Theravada tradition. Previous meditation experience is not required as you will be asked to set aside your current practices while learning the Vipassana technique. Some would recommend that beginners attend a course such as that offered by Tushita which is a mix of meditation, philosophy and discussions.  
• Kailash Tribal School of Yoga ( Yogi Cottage ), Bhagsu Rd ( McLeod Ganj ). Yoga alliance approved ₹200–500 yoga teacher training programs, Reiki lessons for individuals or groups.  
• Z-Meditation . 15 day silent meditation retreat in lower Dharamsala. Deep deconditioning inquiry, radiant mantras, creative meditations, assignments for disentangling your own life, and also 2 hr of daily yoga, three vegetarian meals and a refreshment break. The entire retreat is undertaken in silence. Courses are US$600–1,200 depending on accommodation arrangements.  

Cooking classes [ edit ]

• Llhamo's Kitchen . Learn how to cook traditional Tibetan food with different courses every day including soups, momos and Tibetan bread. Run by a delightful Tibetan man called Llhamo. Takes place in Llhamo's single room house in the centre of town.  
• Mr Sangye's Kitchen , Jogiwara Rd, McLeod Ganj ( further down from the post office and the pool hall ), ☏ +91 98 1616 4540 , [email protected] . Learn how to cook traditional Tibetan food, different courses every day, ranging from soups, momos and Tibetan bread.  
• Trimurti Cooking Class . Choose any three from a wide variety of Indian dishes, and Rajni will show you how to make it all in her small, pleasant kitchen. Rajni began teaching classes and doing laundry to support herself after her husband was left paralysed by a tragic fall. Ask for her above the Himalayan Adventures store in upper Bhagsu, near the steps to Dharamkot.  

Work [ edit ]

Volunteer [ edit ].

There are some opportunities to volunteer. For longer term options such as 1 month or more ask at the LHA office in the middle of the town. Staff there are very friendly and always welcoming if people wish to teach, tutor or get involved in conversational classes.

• Lha Social Work – Lha is one of the largest charitable social work organizations in Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj and aims to provide vital resources and services for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Volunteers are needed for English, French and Chinese classes, IT classes, vocational training, health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen and many other programmes and activities.
• Rogpa Cafe (Jogiwara Rd) – They are always looking for volunteers to work in the cafe or to look after children at the Day Care centre. This is a 2 week commitment. All proceeds go to the Rogpa Day Care centre that provides free services for local children.
• Tesi Environmental Awareness Movement – If you are an environmental expert, then contact this non-profit Tibetan group.

You may also approach Tibetans in social circles to help them improve their English whilst getting to know each other's culture and personal story. Be mindful of accepting requests for private tutorage from monks on the streets. After a few days they may subject you to demands for sponsorship , however stories of this are rare. It may be best to go through a credible and well established organisation if you want to provide assistance in this way.

In general most monks and lay people are incredibly grateful to have you help them with their English and it is a great way to get to know Tibetan people on a more personal level. The easiest way to help out is to drop into LHA on Temple Rd, or LIT on Jogiwara Rd and sign up for tutoring. A commitment of one month is preferred.

Buy [ edit ]

Many Tibetan things can be bought in Dharamsala such as jewellery and trinkets, woollen shawls, prayer flags, prayer wheels, carpets, thangka and mandala paintings.

• Tibetan Singing Bowl . Easy to play and used for sound healing , music therapy or just for relaxation.  

Eat [ edit ]

What [ edit ].

The momos sold by numerous Tibetan street vendors usually sell at ₹10 for 4 pieces. These are safe to eat and acceptable to the Western palate even if they cannot be expected to match the level of culinary delicacy of those offered by some of the best establishments listed below.

Dharamsala is a good place to try Tibetan food and beverages :

• Momos – dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, steamed or fried
• Thukpa – a hearty noodle soup with veggies or meat
• Thenthuk – thukpa with handmade flat rectangular shaped noodles
• Pocha – a salty tea churned with butter, a Tibetan staple, more commonly known as Tibetan Butter Tea

Where [ edit ]

McLeod Ganj is a great place for eating, and the town has an abundance of restaurants, especially in the mid to upper range that cater to foreign tourists.

Also, Bhagsu and Dharamkot offer great local, fusion and foreign food places—hummus and falafel are not uncommon.

Prices in Dharamsala generally tend to be at least 50% sometimes 100% higher than in other (non-touristy) parts of India. Furthermore, non-Indian food often carries a steep surcharge.

McLeod Ganj [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ].

• 32.239294 76.32419 1 Common Ground Café , Tushita Rd ( 100 m uphill from main square or chowk of McLeod Ganj ), ☏ +91 9816273240 , +91 1892220264 . A non-profit café set up as a meeting place between Chinese and Tibetans that holds many discussions and shows promoting harmony and understanding between the two cultures. Taiwanese and fusion food served in a place to sit and relax with your shoes off on the raised seating area.  
• 32.239019 76.325268 2 JJI Exile Brothers Mom's Kitchen , Bhagsu Rd ( a short walk from McLeod Ganj's central square or chowk, on the right-hand side, between Peace Coffee House and Kunga Guesthouse ). 8:30AM–10PM . A cozy little hole-in-the-wall place with 5 tables, a counter and a dog. Owned by three Tibetan musician brothers "JJI Exile Brothers" who give live performances on the premises on Sundays at 7:30PM. Decent Tibetan food, with 5 versions of thukpa and thenthuk each (₹50–80), brown-flour momos (₹50–70, including the rare spinach variety), and several less-well-known Tibetan specialties (such as tingmo (steamed bread) with vegetables, ₹60–70); also vegetable and fruit salads (₹40–60). Desserts include vegan chocolate cake and rum cake with nuts, and several varieties of pancakes (₹40–60), styles of porridge, and fresh juices (₹40–50). Portions tend to be smallish. A bookshelf with some reading materials.  
• 32.2388 76.324028 3 McLLeo Momos , Tipa Rd ( just above the main square or chowk of McLeod Ganj, the first house, or rather shack, on the right ). 7:30AM–9:30PM (summer); 8AM-9:30PM (winter) . A bare-bones somewhat dingy but gourmet café prized for its momos. Creative spinoffs on traditional dishes that are not easily to be found even in much bigger establishments. A 12-page bilingual menu in English and Japanese has 9 varieties of them in the vegetarian category (₹50–70 for a plate of 10–12 pieces) and 5 varieties in the non-veg category (₹60–80 for a plate of 3–12 pieces). Tibetan dishes have nine elaborations of the thukpa . Western and Tibetan breakfast includes pancakes, omelettes and muesli dishes. Chinese staples include 7 varieties of chow mein . Tibetan bread comes in giant size. ₹25–80 .  
• 32.23884 76.325 4 Nick's Italian Kitchen , Kunga Guesthouse, Bhagsu Rd ( 5 min walk from McLeod Ganj's main square or chowk ). 6AM–9PM . Decent Western fare of lesser quality with some Tibetan dishes. The numerical menu has 194 items. An airy well-lit room and a terrace in the back offers views over the McLeod Ganj Valley and Kangra Valley beyond, similar to those visible from the terraces of the neighbouring Green Restaurant and Peace Coffee House. A limited library of books and a popular noticeboard. The place becomes noisy when crowded. ₹30–150 .  
• 32.236768 76.325056 5 Takhyil Peace Café , Takhyil Guesthouse, Jogiwara Rd ( 10 min walk from the main square or chowk of McLeod Ganj; on the right-hand side of the section of the street populated by vegetable-mongers, and a couple of stairs above the street level ). A down-to-earth (in every sense) and somewhat drab breakfast place, offering egg dishes (₹20–45), porridge (with mixed fruit, ₹65), toast, sandwiches (tofu sandwich, ₹45), several types of bread (₹5–25; extra for peanut butter, jam or honey), and pancakes (₹40–70; mixed-fruit chocolate pancake, ₹70). Tibetan dishes such as thukpa (₹40–70) of uncertain quality and momos (steamed, ₹40–50; fried momos ₹10 extra). Good lassi in several varieties (including unusual ones such as "apple lassi"; ₹20–35).  
• 32.2351 76.3277 6 Rewa Cafe , Jogiwara Rd ( down the hill, 5 min past the Post office ). Good Tibetan food. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.238464 76.3239 7 Shangri La Restaurant , Jogiwara Rd ( near the bus stop ). A good little cafe run by monks and with proceeds going to Gyudmed Monastery. Try the Shangri La Sandwich for breakfast. Meals for dinner also good quality and well priced. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.236855 76.325378 8 Woeser Bakery , Jogiwara Rd ( below Black Magic, on Jogiwara road, 100 m downhill from the main square ). 10:30AM-7PM . Excellent pastries baked daily with quality ingredients. The owner and baker, Sangmo, is a young Tibetan always up for a chat with her customers. Serves walnut tart, chocolate chilli lollipops, cappuccino, vegan cakes (also gluten-free options), coffee made from fresh beans. Fifteen kinds of hot teas, hot chocolate, Indian chai, milkshakes and other cold drinks, and a small library with a good collection of books. ₹50–150 .  

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 32.2391 76.3254 9 Jimmy's Italian Kitchen , Jogiwara Rd ( a few steps from McLeod Ganj's main square or chowk, on the left-hand side, just past the Buddhist chorten and on the opposite side to it, one storey above street level ). Nice decor with old, and not-so-old, film posters, unprofessional staff apparently left unsupervised by the owners. Food better than that offered at the other Italian-style places in town, with great salads and acceptable pastas ( napolitana , arrabbiata , quattro formaggi , puttanesca ) and pizzas. ₹100–130 .  
• 32.23884 76.324879 10 Lhamo's Croissant , Bhagsu Road , ☏ +91 98823 71507 , [email protected] . A simple yet stylish cafe, and probably the most underrated place in McLeod. Breakfasts, sandwiches, soups, salads and deserts, coffees and teas. A good selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. The bread is baked fresh each morning by Lhamo. The second floor has comfortable Japanese style seating on cushions and Tibetan carpets. Fantastic views from the roof top.  
• 32.23576 76.326539 11 Lung-Ta , Jogiwara Rd ( near the southern end of town ). M-Sa noon-11PM, closed Sundays . Excellent Japanese food, pay attention to the daily specials. There is also a small clothing store which sells high-end Tibetan inspired fashions. Non-profit with proceeds going towards assisting former political prisoners and documenting human rights violations. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.235 76.32493 12 Pema Thang's Guest House , Bhagsu Rd ( opposite Bhagsu Hotel ). Daily 11AM-10PM . Continental and local styled vegetarian food. Try the fried banana with nuts and the pepperoni pizza. They also serve great thenthuk . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Haina [ edit ]

• 32.25083 76.33036 13 Friends Corner Café . Various inexpensive dishes in a shed protected from the rain. Frequented regularly and great variety. Dal ₹90, Boondi Raita ₹90 . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.251157 76.329229 14 Heena Café . Not particular fancy, but cheapest choice around. Run by two brothers, they have large terrace where you can enjoy watching people walking by to the Galu Waterfall. Chai ₹20, Parantha ₹50 . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.25082 76.329 15 Tin Tin Café . Another budget option, with great chowmein. They have a tiny shed at the point of the marker, but seem to have a small café with nice seats 100 m further up. Egg Chowmein ₹170 . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.250735 76.33012 16 Young Monk Café . A hostel with an extensive kitchen and great views. Chai ₹50 . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 32.25133 76.329058 17 Kali Yuga BBQ . Some Russian speaking folks are running this restaurant specialising in various meat dishes. It is still cheap compared to Western standards, but most Indians wouldn't be ablt to afford dining here. ₹500 and above . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

Refill your waterbottle with filtered-water at one of the many water-filtering stations: LHA at Temple Rd, Environmental Education Centre at Bhasgu Rd and Dogga-Centre at Jogiwara Rd. Some restaurants, including Nick's and Green Hotel also offer filtered water refills for a charge (₹5, but Green Hotel asks for ₹10).

Coffee [ edit ]

Many of the above listed restaurants and bakeries are also great for having a coffee or tea and enjoying the view—check there .

• 32.2359 76.32396 1 Moonpeak Espresso , Temple Rd, McLeod Ganj ( 10 min walk from McLeod Ganj's main square of chowk ). 7AM-8PM . Coffee for ₹40–70, while it is possible to find better coffee in McLeod Ganj this is nevertheless a very pleasant café to visit. All-Tibetan staff and Indian owners. Good, if smallish, sandwiches and several breakfast items. Teas, including herbal; ₹50–60). One of the few places in McLeod Ganj with free and functional Wi-Fi. A notice printed within the menu uncharacteristically enjoins the patron to "please order a few things" if "you are going to sit on the net for a while". ₹50–120 .  

Alcohol [ edit ]

• X cite , Main square, McLeod Ganj ( Main Square ). Might have been popular years ago, but the good times seem over. Has the only dance floor/night club in the area. Indian and western tunes are played until 1AM.  

Sleep [ edit ]

McLeod Ganj has a wide selection of accommodation, but its main streets (esp. Bhagsu Rd) suffer from the usual Indian curse of beeping cars, motorbikes and rickshaws. It is easy to find something suitable—just walk around and ask for a good price. Always let you show at least two different rooms before you decide. Two hostels worth mentioning in McLeod Ganj are 32.235404 76.327616 1 Mitra 2 and 32.235016 76.325972 2 Hosteller —walk-ins seem to be advantageous.

A higher concentration of hostels (and backpackers) can be found in Bhagsu and Haini, besides the usual homestays, hotel, etc.. Hostels worth mentioning here are 32.2523 76.329049 3 Mitra and 32.250696 76.330169 4 Young Monk —walk-ins seem to be advantageous.

For long-term stays, head down the Yongling stairs on Jogiwara Road; there are about a dozen cheap good places, with great views.

• 32.20299 76.3319 5 Colonel's Cozy Corner , McLeod Ganj ( near Dari ), ☏ +91 94 1872 4897 , +91 98 1677 0899 (bookings) , [email protected] . Belongs to a helpful retired army officer and his wife. A secure place with no one to disturb you. 3 rooms. Home-like atmosphere, clean linen and safe water. A local 'Dham' (lunch) is available. ₹600–800, negotiable upon period of stay .  
• 32.236416 76.323891 6 Lord Krishna Boutique Stay , Temple Rd, McLeod Ganj , ☏ +91 18 9222 1588 . Clean rooms, tea, coffee and atmosphere. Rents bikes.  
• 32.234716 76.329159 7 River View Apartments , Jogiwara, Heru Village , ☏ +91 98 1620 6406 , +91 98 1629 2228 . All rooms with balcony and kitchen. Great ratings.  
• 32.23975 76.3247 8 Shree Guest House , McLeod Ganj ( 200 m up towards Swarag Ashram Road/Tushita Road from the main square ), ☏ +91 9418920003 , +91 8894060505 . Run by a very nice and decent family in a quieter part of the town. Double and single rooms on very decent rates. Surrounded by the Deodar/Pine forest.  
• 32.2384 76.3239 9 Snow Lion Guest House , McLeod Ganj . Good budget place in the centre of town. ₹175 for tiny double room with communal bathroom .  
• 32.236474 76.32603 10 Tara bed & breakfast , Jogiwara Rd, McLeod Ganj ( Beside Pink House, next to Yongling School. You have to climb down moderate bit of steps to reach this place, and also climb up if you want to go anywhere. ). Check-out: noon . Run by a nice and caring host, Tsepal. A cozy place with clean beds and washroom. Has a balcony with nice view of the snow-capped mountains. There is a caretaker who cooks breakfast and is generally around. But don't expect someone to be available 24/7. You will have bed, washroom, running hot water. ₹800–1,000 . ( updated May 2019 )
• 32.221383 76.335543 11 jüSTa Birding Resort & Spa , Indrunag Near Paragliding Point Tahu, Chohla , ☏ +91 9816-343-255 , +91-9816-377-709 , toll-free: +91-9590-777-000 , [email protected] . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . ( updated Nov 2023 )
• 32.23526 76.32788 12 Auspicious Him View Hotel , Jogiwara Rd, McLeod Ganj ( below Ladies Venture Hotel ), ☏ +91 94 1823 6603 . View of the snow-capped Dhauladhar range from a private balcony. Clean rooms with attached bathrooms. Each room is named after one of the eight auspicious signs of Buddhism and decorated accordingly.  
• 32.235 76.32488 13 Pema Thang's Guest House ( opp Bhagsu Hotel ), McLeod Ganj , ☏ +91 18 9222 1871 . Tibetan-run older guesthouse, tucked on a quiet side street with great views over the Kangra Valley. Rooms are starting to show their age, but they are scrupulously clean and comfy and feature a TV and 24-hr hot water. Kitchenette facilities available for longer stays. Double rooms ₹770–1,100, gas heater (necessary in winter) ₹200/day extra .  
• 32.246 76.32227 14 Glenmoor Cottages , Mall Rd, McLeod Ganj ( approximately 1 km from McLeod Ganj on the road leading to the Dal Lake /TCV ), ☏ +91 18 9222 1010 . Sited in a mixed forest of cedar, oak and rhododendron, overlooking the Kangra valley. Ideal for a quite and peaceful holiday. Known to be frequented by a number of celebrities and dignitaries.  

Stay safe [ edit ]

The place is safe, though it is advisable to take precautions. Stay vigilant at all times and be very cautious if staying out after 9PM.

Go next [ edit ]

• Amritsar – The holy Sikh city of and its Golden Temple is a 6-hr bus journey away. Buses leave at 5AM from the lower bus station, or go through Pathankot first with many connections per day, and a train from there.
• Bir – A village with a Tibetan and Indian population, known for its Buddhist monasteries and paragliding centre, developing as an adventure hub with the second highest paragliding spot of the world, Bir-Billing.
• Dalhousie – A small hill station close to Pathankot .
• Manali – The next hub for journeys deeper into the mountains.
• Palampur – A beautiful valley famous for its tea gardens, agricultural university, temples.
• Sidhbari – Outside lower Dharamshala is an ideal getaway from the tourist traffic and to experience life in a typical farming village in the valley.

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Dharamshala – A Complete Travel Guide & Itinerary

Dharamshala, located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is famous for being the seat of Tibet’s government in exile. This outstandingly beautiful Himalayan town has had the pleasure and honor of being the residence of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama; the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people. Known as mini-Tibet, Dharamshala attracts people from all over the world. They flock here not only for a glimpse of His Holiness but also to bask in the clean crisp mountain air and abundant natural glory.

Dharamshala is the winter capital of Himachal Pradesh. It is perhaps the best place in India to learn about Tibetan culture and the Buddhist religion. It was initially a small town but its profile changed dramatically in the 1960s when the Dalai Lama settled here. Dharamshala is also famous for its endless tea gardens which produce some of the most in-demand varieties of tea worldwide – black tea, oolong tea, green tea, white tea, and the iconic Kangra tea.

Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Mcleodganj

It is situated on the upper hilly stretch of land of Kangra Valley and just against the picturesque scene of Dhauladhar ranges. Being a Tibetan hub, Dharamshala is considered to be one of the best places to learn and explore Buddhism and Tibetan Culture.

Below is an index of the information that I have covered later in the article. The headings in the box are all clickable links. So if you want to jump directly to a certain part of the article, you may do so by clicking on the header inside the box.

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How to reach Dharamshala

Where is dharamshala located.

Dharamshala is located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It extends luxuriously in the upper hilly areas of the Kangra Valley. In fact, the town lifts into the upper mountains – the lower stretch is what is known as Dharamshala, while the upper stretch is called McLeodganj. The Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas forms a cupola around the town, adding to its serene natural beauty.

How to reach Dharamshala by Road

Dharamshala is well connected to both other towns within Himachal Pradesh as well as nearby states. In fact, a drive from New Delhi takes around 9 hours considering time for halts en route. Many private bus operators offer daily travel options to New Delhi as well as other cities and towns. You can choose from non AC, AC, Volvo or sleeper buses. Alternatively, you can opt for taxi service on these routes. If you are driving by yourself, make sure you are confident about tackling the mountain roads, which are steep and full of hairpin bends.

Tickets for HRTC Buses can be booked online at the link below.

Himachal Roadways Bus Booking

For private companies, you can either buy one via the travel agency itself or online sites like RedBus.

How to reach Dharamshala by Flight

The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, 15 kilometers away from Dharamshala. This airport operates commercial flights, private chartered flights and provides helicopter landing pads. A private taxi from Gaggal to McLeodganj will cost Rs. 800-900 in peak season.

How to reach Dharamshala by Train

Pathankot Railway Station is an overnight journey from New Delhi. From there, you can opt for the Kangra Valley Railway, a scenic six-hour journey. From Kangra, you can book a private taxi or share a cab to reach McLeodganj.

Local Transport in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj

Private taxis: These typically charge Rs. 2500 per person for the Pathankot-McLeodganj journey and Rs. 800-900 for the McLeodganj-Dharamshala journey. A share taxi would reduce the cost to Rs. 300-600 per person.

Self-driving: Of course, if you were traveling by your own vehicle, either a car or motorcycle, then things will get lots easier for you to move around.

Private Car: For a full day of sightseeing, it is wise to book a private car. The cost will be approximately Rs. 1800. At the day end, they will drop you where you wish.

Walk: Dharamshala is best explored on foot. Take your time and enjoy the picturesque beauty of this hill station on long walks.

There are also several motorcycle rental agencies available as well. A lot of people hire automatic bikes like Activa to move around in the town. Usual charge is Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1500 per day for Enfield and Rs. 800 for scooters.

Auto Rickshaws are available in the town and are probably the most commonly used way of commute from one place to another.

Travel possibilities during different Seasons

During peak tourist seasons, all forms of transport will be highly expensive. To get to Dharamshala you must plan at least 2-3 months in advance and pre-book travel tickets. Otherwise, not only will you find prices sky-high, you may not be able to book a ticket at all. During monsoon, prices drop, but travelling through the mountain roads is tricky as landslides are frequent and devastating.

Also Read: Best time to Visit Mcleodganj and Dharamshala

Sightseeing in Dharamshala & Things to Do

Below is a list of places to visit in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj.

Tsuglagkhang Complex

Namgyal monastery, kareri dal lake, bhagsunag temple.

• Bhagsunag Waterfalls

Gyuto Monastery

Kangra fort, kangra art museum, masroor rock cut temple, naddi village, st. john in the wilderness church, dharamshala cricket stadium, jwalamukhi devi temple, tea gardens, mani lhakhang stupa, what to see in dharamshala.

Below is a little more information of the places I listed above including their history, location and how can you plan to visit there.

This complex is the epicenter of Tibetan Buddhism in Dharamshala. An enormous, indescribably beautiful sculpture of Lord Buddha awes visitors. The temple is located on the eponymous Temple Road and was constructed in 1959 when the Dalai Lama visited India for the first time. Today, it is the residence of His Holiness. The temple complex comprises a monastery, bookstore, library, café, and a museum. Visitors and worshippers throng to Tsuglagkhang for a glimpse of the Dalai Lama, as well as his sermons along with Tibetan dance and music performances.

Namgyal Monastery has the distinction of being the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the world, outside of Tibet. More than 200 monks reside here, spending their days in prayer, meditation, discourses, and learning. Not only is it huge, but it is also tremendously vibrant, with its bright, striking colors, intricate depictions of Tibetan mythology and of course the ubiquitous prayer wheels.

The Kareri Dal Lake is a brilliantly beautiful body of pristine water, stretching over nearly an entire square kilometer. In was named in honor of its northern cousin, the Dal Lake in Srinagar. Located in a valley surrounded by majestic Deodar trees and even more the spellbinding Himalayas, it is a top tourist spot in Dharamshala.

This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most ancient surviving temples in the entire Himalayan region. It attracts worshippers by their thousands every year. Located amidst the lush hills, visitors have to climb up winding mountain paths to reach this temple. Take a refreshing dip in the nearby freshwater pool. If you are lucky enough to visit during March, don’t miss the Shivaratri celebrations here!

Also Read: Triund Trek – How to Plan your Adventure

Bhagsunag Waterfall

Bhagsu Falls is located a few kilometers above the temple itself. The milky white cascade of fresh water from the slopes is a sight to see! Nearly 20 meters in height, its beauty reaches an apex during the monsoon.

This is the residence of the head of the Kagyu Tibetan Buddhism, known as Karmapa. It is a prime center of learning and research for Buddhist philosophy, Tantra meditation, and Tantric rituals. It was constructed in memory of the soldiers who fought and died in the Tibetan Freedom War. The complex is built in the classic Tibetan style of architecture. With its sculpture of the Sakyamuni Buddha and the backdrop of the majestic Dhauladhar range, it is one of the most mesmerizing attractions in Dharamshala.

The Kangra Fort dates back to nearly 1500 years. For centuries, this ancient structure was the abode and center of rule for the Kangra-Katoch royal dynasty. It is by far the largest Himalayan fort. Don’t miss the many ancient temples inside the premises. Down below, the Banganga and Manjhi rivers flow past serenely. Also of note is the Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum which illustrates the noble history of this place.

This is an absolute visit for any history buff. This magnificent museum preserves relics of Kangra Valley’s ancient as well as recent history. On display are paintings, fabrics, weapons, statues, temple figurines, utensils, rare coins, pottery, anthropological finds, tribal ornaments, and sculptures. It has one of the finest collections of Tibetan and Buddhist artifacts as well.

As its name indicates, these temples have been hewn into the rock. Built in the Indo Aryan style of architecture, these 15 monoliths date back nearly a thousand years. They depict tales from Hindu mythology, most notable scenes from the Ramayana. The intricate, painstakingly crafted sculptures are lovingly detailed. They remain the few examples of this style today.

Naddi is located far above Dharamshala, and consequently far from the madding crowd. This remote village offers panoramic views of the surrounding snowy Dhauladhar Himalayas and the lush Kangra Valley below. With striking Deodar forests, this village is a great spot for mental rejuvenation.

Also Read: Monasteries in Mcleodganj and Dharamshala

En route to McLeodganj is this neo-gothic church, with splendid Belgian stained glass windows. Built in the 1850s, this church is one of the most peaceful spots around Dharamshala.

One of the highest cricket stadiums in the world, this cricket stadiums attracts diehard fans from all over India. Imagine playing cricket in the cradle of the mountains!

This unique temple has existed since the time of the Mahabharata. Its current form was built by Raja Bhumi Chand Katoch. Located about 60 kilometers from Dharamshala, this temple has no deity inside. That’s right, no idol, sculpture or painting inhabits the temple. Rather, the flames which arise from the fissures on the temple floor are worshipped as the Goddess of fire and power. It is one of the Shakti Peeths and attracts thousands of worshippers every year.

En route to McLeodganj are some incredible tea gardens. While not as expansive as their North East Indian counterparts, they nonetheless have a unique charm. A stroll through these tea gardens is a charming affair.

Five kilometers from Dharamshala, this stupa is a relatively recent addition, having been built in 2001. It was constructed by the Dalai Lama and was built to survive natural calamities. It houses a gold statue of the Buddha in the lotus position, along with lots and lots of prayer wheels. The best time to visit is in the evenings when the monks sing ancient hymns and offer prayers.

What to do in Dharamshala

Below is a list of tourist activities in Dharamshala that you can indulge yourself in. I am only listing below things that you can do in Dharamshala apart from visiting all of the above mentioned places.

Paragliding

• Where: Several places around Dharamshala and McLeodganj
• When: Summer
• Cost: Depending on the duration of the flight, anywhere between Rs. 2000-8000 per person

Triund Trek

• Where: Begin from Galu or alternatively from Bhagsu Nag
• Cost: Begins from Rs. 3000 per person, depends on the number of days and nights in trek itinerary
• Where: Between Dharamshala and McLeodganj
• Cost: Begins from Rs. 12,000 per person

Kareri Lake Trek

• Where: Take a bus from Dharamshala to Ghera to begin the trek
• Cost: Begins form Rs. 6000 per person

Also Read: Places to visit in Mcleodganj and Things to Do

Weather of Dharamshala & When to Go

Climate and weather of dharamshala.

Dharamshala retains a cool and pleasant climate throughout the year with misty mornings and evenings, bright sunny days and clear skies. Owing to its elevation, it is considerably cooler than the surrounding plains. Even in the spring, when Dharamshala attracts thousands of people who flock here for the Dalai Lama’s teachings, the climate is downright chilly. The monsoon months, however, tend to be incredibly wet and humid. The skies remain cloudy and it may rain for days on end.

Winters in Dharamshala start in the month of November and last till early March; and are extremely cold. In the upper reaches of Dharamshala, near the areas of Mcleodganj, the night temperature can get close to 0 in these months. Spring arrives in the month of April and the weather remains to be on the pleasant side until June. July and August is the peak monsoon time and Dhauldhars happens to be one of the wettest Himalayan regions so until early September, it can rain anytime and anywhere. October is the month of autumn and this is when the valleys all around turn golden. By the end of October, winter starts to settle again. The weather continues to get colder throughout November and it starts to snow in the upper areas by Mid December.

Temperature of Dharamshala

Here is the month wise average temperature break up:

Dharamshala in January : 6 to 14 degree Celsius; heavy woolen and warm clothes needed for visiting in this month

Dharamshala in February : 8 to16 degree Celsius; heavy woolen and warm clothes needed for visiting in this month

Dharamshala in March : 12 to 21 degree Celsius; snow begins to melt and the weather turns warmer

Dharamshala in April : 16 to 26 degree Celsius; pleasant weather

Dharamshala in May : 20 to 30 degree Celsius; pleasant weather, plenty of cottons with a jacket is all that you need for visiting in this month

Dharamshala in June : 22 to 31 degree Celsius; pleasant weather, plenty of cottons with a jacket is all that you need for visiting in this month

Dharamshala in July : 21 to 27 degree Celsius; monsoon season, waterproof everything and carry umbrellas and raincoats

Dharamshala in August : 20 to 26 degree Celsius; monsoon season, waterproof everything and carry umbrellas and raincoats

Dharamshala in September : 19 to 26 degree Celsius; this is the best time to visit Dharamshala with lush vistas all around

Dharamshala in October : 15 to 25 degree Celsius; winter starts to settle in towards the end of the month

Dharamshala in November : 7 to 17 degree Celsius; extremely cold weather so heavy woolen and warm clothes will be needed

Dharamshala in December : 7 to 18 degree Celsius; extremely cold weather so heavy woolen and warm clothes will be needed

Also Read: Delhi to Mcleodganj – A Life Altering Journey

Best time to visit Dharamshala

As a premier hill station, Dharamshala enjoys pleasant temperature and weather year round. In winter months there is abundant snowfall in the upper reaches, so temperatures take a nosedive. With the right clothing and equipment, you can explore Dharamshala anytime you wish!

Dharamshala in Spring-Summer (March through mid-July): This is the best time to visit Dharamshala. All the tourist hotspots, sightseeing places, and adventure activities are open for business. The temperature ranges from 22 degree Celsius to 35 degree Celsius.

Dharamshala in Monsoon (mid-July through mid-September): The offseason, and prone to landslides. If you like solitude, this is the time to visit. Also brilliant for a romantic getaway. Be aware that most activities, scenic spots, and adventure sports will be closed during this time.

Dharamshala in Winters (October through February): Fresh snowfall and sub-zero temperatures. Incredible time for honeymooners. Great for winter sports.

To sum up, here are the best times to visit Dharamshala:

• With family: March, April, May, and June
• In winter: January and February
• For photography: April, July, August, September, and October
• On Budget: July, and August
• For honeymoon: January, February, and March
• For Snow: January and February
• To see Snowfall: January

Also Read: Sightseeing in Mcleodganj – A Natural & Cultural Paradise

Eating & Shopping in Dharamshala

What to eat in dharamshala.

Dharamshala cuisine has an eclectic character. You will find dishes of Pahari, Nepali, Gurkha, Tibetan and English cuisines. No matter the origin, the food is usually simple, homely, nutritious and inexpensive. Much of the food is grown and consumed locally. In fact, if you ask for local dishes, it is likely that the rice, wheat, vegetables or fruits are freshly harvested from some local garden. The organic produce tastes more flavourful than anything you would find in a city grocery. Food imports are mostly made to satisfy tourist tastes.

Here are some typical dishes you will find here:

This dumpling and vegetable soup is an iconic Tibetan dish. The bow-shaped dumplings are cooked in a soup consisting of carrots, potatoes, and spinach. Simply delicious and very filling!

This is a wildly popular soup based dish whose recipe has remained unaltered for centuries. Wheat flour and water are kneaded together to form thumb-sized pieces, which are then added to a stew comprising root vegetables such as turnips and carrots along with the meat. It is not uncommon to find momos added in as well.

This staple food is the secret to surviving Tibet’s extreme altitude. A traditional recipe, Roasted flours of peas, barley, wheat, buckwheat, and black beans are kneaded into the dough. This dough is then kneaded in a tiny bit of oil and eaten with sugar, buttermilk or freshly harvested vegetables.

This is a perfect accompaniment to the Butter Tea, soups and broths. A pan-shaped, whole wheat bread, baked to perfection with a thick crust, it is incredibly filling. Dip into a brew or slap on Apricot jam, the options are endless!

No die-hard foodie can think of momos without salivating, and we are no exception! Of Tibetan origin, momos are today served in every corner of India and have a dedicated fan following. The dough is stuffed with minced meats, cheese, and vegetables and then steamed till cooked. They are then served with chutneys, chilli sauce or ketchup. Momos may also be served in a soup. Incredibly, this simple dish is so versatile that the combinations of stuffings are endless. Also, every stall and restaurant has its own secret momo recipe. This unique, flavourful dish has rightly earned its place in the Food Hall of Fame.

A Thukpa variant, this soup noodle dish goes easy on the spices. Of Tibetan origin, the gravy consists of mutton, chicken, tomatoes, onions, spinach, potatoes, radish, garlic, ginger and cilantro. The noodles are of the pull-out variety and mixed with wheat dough chunks.

Also Read: Mcleodganj to Triund Trek – A Day of Adventure & Fun

The answer is Mokthuk, a nutritious, filling version of the Thukpa. This delicious dish combines noodles, various vegetables, chicken and mutton, along with momos dunked in the gravy, topped off with spices. Perfect for the cold weather and your taste buds!

A Tibetan noodle soup, this is popular comfort food to warm you up, inside and out. In fact, the “Thuk” in the name means heart in Tibetan, since this spicy, hot dish is heartwarming. Into chicken, mutton or beef soup are added noodles, tomatoes, onions, garlic and seasonal vegetables and served with spicy chutney.

Some other items you can try here are:

• Chicken curry – Mildly seasoned and served on the bone
• Maggie – Cooked with vegetables, each shop and stall offers its own version
• Egg dishes – Hot omelettes and eggrolls on chilly evenings, how can you resist?
• Bhutta – Fresh sweet corn is boiled or roasted

Where to eat in Dharamshala

Dharamshala offers innumerable options to eat out – large restaurants in the Tibetan area, tiny hole in the wall shops, street stalls, roadside dhabas and Maggie points. You can eat a different dish every day at every meal! However, if you have the opportunity to befriend a local, try authentic homemade Pahari fare. Beats the market offerings any day!

What to Buy in Dharamshala

Don’t leave Dharamshala without shopping to your heart’s content. Here are the Dharamshala’s most famous shopping choices:

• Handcrafted woolens: Dresses, caps, pullovers, socks, scarves, shawls and mufflers. Special shout-out to Pashmina goodies
• Brass and wooden knickknacks: Statues, walking sticks, boxes of various sizes and home decor pieces
• Accessories: In the Tibetan section, you can find some very trendy, quirky and unique footwear, bags, purses, and jewelry
• Souvenirs: Lampshades, prayer wheels, prayer flags, books and porcelain, singing bowls, Buddha statues, handmade diaries, rugs, carpets, and paintings
• Tea: Tibetan tea, Green tea and Kangra tea
• Books: On Tibetan Buddhism, mythology, spirituality and Tibetan History. Also, teachings of the Dalai Lama

Also Read: Mcleodganj to Delhi – The Return Journey Home

Where to Buy in Dharamshala

Kotwali bazaar.

This area has not only a bustling market, but also cafes, restaurants, banks, and administrative offices. It is located about half a kilometer from Dharamkot.

Timings – 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Come here for – Everything from everyday items to traditional woolen garments (shawls and cardigans) to textiles to handicrafts to wooden carvings and sculptures and souvenir items.

Jogibara Road

This is a great place to collect the perfect knickknack for your home or to take as souvenirs for loved ones back home. The sheer variety of bric-a-brac on display takes your breath away!

Come here for – Colorful and patterned scarves, mittens, shawls, sweaters, jackets, gloves, and caps all handcrafted and made of pure wool. Also Tibetan wall hangings, carvings, wooden sculptures, prayer flags, and other Buddhist paraphernalia.

McLeodganj Market

This market sits cheek by jowl with Jogibara Road. It is home to the oldest shop in the entire region – Nowrojee and Son (continually in business since 1860!)

Timings – 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Come here for – Thangka paintings, wooden carvings, tapestries, Tibetan carpets and handicrafts

Also Read: 11 Best Honeymoon Destinations in Himachal Pradesh

Accommodation & Other Facilities in Dharamshala

Hotels in dharamshala.

Dharamshala is a much in demand tourist hotspot, and you will find hotels of all sizes, amenities and price ranges in this town. Again, it is wiser to pre-book accommodations to get a good deal. Here’s a tip – the state tourism body Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) operates a chain of hotels throughout the region. They are located at prime spots, sometimes a stone’s throw away from the best attractions. They are also clean and spacious with courteous and helpful staff.

Petrol Pumps / Mechanics in Dharamshala

Petrol Pumps and Mechanics in and around Dharamshala are in abundance. You will continue to come across gas stations throughout the route. Finding a good mechanics in upper areas like Dharamkot could be challenging however so if your vehicle broke down there, you may have to bring it down to Dharamshala. The good news, however, is that since it is all downhill, you can just roll it down all the way.

Here are some petrol pumps and repair stops in and around Dharamshala:

Mann Filling Station

Contact – +91 1892 226093, 98160 45608

Pyaare Lal & Sons Petrol Pump

Contact – +91 1892 224818, 98167 49553

Ms. Dev Bhoomi Filling Station

Contact – +91 94598 51780, 70180 50962

Mobile network and Data Connectivity in Dharamshala

All major mobile networks in India offer connectivity within and near Dharamshala. However, the farther you venture into remote areas, the lesser the chances of mobile connectivity, except BSNL network. Triund is the area where you will definitely go off the network. I was carrying a BSNL and Airtel cellphone and it was only at a couple of spots and times on the trail when I was able to get a signal.

Also, always carry a dumb-phone that you can use in case of emergencies. Dumb-phone charge lasts for weeks and they are hardy in chilly weather. Any smartphone you carry should be kept close to the skin. Extreme cold can cause a smartphone battery to zonk out.

Some free wi-fi spots in Dharamshala are HPPWD Division, Café Budan and Pink House 1.

Electricity in Dharamshala

Electricity is available at all the hotels, guest houses and throughout the town; though the region does face some power-cut issues. You should carry a high power torch and extra batteries if you plan on traveling to remote areas.

Also Read: Best time to visit Manali – When to go to Manali

Banks and ATMs in Dharamshala

All the commercial banks of India have branches and ATMs in various parts of Dharamshala. Here are the major banks and their locations:

• Bank of India – Sudher
• ICICI Bank – Complex, near the Municipality Office
• State Bank of India – Kotwali Bazaar Road, Sudher
• Canara Bank – Sudher
• HDFC Bank – Center Point
• Yes Bank – Hotel Sansar, Civil Line opposite Centre Point
• Axis Bank – Civil Station
• Punjab National Bank – Kotwali Bazaar Road
• Allahabad Bank – McLeodganj

The Indian National Rupee (INR) is accepted everywhere. If you need to exchange foreign currency, you will fund a number of money changers on Mall Road and in Bara Bazaar. It is essential that you carry adequate INR because no other currency is accepted.

Also Read: Best time to visit Shimla – When to go to Shimla

Health & Safety

Hospitals in dharamshala.

There are several clinics, hospitals, and dispensaries available in Dharamshala; and you will have no problem finding one even during the night. Below are the names and numbers of a few best-known hospitals in the area.

Is Dharamshala Safe to Visit

It is very safe to be in Dharamshala throughout the year. However, visitors are advised to stay cautious during monsoon season. The only thing visitors have to consider is to stay indoors as it may rain continuously during the rainy season.

The standard rules of safety like being alert with strangers and not to hang out in strange places will apply to everyone. If you are traveling alone then it is advisable to stay in a hotel in Dharamshala or Mcleodganj itself and not in a remote area. Safety lies in your own hands and will depend on the choices you make and the actions you take. Do not take any unnecessary risks, stay safe, behave responsibly and you will be OK.

Travel with family

Dharamshala is a child-friendly place and there are plenty of attractions to keep the young ones occupied and happy. However, since they will be unfamiliar with the terrain, it is important to keep an eye on them at all times, especially in the wilderness areas like forests, viewpoints, and picnic spots.

Travel with partner

Dharamshala is perfect for a romantic getaway, whether for a week or even just a weekend!

Also Read: Thanedar, Himachal – How to Plan your Trip & Explore

Things to Carry for a Trip to Dharamshala

Clothes to pack for dharamshala trip.

Carry warm clothes no matter what time of year you are traveling. Also, dress in layers so that you can put on or take off a layer when the temperature changes suddenly. In winter especially, thermal wear and heavy jackets are a must. Carry extra pairs of clean socks at all times. All mountain areas can experience sudden or continuous downpours at all times of the year, so carry an umbrella, poncho or windcheater. Dharamshala is best explored on foot, so sturdy, all terrain, all weather shoes are a basic requirement. Remember, respect the sentiments of the local people and do not wear clothes which are revealing, especially when visiting a holy place such as a Monastery.

Documents Needed

Carry both the original and a few copies of your Identification proof and Address proofs along with the original documentation. Passport and Aadhar Card are the accepted ones. Also, carry several passport size photographs. It is also advised to carry a list of emergency contact numbers on your person at all times.

Hygiene and personal care

A basic first aid kit should be carried on a priority basis which includes not just bandages and gauze but also medication for fever, diarrhoea, indigestion, cold etc. If you take prescription drugs, carry the adequate dosage of the same to cover the duration of your trip. Many areas are very sparsely populated such that finding a medical store or a doctor is a miracle. If you plan to visit high altitude areas carry a small oxygen cylinder and medicine for altitude sickness. Carry your own toilet paper and tissues. Also, for women, carry sanitary products.

Electronics

Carry at least two fully charged power banks at all times for your mobile phone or laptop along with extra batteries for torches. Photography enthusiasts should carry extra memory cards.

Food and medicines

Carry all the toiletries you usually require since you might not find them in the local markets. Hand sanitizer, mosquito repellent cream, and detergent soap sachets are essential. Carry a sunscreen of at least 30+ SPF and a good pair of sunglasses. Carry extra garbage bags to store laundry. Most of the trip will be covered by road and it can take more time than estimated to reach the destination. Also, for vegetarians, in particular, some areas may not offer much in the way of food. So, carry dry fruits and snacks for emergency food requirement.

ATMs are few and far between outside Dharamshala, and the ones which exist may not have adequate cash at all times. So, it is wise to carry a decent sum of cash. Don’t rely on payment through card as most hotels and nearly all shopkeepers only accept cash. Distribute cash through all your belongings for safety.

Do not forget:

• Pair of warm, waterproof gloves
• Sunblock lotion with highest SPF that you can find (if visiting in Summer)
• Toilet paper
• Prescribed medicines if you are on medication
• Head Phones/Earphones
• Chargers for your electronic items
• Umbrella or a Rain Poncho (if visiting during monsoon)
• Snow boots if visiting in winter
• Comfortable pants if planning to go on a trek as a pair of jeans is not advisable for this purpose

Also Read: Jalori Pass – How to Plan your Trip & What to See

Itinerary for Dharamshala Trip

Sample itinerary for dharamshala and mcleodganj.

Covers: Dal Lake, Dalai Lama Temple Complex, War Memorial, McLeodganj and Palampur

Day 1: Drive up from New Delhi, begin preferably very early in the morning. Reach Dharamshala in about 9 hours and check in to the hotel. Relax for a bit. Alternatively, arrive at Pathankot Railway Station and drive up.

Day 2: Sightseeing around Dharamshala – Dal Lake, Dalai Lama Temple Complex and the War Memorial. In the evening, go shopping at the Tibetan markets.

Day 3: Sightseeing in McLeodganj – Visit Bhagsu Nag Temple and waterfall, St. John’s Church in the wilderness and Lord Shiva’s Temple. Take in the sunset at Talho Sunset Point. You can also trek up to Naddi Village in the Kangra Valley.

Day 4: Day trip to Palampur – Chamunda Devi Temple, Gopalpur Zoo; and Palampur Tea Gardens.

Day 5: Breakfast followed by departure to New Delhi

Also Read: Tirthan Valley – A Complete Travel Guide & Itinerary

Other Tips for Dharamshala Trip

Sightseeing in and around Dharamshala does not require any permits.

Nearby Town(s) – McLeodganj, Kangra, Dalhousie, Palampur, Bharmour, Kugti

Dharamshala Altitude: About 4700 feet above sea level

Languages Spoken in Dharamshala : The non-Tibetan locals speak “Kangri/Pahari” which at its core is a distinct variation of Hindi that has evolved over centuries of isolation. The Tibetans speak their native Tibetan. However, almost everyone communicates readily in Hindi. Most people even have a basic understanding of English, courtesy of British Era influence.

• It is highly inappropriate to touch a person of the opposite sex, even in conversation, even in a friendly manner, especially if you have just met
• If you visit places of worship, then look around carefully. If others are removing their shoes or covering their heads, do the same
• In monasteries and Buddhist temples always be silent

Emergency numbers

• Police – 100
• McLeodganj police post – 01892-224883
• Dharamshala police station – 01892-224883
• Fire – 101
• Ambulance/Medical – 102
• Women’s helpline – 1091
• Child helpline – 1098
• Disaster management control room – 0177-2812344
• Kangra (Gaggal) Airport – 0189 223 2374
• Pathankot Railway Station – 0186-2251594

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Prashar Lake, Himachal

People, Culture & Festivals of Dharamshala

People of dharamshala.

The Kangra Valley has been inhabited as far back as 20,000 years in the past. The original native Hindu inhabitants were hunter-gatherers, shepherds and herdsmen, who wandered around these holy, picturesque mountains and valleys with their flocks. These tribes still exist today, and heir way of life has remained virtually unchanged.

With the passing of the centuries, the arrival of other settlers, most notably the Brahmins and Rajputs from the plains, Gurkhas from Nepal, the British and of course the Tibetans has contributed to a unique, melting pot of culture, tradition and peaceful coexistence.

Festivals Celebrated in Dharamshala

Below is of festivals celebrated in Dharamshala with happiness and fanfare:

• January: Haldi – Celebrates the beginning of winter’s end. Expect bonfires and folk music and much dancing
• February: Basant Panchami and Samvastar Pareva – Saraswati Puja
• March: Losar – Tibetan New Year
• October: Sharadotsav and Dussehra – This is the year’s busiest and most spectacular festivals and draws both domestic and foreign tourists. Lasting for nine days, these festivals involve pujas, melas, processions and street food galore!
• December: International Himalayan Festival – Three days of performances and celebrations in Honor of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama.

Also Read: Kinnaur in Winter – How to Plan your Journey ?

History, Mythology & Legends

History of dharamshala.

The entire region has roots back to the time of the Mahabharata. The Kangra valley has been inhabited since ancient times. In fact, one single royal dynasty, the Katochs ruled it for nearly 2000 years. They fell under the control of the Sikh Empire and then the British Empire. Surprisingly, the Katoch rulers still exist today and are highly influential in the area. The original Hindu inhabitants are mostly shepherds and huntsmen.

Dharamshala is the place where the legends of the Gurkhas – the bravest of the brave. The first Gurkha regiment was established here in 1860. As they made their name fighting wars for the British Empire, more and more Gurkha platoons were established. Eventually, distinct settlements arose which are still in existence today. Many places in and around Dharamshala are named for Gurkhas, their villages or their military encampments.

Kunal Pathri

It is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths of India. Legend has it that Devi Parvati’s head fell to the earth here as it was being carried around by Lord Shiva. Inside the ancient temple, a trickle of water drips down from the ceiling, which the priests collect in a saucer. No one can explain where this water originates from!

Also Read: Kinnaur Valley – A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Indrunath Temple

This ancient temple is located near the take-off point for paragliders. Nearby is a sparkling stream. The waters of this stream were essential for cultivation in the nearby villages. In the past, however, this stream would dry up during the summer months. The villagers believed a sacrifice to the Gods would keep the stream from drying up. A village headman then reportedly chucked his wife in the water, and since then, there hasn’t been a dry day!

Aghanjar Mahadev Temple

This is a centuries-old temple. Legend has it that the Shiv Ling inside was not brought here, rather, it manifested itself. Also of note is a fire that has been burning continuously for half a millennia. No one knows who began this practice, but the locals ensure that the fire is never allowed to die.

Baijnath Temple

This hugely significant temple has an interesting back story. It is said that Raavan prayed to Lord Shiva, asking him to reside in Lanka forever. Lord Shiva didn’t want to leave his beloved mountains, and so he handed Raavan a stone statue of himself, with a catch – Raavan would have to carry it Lanka by himself and that he should never put it on the ground. All too soon, Raavan wanted to attend a call of nature. He requested Lord Ganesh to hold on to the statue. However, the mischievous Lord Ganesh swiftly placed the statue on the ground! This spot is where the Baijnath Temple stands today.

Also Read: Shimla Manali Dharamshala Dalhousie Trip Itinerary

Why to visit Dharamshala

To sum up, Dharamshala is your destination if:

• You want to visit the prime centre of Tibetan Buddhism in the world; second only to Tibet itself
• You want to relax in a soothing, calm; and above all, cool temperature
• You want peace and quiet from din and drama of city life; and want to spend some time away in peace.
• You want to explore the upper Indian Himalayas
• Last but not least, you want to catch a glimpse of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama!

I hope the information above on planning a trip to Dharamshala was of help. If you have any questions; or need any other details; please feel free to ask in the comments section below; or at our Community Forum ; and I will be glad to answer.

Shivani Vedantam

India - of chaos and method, colors and starkness, heaven and hell. Me? Forever fascinated.

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Hi ,I do not know if this is for Shivani Vedantam or Varghis Khan, but very exciting information.We are Senior citizens in Chicago,USA and would like to start traveling soon,and see and meet Hi Highness Dalai Lama would be the first choice.Please keep me on your mailing list.

Nice Article. Thanks for the amazing information.

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6 Joyful Weeks in Dharamshala – Here’s What I Did

What does this travel guide to Dharamshala contain?

• My Dharamshala trip at a glance
• About Dharamshala District, Himachal Pradesh.
• My best things to do in Dharamashala.
• What is the best time to visit Dharmshala?
• How to reach Dharamshala, India?
• How to reach Dharmshala from Delhi?
• Where to stay in Dharmsala?
• How much would a Dharamashala trip cost?
• What to bring to Dharamshala?
• Is Dharamsala safe for solo travelers?

How to avoid the smoking culture of Dharamshala if you don’t want to be a part of it?

• How to go on a long trip to Dharamshala India?
• Around Dharmashala and further reading.

Things to do and places to visit in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

This is not your typical Dharamshala travel guide.

During my six weeks in Dharamshala, I hardly ever searched for “things to do in Dharmshala” or “best places to visit in Dharmashala.”

What was I doing? I was busy taking my Dharamshala trip slow.

This might sound clichéd, but I was learning the art of doing nothing .

Visiting Places in Dharamshala and Doing Things at My Pace

I started my journey in Dharamshala by attending a Vipassana course in Dharamkot, one of the many green villages of the Dharamshala district. After a much-needed ten-day silence of body and mind, I packed my bags and headed out of the deodar forests of the Dharamkot Vipassana center. My plan was to stay for a week in upper Dharamkot. 

But something made me leave Dharamkot in two days. Was it the smoky air of my Dharamkot hostel or the hippies lining the cafes in Dharamkot market, I am not sure. I went to live on the other side of Dharamkot to Upper BhagsuNaag, another lush village in Dharmshala .

I had gone to Bhagsu for a week, and I didn’t know I would end up spending more than a month there. 

What was I doing in Bhagsu village for so long?

I was just being.

Soaking sunshine, breathing in fresh air wafting from the pea fields, reading, writing , hanging out with travelers from around the world, hiking in Dharamashala , learning the flute, understanding my body, doing Vipassana meditation, and practicing yoga were some of the things I did during my one-month stay in Bhagsu. (You might like my ideas on a happy, healthy, and aware life , too.)

Some days, I walked to Mcleodganj. On other days I hiked to Dharamshala city by finding obscure paths through the jungle. In Dharmsala, I saw my first movie alone in a theatre, devoured bowls of mushroom soups in local Tibetan stalls, gorged on parathas loaded with butter at Himachali food shops, and found green trails to discover a new village or practice flute with birds.

Even though writing, blogging , and learning new things occupied me, life in Dharamshala still felt slow.

If I couldn’t wander in the wild for whatever reason, my feet got itchy.

Exploring tiny trails through garlic fields, watching goats and sheep climb up and down, chatting away with the farmer ladies feeding the cows, watching children walking back home on treacherous paths, listening to loud streams gushing close by, choosing one from the hundred tiny mud paths all curling towards the same place, walking under the umbrella of the fragrant deodar and pine trees, admiring the blood-red rose bushes that jump out of nowhere, I didn’t realize how time went by.

At the end of the day, I often tucked up in bed with a piece of Bhagsu cake in hand and an Antman movie on my computer or a Ruskin Bond book (he inspired me to have fun at work ). If it rained, I ordered masala chai to warm my hands and soul.

Don’t judge me for too much chai. I needed those steamy cups on the moody days in Dharamshala in Himachal more than the French need their wine after work.

The weather in Dhramsala shifted like the mood of a disappointed life partner . Suddenly clouds would come floating close to my balcony. At other times it hailed as if someone had opened a door. I even ran downstairs to get hit by the icy balls in my head, but the young caretaker at my homestay scolded me and asked me to go back to my room. Then I sat around the restaurant kitchen to drink masala chai or rum and coke. At other times, I wore my pink rain jacket and walked to lower Bhagsu for a tattoo had to be made.

I haven’t told anyone about the tattoo bit yet. Sshh.

I might have lied a little when I said I was doing nothing. At least I felt I wasn’t doing much in Dhramsala.

Sometimes, I sat and admired the caravan of nature. On other days, I became a part of it. And why wouldn’t I? The scenery was breathtaking, the mood was vibrant, and the sun was generous, at least a few days of the week.

Whatever I did, the white-chocolate-sprinkled Dhauladhar range stood tall and peeked at us from everywhere in Dharamshala. Everything was ethereal.

At those heights, you rarely feel stressed. Life seems like a tiny spectacle in front of the gigantic mountains (one of the reasons I travel and live as an itinerant writer ).

People of Dharamshala don’t have an easy life.

I kept asking locals about their routines. If the restaurant people made enough money to support their families. If the guy who sold rudraksha malas in Mcleodganj  had enough. If the 20-year-old boy from Kashmir could study along with his day job that feeds his family back home.

Like everywhere else, some people in Dharmsala struggled more than others. Some hoped for a better tomorrow.

But none of them told me they wanted to go somewhere else. They were all content living in the mountains away from the chaos of cities.

When you travel to Himachal Pradesh, talk to some people there (if you don’t already). They have interesting stories to tell (this tale of a Himalayan woman in a small village taught me much about resilience and repetition).

Also see these 71 photos in which I remember my favorite moments from Himachal Pradesh

Even though it seems almost clichéd to say you should travel or visit the mountains to be free. To look at the bigger picture. To find yourself .

Looking down on the world while nestling in a sleeping tent on the top of the Himalayan peaks does add a skyline to the mundane.

So what do you say? Let’s visit some mountains this year. Let’s do the clichéd. Let’s get out and climb some hills. Who knows what we might find.

Travel can be the catalyst to a small change , which can in turn transform our life.

Though I am painting a fairytale picture here, over the past few years Dharamashala has been getting many more tourists than a village hamlet should. Israelis, Europeans, English, and North and South Americans all come here to live in peace, learn yoga in Dharamsala , and progress on the path of spirituality. But the exponential growth in Dharamshala tourism has its disadvantages.

Occasionally, you will find crowds of young Israelis playing loud music at 1 in the night. Your table and chair would disappear from your balcony or would be loaded with dirty plates some drunk people didn’t care to put in the kitchen. You would wake up to almost-naked men sun-basking as if they were in a private garden.

Travelers wouldn’t move for days and would smoke away expecting you to join. Your music teacher might not show up for classes no matter how many times you remind him. Someone would light a joint right after a yoga class at 10 in the morning. Even if you try to work, people would come over and sit at your table expecting you to expect company. They won’t move but you would have to.

I was able to thrust away some of this social conundrum. Some days it bothered me. Other times I joined. And some afternoons I quietly shifted to another table in the sun hoping to write the persuasion away .

Do what you have to do. Not wanting to smoke doesn’t make you uncool. Whatever you do, remember to not step over others’ space. 

Related Read: 15 things we overthink about

However hard the struggle to keep a peaceful environment might sound, I would have it no other way. This constant switch between comfort and discomfort makes me who I am .

At times I couldn’t stop smiling for serendipity unfolded and left me in the middle of amazing people.

On days, you would find yourself wandering in the woods while at times you would sit in your homestay watching the sky catch fire with a cup of tea and conversation with your host. You can eat paneer butter masala and roti for lunch while dinner could be a burger with salad and potato fries. You can sit with a laptop or you can meditate.

Everything is possible in Dharamashala.

About Dharmshala, Himachal Pradesh

Do you know Dharamshala city is the second capital of Himachal Pradesh after Shimla? The district headquarters of the Kangra district in Himachal, Dharamsala is also the Dalai Lama’s and thousands of Tibetans’ home after Tibet was occupied by China.

Surrounded by the snowy Dhauladhar ranges, Dhramshala is a peaceful place to visit.

My Best Things to do in Dharamshala

The location of Dharamashala makes the district an amazing place to hike, relax, eat, learn, read, and live. Some refer to Dhramshala as Dharamshala hill station, a place tucked away in the mountains.

This list will take you to the nooks and corners of Dharmshala and to some well-known places to visit in Dharamsala while making you feel you haven’t been doing much.

Remember there are a plethora of activities in Dharamshala to choose from. See what you like.

Let’s start.

1. Take a meditation course and change your life

My favorite meditation center, or to say realistically, the only one I tried was the Vipassana meditation center in Dharamkot.

Vipassana is an ancient meditation technique passed on by our beloved Buddha himself. I have yet to write an article on Vipassana, but for now, I would say meditation isn’t as fancy as it seems. You are basically trying to control your thoughts, body, and brain while focusing on your breath (and your body parts). You try to become mindful .

The ten-day-long Vipassana course at the Dhamma centers is good for beginner meditators or those who want to know more about meditation. Though Vipassana is a hard course and you have to sit on the floor to meditate for about fifteen hours a day, suffering is an intended part of the course. The pain arising from long sittings has to be observed until it passes. Whether it rains or hails, you meditate.

Vipassana doesn’t only help focus the mind and manage the pains, it also helps in rewiring our behavior. I still need to meditate more regularly. But since I have gone to the course, I don’t take many medicines for period pain. I know the pain is temporary and it will pass. Try the course if you want to use meditation techniques to live a more present life.

When to go: The Dharamkot Vipassana center is closed in the winter so the best time to go is March/April to September/October.

H ow to go: Apply on the Dhamma website . When you receive a confirmation, follow the steps in this article to travel to Dharamshala. Dharamkot is a small taxi or bus ride away from the Dhramsala bus stand.

2. Hike in Dharamashala – Best way to Visit Places in Dharamshala

My best way to travel in Dharamshala was to walk. And to your surprise, most places in Dharamshala (and Himachal) can be hiked up to by many different paths.

I am listing down all the places to see in Dharamshala and around I hiked to or lost my way. Feel free to go on some of these hikes or find your own.

You can read my guide to trekking in Dharamsala for complete information on all these treks.

• Kareri lake — Kareri Lake lies a trek away from the village of Kareri.   Located at a high altitude of 2934 meters, Kareri lake is a freshwater lake that is said to have the most gorgeous landscape. I almost went for this trek but my plan got canceled and I ended up in Amritsar instead. 
• Naddi — A village walkable from Mcleodganj. Go here for beautiful sunsets.
• Dharamkot or Bhagsu to Dharamashala city —   A long but beautiful walk. Take the road that forks from the Bhagsu-Mcleodganj road and goes down, and keep walking. Ask the locals for the way. You can also walk along the stream that goes down from Bhagsu waterfall and continues. Or you can choose to walk up the hills as I did. More details in the Dharamshala hiking guide.
• T o an unnamed waterfall in Dharamkot — One of my best places in Dharamshala to visit

A gorgeous waterfall (in which you can swim) lies a two-three-four hours hike (depending on your speed) from Dharamkot and Bhagsu. Walk up to the Gallu Devi temple (one of the many revered temples in Dharamshala) above Dharamkot and ask for the way. 

• To BhagsuNag waterfall by two different paths— Walk to the Bhagsu waterfall from either upper or lower Bhagsu. The upper part of the Bhagsunag waterfall is quieter than the lower.
• To the  Triund campsite and the snow-capped mountains of Dhauladhar — A six km uphill walk under the red rhododendrons from Upper Dharamkot would bring you to the Triund hill. Do it yourself or take a guide, the walk is pretty either way. More details on this are in the hiking guide.

One other things to do on your Dharamshala trip is to hike through the Indrahar pass. This trek takes about four days and three nights to complete.

Sightseeing in Dharamshala by hiking is much more interesting than taking a bus or a taxi. Walk it away. Remember, the altitude of Dharamshala is about 1450 meters, so if you start panting, don’t be hard on yourself. 

3. Sign up for a yoga course in Dhramshala

Due to the scenic Dhauladhar Himalayas enveloping Dharamshala from all sides, the Dalai Lama, and the mediation centers around Dharamashala, yoga has become a popular activity to do in Dharamshala.

Yoga is such a trend in Dhramsala that everyone who goes there has yoga added to their itinerary. Due to the demand for yoga classes in the area, many yoga centers have opened up and they run on run on donation-based hourly yoga classes.

Though new yoga teachers have opened up yoga centers for different kinds of yoga, many old yoga centers still thrive in the area. 

My guide to Dharamshala yoga (which also includes an introduction to yoga in India) will help me fully understand the yoga scene in Dhramshala. It also lists many yoga centers and how to find a yoga center if you are looking for one.

4. Live in a village in Dharmashala

What is better than waking up to a silent village, a few birds chirping to wake up the world, and a misty view from your balcony?

I lived in Bhagsu village for more than a month (linked is the narrative) doing the many things I mentioned above. If you love a location-free lifestyle, just hop onto one of the many villages in Dharamshala and see how life goes on in Himachal.

But having said all the nice things about a village stay, let me tell you the unlimited self-growth classes – music, yoga, meditation, and healing have sort of compromised on the local feel of the Himachali villages. Sometimes you would feel as if you are in Europe or some other cosmopolitan place outside India.

Amongst the tonnes of self-improvement classes, travelers forget to go out in nature and see how healing nature can be. By stepping aside from the main paths, find the magic of the Himalayas on your own.

5. Practice a musical instrument, and, again, change your life 

Many classical musicians and singers from around India flock to Dharamshala not only for some respite from city life but also to teach aspiring singers and musicians.

Go try the Jolly music shop at the center of Dharamkot. It is easy to find. You get to choose an hourly class of an instrument of your choice. The price per class is around 400-500 rupees.

Sit out in the many classical music festivals held at restaurants and cafes at night and get inspired to learn.

Update 2022: I’m sad to inform you that Jolly baba is no more, as all of us lovingly called him. Hope he took the music with him.

6. Enjoy Tibetan and Nepali food while not forgetting we have also got parathas and rajma chawal in Dhramsala 

Food is westernized and expensive in Dharamshala villages. As few Indians stay put in a destination for long, restaurants make food for an international palette. The almost bland food processed by these restaurants is sometimes thought of as real Indian food by foreign tourists.

Request the restaurant to balance spices in your curries while you order. Mcleodganj has more local, simple, and cheaper food options than the villages.

My favorite places to eat in Dharamashala,

• Roja Cafe, Upper Bhagsu — Home-grown wheat chapati and aloo gobhi. Poori sabzi (dry veggies with pooris). And more.
• Jungle Calling, Upper Bhagsu — Chocolate balls. Hundred rupees for one piece (woah).
• Tibet Kitchen, Mcleodganj, Dharamshala — All Tibetan thukpas, momos, and finger-licking.
• Bishnu Trekkers tea house — Small Himachali stall near Mcleodganj Square. Thali or the Himachali Dham for rupees 61. Unlimited food but please pay more for you can only get so much in 61.
• White Rabbit, Upper Bhagsu — For authentic Indian thali and crispy dosas.
• Evergreen Cafe — Upper Bhagsu. Spinach burger with fries. All things Indian are good here. Their sister also runs a place called Evergreen on the way from Dharamkot to Bhagsu. All good food and ginger lemon honey. 
• Bodhi Greens, Dharamkot — Good sandwiches and cakes.
• The Yak Cheese Sandwich shop — Dharamkot. For fresh yak cheese sandwiches and all things sweet.
• Heena Cafe— Upper Dharamkot near Bunker hostel. For good Indian and Tibetan food.
• Brahma Cafe — Upper Bhagsu. For Indian thali and garlicky palak paneer.
• Namgyal cafe — For those days when you need good crunchy pizza.
• Samosa and tiki shops in Mcleodganj on the Dalai Lama temple road.
• Small stalls in Mcleodganj – For kadhi chawal, rajma chawal, and aloo paranthas. If you want simple and cheap food, Mcleodganj is your best bet.

Places I didn’t like :

Little Buddha, on the way from Upper to Lower Bhagsu – Food was very average here though the place was always crowded.

Trimurti gardens in Dharamkot — I liked this place but I didn’t understand the hype.

Trek and Dine – A very popular place in Dharamkot but I found the food to be average. Also, the place was full of people (ahem Israelis) who rudely always shifted places as they liked and didn’t respect anyone else.

To name a few.

7. Try your hands at photography under Dharamshala’s deodars and pines

Chase those birds but from a distance. Capture that golden sunset. Set up the tripod and trace those stars in the sky. This is the time.

8. Get acquainted with Buddhism and the simple way of living

The Dalai Lama stays in Dhramshala in the Dalai Lama main temple (one of the best p laces to visit in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj ). Along with him came many of his followers from Tibet, and Tibetans now have their own government in exile in Dharmshala.

Dharamsala has been a spiritual center for decades now. Tushita meditation center in Dharamkot is next to the Vipassana meditation center.

You can sign up for a ten-days introductory course to Buddhism three or attend some open and free meditation classes in the morning.

Walking around Dharamshala is also a great way to interact with the monks and understand their life. You can strike up a conversation in the Dalai lama temple (a good place to visit in Mcleodganj) or in the streets of the district.

Staying close to people living such humble lives is eye-opening.

Also, the simple lives of the people of Himachal are no less than guidance in our 21st century. Most of the people of Himachal are quite well-doing and have multiple homes and farmlands. But you would never see them sitting idle, hiring many machines to do their work, engrossed with the phone, or showing their money in jewelry or expensive things – women were especially hard workers as far as I noticed.

Their simple lives would help you focus on what’s important.

9. See some crazy art performances from around the world — One of the many intriguing activities in Dharamshala.

Dharamashala is a spiritual place that attracts all kinds of travelers and non-travelers from around the world.

You can be part of a lot of spiritual and art activities in Dharamasala. Regular messages are posted on the Dharamkot information board. Or join the Bhagsu, Dhramkot, or Dharamsala Facebook group and stay updated.

Slow travel is the best travel in Dharamshala.

And if you are in a rush, pick a few things from this list and do as much as you can. Or practice the art of doing nothing. You can also opt for this GetYourGuide full-day Dharamshala tour with a local guide who will help you navigate the city and show some of its must-sees in a day while providing local insights.

What is the best time to visit Dharamsala, India?

The weather in Dharamshala shifts quicker than you can imagine.

The best time to visit Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh is summer which lasts from mid-April to June/July when the monsoon begins. Though the summer months are supposed to be dry, Dharamshala receives heavy rainfall and hailstorms even in summers. So be prepared. 

In the summers in Dharamshala, you can manage during the day with a shawl or a light jacket. But the evenings can get chilly so carry a thick jacket. Don’t worry about things to bring to Dharamshala for I have covered them later.

In winters, Dharamshala gets covered under heavy layers of snow, and many businesses shift to Goa to cater to the customers there. If you plan to visit Dharamshala in December or any other winter months, inquire first about the availability of places and guesthouses.

Most dangerous are the months of July, August, and September when Dharamshala receives heavy rainfall making landslides a common scene. Please take extra care during these months, stay alert with news, and ask locals for advice.

How to reach Dharmsala, India?

The nearest airport to Dharamshala is the Dharamshala airport. Fly to Dharamshala from Delhi or take any other domestic flight. 

Traveling to Dharamsala is also convenient from Pathankot and Amritsar, cities in Punjab. So fly to these cities or reach them via a bus or train. Then you can either fly from Pathankot and Amritsar or take another bus to Dharmshala. Pathankot to Dharamshala distance is approximately 85 km but do keep a buffer for local buses have their own moods and stops.

You can also travel to Dharamashala by bus from many other places such as Bhuntar, Manali , Shimla, and other cities in Himachal.

Book your HRTC or private buses on Redbus . If you don’t see many buses, check on Cleartrip, Yatra, and other websites. When I was traveling in Himachal, I realized all the Himachal and Punjab buses weren’t listed on Redbus.

Please note – Dharamsala doesn’t have a railway station, and the nearest railway station to Dharamshala is Pathankot in Punjab. 

Taking a taxi up to Dharamshala is also a good way to travel if you are short on time or don’t want to enjoy the experience of traveling in an ancient bus on curvy paths on the Himalayas.

Mcleodganj and Dharmshala are connected by buses and shared taxis which don’t run at night. Get a private taxi at night from the Dharamshala bus stand. Taxi prices are fixed, and Dharmshala to Mcledoganj is about 350/400 rupees during the day/night.

Don’t forget to download an offline Google map of Dharamshala.

How to reach Dharamshala Hill Station from Delhi?

Delhi to Dharamshala by Bus — This is the most common option for traveling to Dharamshala from Delhi. Get an overnight bus from either old or New Delhi to Dharamshala city. The Delhi to Dharamshala journey would take about 14 hours.

Delhi to Dharamshala by Train — You can only travel until Pathankot. Then either take a taxi, bus, or flight to Dharamshala. 

Delhi to Dharamshala by taxi or self-driving — A good option always. Be prepared to drive on mountainous roads. 

Delhi to Dharamshala by Air — Fly to Dharamshala airport.

If you are planning a trip to Mcleodganj from Delhi, get a direct bus from Delhi that goes until Mcleodganj.

Where to stay in Dharamshala?

Even though Dhramshala is a great place to stay, not all homestays in Dharamshala are really homestays. Locals have commercialized their places and the homestays have become more like hotels where you come, go, and live independently and don’t spend much time with a Himachali family.

I was not particularly excited by this commercialization of Dharamsala homestays as I like to know the locals and spend time with them. But I had to instead focus more on interacting with locals outside my home for homeowners seem to have had enough of tourist interaction. Of course, this isn’t true for all the homestays, and especially new guesthouses are more inclusive.

Having said that, you can find places to stay in Dharamsala just by walking around. But do book a place to stay for your first night if you are arriving late. If you are heading straight away to villages, book a place in either Bhagsu or Dharamkot. The taxis can come up to a certain point and then you’ll have to walk.

Book a place in Dharamashala here on Booking . R emember most of the places the website shows come up in Bhagsu, Mcleodganj, or Dharamkot. If you are arriving late at night, ask your guesthouse about how to reach the place at night.

After spending a day, feel free to walk around, lose your way in the hidden trails of the valley, and ask for availability and prices. Many guesthouses aren’t registered on any tourism website so your best bet to find an affordable place is by walking and asking around.

My guides on finding home accommodations in India and affordable Indian guest houses might help too.

I liked Bhagsu and Dharamkot better than Mcleodganj for living. Mcleodganj was louder and had a fast-moving influx and outflow of tourists.

Dharamkot is a nice area to stay in if you like to stay close to the action. Upper Dharamkot is more peaceful than lower.

Upper Bhagsu is less crowded and more peaceful than lower Bhagsu, which is visited by a lot of tourists coming in to pray at the Bhagsunag temple.

Guesthouses in Dharamshala are of many kinds. Homestays are easy to find by asking around and so are hostels and hotels. I chose to stay in a homestay for a month at the price of almost 15k per month (discounted from 700 rs to 550 and am sure I could have gotten it for 500). The room has an attached balcony and a toilet with 24-hours hot water. I used to get a bird’s eye view of Dharamshala from my balcony so it was worth it.

For me, the best place to stay in Dharamshala would be Upper Dharamkot or Upper Bhagsu.

On that note, here are some hotels, home stays, and guesthouses I like in Dharamshala,

Bhagsu homestay in Upper Bhagsu

Minhas Homestay in Dari village  of Dharamshala

Prakriti Aalay in Dharamshala city

Buddha House Himalayan Brothers , again in Dharamshala town

S amdupling Himalayan Brothers in Dharamshala

Farm’s Nature Nest in Dharamshala city

How much would a Dharamshala trip cost?

I spent about five hundred rupees on my stay, and about five hindred more on food, coffee, and daily necessities. 

Additional costs:

A hatha yoga class for one and half hours — two hundred rupees minimum donation.

A flute lesson — four hundred rupees per class for a one-hour class.

Fruits – Few apples, bananas, and mangoes cost about two hundred rupees, maximum of three dollars, in lower Bhagsu.

Taxis and autos run on fixed prices. Though you wouldn’t be able to take them much as the roads aren’t always motorable. Also, walking around Dharamsala was so much fun and a natural exercise I almost always walked on my Dhramshala solo trip.

If you are visiting many places near Dharamshala, hop onto buses, a fun way to explore Himachal.

What to bring to Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh?

• Bring along a  rain jacket . 
• Reliable  walking shoes  and  flip-flops . 
• Comfortable track pants (both thin and thick) for walking.
• A few t-shirts, thick ones if you come in the winter and thin ones for the summer. 
• Some warm clothes as the weather gets colder in the evening. You would also need those warm clothes or at least a  woolen shawl  or a  jacket . (I brought a sweater, too, but I sent it back because I didn’t need one in the summer.) You can buy a shawl from Dharamshala, too.
• Your  toiletries  and  sunscreen  and a  hat  for the sun. 
• A  headlamp  or  torch  for night walks through the mountains. 
• Bring a  mosquito repellent . 
• Long socks , a  full-sleeved shirt , and  full-length trousers  for treks.
• Bring  binoculars . A  good camera . Ask that friend for his heavy lens, you might need it to click a whistling thrush.
• Basic  medicines .
• Yoga matt or buy one from Dharmshala.
• A refillable water bottle. You have to pay 10 rupees for a bottle of filtered water at most of the guesthouses. But my  LifeStraw bottle filters water on the go and has saved me much money. I fill it up from any community tap around the village as the water comes directly from the Himalayas. Even if it was not coming from the mountains, Lifestraw has a strong filter. No more buying plastic water bottles. 
• Some lovely  books  to read.

Is Dharamshala Safe for solo travelers?

I was never scared to walk alone in Dharmsala. Himachal Pradesh — in general — is a pretty safe place even for a solo woman. 

Having said that, please do take the basic precautions every traveler needs to take. Don’t venture out late at night alone. Bring a torch. Ask the locals for help. Let someone know if you are heading out to one of the places to visit near Dharamshala. See the weather and then plan the hike of the day.

I have written more safety tips on traveling alone and in a group in my Dharamshala trekking guide .

Smoking h*** is a culture in Dharamshala.

Remember if you don’t like to smoke, you can always say no. You don’t become less cool if you don’t smoke. Do what you have to do. You would have to find your space and also be ready to feel out of the group (not always and you might want to stay away from groups who don’t respect your choices).

If you want to smoke, do it responsibly and while being respectful to the locals. 

How to go on a long trip to Dharamshala?

My digital nomad lifestyle allows me to travel.

But if you have a job, how can you visit any place for longer?

Combine holidays. Think about long weekends and join them together with your other holidays. Take sabbaticals. Get a break in between jobs. Give yourself a chance to see the world after graduation. Ask your partner to plan a trip with you. Pamper your child with a getaway to the grandest mountains  of the world.

Well, you get the idea.

Places to visit near Dharamshala and further readings.

You have access to many places around Dharamshala for you are in the mighty Himalayas.

Here are some of the places near Dharamshala I visited on my Himachal trip:

Spiti Valley

Traveling Alone in Spiti – My Travel Guide to Spiti Valley

Surreal Spiti in Photos – Everyday Pictures of Spiti – Photos of Spiti that show regular Spitian life

Parvati Valley

Kalga Village, Parvati, Himachal – My favorite village in Parvati

Kalga to Bunbuni Pass and then to Kheerganga – Hiking on offbeat paths in Parvati

Manikaran Sahib, Parvati valley – A timeless village in Parvati

Running away from Shilha village – Escaping the loudspeakers in Parvati

Travel guide to Kasol village in Parvati – Only the gateway to Parvati valley

An honest travel Guide to Parvati Valley – No sugarcoating but only the real scene of Parvati and peaceful places to go.

My offbeat travel guide to the best places to visit in Manali

Travelogue of Naggar , a small village near Manali

Some other places to visit and things to do in Himachal Pradesh,

• Hiking down to the leopards in a Shimla village
• Living in Shakrala village of Shimla (in the lockdown)
• Making a picnic at Kanag Devi temple , on top of one of the hills in Shimla
• Why not to visit Fagu village in Shimla
• Admiring the blood moon From Mashobra, Shimla
• An Itinerant Writer’s life in Mashobra, Himachal
• No one knows about these Shivpur temples in Mashobra
• Why I loved Pangna village in Mandi
• Daring to hike Shikari Devi temple on our own, in Mandi
• Plucking apples with Himachal Pradesh families
• How a dam destroyed Tattapani hot water springs
• Roaming around Karsog to buy shoes, Mandi district

Did you like my Dharamshala blog? Let me know in the comments.

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28 thoughts on “6 Joyful Weeks in Dharamshala – Here’s What I Did”

Wow, thanks a lot for sharing! Planning my first trip to India and Dharamshala will definitely be on my list 🙂 Not sure if you check comments section still but how is WiFi there? I am working remotely so I am trying to understand whether it’ll be comfortable to work there or should I take a few days off… I would appreciate if you could share your experience.

Thanks, Eugeniya

hey, thanks for your comment. Yes, wifi works well in Dharamshala. If a place doesn’t have internet, one can always use phone’s 3G/4G which connects well. Enjoy your trip 🙂

This is one of the best tour guides about Dharamshala. You know I took inspire from your blog to Improve my blog quality thanks a ton for this blog.

Aaroham Resort by Aamod at Dharamshala Address: SATOBARI HILLS ROAD,MCLEODGANJ, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176216 Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 11:30PM Phone: 062300 75111

Dear Priyanka, Thank you for sharing this blog.You have done really a great job … appreciated… Blessings!!!

Dharamshala is a beautiful destination and images that you shared are very amazing they are making me excited to go to visit Dharamshala i promise to myself this year.

Hi,am planing a solo trip to himachal.planning to visit most attractive places like manali,kullu,spiti,etc.wanted to know how the means of transportation is,like if we want to see most of the places in dharmashala.travelling by taking cabs individually will be expensive I hope.do we have any other means.please advise.

Hi Mobin. Consider taking the local buses if you are on your own. That’s the best option to travel intercity.

Well, the article is well worth to read.

Hi Priyanka, it’s written and explained beautifully. I am in Rakkar (a small village near Dharamshala)for a month with my family. Your blog is really helpful to explore the more unexplored places. Keep on writing Love Renu Datta

Love your article, Beautiful explore!!! Keep posting the same.

Hello! It was delightful to your blog.

Awesome article!!! Keep posting the same.!!!

Hi Priyanka,

This was not only comprehensive but as I read I felt like I was a part of the journey too and that is something eh? Kudos!

thanks a lot 🙂

I have been to Dharamshala twice and after reading this blog post, I need to go more often. Flute and meditation in Himalays is such a bliss.

Your Dharamsala guide is comprehensive and fantastically written. Kudos.

Thanks for reading. I am glad it helped.

Amazing , I live in Dharamsala but you have beautifully explored every moment..amazing

Loved your article. I live in USA and work in IT so I can understand the urge to change. Didn’t know anything about Dharamshala before and now will surely plan a trip there. Sooo happy for you that you are living your dreams. Way to go girl. Will join onmycanvas to read your traveling adventures

Loved reading this Priyanka. Headed there next week. Will keep referring to your Himachal blogs ?

Wow, thank you so much for this guide. I cannot wait to go see some of these places and eat the foods and find my self 🙂 great article Priya

Felt like reading some sort of encyclopedia. Great information How did you manage to take such fantastic photographs.

Hey. Thank you for dropping by and for the beautiful comment. Pictures are a mix of phone and Nikon. But still mostly phone. Encyclopedia? Really? That’s nice 🙂

This is a brilliant guide.

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Dharamshala

When you visit India, a desert-like terrain is often expected. Turn your attention to Dharamshala, and you'll discover a conifer forest of cedar trees. This distinct city in northern India is humble, but yet known for its famous inhabitant. The Dalai Lama lives nearby, which is why many travelers yearn to visit this city.

As you enter the region, the trees catch your eye along with the gorgeous buildings that dot the streets' edges. The British have many influences in this region, which is why a mixture of European and Indian cultures are born in Dharamshala.

One of the most popular commodities to influence Dharamshala's popularity is tea. Originally, green tea was grown and sold here. Today's tea variations include oolong, black and other favorites. Be sure to try the regional tea because it can't get any fresher than in Dharamshala. As you sip your tea, walk around the city to find the religious sites that define the people. Temples and monasteries are commonplace in Dharamshala.

Local vendors also line the streets as you casually stroll around. Support this community by purchasing hand-crafted items, foods and other goods. You'll discover so much in Dharamshala as you find peace with its religious influences.

Must-see attractions

When visiting India, you'll discover that Tibetan history plays a big role in its culture, architecture and more. In fact, a place that's dedicated to preserving the Tibetan way of life was founded back in the late 1980s. The Norbulingka Institute is an exciting destination for people of all types of backgrounds and belief systems. Learn all about ...

It's not common for a stadium to be a tourist attraction compared to the sporting teams, but the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium which is also known as Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium stands out. This venue was recently established in 2003, which makes it a modern site in India's mountainous region. Explore the distinct details that make t...

Although much of Dharamshala, India, is a busy collection of people, businesses and roadways, there are quiet corners where travelers can explore another part of this exotic land. The Naam Art Gallery is home to Elsbeth Buschmann's gorgeous works of art. This artist made her home in Dharamshala where this gallery was founded back in 2010. It's a pe...

Pay your respects and learn a bit about history when you visit the Dharamshala War Memorial in India. This humble location is a beautiful reflection of the country as the people celebrate their fallen comrades. It's easily accessed via bus, so make the War Memorial a part of your visit to this corner of the world.Exploring historyThere are many war...

Planning for a trip?

Best places to stay in dharamshala.

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Travel stories from dharamshala.

Exploring the Fascinating Facets of Dharamshala

If you're visiting the state of Himachal Pradesh, don't miss the beauty and wonder that's found in the city of Dharamshala.This community is a unique reflection of its surroundings with the Himalayas flanking one side and vast, rolling landscapes stretching out on the opposite side. Explore the many...

Top 10 Treks in Himachal Pradesh

Trekking through the Himalayas is often associated with climbing Mount Everest, but not everyone is a professional climber. In fact, hikers of all ages and athletic levels can move through this mountain range when you know where the best trails are located.Venture to the Indian state of Himachal Pra...

Dharamshala - A Scenic Paradise

The hilly town of Dharamshala (Dharamsala) in the scenic state of Himachal Pradesh is a holiday destination, par excellence. It is in the Kangra Valley amidst the beauty of the majestic Dhauladhar mountain range.The town is divided into Upper and Lower Dharamshala and is known for its natural beauty...

FAQs on Dharamshala

How to reach dharamshala.

The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, and the nearest major railway station is Pathankot. You can also reach Dharamshala by road, and buses or taxis are available from nearby cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.

What is the best time to visit Dharamshala?

• March to July is considered one of the best times to visit Dharamshala. The weather is mild, and the surroundings are lush and green. The temperature is comfortable for outdoor activities, treks, and sightseeing.
• December to February can be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from -1°C to 9°C (30°F to 48°F). It's a great time for those who wants to enjoy snowfall.

Is Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj the same?

Dharamshala refers to the broader region, while McLeod Ganj is a suburb of Dharamshala. McLeod Ganj is often referred to as "Little Lhasa" due to its Tibetan influence and being the residence of the Dalai Lama.

Are there any trekking opportunities in Dharamshala?

Yes, there are several trekking options in and around Dharamshala. Triund trek is a popular one, offering panoramic views of the Dhauladhar Range. Other treks include Kareri Lake trek, Indrahar Pass trek, and the trek to Bhagsu Nag.

More places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Places To Visit In Dharamshala

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Places To Visit In Dharamsala

• Filter (38)
• Trekking (5)
• Buddhist Temple (5)
• Historical Site (2)

1. Dalai Lama Temple

1 km from city center 1 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

The Dalai Lama Temple, also known as Tsuglakhang Temple, is a politico-religious centre in Dharamsala located close to the home of the Dalai Lama. The gigantic complex houses massive statues of Avalokiteshvara, Padmasambhava and the main attraction is the enormous idol of Buddha sitting on an elevated pedestal. The chief prayer wheel is also located here.

2. St. John in the Wilderness Church

2 km from city center 2 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

St. John in the Wilderness, built in 1852, is one of the most important churches in Himachal Pradesh. Located near Dharamshala and on the way to Mcleodganj, this neo-gothic church was built in dedication to John the Baptist. Set amidst lush deodar forests, this peaceful edifice is known for its Belgian stained-glass windows. 

3. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

0 km from city center 3 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayan mountain range lies the quaint Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, also known as the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium. Located at a height of 1,457 masl amidst the Dhauladhar mountain range in Kangra valley, it is one of the highest sports grounds in the world.

4. Gyuto Monastery

5 km from city center 4 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Popularly known for the study of Tantric Meditation and Philosophy, the Gyuto Monastery is one of the beautiful monasteries located in Dharamshala. Founded in 1959 it was established for preserving and promoting the tradition of Black Magic, popularly known as Tantric Teachings, of the great teacher Ksongkhapa.

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6 km from city center 5 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Triund is an easy trek in Himachal Pradesh that offers you an escape into the majestic Himalayas. Situated a few kilometres from Dharamshala at an altitude of 2828 m, it is a place perfect for trekking with amazing trails offering scenic views of the entire Kangra Valley. A trek to Triund is short and simple. It can be done from either McLeodganj or Dharamkot, which is 2 km ahead of McLeodganj.

6. Bhagsu Falls

5 km from city center 6 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

The Bhagsu Falls are situated 2 km away from McLeodganj. Set amidst lush greenery and nature in its most pristine form, these falls are majestic and grand and should not be missed by all tourists travelling here.

Top Hotels In Dharamshala

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7. Norbulingka Institute

2 km from city center 7 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Named after the summer residence of The Dalai Lama at Lhasa, the Norbulingka Institute is a popular learning centre that is located 7.5 km from the district of McLeodganj in Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. Built in a traditional Tibetan Style, it is set in a beautiful garden of meandering paths, flowing streams, small waterfalls and ponds with the spectacular Dhauladhar Mountains of the Outer Himalayas rising prominently in the background.

8. Dharamshala to Mcleodganj Ropeway

58 km from city center 8 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

The ropeway between Dharamshala and Mcleodganj, called the Dharamshala Skyway, is a 1.8km long ropeway that takes one from Dharamshala to Mcleodganj in just 5 minutes. It features 18 gondolas as well as 2 stations and 10 towers, with the top station being in front of the Dalai Lama Temple.

9. War Memorial

2 km from city center 9 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

The War Memorial in the forests of Dharamshala was created to commemorate the memory of those who fought to save our motherland. During the Indo-China War of 1947-48, 1962, 1965, and 1971, and UN Peace Operations, many brave soldiers of Kangra lost their lives as war heroes. Three huge panels of black stone, each 24 feet in height, preserve their memory in stone.

10. Library of Tibetan Works and Archives

1 km from city center 10 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

With artifacts and manuscripts that date back to the 12th century, the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives is one the pioneering institutions in the study and research of Buddhism. As many as 80,000 manuscripts, 600 Buddhist artifacts and a three dimensional, wood carved mandala of the Avalokiteshwara, the library is one of the most revered and compassionate Bodhisattva in Buddhism.

11. Dharamkot Studio

3 km from city center 11 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

A small rustic space located in the village of Dharamkot about 2km from Mcleodganj, Dharamkot Studio is a hidden gem where people can take pottery lessons. The lessons include trying to get the hang of the art using simply the hands and the wheel. The studio is also known for reviving black pottery, and trained instructors guide locals and tourists every step of the way.

12. Bhagsunag Temple

3 km from city center 12 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Surrounded by lovely pools and lush greenery, the Bhagsunag Temple is one of the oldest ancient temples located about 3 kilometres from Mcleodganj. Also popularly known as Bhagsunath Temple, it is highly revered by the local Gorkha and Hindu community.

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Dharamshala

Sightseeing

Things to do in Dharamshala for a Thrilling Hill Town Vacay

13. Naddi View Point

4 km from city center 13 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Located in Mcleodganj’s Naddi Village, Naddi View Point is the perfect location for catching a glimpse of the spectacular Dhauladhar ranges, especially during the winters when the peaks are covered in snow. A trek or drive to Naddi View Point, specifically in the evening, will allow visitors to catch the sunset against the mountains, take photographs, and there is also the option to see the distant mountains through a telescope.

14. Namgyal Monastery, Mcleodganj

3 km from city center 14 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Overlooking the mountain ranges of Dhauladhar, the Namgyal Monastery is situated within the Tsuglagkhang complex. This complex also is the proud home to the residence of Dalai Lama, among various other shrines, temples, bookstores, souvenir shops etc.

15. Dal Lake

3 km from city center 15 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Dal lake is located 11 km away from lower Dharamsala and lies in between hills and deodar trees. With its name taken from the famous and breathtaking Dal Lake of Srinagar, the lake is surrounded by rugged mountains and towering deodar trees.

16. Dharamsala Tea Garden

2 km from city center 16 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

The smallest tea region of India, Dharamshala has beautifully lined and organized tea gardens across the Kangra Valley. It is known for its good quality tea and is available for purchase in many shops across Dharamshala and Mcleodganj.

17. Tibet Museum

2 km from city center 17 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Located inside the Tsuglagkhang complex, in the suburban district of McLeodganj in Dharamshala, the Tibetan Museum which is very popular and has a collection of brilliant forms of Tibetan Art, which include history documents, pottery, handicrafts, paintings etc.

18. Indrahar Pass Trek

10 km from city center 18 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

The trek to Indrahar Pass is a fairly easy one, being the most picturesque trail starting from Mcleodganj, covering Lahesh and Triund Caves, and lasts about 14 km single way. The scenic beauty of this trek is so spellbinding, even the simplest conifers and mountain ranges appear majestic. April to October is the major peak time for trekking on this Pass, so make sure your arrangements are in place.

19. Naam Art Gallery

0 km from city center 19 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Located in Dharamshala near Mcleodganj, Naam Art Gallery is often visited by people interested in the art. Even people with a creative bent of mind can spend some relaxed and enjoyable time here, looking around at a number of works as well as spiritual artworks. 

20. Trekking in Dharamsala

3 km from city center 20 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

A number of treks are available in Mcleodganj close to Dharamsala, ranging from simple to difficult terrains. There are also a number of institutes that provide training as well as tools and facilities for trekking. One can trek from Mcleodganj to Triund, which is a very short and modest trek. 

21. Kangra Fort

16 km from city center 21 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Situated on the outskirts of the town of Kangra, in the state of Himachal Pradesh, the Kangra Fort is witness to thousands of years of grandeur, invasion, war, wealth and evolution. This mighty fort traces its origins to the ancient Trigarta Kingdom, which is mentioned in the Mahabharata epic.

22. Paragliding in Dharamshala

3 km from city center 22 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

With no shortage of hilly terrain in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, paragliding has become a significant adventure sport in the area. It is a beautiful opportunity for adventure lovers to fly like birds, surrounded by the gorgeous mountain ranges and the tea gardens under the clear blue skies. Indrunag and Bir Billing are two of the most popular spots for paragliding in Dharamshala.

3 km from city center 23 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Naddi, a charming village located in the Dharamshala region of Himachal Pradesh, is known for its spectacular views of the Himalayas. It is located at an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level in the upper reaches of the Kangra valley.

24. Kalachakra Temple

2 km from city center 24 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Located inside the Thekchen Chöling temple complex in Mcleodganj near Dharamsala, Kalachakra Temple is a popular Tibetan temple. It is known for housing the stunning murals of Kalachakra (Wheel of Time) which are linked to the Avalokitesvara, of whom Dalai Lama is a manifestation.

25. Jwala Devi Temple

38 km from city center 25 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Jwala Devi Temple is dedicated to Jwala Ji - a Hindu Goddess depicted by a set of eternal flames. One of the 52 Shakti Peethas in India, it is believed that the tongue of Goddess Sati fell where the Jwala Devi Temple is now situated. A novel temple which does not have an idol, the five aartis conducted at Jwala Devi Temple are the main attraction.

26. Namgyalma Stupa

1 km from city center 26 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Situated in the village of Upari Barol, the Namgyalma Stupa is a dome-shaped structure modelled after stupas constructed in the 3rd century BC during the rule of King Ashoka. The stupa is said to contain the remains of Buddha and is a place of worship and a tribute to the Tibetan soldiers who lost their lives in the freedom struggle. There are numerous prayer wheels around the structure.

27. Masroor Rock Cut Temple

24 km from city center 27 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Situated 32 kms from Kangra in Dharamsala on the Nagrota- Surian Link Road, Masroor Rock Cut Temple is an archaeological site which is currently in ruins. The complex is a combination of 15 rock cut temples designed in the Indo- Aryan style of architecture, believed to have been built in the 8th century (as per relics).

28. Aghanjar Mahadev Temple

5 km from city center 28 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Located 5 kms away from the town of Dharamsala in Khaniyara, at the foothills of Dhauladhar, Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Believed to have been built around 500 years ago, the temple is nestled amidst bounteous forests and emerald mountain peaks.

29. Nechung Monastery

1 km from city center 29 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Part of the Tsuglagkhang Complex, Nechung Monastery is one of the most popular attractions in Dharamshala and is of extreme importance in Tibetan and Buddhist culture. The monastery is located below the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives and is where the State Oracle or the Nechung Oracle resides. The establishment walls are beautifully painted, and it is set in a calm environment amidst the greenery and mountains of the area.

30. Dharamshala International Film Festival

30 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

One of the leading independent film festivals of the county is the Dharamshala Film Festival, held every year in November. The festival is for filmmakers, volunteers and travellers from far and wide. Showcasing the best of Indian and international cinema, the DIFF provides a platform for hitherto unknown artists to take centre stage.

31. Kangra art museum

3 km from city center 31 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

The Kangra Museum is dedicated to the brilliant marvels of Tibetan and Buddhist artwork and their rich history. Its is situated near the bus station of Dharamshala.

32. Mcleodganj Market

3 km from city center 32 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

McLeodganj is famous for its culture, crafts, etc. and tourists flock in from different parts of the world to experience it and be a part of it. The shopping experience in McLeodganj is worth remembering, provided you know how to bargain and purchase the local items of the place such as Tibetan mats and carpets. If you're planning a visit there, see the sights, soak in the scenery, sample the local food and before leaving, grab some souvenirs and gifts from the local markets to carry the feeling and memories of Mcleodganj home with you. As a bonus point, many of the stores on our list give part or all of their proceeds to local relief organisations.

33. Pong Dam

37 km from city center 33 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Built on the Beas River in Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh, Pong Dam Lake is an earthfill reservoir constructed for generating hydroelectricity and for irrigation purposes. Constructed in 1975, the dam is based on the foothills of the Shivaliks. Also known as the Beas Dam, Maharana Pratap Sagar and Pong Reservoir, the region boasts of rich wildlife and is a breeding ground of commercially viable fish. The reservoir is home to a large number of birds and hence, has been converted into a Bird Sanctuary. The region has been declared as one of the 27 international wetland sites by Ramsar Conventions owing to its rich wildlife and vegetation cover.

34. Laka Glacier Trek

34 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

The Laka Glacier Trek or the Snow Line Trek is a 3-day beginner-friendly trek set in the Kangra Valley that takes trekkers up to 10,600 feet. Beginning from Mcleodganj, it goes farther than the Triund trek, passing oak, pine trees, and rhododendron bushes. It covers a distance of 26km, at the end of which lies the magnificent view of the snow-clad Dhauladhar ranges and the Kangra Valley at sunset.

35. Lahesh Cave Trek

3 km from city center 35 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

The Lahesh Cave Trek is a popular trek in Himachal Pradesh that is set in the Dhauladhar ranges, taking trekkers up to an altitude of 3,500 m above sea level, following a trail of 12km. Lahesh Caves, located on the path to Indrahar Pass, serve as a campsite and offer magnificent views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks.

36. View of the Dhauladhar Ranges

2 km from city center 36 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

The Dhauladhar ranges, part of the lesser Himalayan mountains, rise to an altitude of 3,500 m to 6,000 m above sea level and provide marvellous scenic views, especially when snow-clad. There is no dearth of ways to catch a glimpse of these peaks, with some of the most common being trekking; some of the popular treks include the ones to Triund, Lahesh Caves and Laka Glacier.

37. Tsuglagkhang, Mcleodganj

2 km from city center 37 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

The Dalai Lama Temple, also known as Tsuglakhang Temple, is a politico-religious centre in Dharamsala located close to the home of the Dalai Lama. The gigantic complex houses massive statues of Avalokiteshvara, Padmasambhava and the main attraction is the enormous idol of Buddha sitting on an elevated pedestal. The chief prayer wheel is also located here.

38. Guna Devi Temple

6 km from city center 38 out of 38 Places To Visit in Dharamshala

Set amidst oak and deodar forests in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Guna Devi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the Goddess Kali. One of the best ways to reach the temple is through a guided trek that begins from Naddi village and provides an opportunity to admire the area’s natural beauty and the view of the Dhauladhar peaks around. People can take photographs while on the trek and after having reached the temple.

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Dharamshala

Hotels in dharamshala, the kunal, dharamshala, the kashmir house, dharamshala, the dhauladhar, dharamshala, the club house, mcleodganj, dharamshala, the bhagsu, mcleodganj, dharamshala.

The High snow clad Dhauladhar ranges form a magnificent backdrop to the hill resort of Dharamsala. This is the principal township of Kangra district and overlooks wide spread of the plains. With dense pine and deodar forests, numerous streams, cool healthy air, attractive surroundings and the nearby snowline, Dharamsala has everything for a perfect holiday. It is full of life and yet peaceful. The headquarters of His Holiness the Dalai Lama are at upper Dharamsala. Covering a wide area in the form of twin settlement, lower Dharamsala (1380m) is a busy commercial centre. While upper Dharamsala (1830m) with the suburbs of Mcleodganj and Forsytheganj, retains a British flavor and colonial lifestyle. The charming church of St. John in the wilderness is situated here and this is the final resting place of Lord Elgin, a British Viceroy of India during the 19th century. There is also a large Tibetan community who have made this place their home. Numerous ancient temples like Jwalamukhi, Brijeshwari and Chamunda lie on the plains below Dharamsala.

ACCESS : Dharamsala can be approached by air from Delhi. The nearest airport is at Gaggal, 13 km away. Pathankot, the nearest broad gauge railway station is 85 km away and the toy train station is 17 km at Kangra. Taxis and Buses for Dharamsala are available at both places. From Pathankot the drive takes about three hours or you can drive from Delhi (526 km) via Chandigarh, Kiratpur and Bilaspur and takes 12 hours. From Delhi and Shimla luxury buses ply to Dharamsala. HPTDC operates a regular Luxury coach from Delhi to Dharamsala.

CLIMATE : In winter, the temperature can drop to freezing point when heavy woolens are required. During summer, the climate is mild and light woolens / cottons are recommended.

Hotels near Dharamshala – Mcleodganj

The tea bud, palampur, the neugal palampur, the yatri niwas, chamundaji, the jawalaji, jawalamukhi, places of interest.

The variety Dharamsala offers for sightseeing ranges from temples, churches and monasteries to museums, ancient towns and places of natural beauty. Every season and every spot has its own special offering.

KANGRA ART MUSEUM, KOTWALI BAZAR : This treasure trove of the Kangra Valley displays arts, crafts and rich past, artifacts that date back to the 5th century. It includes a gallery of Kangra’s famous miniature painting and a representative collection of sculptures, pottery and anthropological items. Shamianas and dresses used by local royalty, old carved doors, jails, lintels and pandals are also on display Coins, jewelry and manuscripts are included. A section houses the work of contemporary artists, sculptures and photographers.

WAR MEMORIAL : At there start of town, landscaped lawns and a web of narrow paths fill a pine grove where a monument has been raised to commemorate the post independence war heroes of Himachal Pradesh.

KUNAL PATHRI : A 3 km level walk from the Kotwali Bazaar leads up to this rock temple.

ST. JOHN’S CHURCH : 8 km from Dharamsala, between Forsythganj and Mcleodganj is the charming church of St. John in the Wilderness. Under the shade of deodar branches, a memorial has been erected over the body of the British Viceroy, Lord Elgin who died at Dharamsala in 1863. There is a well tended old graveyard on these grassy sloped.

MCLEODGANJ : Often called the Little Lhasa, at 1770m is the residence of His Holiness, The Dalai Lama. The Tibetan Government in exile has been head quartered here for over three decades. The impressive monastery has larger than life images of the Buddha, Padmasambhava and Avaloktwshwara. The large Tibetan community and the presence of traditional architectural designs drawn from Tibet have enhanced the area. Tibetian handicrafts and garments are available on sale every Sunday. The Tibetian Institute of Performing Arts is just a km away and organises a ten day festival from the second Saturday of April.

DAL LAKE : 11 km from Dharamsala and surrounded by deodar trees this is an enchanting and serene picnic spot.

BHAGSUNATH : Close to fresh springs, this ancient temple is 11 km from Dharamsala. It is a popular picnic spot and the famous slate quarries are close by.

CHINMAYA TAPOVAN : 10 km from Dharamsala on the banks of the rivulet Bindusaras, is an ashram complex established by the late Swami Chinmayananda, a noted exponent of the Gita. The complex includes a 9 meter high image of Lord Hanuman, a magnificent Rama Temple, a meditation hall, a school, and a health and recreation centre.

NURPUR : 66km from Dharamsala and 26 km from Pathankot, Nurpur is famous for old fort and a temple of Brijraj. Nurpur acquired its name in 1672, when Jahangir, the Mughal Emperor named it after his wife Nurjahan.

OTHER ATTRACTIONS : The temple of Jwalamukhi, Chamunda Devi and Brijeshwari Devi are other pilgrim centers close to Dharamsala. The fort of Kangra and Ma11ngarh are other attractions.

ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES AND SPORTS : Between May and October, the Dhauladhar ranges offer an enormous variety of trekking and rock climbing.

FISHING : The 20 km stretch of the river Beas between Nadaun and Pong Dam offers ample opportunities in angling for Mahaseer.

SHOPPING : For local handicrafts visit Kotwali Bazar, Tibetan handicrafts and carpets are available at Mcleodganj.

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States › Himachal › Top Destinations › Dharamshala

Dharamshala Travel Guide

Not long after arriving in Mcleodganj, a suburb in Dharamsala, you realize that the comparisons drawn between it and Little Lhasa are hardly exaggerated. It is only to be expected though, as it is the abode of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. Dharamshala is blessed with the same beauty as other parts of the state, but what sets it apart is its strong Tibetan character. You see prayer fluttering prayer flags, monasteries at regular intervals and monks attired in bright saffron robes. There are tourist spots in plenty, but mostly, Dharamsala is about unwinding and enjoying the serenity that is found here in abundance.

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An Insight into Dharamshala Tourism

Dharamsala is located in the district of Kangra in Himachal Pradesh. What many people don’t know is that there are two parts of the city. One is known as Lower Dharamshala, which is its commercial center and dotted with markets, courts and the famous Kotwali Bazaar, where you come across items of everyday use. Upper Dharamshala is home to Mcleodganj as well as other structures which remind you of its colonial past. The two different parts of the city have something different to offer. As a tourist, it offers you the opportunity to unwind and take in the beauty of the surroundings.

The colossal snow dressed peaks of Dhauladhar Range overlook Dharamsala at all times. The much talked about Tibetan Buddhist culture can be seen at Mcleodganj, which is dominated largely by the Tibetan community. It is a suburb of the city, and is situated at an impressive height of 2,082 meters. Here, the main street is dotted with shops selling Tibetan arts & crafts, along with eateries that serve a variety of Tibetan dishes, from Thenthu to momos. Most of the market centers around the Tsuglagkhang Complex, which is the official home of the 14th Dalai Lama. Naturally, it is a pilgrimage site for Tibetan exiles. Tourists visit it to see the Dalai Lama, explore the museum, watch the monks debate and just revel in the positive vibes exuded by the place.

After you are done seeing the Tibetan side of Dharamshala, head towards the St. John’s Church in the Wilderness, which is a grand structure from the days of the British Raj. Constructed in 1852, it is built in the neo-Gothic style of architecture. It is one of the few buildings in the region which remained intact despite the devastating earthquake of 1905. Lord Elgin was buried in its compounds. While visiting it, watch out for its Belgian stained glass windows.

Bhagsunag Falls is another place to visit during your trip to Dharamsala. From a distance, it resembles a long white silk sheet which is split in two as it approaches the base. It lies in close proximity to Mcleodganj and the Bhagsunag Temple. It is best to visit the waterfall from July to September. Dharamshala has a rich past, and visitors are introduced to it at Kangra Art Museum. To reach it, you have to head towards Kotwali Bazaar. It is not big in size, but contains an interesting collection of items. Some of these are the famous miniature paintings of Kangra, arts and crafts, and sculptures that date back to the 5th century.

In one section of the museum, you can see the traditional dress of the region, while in the other, you come across old carved doors, pandals and furniture, all used by royalty in the past. Its collection also includes coins, manuscripts and jewellery. Norbulingka Institute is another place which you should not miss visiting during your trip to Dharamshala. No sooner do you enter it, than you are greeted by Japanese styled gardens, lots of trees and the distinct style of Tibetan architecture. Among the other tourist attractions of Dharamshala is the War Memorial. It is difficult to miss this one, as it is located at the entrance of the city. It is the silence and the opportunity of spending time in the company of nature that draws people towards it, apart from its obvious historical significance.

Dharamshala is also home to several temples, with the two most famous among them being the Chamunda Devi Temple and Kunal Pathri Temple. Of these, Chamunda Devi Temple is located about 15 km from the main city of Dharamsala. It is revered as a Shakti Peeth and is a part of the Char Devi Temple in Himachal Pradesh. The temple reveres the goddess in her most fearsome form, as a destroyer of evil. Even though you may find it crowded, you will find the visit to be rewarding. The water tanks inside the temple complex are believed to be about 700 years old. The other temple, Indru Nag Temple, affords lovely views of Dharamshala and is noted for its serenity. It is associated with an interesting legend according to which, Lord Shiva blesses a demon who worships him deeply but is ultimately transformed into a snake after being cursed by a saint.

Then there is the Gyuto Monastery, which was built in 1989 to commemorate the receiving of Nobel Peace Prize by the Dalai Lama. It was formally inaugurated by him in 1996. Set against the backdrop of the mountains, the monastery is painted in a deep yellow color which makes it visible from a distance. You have to climb a good number of steps to reach the entrance. Inside the temple, thangkas hang from the ceiling of the temple. There are statues of Lord Buddhas and other deities on the altars.

Popular Tourist Attractions in Dharamshala

Dharamsala, a famous place to visit in Himachal Pradesh, is a place to relax, unwind, chill out and celebrate the serenity enveloping you. You can visit temples, enjoy sightseeing, visit the waterfall, shop for souvenirs and arts & crafts, seek blessings at the monasteries and temples & enjoy the various Tibetan dishes.

Namgyal Monastery

Bhagsunag Falls

St. John's Church

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Best Hotels & Resorts to Stay in Dharamshala

Finding the right accommodation will hardly be a problem while visiting Dharamshala. There are hotels catering to both luxurious and budget travellers. You can select a staying option according to your budget and preference. There are several 4 star and 3 star hotels which you can choose from. You can also choose to stay in budget hotels in Dharamsala.

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Unveiling The Top 8 Must-Know Facts For Your Dharmshala Trip

8 things to know before visiting dharamshala.

Situated amidst the soaring Dhauladhars ranges at an average elevation of about 5000 feet lies the enchanting mountain town of Dharamshala, renowned worldwide as the residence of His Holiness Dalai Lama and the Tibetan exile community. From gushing wooded valleys and quaint monasteries to mist-cloaked tea estates and vibrant multi-cultural streets, Dharamshala promises soul-stirring experiences galore.

As you gear up excitedly for the impending magical sojourn, here are 8 essential pointers on the hill town basics - from best visiting seasons and transport choices to cultural sensitivities, stay options and responsible travel habits for maximizing your Dharamshala holiday memories!

1. Optimal Time for Visiting Dharamshala

Blanketed in thick pine forests, Dharamshala enjoys pleasant temperatures for most of the year. However, ideal visiting months span across late February to early June when refreshing blue skies predominate with moderate 15 C to 30 Caverage daytime temperatures allowing comfortable regional exploration. Early November to Mid-February winter months bring in chilly winds and several layers become essential especially at higher reaches towards McLeodganj or Dharamkot. Meanwhile the July to September monsoon spell witnesses frequent downpours which can hamper travel mobility at times due to vulnerability of the hilly terrain.

So ideally target the summer months of March to early June for memorable experiences. Do check online weather forecasts on approaching western disturbances which occasionally bring unseasonal rain even during peak spring. Always carry adequate woolens and rain protection regardless of visiting month to counter whacky mountain elements beyond prediction.

2. Adjusting smoothly to High Altitude

Unlike tropical plains and coasts, Dharamshala region's average 5000 feet elevation typifies cooler climes and relatively oxygen depleted air characterizing Himalayan atmospheres which affect some travelers unused to the heights.

Visitors with history of pulmonary illnesses or recovering from infections must consult doctors before embarking on hill journeys. Senior citizens and infants deserve greater care monitoring health changes more closely during initial days. While acute symptoms like persistent headaches, nausea or shortness of breath require immediate medical intervention, temporary unease like tiredness and loss of appetite remains relatively common and improves gradually as bodies adjust through sufficient hydration and rest.

Avoid overexertion the first couple days by just relaxing or exploring minimally. Do simple breathing exercises intermittently and snack small portions through the day. The magic panaceas of sweet honey, ginger tea and Tulsi help greatly too! Given a day or two, fresh rejuvenation permeates through and souls start inhaling deeply the crisp Tibetan-scented air as magical new adventures unfold henceforth.

3. Cultural & Etiquette Sensitivities

Among Dharamshala's biggest assets remains the wonderful harmonious blend of diverse ethnic Himalayan communities thriving soulfully amidst gorgeous natural splendor. With the significant presence of Tibetan governance bodies and staunch Buddhist followers owing to the Dalai Lama factor, cultural sensitivity assumes greater importance, especially when visiting spiritual sites.

Attire & Conduct: Refrain from wearing revealing clothes at religious places. Maintain cleanliness avoiding littering. Speak softly in temples avoiding blaring chatter.

Prayer Spaces & Rituals: Follow clockwise circumambulation traditions around shrines and stupas instead of crossing directly. Refrain sitting with soles pointing towards deities which causes offense. Observe the fragrance protocol adding incense if entering prayer halls. Allow locals first preference near altars.

Photography: Always ask permission before capturing shots of monks, wall frescoes or chant inscription panels. Maintain distance using telephoto lenses versus getting uncomfortably close. Avoid positioning holy statues below waist height while clicking.

Such pleasant conduct earns much goodwill from local communities, enhancing precious travel memories!

4. Accommodation: Assessing Ideal Options

From backpacker hostels and homestays to boutique spa resorts, Dharamshala offers wonderful stay options across all budgets.

McLeodganj appeals perfectly for first-timers and Buddhist pilgrims given its touring convenience to the Tsuglagkhang Complex, Dalai Lama Temple and surrounding monasteries which remain at walkable distances. However, the area tends to stay constantly crowded with tourists.

Bhagsu/Dharamkot promise quieter respites amid sylvan settings with breathtaking Dhauladhar vistas, located just 1.5 km uphill from McLeodganj yet relatively peaceful. Many mid-range hotels, guest houses and charming Airbnbs dot these parts.

Newer suburbs like Sidhpur and Norbulingka have great lodging choices too for balancing accessibility, economy tariffs plus family comfort. Evaluate group priorities between locations, comfort levels, budget and interests before finalizing ideal Dharamshala properties guaranteeing memorable holidays!

5. Exploring by Public Transport

For utmost convenience minus parking troubles or driving complexity along steep terrain, utilize Dharamshala's reliable local bus shuttle services well connected across McLeodganj, Bhagsu, Dharamkot, Sidhbari and Kotwali Bazaar hubs of lower Dharamshala town. These red Himachal roadways buses charge nominal fares keeping transit economical.

Additionally, notable interest places around McLeodganj including St John's Church, Shiva Cafe and Tsuglagkhang Complex remain at easy walking distance. Consider taking foot for photography trips and short visits, minimizing vehicular pollution while discovering cultural facets easily missed when driving hurriedly past.

6. Sampling Tibetan Cuisine

Beyond familiar continental or Punjabi cuisine comforts, allow taste buds to partake exciting Tibetan food discoveries awaited soulfully around poplar-fringed balconies or atmospheric local joints.

Kickstart mornings with steaming butter tea or sweet tingmo dumplings. Tuck into warm savory mouthfuls like piping hot momos, thukpas and gyathuk meat noodles interspersed with juicy shapale Tibetan meat pies or golden fried wontons for memorable ethnic feasting against charming hill views minus extra frills or cost tags.

Do ask local recommendations on the best little places beyond commercial streets where exile Tibetan families pass down generations-old recipes relatively unchanged. Or try regional Tibetan joints within McLeodganj run voluntarily by local monasteries as livelihood wings. End with exotic Tibetan desserts like saffron rice kheer or sweet tingmo fried bread for blissful high altitude food adventures that linger lyrically long afterwards.

7. Digital Connectivity Pointers

Unlike metro lifestyles, communication infrastructure remains relativelymoderate still around Himalayan towns which face geo-climatic challenges. While most hotels and cafes now provide WiFi, connectivity may prove patchy at offbeat villages or away from town centers.

Opt for leading networks like BSNL or Airtel over Jio/Vodafone for best regional coverage with least call drops or wavering data. Carry important downloaded maps, hotel reservations and local contact digits on phone avoiding absolute reliance on mobile internet. Also consider installing useful offline apps related to weather, health, translations etc.

On arrival, do purchase low-priced temporary prepaid SIM cards which prove useful as data back-ups when roaming onto alternate connections if one telecom network gets oversubscribed in the locality. Wherever possible, use judiciously restaurant or hotel WiFi for coordinating travel arrangements smoothly.

8. Traveling Responsibly

With popularity of Himalayan destinations soaring yearly, conscious efforts minimize tourism's negative footprints through choices benefiting regional ecology and communities:

Transport: Prefer electric or hybrid vehicle options over pollution emitting cars and bikes. Walk more for nearby commutes benefiting health too!

Plastic: Say no to packaged items and carry reusable fabric bags which help local ecosystems.

Community Interaction: Volunteer if possible for local developmental initiatives while avoiding slum tourism.

Souvenirs: Never buy items made from wildlife products. Instead pick eco-friendly local organic handicrafts.

Charity: Contribute respectfully towards credible regional NGOs over direct individual giving.

Thus by traveling sensibly, visitors play vital role in sustaining Dharamshala's exotic natural treasures and heritage ethos as scenic sanctuaries upholding peace and cultural diversity for generations to come.

So come immersed optimistically in everything profound blessing this extraordinary Himalayan haven - from spiritual solace and cultural warmth to nature's magical restorative powers awaited devotedly for the open hearted high up in Dharamshala's divine abode! Bon Voyage.

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29 Best Things To Do In Dharamshala & Mcleodganj | Itinerary

Here are the best things to do in Dharamshala that you should include in your Dharamshala and McLeodganj itinerary.

Dharamshala, the beautiful winter capital of Himachal Pradesh is a traveller’s delight in more ways than one. The things to do in Dharamshala and the places to see are soul-soothing, to say the least. Dharamshala and its suburb, McLeodganj which is also known as, “ Little Lhasa ,” together have a plethora of activities and places that are sure to charm visitors.

The presence of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government-in-exile lends a unique aura to Dharamshala. It comes alive with the vestiges of the colonial presence seamlessly integrated with Tibetan cultural influence and ancient Hindu culture. Any Himachal Pradesh itinerary would remain incomplete if you were not to include a Dharamshala and McLeodganj itinerary within it.

We present here a comprehensive list of places to visit in Dharamshala and McLeodganj , and you can plan a 2 Day trip to Mcleodganj and Dharamshala from the places and activities that we have listed out. So, you can either fit in places and activities for a Dharamshala/Mcleod Ganj Itinerary of 2 Days , or factor in more days for your trip.

Table of Contents

Top Things To Do In Dharamshala And McLeodganj

One of the top things to do when in Dharamshala or Mcleodganj is actually to do nothing! Just soak in the beautiful vibes of the Dhauladhar ranges, and let the mountain air rejuvenate your body, mind, and soul. But if you are out there to see places and experience activities, there is much to experience amidst the swaying cedar trees that greet you at every twist and turn in the road.

Things To Do In Dharamshala | Dharamshala Mcleodganj Itinerary | Dharamshala Itinerary 2 Days

There is a lot to do in Dharamshala and McLeodganj . There is something that is bound to appeal to all types of travellers, across age groups. Nature spreads its arms wide for nature lovers with amazing viewpoints and treks. For those looking for spiritual solace, there are temples, churches, and monasteries that beckon visitors with their divine aura.

For those who want to delve deep into history and heritage, museums and other heritage sites stand with open doors. Finally, for adventure junkies, there are many exciting activities at Dharamshala and McLeodganj. In a nutshell, whether you are travelling with your family, solo, or as a couple, Dharamshala has something exciting for you to discover and experience.

Experience Spirituality In The Monasteries – Things To Do In Dharamshala

Dharamshala is a place where the sounds of the rustling leaves of Cedar trees and mystical Buddhist chants merge harmoniously in the air. One of the main reasons why tourists flock to Dharamshala is the presence of the Dalai Lama . Apart from the Dalai Lama temple, many other Buddhist monasteries add to the place’s spiritual aura.

Visit Dalai Lama Temple (Tsuglagkhang Complex)

The Tsuglagkhang Complex, popularly known as the Dalai Lama Temple , is the main motivation for most people to visit Dharamshala. It is a sacred place and a pilgrimage destination for Buddhists , especially Tibetans. It houses the official residence of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government-in-Exile. A monastery where more than 200 Buddhist monks live and study is also housed within the complex. The Buddhist temples of Thekchen Choeling and Kalachakra are also housed within the complex.

Visit Theckchen Choeling Buddhist Temple

The Theckchen Choeling Temple is located within the larger Tsuglagkhang Complex. It is the main temple inside the complex and the principal deities are Shakyamuni Buddha , Padma Sambhava or Guru Rinpoche, and Avalokieshwara.

The temple architecture is spartan, but the images of the deities are truly resplendent and embellished with gold, silver, and other precious metals, as well as precious stones. The Theckchen Choeling temple also has stupas fashioned from bronze and bell metal. The temple also houses about 100 volumes of Kangur which are ancient Buddhist texts believed to contain the teachings of Buddha that were directly spoken by him. About 225 volumes of Tengyur, a collection of commentaries on Buddhist teachings are also treasured in the temple.

Visit Namgyal Monastery 

The Namgyal Monastery is the personal monastery of the Dalai Lama and is the one that is actually known as the Dalai Lama Temple . It is located within the Tsuglagkhang Complex. It is a monastery that includes all the four main lineages of Tibetan Buddhism, namely, Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug , in the curriculum and rituals of the monastery.

The Namgyal Monastery was originally established by the second Dalai Lama, Gedun Gyatso in the 15th century in Tibet. It was relocated to Dharamshala after the Dalai Lama established the Tibetan Government-in-Exile there. It is also known as Namgyal Tantric College , and more than 200 monks study the tenets of Buddhism here.

Visit Kalachakra Temple 

The Kalachakra Temple is also located within the Tsuglagkhang Complex. Kalachakra which literally translates as, “wheel of time,” is a Buddhist tantric practice. The Kalachakra temple has beautiful murals of Avalokiteshwara and Sand Mandalas. The Namgyal Monastery trains monks in various aspects of Kalachakra including initiation, construction of Sand Mandalas and other rituals and dances of the Kalachakra ceremony.

Visit Gyuto Monastery 

The Gyuto Monastery is located in the Sidhbari suburb of Dharamshala town. It is about 12 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple. This is a monastery that is dedicated to the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.

Visit Nechung Monastery 

The Nechung Monastery is considered sacred as it is the seat of the State Oracle of Tibet. After the formation of the Tibet Government-in-Exile in Dharmashala, the Nechung Monastery has been established in McLeodganj. It is located about 2 kilometres from the Tsuglagkhang Complex.

Visit Dip Tse Chok Ling Monastery 

The Dip Tse Chok Ling Monastery , also referred to as Tsechokling Monastery is located at a distance of under 2 kilometres from the main Dalai Lama Temple in Upper Dharamshala. It belongs to the Gelug lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Like many other monasteries, the original one was established in Tibet during the 18th century. The monastery in Dharamshala in the current location came up in 1984.

Visit Mani Lakhang Stupa 

The Mani Lakhang Stupa which is also known as the Prayer Wheels Stupa was established in Dharmashala under the guidance of the third Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche. The Mani Lakhang Stupa was established in the year 2001 and is a hallowed spot for Buddhists. The Mani Lakhang Stupa is located within 2 kilometres of the main Dalai Lama temple.

Come Close To Divinity In The Temples – Things To Do In Dharamshala

If Buddhist chants fill the air of Dharmashala with spirituality, the chants from Hindu temples merge seamlessly with them. There are a few ancient temples that have many interesting legends associated with them. These temples are linked to ancient Hindu mythology and are places that you must visit when in Dharamshala or McLeodganj .

Visit Bhagsunag Temple 

The Bhagsunag temple lends its name to the village in Mcleodganj, where it is located. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva and the serpent God, Nag Devta. The temple is small and within the temple complex is situated a holy spring, whose sacred waters are believed to possess healing properties.

The Bhagsunag Temple is associated with the legend of a King named Bhagsu, who was challenged to a duel by the Serpent God and was vanquished. The water that he had taken from the Nag Dal Lake, fell, creating a spring at the place. The Bhagsunag temple is at a distance of about 3 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple, in McLeodganj.

Visit Aghanjar Mahadev Temple 

The Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to be over 500 years old. The temple is located in a suburb of Dharamshala, called Khanyara, at a distance of about 11 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

The temple nestles in a scenic location, surrounded by lush forests, mountains, and streams. Legend has it that in the Mahabharata, Arjun was on his way to Kailash to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva for the Kurukshetra war. Lord Shiva appeared before Arjuna at the spot where the Aghanjar Mahadev temple is located.

Visit Shri Durveshwar Mahadev Temple 

The Sri Durveshwar Mahadev Temple is a Shiva temple that is located on an elevation that overlooks the Dal Lake. It is believed that the legendary Rishi Durvasa, had meditated here, hence the name Durveshwar Mahadev. The current temple is built by a person named Kaleshar Singh Rana, according to a board near the entrance to the temple.

The Dal Lake and the Durveshwar Mahadev temple are considered as sacred as the Mani Mahesh Lake and Kailash Parvat. The place has been referred to as Chhota Mani Mahesh. People who are unable to undertake the arduous Mani Mahesh Yatra, visit the Dal Lake and bathe in its sacred waters, after which they take darshan of Lord Shiva at the Durveshwar Mahadev temple.

The Durveshwar Mahadev Temple is located about 5 kilometres from the Dalai Lama Temple, on the way to Naddi Village from McLeodganj.

Visit Mata Chintpurni Temple 

The Mata Chintpurni Temple is located exactly opposite the Sri Durveshwar Mahadev temple and overlooks the Dal Lake. This is a small temple set in serene surroundings and is not to be confused with the Chintpurni temple in the Una District of Himachal Pradesh. That temple is a Shakti Peeth, where a part of Sati’s feet is believed to have fallen.

Mata Chintpurni Devi is a manifestation of Durga and is also known as Maa Chinnamastika – the one with a detached head. The temple is located about 5 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

Experience Serenity In The Churches – Things To Do In Dharamshala

Dharamshala was a hill station that was established by the British . Many vestiges of the colonial period have survived the ravages of time and the devastating earthquake that rocked the Kangra valley in 1905.

Visit St John In The Wilderness Church

St John In The Wilderness Church is a very old church that dates back to the colonial period. The beautiful St John In The Wilderness Church lies beneath the benevolent shade of giant cedar trees and is a serene place to visit. The church was built in the year 1852.

A memorial to James Bruce, the 8th Earl of Elgin and Viceroy and Governor-General of India in the 19th century, is located within the churchyard. Many Britishers who died in the earthquake lie buried along with James Bruce in the Church Yard of St John in the Wilderness.

This church is a beautiful example of neo-gothic architecture, complete with exquisite stained-glass windows. The Church is located about 3 kilometres from the Dalai Lama Temple in a suburb of Dharamshala called Forsythganj.

Experience Nature’s Magic – Things To Do In Dharamshala

You are sure to notice a spring in your walk as soon as you step into the enchanting environs of Dharamshala. The sheer beauty of the Dhauladhar ranges , the forests, the gurgling streams, the cascading waterfalls , and the never-ending stretch of Deodhar trees are simply mesmerising. Here are some of the beautiful spots where nature unfolds its magic in McLeodganj and Dharamshala.

Visit Bhagsu Falls

A small trek from behind the Bhagsunag Temple takes you to the foot of the Bhagsu waterfalls . The water cascades down in a steady stream from a height of about 20 metres. and creates a small rocky pool. The real beauty of the Bhagsunag waterfall can be appreciated in the rainy season when the water is in full flow.

During winters the area is covered by snow. One can also trek to the top of the waterfalls. From the Bhagsunag temple, one needs to trek about a kilometre to reach the foot of the falls. The falls are located at a distance of about 4 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

Visit Dal Lake

The Dal Lake is a captivating waterbody that is fringed with tall Deodhar trees on one side. Sacred temples overlook the lake, giving it a mystical aura.

The Dal lake is also known as, “ Chhota Mani Mahesh ,” and is considered as sacred as the Mani Mahesh Lake in Kailash. Dal Lake is about 5 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

Visit Naddi Village View Point

Naddi Village is a picturesque village located about 6 kilometres from the Dalai Lama Temple. It is the starting point for many treks. The Naddi Village View Point offers a ringside view of the majestic Dauladhar range of mountains.

The snow-capped mountains can be viewed at close range from the vantage point that Naddi Village offers. The presence of dainty cafes and Yoga and meditation camps, make Naddi Village a much sought-after destination in Dharamshala.

Educate Yourself At The Museums, Memorials And Heritage Sites – Things To Do In Dharamshala

One of the first things to do in Dharamshala is to visit the museums and other heritage and historic sites, as this would give a better understanding of the place. Museums, especially open windows to the past and foster learnings about a place that are not found in any book.

Visit The War Memorial In Dharamshala

The War Memorial in Dharamshala is a place you must visit to pay your tribute to our country’s war heroes. The Dharmshala War Memorial was built in 1972 as a tribute to the Himachal War Heroes who laid down their lives defending the country. The names of the martyrs are etched in gold on three curved walls that are part of the main memorial monument.

The three curved walls represent the three wings of the armed forces. The names of the martyrs are engraved on five of the faces of the walls while a mural can be seen on the sixth face. Beautiful fountains and landscaped gardens provide a sense of calm to the place. The State War Memorial is in Dharmshala town, located about 6 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

Visit The Tibet Museum

The Tibet Museum is an effort to preserve the Tibetan Culture and history and educate the world about it. The Tibet Museum consists of permanent and temporary exhibitions. The permanent exhibition is titled, “I am Tibetan and this is my story.” It showcases the real story of Tibet and Tibetans as opposed to the versions propagated by China. The exhibits showcase various aspects of Tibetan history and culture.

Visit The Norbulingka Institute

The Norbulingka Insitute is a place that lovers of art and crafts are sure to be impressed with. It is a place that was established to preserve and nurture the traditional arts and crafts of Tibet. It offers employment to around 300 Tibetans and also ensures that the ancient arts and crafts of Tibet live on in Dharamshala.

Visitors can appreciate Tibetan art and craft in the Norbulingka Institute and also shop for them here. If you are keen on learning the arts and crafts, workshops are also offered. Guided tours of the institute are available for visitors. The Norbulingka Institute is about 10 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple, on the Palampur-Dharamshala road.

Visit Kangra Fort

The Kangra Fort is a historic fort that is believed to be the oldest fort in India dating to the 4th Century BCE. It is believed to have been built by a king of the Katoch Dynasty . The Katoch Dynasty finds a mention in the Mahabharata, in the Chakravyuha incident in which Abhimanyu, the son of Arjuna is killed by the Kauravas.

The Katoch King Susharma Chandra, who was fighting alongside the Kauravas was tasked with distracting Krishna and Arjuna, while Abhimanyu was trapped in the Chakravyuha. The Katoch king ruled over the land known as Trigarta and Kangra is believed to have been a part of this kingdom that is mentioned in the Mahabharata. The ruins of Kangra Fort hold many a story from the lost chapters of history and mythology. The Kangra Fort is located about 20 kilometres from Dharamshala.

Other Experiences Not To Miss – Things To Do In Dharamsala

If you are in Dharamshala or McLeodganj, you must include these activities in your itinerary and a list of things to do in Dharmshala.

Visit HPCA Stadium

A visit to the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium is a must, especially for cricket lovers. Never mind if there is no match, you can still visit the stadium. Visitors are allowed into one of the stands in the stadium and can spend time looking at the beautiful cricket ground.

The green grounds set against the backdrop of snow-clad mountains of the Dhauladhar range kissed by floating clouds are indeed a wonderful sight to behold. There is a ticketed entry into the HPCA stadium.

Take A Cable Car Ride

The Dharamshala Skyway is a ropeway that connects Dharamshala and McLeodganj across 1.8 kilometres in length. The journey can be done by cable car in less than 10 minutes.

The cable car ride is a thrilling experience, as one can feast on panoramic views of the mountain ranges and dramatic landscapes below.

Shop At Kotwali Bazar

There are ample opportunities for shopping in Dharamshala from modern malls to the quaint little shops that line McLeodganj and Dharamshala. Kotwali Bazar is the main shopping area in Dharamshala. The Bazar is essentially for the locals to shop for their daily necessities, but makes for an interesting stroll.

Shop At Bhagsu Market

The street that leads to the Bhagsunag temple is a colourful lane with shops selling souvenirs and other articles on either side of the street.

Visit The Cafes of McLeodganj

Your visit to McLeodganj and Dharamshala cannot be complete without chilling out in one or more of its famed cafes. The Cafes at McLeodganj and Dharamshala are colourful and have beautiful locations and are quirky places to hang out.

Some of the top cafes in Dharamshala are Illiterati, Yellow Llama, Himalayan Musafir, Woeser Bakery, Moonpeak, and Carpe Diem, among others.

Things To Do In Dharamshala – Treks In And Around Dharamshala

Himachal Pradesh is one of the favourite haunts of trekkers. Its hilly and forested terrain lures trekkers in search of nature and adventure. Places like Manali , Kasauli, Bir, Shimla , and Dharamshala, are the places to embark on the most beautiful and fulfilling treks in the country. Dharamshala is the starting point for many of the treks that showcase the beauty of the Dhauladhar ranges.

Triund Trek

The Triund trek is the crown of the Dhauladhar treks . It is the most famous and sought-after trek from Dharamshala. It is a scenic trek and is about 6.8 kilometres from Dharamshala. The trek is an easy one except for the last kilometre which has many twists and turns.

Kangra Trek

The Kangra trek brings alive the beauty of the Kangra valley in all its splendour. The total distance covered is 27 kilometres. The trek provides an experience of both trekking and camping in the beautiful locales of the Kangra valley.

Indrahar Pass Trek

Indrahar Pass Trek is a trek that is about 10.7 kilometres long and takes the trekkers through dramatic landscapes amidst the mountainous regions. The views on the trek include meandering rivers, streams, and panoramic views of the valleys.

Trek To Kareri Lake

Trek To Kareri Lake is a 10-kilometre-long trek that takes the trekkers to the beautiful surroundings of the Kareri lake. The enchanting lake and the presence of the Pir Panjal mountain ranges in the backdrop make for a beautiful camping experience.

How To Get To Dharamshala | Mcleodganj

Dharamshala is the headquarters of the Kangra District in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India.

• Delhi To Dharamshala distance is about 468 kilometres
• Amritsar To Dharamshala distance is about 201 kilometres
• Chandigarh To Dharamshala distance is about 237 kilometres
• Pathankot To Dharamshala distance is about 85 kilometres
• Dalhousie To Dharamshala distance is about 117 kilometres
• Dharamshala To Mcleodganj distance is about 6 kilometres

The nearest airport to Dharamshala is Kangra Airport in Gaggal, at a distance of about 13 kilometres. It is a regional airport and has flights to and from Chandigarh , Hisar, and Delhi . The alternate airport is Pathankot at a distance of about 90 kilometres.

The closest broad gauge railway head to Dharamshala is Pathankot. There is a narrow-gauge railway from Pathankot to Jogindernagar. Kangra Mandir is a railway station on this line which is at a distance of 32 kilometres from Dharamshala.

Dharamshala and McLeodganj are well connected by road to other towns and cities of Himachal Pradesh. Himachal Roadways buses to Mcleodganj are available from Delhi and other places.

If you are planning a visit to Dharamshala/Mcleoganj, you can book your flight tickets right here through Cleartrip  or Makemytrip  or  CheapAir  or  Priceline  and fly to Pathankot or  Amritsar . If you are thinking of a   road trip , do check out the rental car and bus options.

Best Season To Visit Dharamshala | Mcleodganj

Dharamshala can be experienced in its different forms during different seasons. Dharamshala weather is cool and pleasant during the summers and makes for a cool getaway from the plains between March and June. Temperatures during this time range between 20-35°C.

If you want to experience the romance of the rains in Dharamshala then head out there between July to September, when the temperatures range between 18-22°C.

If you love the winter vibes, then the best season to visit Dharamshala is from December to February when the temperature ranges between 4-7°C. Suffice to say that the beauty of Dharamshala is enchanting throughout the year.

Mcleodganj Dharamshala Itinerary – Where To Stay In Dharamshala | Best Hotels In Dharamshala / Mcleodganj

There is no dearth of hotels to stay in Dharamshala and McLeodganj . There are luxury hotels and resorts, budget hotels, as well as hostels. We stayed at the Spring Valley Resort , which is located very near the Bhagsunag temple. You can book the Spring Valley Resort or any other hotel right here.

Click to book  Spring Valley Resort , one of the best places to stay in Mcleodganj.

You can  book Hotels  in Mcleodganj,  Hotels in Bir ,  Hotels in Dharamshala ,  Hotels in Palampur or any destination right here through any of the options here –  TripAdvisor  or Cleartrip or  makemytrip or  goibibo or  Booking.com or  HotelsCombined or  Agoda  and save a lot by getting the best deals on booking your stay.

Travel Around Himachal Pradesh, India

There is so much to see and experience in Himachal Pradesh. If you prefer package tours and looking for these, you can plan your Himachal Pradesh itinerary and book your  Himachal Pradesh trips , right here.  So go ahead and book online places to see in Himachal Pradesh and popular activities in Himachal Pradesh and cover attractions in Himachal Pradesh.

McLeodgang Images | Dharamshala Images

We hope you liked reading our blog post about the best things to do in Dharamshala . We are sure that the information provided here will help you in charting out your own Dharamshala itinerary .

We leave you with some lovely images of Dharamshala and McLeodganj that are sure to make you pack your bags!

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23 thoughts on “29 best things to do in dharamshala & mcleodganj | itinerary”.

WOW, your pictures are stunning and there is a lot to do indeed in Dharamshala & Mcleodganj! I would love to check out the Treks In And Around Dharamshala, look so beautiful

So much to do and see. I would love to visit that waterfall.

I do love to travel but haven’t been able to in a while. It seems like you visited a fair few places there. The temples and monasteries must have been interesting to see they are all so different.

Wow! There’s a lot to do there! I would love to visit The Theckchen Choeling Buddhist Temple! My whole family would love to be here!

I can hardly imagine doing half the things during a visit anywhere and I love that there’s at least 29 right here! It seems like Dharmshala and Mcleodganj are very culture-rich areas and filled with such beautiful scenery in between. I would love to visit the monasteries and churches the most because I’m just in love with their architecture.

This looks like a wonderful place to visit and I love exploring the world and will have to add this to my bucket list 😉

This looks like a fun place to visit. A lot of fun things to do. Thanks for sharing this.

I would so love to see all of this in person. Absolutely beautiful!

Love the St. John church. Beautiful pics. I would love to visit one day. Thank you so much for sharing!

I love doing nothing in new cities! It’s the perfect way to get to know your surroundings.

Wow…it is hard to decide what to cover and what to leave for next trip. I didn’t know that Dharamshala has so much to cover. Now, I must make a trip to this beautiful place.

Looks like a great place to visit and explore. There is so much history to learn too, for sure.

So many beautiful and unique places to visit. Love to discover these natural corners!

I remember going on a gondola ride when we were in Colorado one year when I was younger. I’d love to go on one again here.

These pictures and description has reviewed the old memories. But I guess we missed visiting so many places mentioned in your post, may be next time!!

You’ve covered all the points here. If I could read your itinerary before our trip! We missed some spots you have mentioned here. However, we might plan a trip in near future. Would definitely explore thise places.

I had heard about the beautiful monasteries in McLeod Ganj but didn’t know that there were so many, and such beautiful temples as well. The Dal Lake from Kashmir extends till here?

This is a great compilation of places at Dharamshala and Mcleodganj. I surely plan to visit these places and saving this post for reference.

Amazingly detailed post of an amazing place. I have so many places to visit up north. Dalai Lama temple is something I can’t miss. Dharamshala has both spiritual and historical value with amazing natural beauty.

Whoa, you have suggested so many places that I feel it won’t be possible for traveller like me to cover them in two days. This list fore is a itinerary for seven days. HPCA stadium is something I want to visit and enjoy the game of cricket for couple of hours there.

Dharmashala has been on our list for quite a long time, but exploring it through your post is a great experience. If we cover half of the places as a family that would be an achievement for us.

Oh wow looks like a rich place to visit, I would love to visit all of these places, the temples look very interesting

Mountains are a blessing! These two places are truly heavenly. I have been to Dharamshala and it is so serene. Have visited the other place through your blog too. This is brilliantly covered.

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Ideal duration, starting from, 0177 2625864, http://himachaltourism.gov.in/dharmasala.php, tourism & civil aviation department director, tourism & civil aviation department, block no. 28, sda complex, kasumpti, shimla-171009., ideal for couples, dharamshala tourism guide.

Nestled amidst the beautiful hills of the Kangra Valley, Dharamshala is a city in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. This place is famed to be the holy residence of Dalai Lama and houses hundreds of Tibetan monks in exile. Dharamshala tourism will take you through the best time of your life. This town is surrounded by cedar forests on the edge of Himalayas making it a perfect tourist and backpacking destination in India. This Dharamshala travel guide will assist you to cover most of the town and make your experience cherishable for the rest of your life! Dharamshala has a beautiful trek in the mighty Dhauladhars, Triund , which is an easy trek done by most of the tourists visiting this city.

It is a 22-curve, about 2 to 4 hour 9 km long trek that will make you drop your jaw with the splendid views it gives. The Triund hilltop is a paradise for all nature enthusiasts and adventure lovers. Spend a night at the top in a tent, you’ll definitely love this experience! Moreover, since Dharamshala is inhabited by a number of Tibetans, you can find many Buddhist monasteries in the city. With Namgyal Monastery being a popular one, there are many other monasteries people give a visit including HH Dalai Lama Temple or Tsuglagkhang Complex, Dip Tse Chok Ling, Gyuto Monastery and many more. Surely visit at least one of them if you are curious to explore the Tibetan culture at its best! Tourism in Dharamshala is not just limited to the stunning views of the mountains and the monasteries. This city has a huge number of tourist places.

One of the best places to visit in Dharamshala includes Bhagsunag Waterfalls, which is a perfect place to enjoy the music of nature while relaxing and rediscovering ourselves. A short hike from Bhagsunag Temple will lead you to these beautiful waterfalls. Also, Dal Lake is another very popular tourist attraction in Dharamshala . You can enjoy boating and sightseeing at this smaller version of Dal Lake in Srinagar. The road beyond leads to Sunset Point which will give you spectacular views of sun and its red light. You will be pleased with the items you’ll get to buy in the local markets of Dharamshala. These markets are very famous for their Tibetan clothing and handicrafts. Other than these Tibetan items, you will also find Himachali offerings like Ponchos. For some really good places to eat at in Dharamshala , the places that you must need to try include Lung Ta Japanese Restaurant, Khana Nirvana, Hope Cafe, Shanti Cafe, Shiva Cafe, Cafe Illiterati, Morgan’s Place, Tibet Kitchen, Nick’s Italian Kitchen, and Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen. Go on a food exploration on foot and try all specialities of these eateries.

If you are wishing for more in Dharamshala, then visit this hill city and explore the simple mountain life and go deep in the Tibetan culture. With this Dharamshala tour guide , we will provide you with everything you need to know for a better vacation in Dharamshala!

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Let the experts guide you to the best of this mesmerizing destination

Triund Hill in Dharamshala

Let the spellbounding beauty of the Triund trek route in the Kangra valley and the Dhauladhar hills, near Dharamshala, Himachal enchant you. This serene and majestic trek offers panoramic views of the hills from the top at various times of the day – moonrise, dusk, and dawn. Trek through the lush green rhododendron and oak ...

• Hill Station

McLeodganj in Dharamshala

Mcleodganj in Himachal offers everything a traveller can ask from the Himalayas: spirituality, serenity, and sublimity. A winding road through the Pine tree tunnels on the Dhauladhar mountains leads travellers to Mcleodganj, which is located 10 kilometers north of Dharamshala. Essentially a hilly suburb of Dharamshala, Mcle...

• Sightseeing

Bhagsunag Temple in Dharamshala

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Bhagsunag temple is located in the holy village of Bhagsunag in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh and is a very popular tourist attraction in Dharamshala . This temple is situated around 2 km from McLeodganj Main Square and was constructed in the 18th Century. Because of its unique style of archi...

• Religious sites

Gyuto Monastery in Dharamshala

Originally set up in Tibet, Gyuto Monastery is known for its study in tantric meditation, ritual arts and Buddhist philosophies. A serene monastery of holiness, Gyuto Monastery in Dharamshala is known for its heart-touching history and its tantric studies all over the world. This monastery proves how ancient power of black ...

Cricket Stadium in Dharamshala

The rolling meadows, snow-covered mountain peaks and the oak and coniferous vegetation just adds to the sublime natural beauty of the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium or the HPCA cricket stadium in Dharamshala . Imagine watching a riveting cricket match with the backdrop of misty and snowy mountains all around wh...

• Ideal for families

Things To Do In Dharamshala

Your list of the best things to do, compiled on the basis of actual traveler experiences

Trekking in Dharamshala

Trekking in Dharamshala is a major attraction for those in love with the adrenaline rush that comes from scaling heights and watching the snow peaked mountains come closer to you as you walk towards them. The beautiful lush green trails keep you company, as well as the burbling brooks that fall down from a height of several...

Camping in Dharamshala

Pitch your tents amongst the hilly landscapes of Dharamshala when you go camping here. Triund is one of the most popular treks and spots for camping in Dharamshala . Nestled among the breathtaking Dhauladhar mountain ranges, this hill station is a beautiful sight to behold and lying under the starry skies of this area at nig...

• Ideal for friends

How To Reach Dharamshala

Read about the best & quickest routes to save time & money, as suggested by our travelers

The nearest domestic airport to Dharamshala is the Gaggal Airport also known as the Kangra Airport, which is located at a distance of 15 km from Dharamshala. Daily flights connect the airport to a number of cities in India including the capital. You can book a cab or a taxi to go to Dharamshala from the Gaggal airport which is a mere half an hour journey to reach Dharamshala. For tourists coming from other countries, you can take a flight to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. From there, you can either opt for a bus, cab (490 km with a 10-11 hours journey) or take another flight from IGI Airport to Gaggal Airport and reach Dharamshala similarly as above.

Dharamshala does not have a railway station of its own. To reach Dharamshala by railways you have to get down at the nearest railway station to Dharamshala which is Pathankot railway station in Punjab, about 86 km from the city of Dharamshala . You can take a cab from the station to reach Dharamshala or a bus from the Pathankot Bus Stand towards McLeodganj which should take about 3 to 4 hours to reach the city Dharamshala. Chandigarh Railway station is also very common among tourists coming via train. You can take a train to Chandigarh at a distance of 253 km from Dharamshala, which connects major Indian metro cities. You have to take a bus towards Dharamshala or hire a cab to reach the city which should take about 5 to 6 hours.

Being one of the most visited places in India by foreign tourists, this city is accessible via excellent road facility. NH 154 and NH 503 lead to this beautiful city of Dharamshala. A road journey should simply just be as enjoyable and pleasant as Dharamshala itself. You can opt to self drive or hire a cab. Delhi sets the base for people coming from long distances. There are many agencies that provide vehicle on rent and cab services to Dharamshala you can get in Delhi. Also, buses ply daily to Dharamshala from Kashmiri Gate ISBT in Delhi mostly being semi-sleeper Volvos for about 1000 to 1500 INR per seat. This journey takes about 10 to 11 hours. The buses usually run overnight.

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FAQ's of Dharamshala

Is dharamshala safe to travel to.

Yes, it is completely safe in Dharamshala. One will find hundreds of tourists anytime they visit the place. Moreover, the locals are quite friendly and helpful.

What are the best stay options for a solo traveller?

Backpackers Hostel, McLeod Ganj and Zostel, Bir are the top options for a person travelling alone. These are the hostels introduced with the concept of getting travellers from different countries and places together at a very nominal rent that is ideal for a solo traveller.

Is Triund Trek suitable for all?

The Triund trek is suitable for most people. It is an easy trek of 11km with an uphill trek of 4-5 hours.

Is paragliding at Bir safe?

Paragliding at Bir is quite safe. Just follow the instructions properly. Do ask your para-pilot for his license to make sure he is an expert. However, no adventure activity is 100% safe.

What things can I buy in Dharamshala?

Dharamshala has plenty of shops selling Himachali clothes and various kinds of handicrafts mostly associated with Buddhism and Tibet.

Where should I eat in Dharamshala?

The market in McLeod Ganj will offer you a vareity of cuisines. Tibetan, English and Indian food is easily available. There is a cafe named 'Shiva Cafe' in Bhagsunag , which is a must try in Dharamshala, serving great continental food. Accessible by only foot, it takes about an hour hike to reach the cafe.

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Top 10 Places To Visit In Dharamshala

Dharamshala is located in the upper reaches of the Kangra valley in Himachal Pradesh and is placed at an average altitude of 1,475 meters above sea level. The city is surrounded a thick cover of deodar cedar trees and is one of the major strong holds for the Tibetan refugees and the seat of the 14th dalai lama of the Tibetan sect of Buddhism. The town due to its picturesque surroundings and the presence of the Dalai Lama has made the town a popular tourist destination, both for the Indians and the foreign tourists. Here’s the list of the best places you must visit in Dharamshala .

1. Tsuglagkhang Complex

• Famous for: Tibetan Culture, History, Pilgrimage.
• Tickets: No entry fee.
• Opening Timings: Open all days (5am to 8pm).
• Duration: 1 hour.

About Tsuglagkhang Complex

There is no better place to take a glimpse at Tibetan culture than Tsuglagkhang Complex . This place is is the official home of the 14th Dalai Lama and is the largest Tibetan temple outside Tibet. The place is a major pilgrimage site for exiled Tibetans and is also heavily visited by tourists from all over the world.

Things to Do at Tsuglagkhang Complex

• Namgyal Cafe.
• Tibetan museum.
• Visit the Kalachakra Temple.
• Pay your respects at Buddhist shrine.

2. Namgyal Monastery

• Famous for: Tibetan Culture, History.
• Opening Timings: Open all days (5 am to 8:30 pm).
• Duration: 1-1.5 hours.

About Namgyal Monastery

Namgyal Monastery was established by the 3rd Dalai Lama in 1575 and was relocated to Dharamshala following the 1959 Tibetan uprising. The monastery is one of the major learning and cultural centers of the Tibetan populated in Dharamsala. The monastery currently houses around 200 Tibetan monks and is one of the most frequented places in Dharamshala.

Things to Do at Namgyal Monastery

• Meditation.
• Observe Tibetan Culture.
• Pay your respects at the Buddhist Shrine.

• Famous for: Architecture, Photography, History, Religion.
• Opening Timings: Open all days from 6am to 6pm.
• Distance from Dharamshala: 1 hr 36 min (46.6 km) .

About Masrur

Masrur is famous for its various rock-cut temples that date back to the 8th century AD. The carvings in the temples are finely detailed and are similar to that of the Ellora caves in Maharashtra and contain various images of the Hindu deities like Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshmana from the oldest Hindu epic, Ramayana.

Things to Do near Masrur

• Visit the Kangra Valley.
• Go to the Shiva temple.
• Take a trip to Palampur.

4. McLeod Ganj

• Famous for: Nature, Photography, Tibetan Culture, Viewpoints.
• Opening Timings: Open all days.
• Duration: 1-2 Days.

About McLeod Ganj

With an average elevation of 2,082 meters above sea level, McLeod Ganj is named after Sir Donald Friell McLeod who was the Lieutenant-Governor of Punjab under whom the area was developed. The place is known for its various attractions including the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama. The place is one of the most frequented spots in Dharamshala and is famous for its Tibetan culture, handicrafts and temples. The Hanuman Tibba is the highest peak at the height of 5,639 meters above sea level and can be viewed from McLeod Ganj.

Places of interest in Mcleodganj

• Tibet Museum.
• Bhagsu Waterfalls.
• Tsug La Khang Shrine.
• Tibetan Children’s Village.

5. Kareri Lake

• Famous for: Adventure, Nature, Photography.
• Duration: Half a Day.

About Kareri Lake

A perfect place for adventurers and hikers, Kareri Lake is an unexplored gem of the Dhauladhar range. It’s not easily accessible by roads and therefore not a much visited site but its isolation has helped in its preservation. This location also serves as a base camp for trekkers moving towards Dhauladhar range.

Things to Do at Kareri Lake

• Visit an ancient Shiva Shakti Temple here.

6. Gyuto Monastery

• Distance from Dharamshala: 42 min (20.8 km).

About Gyuto Monastery

One of the oldest and important monastery, Gyuto Monastery was established by the disciple of the first Dalai Lama in 1474 in eastern Tibet. It was re established near Dharamsala after Chinese invaded Tibet and forced Tibetans to flee to India. It now houses over five hundred monks who reside here spending their time in meditation and learning Buddhism philosophy. Dedicated to handing down the teachings of its founder, Gyuto Monastery is a must visit for people wanting a glimpse into Buddhism philosophy and Tantric meditation.

Things to Do around Gyuto Monastery

• Visit the nearby Norbulingka Institute .

7. Kangra Museum

• Famous for: History, Miniature Paintings, Culture and Society.
• Tickets: 10 INR for Indians and 50 INR for foreigners.
• Opening Timings: Open daily (Except Mondays and Public Holidays)10 am to 1.30 pm & 2 pm to 5pm.

About Kangra Museum

Kangra Museum houses various articles and artifacts that are significant to the Tibetan Buddhists and the Kangra Valley culture. The various manuscripts, handicrafts, pottery place here date back to the 5th century and the facility also contains a library.

Things to Do near Kangra Museum

• Visit the gallery.
• Shop for souvenirs.
• Take a look at the library.

8. Kangra Fort

• Tickets: 150 INR for Indians and 300 INR for foreigners.
• Opening Timings: Open all days from 9am to 6pm.
• Duration: 1-2 hours.

About Kangra Fort

Kangra Fort was the seat and residence of the one of the oldest existing dynasties in the World. The Katoch rulers of Kangra belong to the lineage of the rulers of Trigarta mentioned in the Hindu Epics Ramayana and Mahabharata and also in Alexander the Great’s war records. The fort complex contains several well detailed halls and watchtowers along with a couple of temples that date back to the 9th century AD.

Things to Do near Kangra Fort

• Visit the many temples.
• Eat at the restaurants.
• Pay a visit to the Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum .

9. Dal Lake (of Dharamshala)

• Famous for: Nature, Photography.
• Opening Timings: Open all days from sunrise to sunset.
• Duration: 30 mins.

About Dal Lake

The Dal Lake in Dharamshala is named after its eponymous counterpart in Jammu and Kashmir. The lake is spread across 1 square kilometer and resembles the lake at Kashmir. It is one of the popular picnic spot and is surrounded by the thick deodar and juniper forests. The Kali temple located near the banks is home to a marvelous annual fair.

Things to Do at Dal Lake Dharamshala

• Boat Riding.
• Pay your respects at Shiva’s shrine.

10. Naddi Village

• Famous for: Nature, Adventure, Serenity.
• Duration: upto 8 hours for trekkers.

About Naddi Village

This quaint and serene village provides some of the best views of the nearby terrain. Naddi Village is mostly visited by trekkers going towards Mcleodganj but recently it has also become popular among other tourists. Its serenic beauty, favourable climate and the many fairs have attracted many who come here to relax in the lap of nature.

Things to Do at Naddi Village

• Backpacking.
• Visit the echo point.
• Take a trip to Dal Lake nearby.
• Witness the many fairs ( April-June).

Other attractions in and around Dharamshala include Gyuto Monastery, Bhagsunag Temple, Jwalamukhi Devi Temple, Norbulingka Institute and Tea gardens. Being renowned in the world for its distinctive blend of the Kangra and Tibetan culture, Dharamshala is one of the most frequented tourist places in India. The place is also famous for its amazing views it is also nicknamed as ‘Little Lhasa’ due to the huge number of Tibetan settlements located here. The above-mentioned places are few of the most popular tourist places in Dharamshala and are a must visit.

Some More Tourist Destinations Of Himachal Pradesh:

• Must Visit Places In Malana
• Must Visit Places In Palampur
• Must Visit Places In Bir

About Rohit

2 thoughts on “Top 10 Places To Visit In Dharamshala”

How to organise the meeting with H.H.Dalai Lama? I have a group of French Tourists. Regards.

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• McLeod Ganj
• Tsug La Khang complex
• Masroor Rock Cut Temple
• Kareri Lake
• Gyuto Monastery
• Bhagsunag Temple
• Kangra Art Museum
• Kangra Fort
• Namgyal Monastery
• Naddi Village
• Best Time To Visit Dharamshala
• Dharamshala
• Lahaul And Spiti
• Rohtang Pass
• Pong Dam Sanctuary
• Best Time To Visit Himachal
• Hill Stations in Himachal

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Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS / Created : Jun 1, 2024, 08:00 IST

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Whether you're seeking adventure in the mountains or tranquillity amid nature, choosing the right time to visit this picturesque destination can greatly enhance your experience.

Whether you're seeking adventure in the mountains or tranquillity amid nature, choosing the right time to visit this picturesque destination can greatly enhance your experience. Read less

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Dharamshala Tourism – A Blend of Spirituality and Scenic Beauty

Dharamshala, located in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India, is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of spirituality and scenic beauty,adventure and a pleasant climate. It is a place that has gained international recognition as the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet. Dharamshala Tourism is incomplete without trying diverse range of food availaible  here . You can enjoy street  food like momos, thukpa, Tibetan Noodles  and   Tibetan butter tea. Let's talk about some other key attractions that make Dharamshala tourism a favored choice among travelers:

1.Dalai Lama Temple Complex: Also known as Tsuglagkhang Complex, it is the spiritual center of Dharamshala and the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama. The temple holds great value for Tibetan Buddhists and serves as a place of worship and meditation. Visitors can witness the serene atmosphere and the Dalai Lama’s teachings.

• Best time to visit – spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November) seasons.
• How to reach – The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport located about 15 kilometers from Dharamshala

2.Kangra Fort: Located about 20 kilometers from Dharamshala, Kangra Fort is one of the oldest forts in India. This historical fort provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Kangra Valley and houses ancient temples and ruins. Visitors can plan a trip to explore the nearby attractions Bajreshwari Devi Temple, and Kareri Lake – it’s a perfect picnic spot.

• Best time to visit – October to March
• How to reach – Direct buses are available from New Delhi to Kangra and the journey takes around 12 to 13 hours.

3.Triund Hill – Most preferred by trekkers and adventure seekers, Triund Hill is one of the most beautiful places in Dharamshala. It offers an unforgettable camping experience amidst nature and allows you to wake up to magnificent sunrise views.

• Best time to visit – September to November
• How to reach – Once you reach McLeod Ganj, the trek to Triund Hill starts from the Galu Devi Temple, which is about 2 kilometers from McLeod Ganj’s main square.

4. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium – The Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, also known as the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium or HPCA Stadium, is a renowned cricket venue located in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India. It has hosted several international cricket matches, including (ODIs), T20Is, and IPL matches.

• Best time to visit – Dharamshala Cricket Stadium hosts matches throughout the year. So, if you specifically want to witness a cricket match at the stadium, you can plan your visit accordingly.

check out this blog – https://himachal.blog/tourist-place-in-kangra/

5. War Memorial – The War Memorial in Dharamshala is a significant landmark dedicated to the memory of the brave soldiers from Himachal Pradesh who sacrificed their lives serving the Indian armed forces.The Main Monument consists of three curved walls in black marble bearing the inscribed names of the those who laid down their lives in the service of the motherland on five of their faces and a mural on the sixth.

• Best time to visit – Autumn is a great time to visit, the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and enhances your overall experience.

6. Bhagsunath Temple – Bhagsunath Temple of Lord Shiva, is a sacred place that offers a spiritual experience. It has a holy water pool, believed to have healing properties. The temple is located close to the famous Bhagsu Waterfall, which is a major attraction for visitors.

• Best time to visit – Spring season (March to April)
• How to reach – You can hire a taxi or take a short walk from McLeod Ganj. It is approximately 2 kilometers from the main square of McLeod Ganj.

8.Dal Lake – Dal Lake is known for its lush greenery, pine forests, and snow-capped mountains, creating a serene and picturesque environment. Visitors can enjoy boating on Dal Lake, which is a popular activity. You can rent rowing boats or pedal boats to explore the lake at a leisurely pace and enjoy the serene surroundings.

• Best time to visit – The summer season allows you to fully appreciate the serene beauty of Dal Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.

9.Norbulingka Institute – The Norbulingka Institute is a renowned center for Tibetan arts and culture located near Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, India. It’s famous for its stunning Tibetan art and craftwork. Visitors can also explore Tibetan Buddhism and witness religious ceremonies and rituals.

• How to reach – It is located approximately 8 kilometers from McLeod Ganj, and the journey takes around 30 minutes by road.

10. Tibetan Museum – The Tibetan Museum is one of the best places to go in Dharamshala. It features a wide range of exhibits that showcase various aspects of Tibetan history and culture. Visitors can explore displays of traditional Tibetan artifacts, historical photographs, traditional costumes, and other significant cultural objects.

Best time to visit – March to July is a good time

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