dharamshala best places to visit

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• 30 Amazing Places To Visit In Dharamshala In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Dharamshala is a scenic and panoramic hill station, tucked away in the Himalayas. With the Dhauladhar ranges and thick deodar forests in the background, Dharamshala has become an important highlight in most Himachal tour packages. As the place of residence of His Holiness – the Dalai Lama – this picturesque destination is not only popular among tourists but among spiritual seekers and religious travelers. Dharamshala boasts of jaw-dropping backdrop, stunning lake, vibrant monasteries, colorful temples, sparkling waterfalls, and vintage forts & museums. To make your trip to Dharamshala more fascinating and organized, here is the list of places to visit in Dharamshala . And don’t just visit them; take time to explore and discover their real beauty and charm.

30 Best Places To Visit In Dharamshala

Dharamshala is a stunning place in the mountains in Himachal Pradesh. Head here during the summer with a group of friends or solo. From February to June is believed to be the best time to visit Dharamshala that will make you capture the best of this place! Find below the best places to visit there.

• Tsuglagkhang Complex : Visit This Religious Centre
• Namgyal Monastery : Most-Visited Tibetan Temple
• Kareri Dal Lake : Gape At The Surreal Beauty
• Bhagsunag Temple : Pay A Visit With Fam
• Bhagsunag Waterfalls : Watch The Water Cascading Down
• Gyuto Monastery : Built In The Memory Of Soldiers
• Kangra Fort : One Of The Oldest Forts Of India
• Kangra Art Museum : Delve Into Some Brilliant Artworks
• Masroor Rock Cut Temple : Admire The Rock Cuts
• Naddi Village : Explore The Remote Place
• St. John In The Wilderness Church : Pay A Visit
• Dharamshala Cricket Stadium : Highest Cricket Ground
• Library Of Tibetan Works And Archives : See The Amazing Museum
• War Memorial : A Tribute To The Martyrs Of Kangra
• Triund : Haven For Trekkers
• Jwala Devi Temple : A Place Of Beliefs
• Tibetan Art Museum : Get A Glimpse Of Tibetan Culture
• Aghanjar Mahadev Temple : Take Blessings From Lord Shiva
• Kalachakra Temple : See The Murals Of Wheel Of Time
• Dharmsala Tea Company : Admire Vast Plantations
• Dharamkot : A Quaint Hill Station
• Indrahar Pass : Trek Your Way To Beauty
• Hanuman Ka Tibba : Get Ready For Some Adventure
• Nechung Monastery : Take A Plunge Into The History
• Norbulingka Institute : Get In-Depth Knowledge Of Tibetan Life
• Lahesh Caves : Explore The High-Altitude Tourist Places
• Chinmaya Tapovan : Reside In A Tranquil Setting
• Naam Art Gallery : Admire The Artworks
• Chintpurni Devi Temple : Offer Prayers
• Tsuglag Khang: A Serene Temple

1. Tsuglagkhang Complex: Visit This Religious Centre

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Located on the Temple Road, the Tsuglagkhang Complex is a religious center and one of the important points of interest in Dharamshala. It was built when His Holiness the Dalai Lama visited India for the first time in 1959. The complex is one of the most important places to visit in Dharamshala in one day and comprises of Dalai Lama’s abode and monastery. Nowadays, this complex also houses public and private sessions of Dalai Lama along with numerous Tibetan dance and music performances.

Location: Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don’t miss: Namgyal Monastery, the Tibetan museum, the in-house bookstore and library, monastery café, and the prestigious private residence of His Holiness Opening hours: 6 am to 7 pm Entry fee: Free entry for all

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2. Namgyal Monastery: Most-Visited Tibetan Temple

As a major learning centre, Namgyal Monastery in McLeodganj is one of the most popular tourist places to visit in Dharamshala . With almost 200 monks, the famous monastery is the largest Tibetan temple outside the geographical boundary of Tibet. This monastery looks vibrant and pulls the crowd around the year. The prayer wheels, the décor, the Tibetan-style architecture, and the overall colour scheme is visually appealing and mesmerizing.

Location: McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don’t miss: The prayer room and meditation sessions of monks Opening hours: The monastery is open from 6 am to 7 pm and the café is open from 10 am till 10 pm, daily Entry fee: No cost

3. Kareri Dal Lake: Gape At The Surreal Beauty

Spread over 1 sq km, Kareri Dal Lake is named after its marvellous counterpart of Kashmir. Its spell-binding beauty and calm setting make it one of the most popular places to see in Dharamshala . The stunning lake is surrounded by lush green deodar vegetation and snow-capped mountains.

The lake is located at an elevation of 1775 m and its serenity and charm attract a lot of travellers. It is also a site of a base camp for trekkers leading to expeditions on nearby hills.

Location: Kangra district Don’t miss  Boating, picnic, and the Kali-Shiva temple located on the banks. You may be lucky to experience the gala annual fair held there while you’re sightseeing in Dharamshala . Opening hours:  Open 24 hours Entry fee: No entry fee

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4. Bhagsunag Temple: Pay A Visit With Fam

Bhagsunag temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most ancient temples and one of the most frequented tourist places to see in Dharamshala. Every year thousands of pilgrims flock to this temple, nestled in lofty hills and winding trails. The surrounding beauty of this temple has made it one of the most mesmerizing tourist attractions in Dharamshala.

Location: Palampur- Dharamshala Rd, Bhagsu Nag, McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh 176216 Don’t miss  A holy dip in the freshwater man-made pool. If you happen to be there in September, do not miss the annual fair held in the Bhagsunag Temple. Opening hours: 6 am to 7 pm Entry fee: None

5. Bhagsunag Waterfalls: Watch The Water Cascading Down

Popularly known as the Bhagsu Falls, this scenic cascade is located few kilometres upslope from the Bhagsunag Temple. It is one of the most important Dharamshala sightseeing destinations. The waterfall is 20 m in height and surrounded by pristine natural beauty. The sparkling cascade of milky white water looks most charming during the monsoon. Hands down, its awe-inspiring natural surrounding makes it one of the best places amid the plethora of Dharamshala tourist places. It is one of the most famous places in the list of places to visit in Dharamshala in two days.

Also, Bhagsunag falls in McLeodganj is a popular trekking stretch and one of the splendid places to see in Dharamshala .

Location: Temple, near Bhagsunag, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215 Don’t miss:  The mesmerizing natural beauty which surrounds the falls. Take a dip in the chilled water and refresh your mind and soul. You can enjoy a small picnic near the torrent and also try some munchies from the café located right next to it. Opening hours: NA Entry fee: None

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6. Gyuto Monastery: Built-In The Memory Of Soldiers

This beautiful monastery is one of the best places to see in Dharamshala . Gyuto Monastery is the residence of Karmapa – the Head of the Kagyu Tibetan Buddhism. It is quite a popular place for sightseeing in Dharamshala courtesy of its research on Buddhist Philosophy, Tantric rituals, and Tantric meditation. This famous monastery was built in the memory of soldiers who devoted their lives to the Tibet Freedom War.

The monastery complex is serene and beautiful and its décor, style, and architecture look amazing. The monastery with the mesmerizing Dhauladhar in its background is one of the finest tourist places in Dharamshala .

Location: Sidhbari, Himachal Pradesh 176053 Don’t miss: The Image of Sakyamuni Buddha. Also, Karmapa’s speech every Wednesday and Saturday is not to be missed. Opening hours: 8 am to 11 pm Entry fee: None 

7. Kangra Fort: One Of The Oldest Forts Of India

Witness awe-inspiring history and marvellous heritage at Kangra Fort, which is one of the popular tourist places in Dharamshala . It is an ancient structure dating back to the 4th century BC. As one of the oldest forts in India and the largest fort in the Himalayas, this royal specimen of architecture was once an abode of the Royal family of Kangra – Katoch Dynasty. The ruins speak for the kind of historical incidents the fort has witnessed. Unveil the truth of Kangra fort history by visiting the place and listening to the stories aforesaid by the locals. This is one of the best places to visit near Dharamshala which offers a close look at the ancient fort. 

Location: Old Kangra, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh 176001 Don’t miss: The jaw-dropping view of Manjhi and Banganga River and Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum. The complex even houses many ancient temples. Opening hours: 9 am to 6 pm Entry fee: INR 150 per person for Indians and INR 300 per person for foreigners.

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8. Kangra Art Museum: Delve Into Some Brilliant Artworks

Located near the Dharamshala bus stand, Kangra Art Museum is a magnificent hub that displays the objects of Tibetan and Buddhist culture, dating back to many centuries. Due to its heritage value, it is one of the most popular places to visit in Dharamshala . The museum started its operation in 1990 and is now considered as one of the not-to-miss sightseeing in Dharamshala .

The museum is known for preserving the ancient traits and ethos of Kangra valley in the form of paintings, statues, fabrics, weapons, utensils, and temple figurines. The museum has one dedicated section for modern painters and sculptors as well.

Location: Kotwali Bazar Rd, Sudher, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215 Don’t miss: Rare collection of coins, anthropological items, pottery, and tribal ornaments. Opening hours: 10 am to 1.30 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm. The museum is closed on Monday and on every public holiday. Entry fee: INR 10 per person for Indians and INR 50 per person for foreigners.

9. Masroor Rock Cut Temple: Admire The Rock Cuts

A historical site, the Masroor temple is known for age-old rock-cut temples that date back to the 8th century AD. This is an upcoming and one of the most liked tourist spots in Dharamshala. There are 15 monolithic temples depicting Indo-Aryan style architecture, depicting various tales of great Indian epics.

Masroor – one of the famous Dharamshala tourist places is mostly frequented by history lovers, art enthusiasts, painters, solo travellers, and nature admirers. The temple carvings are excellent and superbly detailed. They make the place a glorious site of Indian art and of course one of the major Dharamshala points of interest.

Location: Masroor, Lahalpur, Himachal Pradesh 176026 Don’t miss: Carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana displaying Ram, Lakshman, and Sita Opening hours: 9 AM – 7 PM Entry fee: None

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10. Naddi Village: Explore The Remote Place

Naddi is a serene and absolutely charming village, located up the hill, far away from the chatter of the main town. One of the most picturesque places to visit near Dharamshala . Naddi hill point is located in a remote village that offers a mesmerizing view of the lofty mountains, deep plush Kangra valley, and luxuriant deodar forests. On a clear day, you can also view snowy peaks of the Dhauladhar ranges which is why it’s one of the most charming visiting places in Dharamshala.

Location:  Himachal Pradesh Don’t miss: The panoramic view of the surrounding – that is what makes it a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate for families and friends. Stay overnight to experience the most photogenic sunrise. Opening hours: Entry fee: None

11. St. John In The Wilderness Church: Pay A Visit

This is an ancient church that was built in 1852 and is located near Dharamshala on the way to Mcledoganj. The church flaunts the neo-Gothic form of architecture and is famous for its Belgian stained-glass windows. Also, there is a church by the same name in Nainital too, which was built in 1844 and is among the most delightful places to visit in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. Spend some peaceful time here.

Location: Road to Naddi Village from McLeod Ganj, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215 Don’t miss:  The brilliant architecture Opening hours: 8 am to 6:30 pm Entry fee: Free

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12. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium: Highest Cricket Ground

Situated in the mountains in the quaint town of Dharamshala is the Dharamshala Cricket ground which is the top attraction in the city. It ranks as one of the top places to visit in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. As it is located at a height, it is also one of the highest cricket grounds in the world. It is at an altitude of 1,457 meters. The surroundings of the Dharamshala stadium add to the beauty of the place. It is one of the most boosted places by Dharamashala tourism.

Location: Tehsil, HPCA Cricket Stadium, Distt-Kangra, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215 Don’t miss: The awesome views from this point Opening hours: 9 am to 6 pm Entry fee: Free

13. Library Of Tibetan Works And Archives: See The Amazing Museum

Image Source The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives is one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala . Founded by Tenzin Gyatso, this is a Tibetan library in the beautiful town of Dharamshala. This library is an interesting place for the history buffs, as it has books and sources that were saved and relocated during the escape of 1959. One can head here to enhance their knowledge and learning. It is definitely a must-visit place and tops our list of Dharamshala visiting places.

Location: Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215 Don’t miss: The ancient Tibetan artefacts Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm (Sunday closed) Entry fee: None

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14. War Memorial: A Tribute To The Martyrs Of Kangra

The War Memorial is one of the best Dharamshala tourist places that is located amidst the lush green forests of this hill town. The memorial was established to pay tribute to the martyrs of Kangra who lost their lives during the Indo-China War that took place in 1947, 1962, 1965, 1971 and UN Peace Operations. The place is surrounded by pine trees and you can also visit the nearby cafe offering delicious snacks and beverages. It is one of the most famous visiting places in Dharamshala

Location:  Dharamshala Don’t miss: Nature walks Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Entry fee: INR 10 per person

15. Triund: Haven For Trekkers

You can take a trek to Triund while staying in Dharamshala. This is one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala which gives you a perfect chance to catch the glimpse of the majestic Himalayas. Located at an altitude of 2828 meters, Triund is truly a delight for trekkers and nature lovers while people can also experience camping in Dharamshala . Please note that camping is currently not allowed in Triund and you need to trek back to your stay the same day. It is very much promoted by Dharamshala tourism. 

Location: Kangra, Himachal Pradesh Don’t miss: Galu Temple, Rhododendron, and Oak forest Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Entry fee: No entry fee

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16. Jwala Devi Temple: A Place Of Beliefs

Jwala Devi temple in Kangra lures travellers from across the country which is also called one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala . Don’t miss out on visiting the temple while holidaying in Dharamshala. The temple is located at a distance of 56 kilometres from Dharamshala and experiences regular connectivity. This temple in Kangra is dedicated to Jwala Devi and the flames here are lighting miraculously from previous centuries. 

Location: Shaktinagar, Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh Don’t miss: Aarti Opening hours: Summer: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM and Winter: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Entry fee: No entry fee

17. Tibetan Art Museum: Get A Glimpse Of Tibetan Culture

Tibetan Art Museum is located in the suburban district of McLeodganj and is one of the most popular Tibetan Museums in the country. While exploring places on Dharamshala sightseeing this one place will surely give you a true glimpse of Tibetan culture and its development with the passage of time. The museum is maintained by the Central Tibetan Administration Department of Information and International Relations and is located in proximity to Dalai Lama Temple. 

Location: Near Dalai Lama Temple, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don’t miss: Enormous collection showcasing the true Tibetan culture Opening hours: April – September: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, October – March: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM  (Closed on Monday, 2nd Saturday and 4th Saturday of every month) Entry fee: No entry fee

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18. Aghanjar Mahadev Temple: Take Blessings From Lord Shiva

Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is located at a distance of merely 5 kilometres from Dharamshala at the foothills of Dhauladhar. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be constructed in the early 19th century. Apart from the magnificent architecture of the temple, the prime attraction of this temple is the waterfall that accentuates the beauty of this serene place. If you are visiting during the best time to visit Dharamshala then the tranquil ambience will make you fall in love with this place. 

Location: Khanyara – Dari Rd, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215 Don’t miss: nearby waterfall Opening hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM Entry fee: No entry fee

19. Kalachakra Temple: See The Murals Of Wheel Of Time

Kalachakra Temple is located within the temple complex of the Thekchen Choling temple is one of the famous tourist places in Dharamshala . The temple was built in the year 1992 and houses the astounding murals of ‘Wheel of Time’. The temple is used as a center of public teaching by his holiness Dalai Lama and the beautiful architecture of the temple exhibits the rich ethnicity of the Tibetan culture. 

Location: McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don’t miss: Beautiful architecture especially on the pillars and walls of the temple, fresco decorations, and Kalachakra image. Opening hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM Entry fee: No entry fee

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20. Dharmsala Tea Company: Admire Vast Plantations

The tea garden is one of the must-visit tourist places in Dharamshala . It is considered the smallest tea region of India which is located close to the Kangra Valley. Beautifully organized and spread across a vast area, this tea plantation is known for producing good quality tea which can be purchased from many shops across Dharamshala and Mcleodganj.

Location: Distt. Village Narghota Near BSNL office, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215 Don’t miss: The tea tasting session Opening hours: 9 AM – 5 PM Entry fee: INR 300 (starting price)

21. Dharamkot: A Quaint Hill Station

Image Source If you are looking for a quaint place near Dharamshala then you must consider exploring Dharamkot which is located in the Kangra Valley. It is one of the best places to stay as it receives less footfall and is surrounded by greenery. If you want to have the best experience then the best time to visit this place is in the months of April & May.

Location:  Kangra, Himachal Pradesh Don’t miss: Explore the cafes and savour dishes with a view. Opening hours: NA Entry fee: NA

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22. Indrahar Pass: Trek Your Way To Beauty

Image Source Another one on the list of places to visit in Dharamshala is Indrahar Pass which is one of the top trekking trails in the whole of Himachal Pradesh. This pass is located at an altitude of 4,500 feet above sea level in the Dhauladhar Ranges. People from all around the world come and opt for trekking both at Indrahar Pass and Triund Hill. If you are fond of natural beauty then you must include Indrahar Pass in your itinerary.

Location: Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas Don’t miss: Trekking experience Opening hours:  NA Entry fee: INR 8000 approx for the trek

23. Hanuman Ka Tibba: Get Ready For Some Adventure

Image Source Sightseeing in Dharamshala is incomplete without exploring Hanuman ka Tibba which is the highest hill nestled in the Dhauladhar ranges. You might not be aware of the fact that this place is located at a height of 19,000 feet and all adventure fanatics head to Hanuman ka Tibba for activities like mountaineering, trekking, and more. If you also fall in the same category then this is the place to visit on your trip.

Location: Trail to Triund Hill, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don’t miss: Watch a sunset from the ranges. Opening hours: 6 am – 8 pm  Entry fee:  None

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24. Nechung Monastery: Take A Plunge Into The History

Image Source Wondering what to see in Dharamshala ? How about this beautiful monastery that is counted among the top places here? Nechung Monastery is the best place if you are looking for an ultimate spiritual experience. It is believed to be the home of an oracle who was and is the ultimate guide of all the monks living there. Moreover, the monastery also houses a library which gives an insight into the religion and history of Tibetan people.

Location: Upmuhal, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don’t miss: The morning prayer Opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm (Mon-Sat) Entry Fee: Free

25. Norbulingka Institute: Get In-Depth Knowledge Of Tibetan Life

Image Source Counted among the top visiting places in Dharamshala , Norbulingka Institute gives an insight into the culture and Tibetan life in India. While exploring the monastery, you will also get a chance to witness the murals and art that represent Tibetan religion, food, and lifestyle. If you want to witness a surreal experience then you must visit the Tibetan temple on the premises and seek blessings.

Location: Palampur – Dharamshala Rd, Sidhpur, Himachal Pradesh 176057 Don’t miss: Deden Tsuglagkhang Temple, Doll Museum, and Souvenirs Shop Opening hours: 9 am – 5:30 pm (all days) Entry Fee: INR 20 (Indians), INR 50 (Foreigners)

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26. Lahesh Caves: Explore The High-Altitude Tourist Places

Image Source This is one of the lesser-known visiting places in Dharamshala which is mostly explored by adventure buffs. Located at a height of 11,482 feet above sea level, Lahesh caves offer a commendable trekking experience. If you like to experience something out of this world then you must visit these caves. They are surrounded by hilly terrains and coniferous forests which adds to the beauty of this little tourist attraction in Dharamshala.

Location: Trail to Lahesh Caves, Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don’t miss: Explore viewpoints while trekking. Opening hours: Open 24X7 Entry fee:  None

27. Chinmaya Tapovan: Reside In A Tranquil Setting

Image Source On your Dharamshala sightseeing tour, you must head to Chinmaya Tapovan which has recently made it to the list of tourist places in Dharamshala. It usually attracts peace-seekers as it offers a tranquil setting to tourists. Here, you will find a huge statue of Lord Hanuman and a meditation complex along with a recreation centre and a school. It is one of the famous Dharamshala visiting places . 

Location: Sidhbari, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh 176057 Don’t miss: The tranquil ambience Opening hours: 7 am – 7 pm Entry fee:  NA

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28. Naam Art Gallery: Admire The Artworks

Image Source This is one of the best places for art lovers to admire some beautiful artworks that are done by Elizabeth Buschmann, the founder of the gallery. You will also find some paintings that are made up by A.W. Hallett, an English painter. There is no doubt in the fact that it is one of the best places for sightseeing in Dharamshala .

Location: Sidhbari, Chamunda Main Road, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176057 Don’t miss: Tibetan paintings Opening hours: 10 am – 7:30 pm (Closed on Monday) Entry fee: INR

29. Chintpurni Devi Temple: Offer Prayers

Chintpurni is among the most wonderful and peaceful places to see in Dharamshala for those looking for some spiritual guidance and blessings from Goddess Chintpurni. It is said that Goddess Chintpurni was the youngest of the 9 Devis owing to which it is very easy to please her with a little pampering! Locals say that she will easily grant all your wishes provided what you wish for is honest and positive! It is because of this myth (or reality!) that this small temple is frequented by devotees and worshippers from around the country and makes this spot one of the best places to visit near Dharamshala , Himachal Pradesh.

Location: Vpo chintpurni, teh Amb, Moien, Chintpurni, Himachal Pradesh 177110 Don’t miss: The stunning views of the hill station from this point Opening hours: 4:30 AM – 10 PM Entry fee:  None

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30. Tsuglag Khang: A Serene Temple

Image Credits: Liz Highleyman for Wikimedia Commons

Tsuglag Khang is one of the significant temples for the pilgrims, monks and other tourists in the search of peace and quiet. Tsulag Khang is loved by every traveller, thanks to its serene aura and natural surroundings. This temple is where you can find the perfect blend of calmness and the picturesque views that Dharamshala and McLeodganj always have to offer to tourists.

Location: McLeod Ganj Don’t miss: The Tsuglagkhang, Namgyal Gompa, and the Tibet Museum, which is famous for several ancient articles Opening hours: 6 am – 6 pm Entry fee: None

With the list, now you have a fair idea about the places to visit in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj. So to excuse the sultry weather, block your leaves and plan for a fabulous summer vacation to this quaint and charming hill station right away. Plan your trip to Dharamshala with Traveltriangle now! Also, do not forget to share it with your friends and folks.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Dharamshala

What are the top attractions to visit in Dharamsala?

There are numerous places that you can visit in Dharamshala. Some of these include: 1. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium 2 McLeod Ganj 3. Bhagsunath Temple 4. Bhagsu Waterfall 5. Kangra Valley 6. Dharamkot 7. Triund Hill 8. Dal Lake 9. Dalai Lama Temple Complex 10. Gyuto Monastery

What are the best day trips from Dharamsala?

Palampur, Chamba, Triund, Bir, Khajjiar, Dalhousie, Barot, etc. are some places near Dharamshala where you can go for a day trip.

Is it safe to travel to Dharamshala during COVID times?

You need to follow all the mandatory guidelines mentioned by the government such as maintaining social distance, wearing a mask at public places, washing or sanitizing hands after entry & exit, etc. Get yourself tested before leaving for the journey and carry your negative RT-PCR report.

What is special about Dharamshala?

Dharamshala is known for the mesmerizing backdrop, stunning lake, vibrant monasteries, colourful temples, sparkling waterfalls, vintage forts, and museums. Moreover, the pleasant weather throughout the year is what attract vacationers from far and wide.

What is the best time to visit Dharamshala?

The best time to visit Dharamshala is during spring and early summer when the weather is pleasant with a maximum temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. Notably, Dharamshala can be visited all throughout the year.

How many days are enough for Dharamshala?

2 days are quite sufficient for Dharamshala but if you would also like to explore Dalhousie you could easily need another 2 days.

What is there to do in Dharamsala?

Some of the top things to do in Dharamshala for an adventurous vacation are: 1. Paragliding in Bir Billing 2. Camping 3. Trekking 4. Rock climbing 5. Cycling 6. Trekking

Is there snowfall in Dharamshala?

Yes. Dharamshala experiences snowfall during the months of December and January. If you love snowfall, Dharamshala can be an amazing place to visit to watch the annual snowfall.

How to reach Masroor Rock Cut Temple from Dharamshala?

The Masroor Rock Cut Temple is located at a distance of 43 km from Dharamshala. You can easily hire a car or a shared taxi to reach this ancient temple.

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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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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

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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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20 Best Places To Visit In Dharamshala: Gateway to Himalayan Wonders

February 22, 2024

Are you interested in a quick getaway this winter? Embark on a journey to the hills to soothe your Winter blues in the most popular tourist place in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.  With winter, snowfall has arrived in November. Though it is a popular tourist spot all year, snow lovers find winter to be the best time to visit Dharamshala. Being the birthplace of the Dalai Lama, it is also a place of culture, spirituality, and history covered in the blanket of snow. This makes the hill station all the more appealing as one of the best places to enjoy snowfall in February in India .

Among the numerous hill stations, history and art lovers travel because of the spectacle of the mountain ranges, the fountains, and the famous temples of Dharamshala.

If you are a connoisseur of beautiful sightseeing and adventure, check out the list of places to visit in Dharamshala. 

1. Triund Hill, Dharamshala

A tiny hill station located about 17 km away from Dharamshala shows a spectacular view of its hilltop. It is a great place to go for a trekking adventure. If you want cozy things to do in Dharamshala, many families or friend groups also come here for picnics. 

The Triund Hill is located between the heavenly views of Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar range. It is also a greenery set, especially in the summer, with Deodar, Oak, Rhododendrons, and Pine Valley of Dharamshala covering the scene.

Location: Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215 Don't miss: the Tibetan Museum, Bhagsu Waterfall, Kalachakra Temple, Bhagsunath Temple, Naddi View Point, and Guna Devi Temple. Opening hours: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm Entry fee: Rs 999 per person

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2. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, Dharamshala

If you are a cricket fanatic (or not), take advantage of the world's highest cricket stadium, Dharamshala. One of the specialties of this stadium is its ryegrass, which keeps the stadium covered in its brightest green even during winter, making it a popular Dharamshala stadium in winter. Location: Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, University Road, Police Line, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215 Don't miss:  The awesome views from this point Opening hours: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry fee: Rs 30 per entry

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3. St John in the Wilderness Church, Dharamshala

Constructed in 1852, John in the Wilderness Church is one of the most popular churches in Dharamshala, dedicated to St John the Baptist. It is a Protestant church located amongst the lush green of the Deodar forest. In Dharamshala, the best time to visit the church is in the mornings.

Location: McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215 Don't miss: Its neo-gothic architecture, the Deodar forest, Memorial stones, and the Churchyard, which is also the resting place of Lord Elgin. Opening hours: Monday to Saturday- 7:00 am to 6:30 pm, Sunday- 9:00 am to 6:30 pm Entry fee: Free

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4. War Memorial, Dharamshala

The main focus of the Dharamshala War Memorial is its main monument, which is covered by walls on three sides, curved in black marble. It holds the memories of all War Heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country. It is one of the best historical Dharamshala tourist places.

Location: Kachehri Road, Jawahar Nagar, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215 Don't miss: The mural, The Main Monument, with names of the War Heroes, Garlands, and medals offered to the Heroes. Opening hours: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Entry fee: Rs 20 per person, free for children up to 5 years

5. Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, Dharamshala

Though known as a library, the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives also functions as an archival museum and a hub of academic courses. It holds at least 80,000 books and manuscripts. 

Besides, it also protects about 600 statues, thangkas, and other Buddhist antiquities. History lovers find it one of Dharamshala's most important tourist places to visit in Himachal Pradesh . Location: Gangchen Kyishong, Upmuhal, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215 Don't miss: The Tibet Museum, Dalai Lama Temple, Tibetan artifacts Opening hours: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm (Closed on Saturday and Sunday) Entry fee: Free

Also Read:  30 Best Places To Visit In Winter In India

6. Bhagsunag Temple, Dharamshala

The 5100-year-old Bhagsunag temple, established in the valley of Kangra, is one of the popular Dharamshala tourist places. After the 1905 earthquake, it was obliterated but was later rebuilt. The temple is believed to possess miraculous healing power.

Location: Manisha Rd, Bhagsu Nag, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don't miss: Dal Lake, Kotwali Bazaar Opening hours: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm Entry fee: Free

Also Read:  25 Famous Temples In Himachal Pradesh For Spiritual Bliss

7. Gyuto Monastery, Dharamshala

One of the most loved tourist places to see in Dharamshala for spiritual people is the Gyuto Monastery. It is a popular center for the study of Tantric Meditation. Surrounded by buildings, it is a space of peace and order. One can visit the Monastery to observe the monks' daily habits. Location: Sidhbari, Dharamshala 176219 Don't miss: Tantric meditation, Tantric ritual arts, Buddhist philosophy Opening hours: 5:00 am to 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Entry fee: Free

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8. Kareri Dal Lake, Dharamshala

A famous trekking destination in Dharamshala is near the Kareri Dal lake. It takes one to cover 10 kilometers of challenging trekking to reach the clean stream of water. During the winter months, however, the lake remains frozen. For couples, Kareri Dal Lake makes one of India's most loved honeymoon destinations in India in low budget . Location: Kareri, Himachal Pradesh 176218 Don't miss: Trekking, View of mountain ranges Opening hours: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm, preferably Entry fee: Free

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9. Dharamkot Studio, Dharamshala

Dharamkot Studio is an art studio designated solely for pottery lovers. Often overlooked by many tourists, it is built in a small village. Remember to dirty your hands and create beautiful clay pieces if you visit. With the end of winter, it is one of the art lovers' favorite places to visit in India in February . Location: Dharamkot Studio Rd, Dharamkot, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don't miss: Bhagsunath Temple, Tibetan Museum Opening hours: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, closed on Thursdays Entry fee: Rs 2200 per person for workshops

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10. Kangra Fort, Dharamshala

The Fort of Kangra has its origin in the ancient Trigarta Kingdom. It is the largest Fort built in the Himalayas by the royal family of Rajputs. The Fort is about 3,500 years old. This makes Kangra Fort to be one of the most artistic places to see in Dharamshala.

Location: Old Kangra, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh 176001 Don’t miss: the Banganga River, Manjhi River, Kangra Valley Opening hours: 9:00 am to 7:30 pm Entry fee: Rs 150 per person

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11. Tsuglagkhang Temple, Dharamshala

Tsuglagkhang, or the Dalai Lama Temple Complex, is known for homing the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama. It is also among the best places to visit in Dharamshala because of its majestic architecture.

The Tsuglagkhang Temple was built in the 7th century, which makes it a famous temple in Dharamshala.

Location: McleodGanj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don't miss: Photang, Tibet Museum, Namgyal Gompa Opening hours: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm Entry fee: Free

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12. Bhagsu Waterfall, Dharamshala

The photogenic view of the 20-metre-tall cascade makes it a great place for a picnic spot. To reach the destination, you have to cover a mild 30-minute trek. It is a well-maintained spot for newlyweds and is often included in honeymoon packages in India .  Location: Bhagsu Nag Waterfall Pathway Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don't miss: Nadi View Point, Guna Devi Temple, Bhagsunath Temple Opening hours: 7:00 am to 9:00 pm Entry fee: Free

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13. Jwala Devi Temple, Dharamshala

Dedicated to Goddess Jwalamukhi Devi, the Goddess of light, it is highly popular amongst the religious masses. The Jwala Devi Temple is among the 52 Shakti Peethas spread across India, thus making it an attraction in the Himachal tour package . The temple is believed to be a sacred place, blessed by the presence of Shakti. Location: Jwalamukhi, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don't miss: Kangra Fort, Baijnath Temple, Indrahar Pass Opening hours: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm Entry fee: Free

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14. McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala

One of the most popular hill stations in Dharamshala, Kangra district, McLeod Ganj, is home to famous spots of temples, monasteries, hotels, and food places. Many tourists choose McLeod Gunj as the perfect place to stay as it is close to all major sightseeing spots. To reach McLeodGanj, you can take the train to Dharamshala. Your destination will be a 20-minute driving distance. It is popularly known as the shopping spot. Many tour packages also include the McLeod Gunj Cultural tour. Walking Tour events are arranged from the nearest railway station to Dharamshala.

Location: Kangra, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don't miss: Namgyal Monastery, Kalachakra Temple, Naddi View Point Opening hours: Open all times Entry fee: Free

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15. Kalachakra Temple, Dharamshala

To learn more about the beauty of Tibetan architecture, prayer wheels, and murals, visit the Kalachakra temple at the heart of the McLeodGanj. It is a fairly new temple, as it was established in the early 1990s. One of the most interesting attributes of the temple is its "Clock of Time'' walls.

Location: McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don’t miss: Tsuglagkhang Temple, Bhagsu Nag Temple Opening hours: 5:00 am to 9:00 pm Entry fee: Free

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16. Chinmaya Tapovan

Surrounded by lush, the Chinmaya Tapovan is a peaceful spot. It is located near the Dhauladhar Mountain range and offers beautiful sightseeing opportunities. Tourists, both young and older, can enjoy the breathtaking view while bathing in the serenity.

Location: Tapovan, Sidhbari, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh 176057 Don't miss: Dhauladhar Mountain Range, Gyuto Tantric Monastery Temple Opening hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Entry fee: Free

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17. Lahesh Caves

The Lahesh Caves, located in the Dhauladhar Range, is a popular trekking destination. Situated at a height of about 3,500 metres, it also provides a majestic panoramic view. Lahesh Caves is a great choice for adventure-loving newlyweds.  If you are looking for a trek, it starts from the McLeodGanj Bus Stop and covers 12 kilometres of trekking distance. To ensure proper safety and a good time, find the best deals on honeymoon packages in India.

Location: Trail to Lahesh Caves, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don't miss: Triund Trekking, Bhagsu Nag Temple, Bhagsu Waterfall Opening hours: 24 hours Entry fee: Free

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18. Nechung Monastery

Nechung Monastery, or the Nechung Gompa, allows visitors to observe the daily life of the Tibetans. It comes with the best tour packages in India . It is a center for Buddhist schooling about spirituality, history, and culture. The Monastery can be found just below the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives. 

Location: Upmuhal, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219 Don't miss:  Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, Rock Cut Temple Opening hours: 5:30 am to 8:00 pm Entry fee: Free

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19. Chintpurni Devi Temple

Located near the border of Punjab, the temple resides above 977 meters above sea level. The Chintpurni Devi Temple is covered with stone. Like many other temples of Himachal Pradesh, this temple also marks the beauty of its architecture.  Location: Chintpurni, Himachal Pradesh 177110 Don't miss: Thaneek Pura, Sheetla Devi Temple, Vajreshwari Devi Temple, Pong Dam Opening hours: 24 hours Entry fee: Rs 1100 for up to 5 people

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20. Hanuman Ka Tibba

Another trekking site that offers guided treks, Hanuman Ka Tibba, falls on the trail to Triund Hill. It is an expedition trek conducted in Manali's Pir Pinjal Range. If you are trying out trekking for the first time, it is recommended to avoid Hanuman Ka Tibba as it requires high fitness and prior experience. Definitely add this to the list of best places to visit in India before you turn 30.

Location: Dhauladhar Range, Himachal Pradesh 148025 Don't miss: Manali, Dhundi, Beas Kund Glacier Opening hours: 24 hours Entry fee: Free entry with Trekking fees

How Do Trip Planners India Help You?

Places in Dharamshala are filled with numerous culture-heavy spots. Trip Planner India helps you navigate your interests and list the places you would like to visit.  Every traveler looks for a unique experience. To cater to their needs, the best trip planners in India help them find tickets, book hotels, and find the best tour packages. 

If you are looking for a quick gateway to the hill stations, check with a tour planner today to figure out the essentials. Knowing about the place, its heritage, and crucial itinerary information including the nearest station to Dharamshala will be important. 

With a proper travel planner, learn about the top Dharamshala trip packages , which can decrease your traveling costs by a mile. 

So, here’s your chance to immerse in the ethereal spirits of this beautiful destination. List the places to go and things to see in Dharamshala before Winter ends. Happy Vacation!  

What is Dharamshala famous for?

Dharamshala is renowned for its breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, the residence of the Dalai Lama, and a vibrant Tibetan culture. The town offers spiritual retreats, trekking opportunities, and a tranquil ambiance, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those seeking spiritual enlightenment.

What is special food in Dharamshala?

Dharamshala is known for its delectable Tibetan cuisine, with momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and tingmo (steamed bread) being popular choices. The blend of Tibetan flavors and local ingredients creates a unique culinary experience, reflecting the town's rich cultural diversity.

Is snowfall in Dharamshala?

Yes, Dharamshala experiences snowfall during the winter months, typically from December to February. The picturesque landscapes are adorned with snow, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors. The snow-capped mountains and chilly weather add to the charm of this Himalayan destination.

What is the best time to visit Dharamshala?

The best time to visit Dharamshala is during the spring and autumn months, from March to June and September to November. The weather is pleasant, with blooming landscapes and clear skies, offering ideal conditions for exploring the scenic beauty and engaging in outdoor activities.

How to meet Dalai Lama?

To meet the Dalai Lama, check his schedule for public teachings or events in Dharamshala. Attend teachings at Tsuglagkhang Complex, visit Namgyal Monastery, or participate in public gatherings. However, it's crucial to check his availability and any entry requirements in advance.

Why is Mcleodganj famous?

Mcleodganj, a suburb of Dharamshala, is famous for being the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama. It's a hub of Tibetan culture and Buddhism, attracting visitors with its monasteries, Tibetan markets, and the serene atmosphere amidst the picturesque Dhauladhar mountain range.

What is the Speciality of Dharamshala?

Dharamshala's specialty lies in its unique blend of stunning natural beauty, Tibetan culture, and spiritual ambiance. Home to the Dalai Lama, it offers a serene escape in the Himalayas, with picturesque landscapes, monasteries, and a warm embrace of diverse traditions.

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15 Places To Visit In Dharamshala

Nestled amidst the majestic Dhauladhar Range , Dharamshala stands as one of India’s most enchanting hill stations. Perched at an elevation of 1457 meters above sea level in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, this city is a haven of natural beauty. Dharamshala is a unique fusion of Tibetan and Kangra cultures , and it also serves as the residence of the Dalai Lama .

Dharamshala offers a multitude of tourist attractions that promise to enrich your travel experience. With its enchanting hills, valleys, rivers, and lakes and forests, it stands out as a prime destination for those seeking to redefine their tourism adventures . To aid you in planning an unforgettable journey to Dharamshala, here is a compilation of places to visit in Dharamshala . Each of these locations exudes its own unique charm and is well worth exploring.

Table of Contents

Triund is a popular trekking destination near Dharamshala and is one of the top places to visit in Dharamshala. This scenic hilltop offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Dhauladhar Range and the Kangra Valley, making it a favorite among nature enthusiasts and trekkers.

1. Triund is located approximately 9 kilometers from McLeod Ganj, a suburb of Dharamshala. 2. The trek to Triund is relatively easy and suitable for beginners , taking around 4-5 hours to reach the summit. 3. The trail is adorned with lush green meadows, rhododendron and oak forests , and pristine landscapes . 4. Trekkers can camp at the Triund summit and witness stunning sunsets and starry nights . 5. Triund is a year-round destination, with snow-covered winters attracting snow trekkers. 6. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife sightings , with the chance to spot various avian species and Himalayan fauna. 7. The small cafes on the way offer basic refreshments and meals for trekkers. 8. Triund is often considered a base camp for further treks to higher altitudes and neighboring areas. 9. The trek provides a sense of accomplishment and an opportunity to connect with nature, away from the bustling city life. 10. Triund’s serene beauty and accessibility make it one of the top places to visit in Dharamshala.

2. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, HPCA Stadium

The Dharamshala Cricket Stadium , also known as the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, is a remarkable sports venue situated in the scenic city of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh.

1. Surrounded by the stunning Dhauladhar Range, this stadium offers one of the most picturesque cricket settings globally , with the snow-capped peaks creating a breathtaking backdrop. 2. It is located at an elevation of approximately 1,457 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest cricket stadiums in the world. 3. The stadium has a seating capacity of around 23,000 spectators and is known for its intimate and electrifying atmosphere during cricket matches. 4. It has hosted numerous domestic and international cricket matches, including Indian Premier League (IPL) fixtures. It is also hosting 5 matches of on goin ICC ODI Cricket World Cup 2023 . 5. The pitch at Dharamshala is known for its pace and bounce, favoring fast bowlers, which makes it an exciting venue for cricket enthusiasts. 6. The stadium also features excellent facilities for players , with a modern pavilion and practice areas. 7. Spectators can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys while watching cricket matches. 8. The stadium’s architecture incorporates elements of traditional Himachali style, adding to its unique charm. 9. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium is not only a sports arena but also a cultural icon in the region, hosting various events and functions. 10. Whether you’re a cricket fan or simply a lover of breathtaking scenery, a visit to the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium is a must when exploring this beautiful part of India.

Undoubtedly, the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium stands as a must-visit destination when compiling a list of places to visit in Dharamshala. To read more about Dharamshala Cricket Stadium you can click here .

3. War Memorial, Dharamshala

The War Memorial in Dharamshala is a solemn and significant site dedicated to honoring the brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and it is one of the top places to visit in Dharamshala. Located in the heart of the city, this memorial holds great historical and emotional significance.

1. The War Memorial in Dharamshala is a tribute to the soldiers from Himachal Pradesh who laid down their lives in various wars and conflicts. 2. It stands as a reminder of their valor and sacrifices, acknowledging their contributions to the nation’s security. 3. The memorial features a central monument with an eternal flame , symbolizing the undying spirit of the soldiers. 4. Surrounding the central monument are the names of the martyrs etched in stone, a poignant reminder of their heroism. 5. The beautifully landscaped gardens around the memorial provide a peaceful and reflective space for visitors. 6. The War Memorial often serves as a site for ceremonies, events, and tributes to the armed forces. 7. The location offers panoramic views of the picturesque Dhauladhar Range, enhancing the sense of serenity and respect. 8. It is a place for both locals and tourists to pay their respects and learn about the sacrifices made by the soldiers. 9. The War Memorial stands as a symbol of unity and patriotism , reinforcing the bond between the armed forces and the citizens. 10. Visiting the War Memorial in Dharamshala is a moving experience, reminding us of the courage and dedication of those who protect their homeland.

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4. St. John Church McLeodganj

St. John in the Wilderness Church, located near Mc Leodganj, Himachal Pradesh, is a historic and serene place of worship set against the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas.

1. Built-in 1852, this Anglican church is a significant colonial-era architectural gem in the region. 2. The church derives its name from John the Baptist and is named “ in the Wilderness ” due to its location amidst the dense cedar forests . 3. Its neo-Gothic design, complete with beautiful stained glass windows, adds to its architectural appeal. 4. The church’s distinctively dark wood interiors create a solemn and tranquil atmosphere for visitors . 5. It is known for the final resting place of British Viceroy Lord Elgin , whose tomb lies in the churchyard. 6. The churchyard also holds a memorial dedicated to the soldiers of the First and Second World Wars. 7. The lush surroundings and the church’s serene ambiance make it a popular destination and one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala . 8. St. John’s is also famous for the annual Christmas Eve service, drawing both locals and visitors to celebrate the festive occasion. 9. The church stands as a testament to the historical and cultural legacy of the British presence in the region. 10. Visiting St. John in the Wilderness Church provides a unique opportunity to admire its architecture, soak in the tranquility, and appreciate the historical significance of this iconic religious site.

5. Gyuto Monastery

The Gyuto Monastery , located near Dharamshala is a prominent Tibetan Buddhist monastery that holds both spiritual and cultural significance. It is one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala.

1. Founded in 1474, Gyuto Monastery is one of the oldest and most revered monasteries of the Gelugpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. 2. It is known for its distinctive rituals, Tantric practices , and the study of Buddhist philosophy , attracting scholars and practitioners from around the world. 3. The monastery is situated against a backdrop of scenic beauty, with the Dhauladhar Range enhancing its spiritual ambiance. 4. Gyuto Monastery is home to a community of monks who dedicate their lives to meditation, religious study, and the preservation of Tibetan traditions. 5. One of its notable features is the daily performance of traditional Tibetan rituals, including deep, resonant chanting and intricate mask dances. 6. The monastery also houses an impressive assembly hall where these rituals take place, and visitors are often welcome to witness these ceremonies. 7. The main shrine of the monastery features a stunning golden statue of the Buddha. 8. Gyuto Monastery has played a crucial role in the preservation of Tibetan culture and spirituality , especially since the exile of the Dalai Lama to Dharamshala. 9. Visitors to the monastery have the opportunity to explore Tibetan art, culture, and religious practices while enjoying the tranquil surroundings. 10. The Gyuto Monastery is a place of both reverence and enlightenment, offering a glimpse into the rich spiritual heritage of Tibet and a peaceful retreat for those seeking solace and cultural immersion.

6. McLeodganj

McLeodganj is a charming and culturally rich town nestled in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh and is often referred to as “ Little Lhasa ” due to its strong Tibetan influence.

1. Perched at an altitude of about 2,082 meters, McLeodganj is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar Range. 2. The town gained prominence as the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama and is the headquarters of the Tibetan Government in Exile, making it a hub of Tibetan culture and spirituality. 3. It offers a unique blend of Indian and Tibetan cultures , reflected in its monasteries, temples, and traditional Tibetan cuisine. 4. The Bhagsu Nag Temple and Waterfall, located nearby, are popular attractions for both pilgrims and nature enthusiasts. 5. The Namgyal Monastery, Tsuglagkhang Complex, and the Tibet Museum are cultural landmarks that provide insight into Tibetan Buddhism and history. 6. McLeodganj’s bustling market streets are filled with shops selling Tibetan crafts, clothing, jewelry, and delicious street food . 7. The town serves as a starting point for treks in the Dhauladhar Range, with the Triund trek being a popular option for nature lovers. 8. McLeodganj offers numerous accommodation options, from budget hostels to boutique hotels , ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of travelers. 9. The tranquil and scenic surroundings provide an ideal setting for meditation, yoga, and spiritual retreats. 10. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, adventure, or a peaceful escape amidst stunning natural beauty, McLeodganj is a destination that promises a diverse and enriching experience.

We can say McLeodganj is at top among the places to visit in Dharamshala.

7. Dharamkot

Dharamkot is a quaint and serene village perched above McLeodganj and Dharamshala. Known for its tranquil ambiance and scenic beauty, Dharamkot offers a unique charm of its own.

1. Located at an altitude of around 2,100 meters, Dharamkot boasts panoramic views of the Dhauladhar Range and the Kangra Valley. 2. It is often referred to as the “ Hippie Village ” due to its bohemian and laid-back atmosphere, making it a haven for backpackers and spiritual seekers. 3. Dharamkot is renowned for its meditation centers and yoga retreats , attracting individuals in search of inner peace and self-discovery. 4. The village is home to a diverse community of residents, including both Indian and international travelers, resulting in a fusion of cultures and languages. 5. The village’s cafes serve delectable organic and international cuisine, catering to a wide range of tastes. 6. Popular trekking routes, such as the Triund trek and Bhagsu Waterfall, can be easily accessed from Dharamkot, making it an excellent base for trekking enthusiasts. 7. The Bhagsu Nag Temple and the Dal Lake are nearby attractions that offer spiritual and recreational experiences. 8. The laid-back lifestyle and serene environment make Dharamkot an ideal place for unwinding, rejuvenation, and creative inspiration. 9. The village’s narrow winding pathways, lush greenery, and friendly atmosphere create a welcoming and picturesque setting. 10. For those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature and a space for self-reflection, Dharamkot provides an idyllic escape in the lap of the Himalayas.

When crafting your list of must-visit places in Dharamshala, be sure to include Dharamkot without omission.

Pepople Also Read : Chandratal Lake – The Moon Lake of Himachal

8. Bhagsunag Waterfall and Temple

Bhagsu Nag Waterfall and Temple, located near McLeodganj are significant landmarks that blend spirituality with natural beauty.

1. Bhagsu Nag Waterfall is a majestic cascade that flows through lush greenery and rocky terrain, creating a captivating and serene environment. 2. The waterfall is named after Bhagsu Nag, a local deity , and is considered sacred by both locals and tourists. 3. The Bhagsu Nag Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva , is situated in close proximity to the waterfall and holds historical and religious importance. 4. Visitors can explore the temple’s architecture and the spiritual ambiance it exudes, making it a revered pilgrimage site . 5. The temple’s tranquil courtyard and its unique blend of Hindu and Tibetan influences add to its cultural significance. 6. Pilgrims often participate in rituals and prayers at the temple, providing an authentic cultural experience. 7. The Bhagsu Nag Waterfall is easily accessible by a short trek, and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. 8. The area around the waterfall is dotted with cafes and stalls serving local and international cuisines, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings. 9. The Bhagsu Nag Waterfall and Temple provide an ideal combination of natural beauty, spirituality, and cultural exploration. 10. It has become one of visitor’s favorite place to visit in Dharamshala in recent years.

9. Dalai Lama Temple McLeodganj

The Dalai Lama Temple in McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh, is a revered and culturally significant site, reflecting the strong Tibetan influence in the region.

1. The temple, officially known as the Tsuglagkhang Complex , is the spiritual residence of the 14th Dalai Lama , Tenzin Gyatso, and serves as the headquarters of the Tibetan Government in Exile . 2. It is a place of deep spiritual and political significance, representing the Tibetan struggle for freedom and autonomy. 3. The main temple houses a magnificent statue of Lord Buddha and is a center for meditation and prayer. 4. Visitors can witness Tibetan monks and devotees engaging in prayer and meditation , creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. 5. The complex includes the Namgyal Monastery , which offers teachings and rituals in Tibetan Buddhism, attracting scholars and seekers of spiritual wisdom. 6. The Tibet Museum within the complex showcases the rich history and culture of Tibet , including the stories of Tibetan refugees. 7. The Dalai Lama Temple’s serene courtyard and the prayer wheels surrounding it make it a peaceful and meditative space. 8. It offers a unique blend of Indian and Tibetan architectural styles and features a blend of traditional Tibetan art and iconography. 9. The temple is a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists and an educational and cultural site for travelers interested in Tibetan heritage. 10. Visiting the Dalai Lama Temple in McLeodganj provides an opportunity to connect with the profound spiritual and cultural essence of the Tibetan community in exile and to understand the principles of compassion, peace, and unity promoted by the Dalai Lama.

So if your making a list of places to visit in Dharamshala then don’t forget to include Dalai Lama Temple.

10. Chinmaya Tapovan Ashram

Chinmaya Tapovan Ashram is a serene and spiritually enriched retreat located in the tranquil environs of Dharamshala.

1. Founded by Swami Chinmayananda , a renowned spiritual leader, this ashram is dedicated to the teachings of Advaita Vedanta. 2. The ashram offers a peaceful escape from the worldly hustle and bustle, nestled amidst the majestic Dhauladhar Range. 3. Visitors can immerse themselves in spiritual practices, meditation , and yoga , allowing for personal growth and inner peace. 4. The ashram features a massive idol of Lord Hanuman, a revered deity in Hinduism, and a shrine dedicated to Lord Rama. 5. The Chinmaya Tapovan Ashram is a place of learning and reflection, offering discourses, classes, and workshops on Vedanta and spirituality. 6. The serene ambiance and well-maintained gardens provide an ideal setting for contemplation and meditation. 7. The ashram houses a library with an extensive collection of books on Indian philosophy, Vedanta, and spirituality. 8. It is known for organizing various cultural and spiritual events, attracting scholars and seekers from around the world. 9. Recently Indian Cricketer Virat Kohli visited the Ashram during one of the match in Dharamshala Stadium. 10. A visit to Chinmaya Tapovan Ashram in Dharamshala offers an opportunity for personal growth, spiritual exploration, and communion with the teachings of Advaita Vedanta in a serene and uplifting setting.

11. Kangra Art Museum Dharamshala

The Kangra Art Museum , located in Dharamshala is a cultural treasure trove that showcases the rich artistic heritage of the Kangra Valley .

1. Established in 1990, the museum is a repository of exquisite Kangra miniature paintings , dating back to the 17th century. 2. Kangra miniatures are renowned for their intricate details, vibrant colors, and depictions of various mythological and historical themes. 3. The museum also houses a remarkable collection of sculptures, pottery, and various artifacts reflecting the artistic traditions of the region. 4. The Pahari school of painting , a distinctive Himalayan artistic style, takes center stage in the museum’s exhibits. 5. Visitors can explore the evolution of Kangra art and gain insights into the cultural and historical narratives depicted in the paintings. 6. The museum’s displays include beautifully illustrated manuscripts, textiles, and traditional Himachali jewelry. 7. The rich heritage of the Kangra Valley is brought to life through the artistic expressions on display. 8. The museum’s serene location and picturesque surroundings add to the overall experience. 9. Kangra Art Museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in the cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh. 10. It serves as a vital repository of the region’s artistic legacy, allowing visitors to appreciate the timeless beauty of Kangra art.

12. Kareri Lake

Kareri Lake, a pristine and captivating high-altitude lake situated within the Dhauladhar Range of the Himalayas near Dharamshala, unquestionably ranks among the top places to visit in Dharamshala.

1. Situated at an elevation of approximately 2,950 meters (9,678 feet), Kareri Lake is surrounded by lush alpine meadows and towering peaks. 2. It is a favored destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts , known for its picturesque landscapes and serene ambiance. 3. The trek to Kareri Lake commences from Ghera village and takes adventurers through dense forests, meandering streams, and quaint villages. 4. The lake remains frozen during the winter months , making it a popular snow trekking destination. 5. The crystal-clear waters of Kareri Lake reflect the towering mountains, creating a breathtaking postcard-perfect view. 6. Trekkers often camp at the lake’s shores, reveling in the tranquil environment and starry nights. 7. The lake is surrounded by an array of vibrant wildflowers during the spring and summer. 8. The trek to Kareri Lake can be completed in a few days, offering a wonderful getaway from the urban bustle. 9. The Kareri Lake trek is accessible for both novice and experienced trekkers, and it offers an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Himalayan wilderness. 10. Visiting Kareri Lake is a rewarding experience, allowing you to connect with nature’s grandeur and find solace amidst the mountains in Himachal Pradesh.

13. Dal Lake

Dal Lake in Dharamshala is a serene and scenic water body located amidst the lush surroundings of the Kangra Valley. It is also a favored destination among the places to visit in Dharamshala.

1. Situated approximately 3 kilometers from McLeodganj, this Dal Lake is distinct from the more famous Dal Lake in Srinagar, Kashmir. 2. It is a small yet charming lake surrounded by deodar trees, making it a picturesque spot for nature lovers. 3. The lake is considered sacred by locals, and they often visit to offer prayers at the Shiva temple located on its banks. 4. The lake is encircled by walking trails, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region. 5. Boating is a popular activity on Dal Lake, and you can rent paddle and rowboats to enjoy a peaceful time on the water. 6. The lake is surrounded by a forested area, providing an ideal habitat for various species of birds and wildlife. 7. The surrounding landscapes are particularly vibrant and lush during the monsoon season. 8. Visiting Dal Lake offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing a serene natural environment for relaxation. 9. The nearby Tibetan Children’s Village and Tibetan Handicraft Center offer cultural insights and shopping opportunities. 10. Dal Lake in Dharamshala is a hidden gem that combines natural beauty, spirituality, and outdoor activities, making it a unique destination in the Kangra Valley.

14. Naam Art Gallery

The Naam Art Gallery , located in Dharamshala, is a renowned art hub that celebrates and promotes contemporary Indian art.

1. Founded by Elsbeth Buschmann and Manjeet Bawa , the gallery is a showcase for both emerging and established artists, making it a vital part of Dharamshala’s artistic landscape. 2. The gallery is named “ Naam ,” which means “ identity ” in Hindi, reflecting its mission to provide artists with a platform to express their unique identities. 3. The gallery boasts a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media works, offering a wide range of artistic expressions. 4. Many of the artworks on display draw inspiration from the breathtaking landscapes and cultural diversity of the Himalayan region. 5. Naam Art Gallery frequently hosts exhibitions, workshops, and art-related events , fostering a vibrant artistic community in the area. 6. The serene surroundings and the gallery’s welcoming ambiance make it a peaceful space for appreciating and purchasing art. 7. The gallery’s focus on promoting local and national talent has helped it gain recognition as a cultural hub in the region. 8. Visitors to the Naam Art Gallery can explore the artistic richness of India while also connecting with the local creative community. 9. The gallery’s location in Dharamshala provides visitors with scenic views of the Dhauladhar Range, enhancing the overall experience. 10. A visit to the Naam Art Gallery offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of contemporary Indian art and appreciate the unique perspectives of talented artists in the serene setting of Dharamshala.

15. Norbulingka Institute

The Norbulingka Institute , located in Sidhpur near Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, is a cultural and artistic institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Tibetan art and culture and is one among the top places to visit in Dharamshala.

1. Established in 1988, the institute is named after Norbulingka, the summer residence of the Dalai Lamas in Lhasa , Tibet. 2. Norbulingka is known for its dedication to traditional Tibetan arts and crafts, including thangka painting, wood carving, and metalwork. 3. The institute aims to ensure the continuity of Tibetan heritage by providing training and support to artisans, allowing them to pass down their skills to future generations. 4. Visitors to Norbulingka can explore the various workshops where artists create intricate pieces of art using traditional methods. 5. The beautiful Norbulingka campus features serene gardens, ponds, and Tibetan-style buildings, making it a tranquil place for cultural immersion and relaxation. 6. The institute includes a temple, the Deden Tsuglagkhang Complex, which serves as a center for religious and spiritual activities. 7. It houses a fine arts museum and a doll museum , showcasing the richness of Tibetan artistry and craftsmanship. 8. Norbulingka also hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and performances, providing insight into Tibetan culture for visitors. 9. The institute’s Norling Restaurant offers traditional Tibetan cuisine , allowing visitors to savor authentic flavors. 10. A visit to the Norbulingka Institute provides a unique opportunity to explore and support Tibetan culture and art in a serene and inspiring setting in the Kangra Valley.

So these are the top 15 places to visit in Dharamshala, in addition to these prominent attractions, the vicinity of Dharamshala opens up a world of exploration. Don’t miss out on the lesser-known treasures, such as the charming town of Palampur , the serene landscapes of Bir and Billing for paragliding adventures, or the historical ruins of Nurpur Fort .

Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or a cultural explorer, Dharamshala and its surroundings have something for every traveler’s taste. So, set out to uncover the hidden wonders that this Himalayan region has to offer, and make your visit truly memorable.

People Also Read : Bangoru Waterfall – The Hidden Waterfall in Bir Billing

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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.

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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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Things to do in Dharamshala for a Thrilling Hill Town Vacay

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Top things to do in Dharamshala

Here is the list of 15 things to do in dharamshala for a thrilling hill town vacay, 1. peek into the buddhist culture at gyuto monastery.

Gyuto Monastery is a Buddhist Monastery in Dharamsala focusing on Tantric meditation and ritual arts. The complex boasts of beautiful architecture and has a serene ambiance and aura. The monks have their houses along the path of the monastery. Visiting at the peaceful monastery is one of the top things to do in Dharamsala.

2. Explore the Dalai Lama Temple Complex

Replete with Tibetan culture, Dalai Lama Temple Complex also known as Tsuglakhang Temple is a politico- religious centre in Dharamsala. Ideal for peaceful meditation and religious rumination, the temple is full of lamas at all points of the day chanting on prayer wheels or beads. In addition to this, the peaceful environs and ataraxy attracts tourists from all over the world. Visiting here is one of the top things to do in Dharamsala.

3. Experience the Exciting Trek to Triund

Triund is a 9-km trek, 7 kms away from Dharamsala. It is situated at a great height and provides a mesmerizing view of the Moon Peak-Indera Pass. This is an ideal spot for picnics and the clean and pristine environment will surely rejuvenate your senses. If you are an adventure enthusiast or even a nature nature, trekking the trails at Triund should definitely be there on your bucket list of things to do in Dharamsala.

4. Gorge on Delicious Tibetan Food

One of the topmost things to do in Dharamsala is tasting the delectable Tibetan food. One can find a lot of restaurants and cafes here which serve decent food. Being dominated by the Tibetan culture one will mostly find Tibetan cuisine being served. Do try the momos, thukpas and other Tibetan dishes. Another speciality of this place is honey ginger lemon tea which is a very refreshing drink.

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Dharamshala weekend getaway tour package from delhi, dharamshala dalhousie honeymoon tour package, dharamshala dalhousie sightseeing package by volvo, amritsar dalhousie dharamshala tour package: family edition, dharamshala and bir billing in volvo (group tour), 5. take a walk in the resplendent tea gardens.

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. Walking down the tea gardens and trying the premium quality tea is one of the top things to do in Dharamsala.

6. Find Peace at St. John in the Wilderness Church

This neo-gothic church was built in 1852 and is one of the most important churches in Himachal Pradesh. Located near Dharamshala and on the way to Mcleodganj, this church was built in dedication to John the Baptist. It is the oldest built structure of Dharamsala.  Boasting of being one of the top tourist attractions in the city, visiting here is one of the prime things to do in Dharamsala.

7. Watch a Match at Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

Nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayan mountain range of Dharamshala lies a quaint little cricket stadium. Located at the height of 1,457 meters above sea level, it is one of the highest sports grounds in the world. Visiting a cricket stadium while in Dharamshala may sound like a strange thing to add to one’s itinerary, but the magnificent natural backdrop and the cool winds constantly drifting across the grounds is what makes a trip to HPCA Stadium (as it is also known) worth it. 

8. Boating at Dal lake and Nadi

Dal lake is 11 km from lower Dharamsala and lies in between hills and deodar trees. This is a starting point for trekking and excursion, which is covered around the lake to make the walk memorable. Small Shiva Temple is also situated on the banks of this lake. A lively fair is held here every September annually. Boating is a popular activity here and one of the best things to do in Dharamsala.

9. Trek to Bhagsu Falls

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. This place is spread over a vast expanse of land and can be reached through a short trek which is ideal even for amateurs.  Trekking here amidst surreal surroundings id one of the most thrilling things to do in Dharamsala.

10. Visit the Famous Aghanjar Mahadev Temple

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. Other than the idyllic setting, a tiny cascading waterfall accentuates the beauty of the shrine. Be sure to include visiting here in your top list of things to do in Dharamsala.

11. Pay Your Respects at War Memorial

War Memorial is situated in the pine forests near Dharamshala town and the journey itself to this place is totally worth it. There is the beautiful GPG College which was made during British Era. This is the memorial which has been made at the entrance point to Dharamsala in the memory of those who fought for saving our motherland. Be sure to include this in your top list of things to do in Dharamsala.

12. Offer Prayers at the Jwalamukhi Devi Temple

Legends speak of a time when evil spirits landed the mountains and harassed the Gods. The gods decided to vanish them, directed by Lord Shiva. All the powers of the different Gods were focused and a huge flame rose from the base of the Earth. It is believed that Sati's tongue fell at Jwalaji from about 610 meters above the sea level and the goddess is manifested here and later a temple was created. Even the Pandavas are regarded to have visited this sacred place.

13. Admire the Relics at Kangra Art Museum

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. Among the variety of its precious collectibles are jewelry, rare coin memorabilia, paintings, sculptures and pottery. The essence of tribal culture is beautifully reflected in the exquisite pieces of art on their culture. Visiting the museum is one of the prime things to do in Dharamsala.

14. Seek Blessings at Bhagsu Nath Temple

This temple is located at a height of 1770 m above sea level. Surrounded by beautiful pools and lush greenery, this temple attracts a lot of devotees and tourists throughout the year. The pools around this temple are believed to be sacred and contain miraculous powers of healing. The temple was built by King Bhagsu and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

15. Paragliding in Dharamshala

Dharamshala is known for its scenic panoramic views, and paragliding is one of the best activities to do here. Bir Billing is the best place to take up paragliding sessions and have a lifetime experience.

This post was published by Aqsa Aleem

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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

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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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20 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Dharamshala

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Namgyalma Stupa

#1 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 3 km from Dharamshala and 6 km from McLeod Ganj, Namgyalma Stupa is an old Buddhist structure situated at Uparli Barol. It is one of the famous places to visit as part of Dharamshala Tour . Namgyalma Stupa is a dome-shaped construction that contains the remains of Buddha, which the Tibetans consider to be a sacred place of worship. It holds a huge shrine of Sakyamuni Buddha. The Namgyalma Stupa was constructed in the remembrance of the Tibetan soldiers who fought for the freedom of Tibet. This structure is similar in design to the structure built during the 3rd century BC by King Ashoka. Among the most prominent places of sightseeing in Dharamshala , the Namgyalma Stupa is carved from sandstone and is made with a vision of being long-lasting. It is a belief among Tibetans that anything that falls on the Namgyalma Stupa gets .....

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Gyuto Karmapa Temple / Gyuto Monastery

#2 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 8 km from Dharamshala and 13 km from McLeod Ganj, Gyuto Monastery is a Buddhist Monastery located at Sidbhari on the main road to Palampur. It is one of the famous Bhuddhist Monasteries in Himachal and among the best Dharamshala places to visit . The Gyuto Monastery is one of the most famous monasteries and specializes in the study of Tantric meditation, Tantric ritual arts, and Buddhist philosophy. It was founded in Tibet in 1474 by the main disciple of the first Dalai Lama, Jetsun Kunga Dhondup. After the communist Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959, the monastery was re-established in India. It is the abode of Karmapa, the Head of Kagyu Tibetan Buddhism. Karmapa means the one who carries out Buddha activity or the embodiment of all the activities of the Buddha. Also called TCV School, the main chamber of the monastery has a majestic statue of the Buddha and with the backdrop .....

Chamunda Nandikeshwar Temple

#3 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 17 km from Dharamshala, 10 km from Palampur, 24 km from McLeod Ganj and 24 km from Kangra, Chamunda Devi Temple is a renowned Hindu Temple located at Padar on the banks of Baner River in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. This ancient temple dates back to the 16th century. The temple is dedicated to Chamunda Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The word Chamunda has been derived from two words, Chanda and Munda. As per the mythological legends, goddess Kali killed two notorious demons Chanda and Munda in a fierce battle at this place in ancient time. Hence, the goddess is known and worshipped as Chamunda. The temple houses sacred image of Chamunda Devi. In the corner of the temple, one can see small stone with footsteps of Goddess. Besides the main shrine, there is a marble staircase that takes down to the cave of Lord Shiva with a Shiva Linga. Chamunda Devi Mandir is believed to be the abode of Shiva and Shakti. Due to this reason, it is also known as .....

Norbulingka Institute / Norbulingka Monastery

#4 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 7.5 km from Dharamshala Bus Station and 12 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand, Norbulingka Institute is an educational and training institute situated at Dharamshala in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Norbulingka Institute was founded in 1988 for preserving Tibetan culture, literature and art. It was established by Dalai Lama and is named after Norbulingka, the summer residence of the Dalai Lamas in Lhasa, Tibet. It has been built in traditional Tibetan style located amidst gardens and ponds. The main sections of the institute are the Academy of Tibetan Culture, Literary and Cultural Research Centre as well as the Centre of the Arts. The institute also has the Seat of Happiness Temple set amidst the Japanese inspired Norbulingka gardens. It is especially known for more than 1000 murals of Buddha, frescoes of all the Dalai Lamas and drawings from the life of the 14th Dalai Lama. The institute primarily works towards preserving Tibetan traditions and .....

Triund Hill, Near Mcleod Ganj

#5 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 8 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand and 13 km from Dharamshala, Triund is a beautiful hill situated in the Dhauladhar Mountains of Himachal Pradesh. Witth an altitude of about 2842 m, it is one of the popular trekking places near Delhi , and among the must-visit places during McLeodganj tour . Triund is an 8 km trek from the McLeod Ganj Bus Stand. It is one of the best trails of short treks in Himachal state and among the top McLeodganj tourist places for adventure buffs. This is a small and easy trek, which can be done either from McLeodganj or Dharamkot, which is 2 km ahead of McLeodganj. The trail is 6 km from Dharamkot and passes through Galu Devi temple. From this temple, it takes around 3 hours to reach Triund. The initial half of the trek is a gradual incline ..... Distance (From Dharamshala): 13 Kms Trip Duration (From Dharamshala - Including Travel): Half Day to Full Day .....

Bhagsunag Waterfall / Bhagsu Falls, Near Mcleod Ganj

#6 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 3 km from McLeod Ganj & 7 km from Dharamshala, Bhagsunag Falls, also known as Bhagsu Falls, is a beautiful waterfall situated at Bhagsu village behind Bhagsunath Temple near McLeod Ganj in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the popular McLeodganj places to visit , and among the best waterfalls in Himachal . Cascading down from a height of 20 m, this is a mid-size waterfall. During monsoon, this waterfall turns beautiful alongside a mountain that features slate graffiti. This area is covered with snowfall during winters. Tourists love to swim across the cold water which gives a pleasant and refreshing experience as part of McLeodganj sightseeing packages . Trekking is also a good and much enjoyable option here. The Bhagsu village is a popular picnic spot and ..... Distance (From Dharamshala): 7 Kms Trip Duration (From Bhagsunag Temple (1 km) - Including Travel): 1 Hour .....

Bhagsunath Temple, Near Mcleod Ganj

#7 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 2 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand & 6 km from Dharamshala, Bhagsu Nag Temple also known as Bhagsunath Temple is one of the popular ancient temples located in McLeod Ganj. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the local deity Bhagsu Nag. Bhagsu Nag Mandir is an ancient temple believed to have been built by King Bhagsu from Rajasthan. The present Bhagsu Nag temple was constructed by 1st Gurkha Rifles in early 19th century and worshipped majorly by 14 Gurkha platoon villages in Dharamshala . Adjacent to the temple building are a series of pools where Buddhist monks and visitors enjoy baths. An annual fair is conducted in the month of September at this temple which attracts tourist from the entire region. This temple is situated on the way to Bhagsunag Waterfall. Distance (From Dharamshala): 6 Kms Trip Duration (From Dharamshala - Including Travel): 1 Hour .....

Tsuglagkhang / Dalai Lama Temple Complex, Near Mcleod Ganj

#8 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 2 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand and 4 km from Dharamshala, Tsuglagkhang Monastery is a Buddhist Monastery situated in McLeod Ganj suburb of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the must-include places in Mcleodganj holiday packages . Tsuglag Khang, also known as Dalai Lama's Temple complex, is the home for His Holiness Dalai Lama. It is among the world-renowned religious centers and is thronged by Buddhist pilgrims throughout the year. Tsuglagkhang Monastery is a beautifully built structure. This is more like a temple along with being a residential complex for His Holiness and his followers. The complex houses the Photang (Dalai Lama's residence), Tibet Museum, Tsuglagkhang Temple, and Namgyal Gompa. The monastery deals with the training of monks for rituals associated with holy shrine, whereas the temple is a chief place of worship. A beautifully decorated statue of Lord Buddha along with beautiful ..... Distance (From Dharamshala): 4 Kms Trip Duration (From Dharamshala - Including Travel): 1-2 Hours .....

Tsechokling Gompa, Near Mcleod Ganj

#9 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 200 m from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand and 9 km from Dharamshala, Tsechokling Gompa, also known as Tse Chok Ling Gompa is a religious monument constructed on a steep hillside in McLeod Ganj. Tsechokling Gompa is amongst the popular monasteries in the region and is highly regarded for its cultural significance. This peaceful Gompa was built in 1987 to replicate the original Dip Tse Chok Ling Gompa in Tibet, destroyed in the Revolution. Home to a small order of Gelukpa monks, the prayer hall enshrines a statue of Sakyamuni in a magnificent jeweled headdress. The monks who lived in the Gompa made two huge drums covered in goatskin and painted beautifully. The Gompa is famous for the fine Mandalas. Distance (From Dharamshala): 9 Kms Trip Duration (From McLeod Ganj Bus Stand (200m) - Including Travel): 1 Hour .....

St. John Church, Near Mcleod Ganj

#10 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 1 km from McLeod Ganj and 8 km from Dharamshala, St. John Church, also known as St. John In The Wilderness, is an Anglican church situated at Forsyth Ganj on the way to McLeod Ganj amidst beautiful deodar trees. The church was dedicated to Saint John the Baptist and was constructed in 1852. The Church is a historic monument and one of the oldest churches in the region. It is built in Neo-Gothic architectural style and features Belgian stained-glass windows that were donated by Lady Elgin, wife of Lord Elgin. The church was built with grey stone and is one of the few buildings still in existence in the town from the British era. The British style of architecture is extremely evident in the edifice of the church, with elegant wood of the altar and the brass handles of the oil lamps. These lamps have now been replaced with electric lamps. In 1905 an earthquake destroyed the bell tower of this church. A new bell was built in 1915, which was brought from England. ..... Distance (From Dharamshala): 8 Kms Trip Duration (From Dharamshala - Including Travel): 1 Hour .....

Indru Nag Temple

#11 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 5 km from Dharamshala Bus Station and 8 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand, Indru Nag Temple is a Hindu temple situated at Indru Nag near Chohla village Dharamshala. It is one of the well-known religious places to visit in Dharamshala . Indru Nag is an ancient temple built by local villagers and is dedicated to Snake King. People offer prayers to the Indru Nag and they strongly believe that this God saves them from natural disasters, especially heavy rains. The temple is located on the hilltop and one can get a panoramic view of the Dharamshala and Dhauladhar ranges. The Khanyara road from Dharamshala leads to Chohla village. From Chohla, visitors need to trek 1 km to reach the Indru Nag Temple, one of the must-visit places as part of Dharamshala sightseeing packages . Adventure lovers can trek the whole distance from Dharamshala .....

Nechung Monastery

#12 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 2.5 km from Dharamshala and 3 km from McLeod Ganj, the Nechung Monastery is located just below the Tibetan Library in Gangchen Kyishong and is one of the sightseeing attractions of McLeod Ganj. The monastery is part of Tsuglagkhang Complex. Nechung Monastery is considered as the seat of the State Oracle and protector-deity of His Holiness Dalai Lama and Tibet. It has a great importance in Tibetan history and Buddhist religion. Nechung has acted as spiritual guide to the Tibetan Government since the 18th century. The physical medium is called Nechung Kuten. When the medium enters into a trance-like state, the protector-deity takes possession of his body and gives advice and predictions to the Dalai Lama and Tibetan leaders in exile. The original Nechung Monastery in Lhasa had 115 monks in 1959 and was razed to the ground during the Revolution. However, six monks managed to escape to India to continue the complex traditions of the Nechung Institution. Tibetan .....

Aghanjar Mahadev Temple

#13 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 9 km from Dharamshala and 16 km from McLeod Ganj, Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is situated in the Khaniyara village at the foothills of Dhauladhar. This temple is believed to be five hundred years old. The Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that once upon a time when Arjuna, one of the Pandavas from the Mahabharata, was on his way to the Kailash Mountains, Lord Shiva appeared at this spot and blessed him with the boon of victory over the Kauravas. There are several idols of Lord Shiva and a Lord Hanuman statue. The temple is surrounded by forests, mountains and a little waterfall is situated behind the temple with continuous flow of water. There is also a small cave with Shivlinga near the temple. This Shiva temple and its surroundings offer a great relief. This is a beautiful place to relax and capture the beauty of nature and surrounding mountains. Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM

Kunal Pathri Temple

#14 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 6 km from Dharamshala and 11 km from McLeod Ganj, Kunal Pathri Mata Temple is situated at Kunal Pathri town in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Kunal Pathri Temple is a little rock temple dedicated to local goddess Kapaleshwari. The temple was consecrated by regional tribes to offer their prayers. This ancient temple is surrounded by dense tea gardens and is the perfect place for a long peaceful walk amidst the lush surroundings. The temple displays exquisite carvings of gods and goddesses. It is said that there is a stone in the temple that always remains wet. According to local legend, the moment it starts drying, it rains. The temple premises offer a good view of the mountains. An annual fair also takes place during March/April.

Kareri Lake

#15 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 32 km from Dharamshala and 39 km from McLeod Ganj, Kareri Lake, also known as Kumarwah Lake, is a high altitude lake located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Trek to Kareri Lake is one of the top things to do in Dharamshala . Kareri Lake is situated at an altitude of 3100 m and is a fresh water lake. Snow melting from the Dhauladhar range serves as the source of the lake and a stream, Nyund is the outflow. Since the source is fresh melting snow and the lake is shallow the lake bed can be seen clearly. It is one of the must-include places in Dharamshala holiday packages . Kareri Lake is best known for being a trekking destination in the Dhauladhar range. The trek starts from Ghera village, which is about 22 km from McLeod Ganj. Ghera is accessed either by shared jeep from Dharamsala or on foot from Naddi. It has a .....

#16 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 37 km from Dharamshala, 44 km from McLeod Ganj, and 54 km from Kangra, Kotla Fort is a historic fort situated at Kotla Town in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Located on the Pathankot-Dharamshala road, it is one of the renowned places of heritage in Himachal , and among the must-visit places as part of Dharamshala tour packages . Kotla Fort stands at an altitude of 650 m, overlooking the surrounding deep valleys. The fort was built by Raja Ram Chand of Guler in the 16th century. It was seized during the reign of Raja Suraj Mal and his brother Madho Singh was made the commander of the fort. The way to the fort is covered with thick forests of pine. It is one of the major Dharamshala tourist places . The fort houses 15 corridors and was built on a huge rock, which follows .....

Dal Lake, Near Mcleod Ganj

#17 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 3 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand and 9 km from Dharamshala, Dal Lake is a small mid-altitude lake situated near the village of Tota Rani on Mcleodganj-Naddi road in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the prominent McLeodganj tourist attractions . The beautiful Dal Lake stands at an altitude of 1,775 m and is one of the popular sightseeing attractions to visit as during McLeodganj trip . The greenish lake is home to various species of fish. It is the best base camp for trekkers in Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj. It is situated on the crest of a hill and affords a panoramic view of the Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar Ranges. Boating facility is also available at this lake. This oval-shaped lake is surrounded by deodar trees and is considered to be a sacred spot as there is a small Shiva Temple on its bank. According ..... Distance (From Dharamshala): 9 Kms Trip Duration (From Dharamshala - Including Travel): 1-2 Hours .....

Illaqa / Lahesh Cave Trek, Near Mcleod Ganj

#18 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 12 km from McLeod Ganj and 17 km from Dharamshala, Lahesh Cave is a Camping ground which is used by shepherds in the summers when they take their sheep to the high altitude meadows here. It lies at an altitude of 3500 m above sea level. Lahesh Cave is a 12 km trek from the McLeod Ganj Bus Stop. This is an easy to moderate trek, which can be done either from McLeod Ganj or Dharamkot, which is 2 km ahead of McLeod Ganj. The trail is 10 km from Dharamkot and passes through Galu Devi Temple, Triund and Illaqa. Triund is the base camp for the trekkers who continue the trek to Lahesh Cave, Indrahara Pass to Bharmour. Along the way there are many small Tea shops where one can refresh during the hike. After a 2 km ascent from Triund, traversing through a ridge will lead to Illaqa or Laka which has a temporary shepherd camp. The path is rock-strewn and uneven, some spots were treacherous too. Illaqa is a flat stretch of land on the Moon Peak Mountain which divides the ..... Distance (From Dharamshala): 17 Kms Trip Duration (From Dharamshala - Including Travel): 2-3 Days .....

Indrahar Pass Trek, Near Mcleod Ganj

#19 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 16 km from McLeod Ganj and 21 km from Dharamshala, Indrahar Pass is a mountain pass in the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas near the town of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. Located at an altitude of 4,342 m above mean sea level, Indrahar pass forms the border between Kangra and Chamba districts. The trekking trail to Indrahar pass is very popular and the trek starts from Galu Devi temple above Dharamkot village near Dharamsala, which is 2 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stop. The Indrahara Pass trek is considered a moderate to difficult trek. The trek passes through the camping grounds of Triund, Illaqa, and Lahesh Caves. Guna Devi to Triund is a 6 km steep but marked trail. Triund is the base camp for the trekkers who continue the trek to Lahesh Cave, Indrahara Pass and Bharmour. Along the way there are many small Tea shops where one can refresh during the hike. Trek up to Triund is very popular and busy with ..... Distance (From Dharamshala): 21 Kms Trip Duration (From Dharamshala - Including Travel): 3-4 Days .....

#20 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala

At a distance of 23 km from Sundar Nagar, 24 km from Rewalsar, 70 km from Kullu, 107 km from Manali, 126 km from Dharamshala, 138 km from Shimla, 156 km from Bilaspur, 186 km from Chandigarh, 207 km from Pathankot, 235 km from Dalhousie, and 431 km from New Delhi, Mandi (formerly known as Mandav Nagar), also known as Sahor, is a major town and district headquarters of Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh. Lying on the banks of River Beas, it is one of the best offbeat tourist places to in Himachal , and among the prominent places to visit near Chandigarh . Situated at the junction of Kullu and Dharamshala, the town of Mandi is a gorgeous mountainous region filled with surreal landscapes and innumerable ancient shrines. It is often referred to as 'Varanasi of Hills', or 'Choti Kashi', or 'Kashi of Himachal' as the town has as many as 81 temples spread across its area. Offering ..... Distance (From Dharamshala): 126 Kms Trip Duration (From Dharamshala - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Most Asked Questions on Dharamshala

Dharamshala, often called as the gateway to the Kangra valley, can be visited from September to October and again from April to June. Summer is the busiest season in Dharamshala and it is also the best time for outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing.

Dharamshala usually takes at least 2 full days to visit the most important attractions. Dharamshala can be mixed with near by wonderful destinations like Shimla, Manali, Kullu and Dalhousie by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Dharamshala trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Dharamshala tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 5150 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 7100 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Dharamshala like Namgyalma Stupa, Gyuto Karmapa Temple, Chamunda Nandikeshwar Temple, Norbulingka Monastery, Nechung Monastery, Dalai Lama Temple Complex, Tsechokling Gompa, St. John Church, Bhagsunath Temple and Bhagsunag Waterfall.

Dharamshala usually experiences with occasional snowfall during peak winter between the months of December and February. It depends on weather condition and the dates may vary and the level of snowfall may vary as well.

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• 20 Things to Do in Dharamshala

• Himachal Pradesh
• Dharamshala

Activities to Do in Dharamshala

Here are some of the best things to do in dharamsala:, quick navigation.

Paragliding

Paragliding is an adventure sport that involves gliding on a glider with no rigid support system. It follows much of the concept from a hot air balloon as the glider depends a lot on centripetal and centrifugal forces to help one glide in the air. In Dharamsala, a lot of tour and travel agencies provide this service. It is a great activity to indulge in if you crave the adrenaline rush that comes with any adventure sports. The natural hilly terrain of this area makes it a much sought after spot for such activities.

Triund Trek

Triund is located north of Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj is often termed as the crown jewel of Dharamsala. Triund hill offers a stunning view of Dhauladhar Mountains on one side and Kangra Valley on the other side. The trek requires one to reach McLeod Ganj and hire a taxi from there to Galu. 

You can also go to Bhagsu Nag and start the trek from there. The trek takes you through stunning forests that are lined with various trees that are unique to high-temperature areas. You will also cross steep mountains and curves as you brave your way to Triund summit. 

Along the way are a lot of establishments that serve beverages and light snacks making your trek much easier. This is a trek not for the faint of heart and should not be taken lightly either. The trek is worth it though as the view from the top makes up for the hardships of the way.

Best time to participate: Summer because the trail will be less tough to trek through.

Also, check out our list of best trekking tours in McLeod Ganj !

The beautiful contours and the hilly terrain make for an incredible camping experience in and around Dharamsala. The clear skies and the fresh air enrich the camping experience and make it more enjoyable. A lot of shops provide camping equipment in Dharamsala or you can opt to carry your own. 

The trail between Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj makes for a great camping spot and one often encounters scores of campers here. You can also camp a little after McLeod Ganj which is less populated and more peaceful. However, it does restrict the amenities one can avail nearby.

Best time to participate: Summer and spring because the terrain will be easier to camp in.

• Spiti Valley

Kareri Lake Trek

Kareri Lake is located approximately 40 kilometers North of Dharamsala and in the Dhauladhar Range. The route is filled with beautiful green vegetation and flora unique to the Himalayas. To get here, you need to start trekking from Ghera village. 

Ghera is easily accessible from Dharamshala as you get regular buses to Ghera. From Ghera, the trek to Kareri Lake takes about 8 to 9 hours. The route is narrow and tough at times. It’s not as popular as Triund or Bhagsu Nag treks thus making it more of an untrodden path. There are a lot of camping places in Kareri to spend the night here and you can return to Dharamsala next morning.

Day Trip to Kangra Valley in Dharamshala

About the Activity:

• A beautiful gorge in Himachal Pradesh, Kangra valley has been attracting visitors for many years with its stunning sights.
• Embark on a day full of sightseeing at this getaway and explore its charm as you depart early post breakfast.
• On the way, you will be seeing many iconic sights such as Masroor Rock cut temples, which date back to the 8th century and belong to the Indo-Aryan School of architecture.
• Post this you will be driving down for 40 minutes to visit the Norbulingka, an institute dedicated to preserving traditional Tibetan art and craft.

Traditional Day at Dharamshala

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Dharamshala Sightseeing Tour

• Enjoy a complete fun trip to Dharamshala, a scintillating beauty located in the valleys of Himalayas with freezing breeze and climate.
• Firstly head toward to visit the beautiful tea gardens, the aroma will have a healing energy and enjoy the salubrious atmosphere.
• Have a look at the cricket stadium, Kangra art museum, war memorial and Norbulingka Buddhist temple.
• Stroll the famous streets of Dhranamshala forgetting all the worries in your life and end the crazy trip at Indrunag temple.
• A group of 4 people are needed for this tour, so have a great time with your friends and family.

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Lahesh Cave Trek, Book Online & Save ₹2000t Lahesh Caves

Location:  Mcleodganj

Start & End Point: Mcleodganj bus stand. 

Check-in time: 01.00 PM (Day-1) Check-out time: 11.00 AM (Day-3) The campsite lies at a height of 3500 m above the sea level. Lahesh Cave is a 12 km trek from the McLeod Ganj Bus Stop.  Lahesh Caves are a beautiful sight that is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh on the way to Indrahar Pass and are surrounded by many towering and magnanimous peaks of the Himalayas. With this camping experience, you will be staying at these caves which are sometimes used by the shepherds, while engaging in various other adventurous activities. You can expect a walk of around 4-5 hours per day during the trek. Trek on to the Triund mountains and the snow line going through the forests of oak, deodar, pine, oak and fir and then onwards to the stunning sight of the snow line. Enjoy staying in the tents under the stars. Admire the beautiful sunrise and spend some peaceful time. See the beautiful Bhagsu Nag Temple as well as a beautiful waterfall on your way down from the caves. 

How to reach: Mcleodganj bus stand is very well connected by public and private transport. 

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Explore Kangra Fort

Kangra Fort, located on the outskirts of Kangra town, is a fort built by the Rajput family of Kangra as part of the Katoch Dynasty. The builders of this fort trace their history back to the Mahabharata making this fort the oldest recorded fort in India. 

It’s also the largest fort in the Himalayas. The fort is well known for its importance in medieval Indian history as it was a much sought after fort by the Mughals and succeeded in resisting a lot of Mughal sieges. The outer wall of the fort has a circumference of 4 kms and the inner chambers have a lot of artifacts from various periods, most notably the Mughal and British occupied India eras. There are temples and royal chambers inside that make for a very fun and eventful tour. 

Best time to visit: All throughout the year.

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Visit Dal Lake

Dal Lake in Dharamsala is located on Dal Lake-McLeod Ganj Road, North of Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj in Kangra district. Known for its altitude, it is surrounded by canopies of deodar trees that add to the charm of this small lake. There is a sacred Shiva temple here that is quite popular among the local people for its mythological importance. 

This quaint lake makes for an excellent trip from Dharamsala as it’s located at close proximity to it and finding transportation to the lake from Dharamsala is quite easy. It’s most definitely a place to keep in your bucket list for things to do in Dharamsala.

Best time to visit: Summer and spring is the best time due to the clear weather and less chances for road blockage due to snow.

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Meditate at Gyuto Monastery

Gyuto Monastery is located approximately 9 kilometers south east of Dharamsala on the Palampur-Dharamsala road. It’s a very important monastery in Buddhist heritage as it is a premium tantric college. It follows the principles of the Gelug Order, a relatively new Buddhist order that focuses on discipline and ethics to achieve spiritual fulfillment. 

This is a beautiful place to visit in order to relax and meditate. The sheer beauty along with the peace and quiet of this monastery is sure to calm anyone. It’s a place one must visit to experience it and is a sure qualifier for things to do in Dharamsala.

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Visit Jwalamukhi Devi Temple

Jwalamukhi Devi Temple is located in Jwalamukhi town, approximately 55 kilometers from Dharamsala in Kangra district. It’s dedicated to Jwala, a Hindu Goddess associated with fire and burning gas. The temple was built by Raja Bhumi Chand Katoch and is another monument in Dharamsala that traces its origins to the Mahabharata era.

The most unique part about this temple is that there is no deity inside the temple. Instead, the flames that emanate from within the rocks through fissures in the ground are worshipped as they are considered to be the Goddess manifesting herself. The temple is identified as one of the 52 Shakti Peethas from Hindu mythology and is a revered religious site that attracts thousands of pilgrims every year.

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Bhagsu Waterfall

Located 1 kilometer from McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu Waterfall in Bhagsunag village is a traveler’s delight due to its surrounding beauty and the history associated with it. It is located close to the Bhagsu Nag Temple, a temple dedicated to Shiva. 

The waterfall is a 30 feet drop that is located between the crevices of two mountains and is a majestic sight to behold. The waterfall is a 20 minute hike from the temple and is completely worth it once you see the clear water and relax in the peace and quiet among lush scenery. It’s a must visit place and should be on your list of things to do in Dharamsala. 

Best time to visit: Monsoon because the flow will be greater, making the stream much more beautiful.

Best of Mcleodganj

Visit Tea Gardens

Tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world after water. Almost 80% of the world’s population consumes tea and India is the second largest producer of tea in the world with a whooping 900,094 tonnes of tea produced per year.

In Dharamsala, one can visit the tea plantations on the Dharamsala-McLeod Ganj road. While not as big as the plantations in Assam or the North East states, the plantations are large enough to keep one engaged for a couple of hours. The plantation mostly caters to local export i.e. consumption within the Indian Peninsula.  The aromatic mist of tea along with the greenery all around is sufficient to mesmerize and should be on your list of things to do in Dharamsala. 

Best of Kasol

Visit Mani Lhakhang Stupa

Mani Lhakhang Stupa is located in Uprali Barol, approximately 5 kilometres from Dharamsala city. This Stupa is also known as the prayer wheels monastery. It was constructed in 2001 under instructions from Dalai Lama as part of 5 small stupas that could survive a natural calamity. 

This beautiful Stupa houses a gold plated statue of the Buddha in his signature lotus position. The Stupa has a lot of prayer wheels that you can spin for good luck. It is easy to get to from Dharamsala as you can get a lot of transportation to this place. In the evenings, one can indulge your senses in the hymns sung by the monks that are sure to make you want to come back here time and again. 

Best of Auli

Watch a Cricket Match at HPCA Stadium

Cricket is equivalent to a cult in India with a fanbase that knows no age, religion, caste, creed or gender divide. What better way to indulge in such a sport than to watch it in a stadium that is located at an altitude of 1457 m amidst scenic mountains and high altitude. 

The HPCA stadium is located in Dharamsala and is more popularly used for Ranji Trophy matches. The high altitude of the stadium makes it a little difficult to use for international cricket since rains or snow can disrupt roads making transportation tough. Catch a game when here and enjoy the sport as you take in the breathtaking and majestic mountains in the background. 

Best of Bir - Billing

Aghanjar Mahadev Temple

Located about 9 kilometers from Dharamsala, Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is located in the foothills of Dhauladhar Mountains in Kangra district. This beautiful town is in Khaniyara temple and is known for its scenic and religious splendor and awe.

The temple has a deep history associated with the Mahabharata. It is believed that Lord Shiva granted Arjun the boon of victory before the Mahabharata war. The temple commemorates and celebrates this boon and is of much religious importance. There is a beautiful stream in the vicinity that one can visit as well. Large stones adorn this area and add to its beauty. This place is a must for those looking for things to do in Dharamsala.

Dharamsala War Memorial

Located at the entry to Dharamsala town, the Dharamsala War Memorial is a memorial constructed to honor the brave men and women who died in service to our country post Independence. The memorial is located amidst beautiful scenery and is a monument that represents bravery and sacrifice. 

The monument has the names of all the soldiers and martyrs, who died in the 1947-48, 1962, 1965, and 1971 war and peacekeeping missions. This is a structure that holds much importance. The sacrifices of soldiers are often forgotten in popular media and structures such as these remind and inspire one to remember and keep fighting the good fight. When here, do keep this in your list of things to do in Dharamsala.

Sherbling Monastery

Sherbling Monastery is located in Keori, Himachal Pradesh approximately 60 kilometers from Dharamsala. It was established in 1975 in a space in a protected pine forest by the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa’s disciples. The monastery has been constructed in typical Tibetan architectural senses and uses the ancient sciences of geomancy. 

There is room for 500 monks inside the monastery and it has a lot of shrine rooms and halls for meditation and worshipping purposes. It’s an important structure in Tibetan Buddhist practices and has a large number of followers and pilgrims visiting this structure every day. The monastery is the holy abode of Tai Siti Rimpoche, a much respected figure in the Buddhist sect. The monastery will fill one with a lot of peace and introspection amidst the tranquility and serenity inside.

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Dharamshala Top Attractions

Situated on the outskirts of Kangra, about 20 kilometers away from Dharamsala, is one of India's oldest forts. The Kangra Fort sits atop a steep rock, and its towering presence dominates the surrounding valley. The fort covers an area of about 4 kilometers, and it is guarded by ramparts and high walls.Built strategically at the confluence or meeting point of Majhi and Banganga river, Kangra Fort is one of the must-see spots in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh.Besides its unique architecture and historical importance, the fort is also known for housing three temples, namely the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Shitlamata Temple, and Ambika Devi Temple. Several doors leads into the fort, but the main entrance goes through a courtyard that is behind two gates.The doors even have interesting names such as Ahani Darwaza, Amiri Darwaza, and Jehangiri Darwaza. Outside of the main temple gate, you will find the Andheri Darwaza. It is the fort's primary defense gate.The walls of the Andheri Darwaza are 15 feet high and the passage is 7 meters long. The gate allows only two men or one horse to pass through at a time. The narrow passage of the defense gate was designed to slow down the opposing force.Once you pass the Ahani and Amiri Darwaza, a long and narrow passageway will take you to the top section of the fort. A staircase located between Ambika Devi and Shitlamata temple will take you to the Sheesh Mahal, which is a small hall. There is also a polygonal watchtower, which provides breathtaking views of the landscape.Exploring Kangra Fort is a must-do activity when you book your Himachal Pradesh tour packages. This ancient fortress offers a fascinating journey through history and architecture, providing insights into the region's rich cultural heritage. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the allure of Kangra Fort and uncover its hidden treasures during your tour of Himachal Pradesh.Highlights: The beautiful entrance is something what people love. The way the whole fort is built is completely marvelous. Inside the fort, you will find defaced statues of many lords that these people worship. This fort is considered as one of the most beautiful forts in India and people love it for the built structure.

The Dharamshala Cricket Stadium is not just about cricket; it is also about enjoying nature's beauty while watching the game. It is a special place where you can enjoy cricket and the peacefulness of the mountains at the same time.For those planning a visit to Himachal Pradesh, exploring Himachal tour packages could enhance the overall experience by combining the thrill of cricket at Dharamshala Cricket Stadium with the opportunity to discover the region's natural wonders and cultural attractions.

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15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in And Around Dharamshala

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Dharamshala is one of the most beautiful weekend destinations, enticing visitors with its sky-soaring valleys, lakes, waterfalls, temples, and Tibetan heritage. If you are visiting to experience its allure, we recommend that you extend your stay to see, if not all, of the best places to visit in and around Dharamshala.

Dharamshala encompasses the best attractions and some of the most beautiful places nearby. The majority of these nearby wonders are easy to reach and can be completed in a single day. However, some of these detours are so beautiful that you could spend an entire weekend here. From lakes to forts and hill stations, the areas surrounding Dharamshala have something spectacular in store for you. Here is the list of 15 beautiful places to visit in and around Dharamshala.

Also Read: 18 Most Amazing Places To Visit In And Around Manali

1. McLeod Gunj

McLeod Ganj, a suburb of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, India, is the hub of the Tibetan community in India. It is renowned for its spiritual significance as the home of the Dalai Lama. Travelers can visit the Namgyal Monastery, the Tibet Museum, and the Dalai Lama Temple Complex to learn about Buddhism and Tibetan culture. The town is also known for its Tibetan cuisine and handicrafts. McLeod Ganj is a great place for those seeking a sneak peek into Tibetan culture and spiritual enlightenment.

Image Source: lukexmartin (flickr)

2. Tsuglagkhang Complex and Namgyal Monastery

The Tsuglagkhang Complex, located in McLeod Ganj, India, is the official residence of the Dalai Lama. The complex includes the the Dalai Lama Temple, the Namgyal Monastery, and the Tibet Museum. It is an important spiritual and cultural center for the Tibetan community in India. The complex is a must-visit destination for those who wish to learn about Tibetan Buddhism and culture, attend prayer sessions and teachings, and view historic artifacts.

Image Source: Wikimedia commons

3. Kareri  Lake

Kareri Lake is another high-altitude destination that is possibly one of the few places near Dharamshala sparingly visited by tourists. The trek to this pristine high-altitude lake begins from Kareri village located near Dharamshala. The total trek distance to Kareri Lake is around 13 km. Trekkers often camp at Reoti, located 7 kms on the trail. There are a few shops at Reoti that provide basic tents and mattresses for camping.

Source: Wikimedia commons

4. Bir Biling

Bir Billing, located in Himachal Pradesh, India, is a popular destination for adventure seekers and paragliding enthusiasts. The town offers several paragliding options, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Bir Billing also has a vibrant café culture, cozy homestays and budget hostels to enjoy the town’s laid-back vibe.

5. Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamshala

The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, located in Dharamshala, India, is probably India’s most beautiful cricket stadium nestled amidst the picturesque Dhauldhar Himalayan ranges. The stadium has hosted several international cricket matches and is one of the best in the country. The stadium’s location and stunning views make it a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts and travelers alike.

6. Palampur

Palampur is a little-known hill station that is one of the best places to visit near Dharamshala. It is surrounded by tea gardens and pine groves. Water streams flow along the road here, where local mushrooms occasionally sprout on the sides. The weather in Palampur is pleasant all year. Despite the fact that it is extremely cold during the winters, it is romantic. Palampur is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, close to Dharamshala.

Source: Erik Törner (Flickr)

7. The Bhagsu falls 

The Bhagsu falls is one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala because of its tranquillity and beauty. The waterfall, along with the surrounding greenery, makes for an excellent hike for hikers, as well as a lovely spot for tourists to unwind themselves. The Bhagsunag Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva is located near the waterfall. The top provides a breathtaking view of the entire city of Dharamshala.

Source: Flickr

8. Masrur Temples

The famous Masrur temple, also known as the rock-cut temple, is located in Kangra Valley around 40 kms from Dharamshala.  This 8th-century complex of rock-cut Hindu temples faces northeast, towards the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas. It is noted for its unique architectural style that resembles the Elephanta Caves near Mumbai, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, and the rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

9. Kangra Fort

Kangra Fort is a well-known tourist attraction located around 20 kilometers from Dharamshala. It was built by the Katoch Rajput Dynasty. The Kangra Fort is the largest fort in the Himalayas and probably the oldest dated fort in India. It was the site of historical battles of the Katoch Kings wth the Mughals, Gurkhas and the Sikh Empire. It is not only a magnificent historical structure, but it is also a lovely location from which to view the nearby settlement of Kangra and its waterways.

10. Naddi Village

This lovely, peaceful little hamlet near Dharamshala is well-known for its scenery, natural beauty and amazing views of the Dhauldhar ranges. It is also the starting point of a number of treks in the region.

11. Dharamkot

Dharamkot, a small and charming hill town near Dharamshala, is a must-visit place that offers wide views of the Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar ranges. The town is located in the Kangra valley, above McLeod Ganj at an elevation of 2827 meters above sea level. One of the most intriguing aspects of the area is that many foreigners, particularly Israelis, have moved there to enjoy the hippy atmosphere that pervades the air. It is also known as the ‘Tel Aviv of hills’.

12. Triund 

Triund is a popular trek in the region and one of the most beautiful places around Dharamshala. It is located at the foot of the Dhauladhar ranges at an altitude of 2,828 metres (9,278 ft) and is surrounded by snow-capped ranges on one side and rolling valleys on the other. The trek is perfect for beginners with a total distance of 9-10 km that can take up to 7-8 hours to cover depending on your physical fitness levels. It begins from the Gallu Devi Temple located around 7-8 km from Mcleodganj.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

13. Lahesh caves

While the majority of visitors to Dharamshala climb to Triund Hills, true adventurers and travelers continue on to the more scenic Lahesh caves, which are located at a height of 3475 metres. The caves are an easy one day trek from Triund which takes about 5-6 hours on average. There are several vistas along the way to these picturesque caves where you can see a variety of other surrounding sights.The caves are surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan ranges.

14. Indrahaar Pass

Indrahaar Pass, located in the Dhauladhar range of Himachal Pradesh, India, is a stunning high-altitude mountain pass that should be attempted by experienced trekkers. The trail to the Pass passes through Triund and Lahesh caves. The pass is a steep climb from Lahesh Caves which may take 3-5 hour depending on your fitness levels. The trek to Indrahaar Pass is a challenging but rewarding experience, taking 4-5 days to complete for the round trip. Alternatively, one can cross the Indrahaar  and move to Kuasi village in Chamba on the other side of the pass. Indrahaar Pass offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges of the region.

S ource: Wikimedia Commons

15. Dal Lake

One of the most beautiful Dharamshala tourist attractions is the Dal Lake in Kangra. It’s a lovely body of water surrounded by coniferous deodar trees that creates the ideal romantic and cozy atmosphere. A lovely setting with views of the surrounding mountains from the lake’s banks, where visitors are welcome to picnic and take photographs. Boating is a popular sport on Dal Lake, and there are plenty of guides and boats available to help you have a good time. On the Dal Lake’s shores, there is a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva where one can seek blessings.

16. Baijnath

Apart from being one of the most beautiful places to visit near Dharamshala, Baijnath is also a major pilgrimage center. It is home to one of India’s most revered Shiva Temples. The magnificent mountain backdrop, as well as the sanctity and serenity, combine to make it one of the top explorations. The temple is located around 50 kms from Dharamshala.

17. Tea Gardens 

The region around Dharamshala and Kangra Valley is renowned for its vast green tea gardens with the backdrop of snow-capped Himalayan ranges. Consider strolling through lush green tea fields filled with the enticing aroma of freshly plucked tea leaves. You could go for a guided tour of tea plantations and processing plants, and a tea-tasting session with some of the tea estates there like the Dharamshala Tea Company .

So, now you know about some of the most fascinating and best places to visit in and around Dharamshala, which you can explore with your travel companions. Waiting isn’t an option right now. Fill your scrapbook with pictures of these incredible locations.

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Top 14 best places to visit in dharamshala mcleodganj, himachal pradesh.

Soul of Tibetans, Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh is one of the best places for rejuvenating and fine tuning your spirit if you are looking for space to dip your mind in a river of calmness and serenity. Being the most prominent Buddhist pilgrimage center, each mile here reveals a sense of peace and bliss.

Near the upper Dharamshala , you will see beautiful little Lhasa, Mcloedganj which is a serene residence of his holiness Dalai Lama dotted with lush greenery and majestic hills. It’s not wrong to say that Mcloedganj has the most scenic landscapes that remain etched in your heart if it comes to the Dharamshala holiday tour. Near it you will also witness the gorgeous Kangra Valley, Triund and serene monasteries which attracts thousands of International as well as Indian tourists over the year. The reason why Mcloedganj is mentioned especially in this blog is that it’s the central hub of Tibetan community which beautifies the ambiance and culture of Dharamshala.

Apart from their spiritual side, the delightful vistas of Dhauladhar mountain ranges, magnificent conifer, pine and deodar forests, lush tea gardens and stunning hill sides which offers best opportunities for nature walks, picnics and adventurous treks. Be it a family, devotee, solo traveler or couple, Dharamshala is a chocolate chip in the cake of life. There is something for every kind of traveler. One must not miss Dharamshala tourism for an awesome holiday vacation if they are planning to visit Himachal Pradesh.

Dharamshala Travel & Tourism Quick Information

Here is a delightful list of top tourist attractions to explore in Dharamshala – Mcleodganj-

• Namgyal Monastery
• Bhagsunag Waterfalls
• Dharamsala Tea Company

Norbulingka Institute

Dharamshala cricket stadium.

• Tsuglagkhang Complex
• Lahesh Caves

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Renowned as a home of his holiness Dalai lama, Namgyal Monastery is one of the most prominent religious tourist attractions in Dharamshala if they have a spiritual bent of mind. Namgyal monastery also has a tantric college to practice ritualistic tradition if you are interested in Buddhism. Many young monks are involved in promoting unique Tibetan traditional Buddhist practices and studies. The college has several branches in Delhi, Bodhgaya, Ithaca, Shimla etc. located 157km from Chamba, one would find here a different cultural experience and it also offers stunning vistas of snowcapped mountains and lush greenery all around.

Famous For – Spirituality, serenity and nature sightseeing

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Located near Bhagsu Village, Bhagsunag Waterfalls is a serene high-altitude waterfall which will definitely give you a nectar of tranquility if you are looking for a place away from the chaos of the world. The major attraction here is the magnificent temple of Bhagsunag which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It houses the very rare Panch Mukha Lingam. The spiritual ambiance, mystical vibes, the refreshing vibes and the beauty of nature makes this place one of the best beautiful places to visit in Dharamshala. If you view the sight of nature from the top you will behold stunning Kangra Valley and gives you an amazing opportunity for nature photography. The 30-foot cold, freezing and fresh water of the waterfall’s beauty makes it worth a visit.

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Dharamsala Tea Company/Tea Gardens

Your family vacation in Himachal Pradesh will be one of a kind if you consider Dharamshala Tea Garden for a visit. Located in the upper region of Kangra Valley, Dharamshala Tea Garden is a hub of breathtaking landscapes and fairytale-like setting. The tea gardens here are very different from the tea gardens of Assam. The emerald plantations are decked with snow-capped mountains. From an altitude of 4780 ft the stunning views of Dhauladhar mountain ranges, different exotic birds, pleasant weather, lush greenery and colorful monastery flags along with picturesque views will make your day very delightful in this scenic space. Also, don’t forget to see the star of the show Kangra Tea which is manufactured near Narghota, it will be an amazing experience if you are enjoying a family vacation in Dharamshala.

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Norbulingka Institute is one of the most popular tourist destinations to visit in Dharamshala if you are looking for something different in a tourist place. You will be amazed to see how this institute has kept the traditional Tibetan art’s legacy intact by self-preserving means for so many years. It also provided jobs to a community of 300 Tibetans. It is named after the summer residence of Dalai Lama at Lhasa and has a stunning scenic repose. Surrounded by gorgeous gardens, Dhauladhar mountain ranges, streams, waterfalls and ponds. If you are looking for a unique experience which includes learning about Tibetan culture and art style as well as sightseeing then you must visit Norbulingka Institute in Dharamshala. Moreover, it is built in traditional Tibetan architectural style which offers a visual appeal to the tourists.

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The quaint Himalayan Cricket Stadium of Dharamshala also known as Himachal Pradesh Cricket association will absolutely take your breath away as it is surrounded by gorgeous Dhauladhar Himalayan mountains. It is one of the highest sports grounds in the world which will amaze your mind and captivate your senses in terms of beauty. Moreover, if you are a sports lover, you will definitely relate to this place. You can enjoy great cricket matches along with stunning mountain views. The sitting area is fence less which offers hassle free viewing of the match. The Tibetan style construction of the Cricket stadium is another interesting aspect to look at. It is a beautiful amalgamation of beauty, culture and sports. The fun of watching cricket increases when the view is so stunning. Indeed, it is one of the top travel destinations to visit in Dharamshala.

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Peace and serenity are the best trademark of Tsuglagkhang Complex in Dharamshala. It is a private residence of his holiness Dalai Lama. It is a must visit place in Mcloedganj if they are interested to know deeply about the experiences, life and culture of Tibetans. In its ambiance, you will observe harmony, learning opportunities and divine peace. You can interact with the monks when they are free from their duties and learn about their life experiences. You can also enjoy delicious cakes made at the bakery which sells vegetarian food only. The center of attraction is the blissful statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, bronze faces of Padmasambhavna and Avalokitesvara and Mangyal Gompa – the symbols of divine peace, love, compassion and spiritual wisdom. Also indulge yourself in a sacred practice followed by Buddhists known as Kora, it will be a delightful experience.

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Lahesh Cave Trek

A trek to the Lahesh Cave would be one of the most spine-chilling experiences in Dharamshala. It’s a perfect tourist attraction for honeymoon couples in Dharamshala. There is a touch of romance in its air and the healing touch of nature to rejuvenate your senses. The stunning and picturesque landscapes attract lots of couples for adventure activities. The warm hospitality of Phadi people will make your day. During summer you will see shepherds grazing their sheeps here. It is also an amazing camping ground to spend some memorable moments with your loved ones. The panoramic views of gorgeous Dhauladhar mountain ranges and thrilling trekking opportunity makes this place one of the tourist attractions to visit in Mcloedganj.

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Masroor Rock cut temple is amazing and comes first in the list of top 10 popular tourist attractions to visit around Dharamshala. This 8th century old rock cut cave temple in Kangra region will shine bright in your memory even after you have left this place. The north Indian Nagara architecture style has a unique charm which is irresistible.

It is said that the southeast and northwest side of the temple is still incomplete as the artisans and architects of that time had much greater ambitions. Much of the reliefs and sculptures have been lost and damaged due to natural calamity like earthquakes. Symmetrically laid on a square grid, this temple reveals the brilliance of engineering skill of architects of that time. The Temple complex showcases reliefs which tell stories of Vedic and Puranic gods, goddesses and legends from various Hindu texts. It is one of the top Hindu temples to visit around Dharamshala.

Famous For – Spiritual pursuits, History Buffs, architecture and nature lovers

Other Interesting Blog to Read

• Best Places for Couples Planning Honeymoon Tour in Himachal and Uttarakhand

While enjoying the Dharamshala sightseeing Tour, don’t ignore the beauty of nearby attractions like Manali . This place needs no introduction when it comes to Himachal tourism. It is in fact one of the best hill stations to visit in Himachal Pradesh. It is an ideal place for every kind of traveler, be it a couple, family or solo backpackers. Manali is a combination of beautiful natural vistas, adventure, solace inducing landscapes, serene temples, monasteries, colorful markets, lofty mountain passes and apple orchards. It is a must visit place to visit near Dharamshala to make your Himachal Pradesh tour the most memorable tour out of all destinations you have traveled so far in India.

Famous For- Nature photography and sightseeing, temples and monasteries, adventure and shopping.

• Top Things You Can Do on Family Holidays in Himachal Pradesh

Kullu region of Himachal Pradesh is a place which you must plan to include in your Dharamshala Travel itinerary as Naggar Valley’s Charm will never disappoint you. Snowcapped mountains, Deodar forests, icy glaciers, soothing peace is what makes this piece of land a giver of bliss. The stunning Beas River, the magnificent Naggar fort, enchanting trekking trails, scenic villages of Rumsu, Khaknal, and Sajla, delightful camping opportunities, delightful Gauri Shankar Temple for self-introspection, lip smacking cuisines and mind-boggling art and culture of the place will never make you feel bored here. A day spent in Naggar Village will be the most memorable day of your life.

Famous for – Camping, Trekking, Fishing, Heritage Sightseeing, Photography and Village Walks

• Must Visit Temples in Himachal
• Kareri Lake Trek

If you are an adventure lover and solace seeker, you must consider Kareri in your Dharamshala sightseeing tour. It is one of the most popular trekking tourist attractions to visit near Dharamshala. Surrounded by enchanting Dhauladhar mountain ranges, Kareri Lake trek is one of the best things to do if you are in Himachal.

The Lake remains frozen from early December to March- April. The temple of Shiva and Shakti on the hill makes this place mystical. The melted snow from Dhauladhar ranges is the main source of the lake and the stream which is highly visible. In your trekking tour you will come across beautiful forests, streams, alpine grasslands, lofty mountains, dense conifers, Chilgoza pines which will bring you close to nature. Your heart will dance with joy to see such wonderful vistas in this enchanting trekking trail.

Famous For – Trekking and nature sightseeing

Also Check Out: Popular Trekking Destinations in Himachal

Fly like a wild bird and conquer the entire sky for a while in Bir, it will be the most amazing experience you can ever have. Bir is one of the top tourist places to visit near Dharamshala. It is known as the flying capital of India. Tourists from all across the globe come to Bir for paragliding. Bir is very popular for its thermal and ridge lift techniques. March and early June is an ideal time to visit here as the weather condition is favorable for paragliding. In October 2015 Bir held the first Paragliding World Cup of India. Apart from Paragliding tourists can also enjoy the fun and thrill of trekking, mountain biking, angling and camping. Dharamshala is just 70km away from Bir.

Famous For – Camping, Paragliding, Trekking, Angling and Sightseeing.

Also Read: Paragliding Adventure in Himachal

Barot Valley

At an elevation of 1835 meters above sea level Barot stands with an abundance of natural beauty on the banks of Uhl river. Decked with lush greenery all around, it is also a fantastic spot to enjoy wildlife as it is the gateway to the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary. Here you will witness exotic wild animals like Monal, black bear, wild cats and monkeys. If you are interested in trekking, Barot is an amazing base route for enchanting trekking trails to Kullu and Kangra valley. Apart from that, camping and fishing are some of the best things to do here. It is one of the best places to visit near Dharamshala for an exciting and adventurous holiday in Himachal Pradesh.

Famous For – Camping, Fishing, Wildlife and Nature Sightseeing

Also Read: Wildlife Tourism in Himachal Pradesh

Take divine blessings from one of the supreme incarnations of Adi Shakti, Devi Durga – Maa Chintpurni. It is said that Maa Chintpurni relieves a person from all worries and fulfills their desires. That is why she is known as Maa Chintpurni (Remover of Worries- Chinta). Maa Chintpurni Temple is one of the most popular religious places to visit in Hoshiarpur Dharamshala Road. It is a major Shakti Peetha. This temple is located 78 km away from Dharamshala. Visiting here would be a life changing experience for spiritual wisdom. It is indeed one of the best places to visit near Dharamshala.

• Popular Hindu Temples in Himachal
• Popular Churches in Himachal
• Popular Monasteries in Himachal
• Popular Gurudwaras in Himachal

Dharamshala is a combination of nearly everything. It has places for spiritual bliss, adventures, shopping and nature sightseeing. It will not be wrong to say that it is a complete package for a wonderful family vacation in Himachal Pradesh. What one finds unique here is the amazing Tibetan culture experience which is one of a kind. Visiting Dharamshala will enable you to see India from a different perspective culturally.

Other Important Himachal Tourism Links

• Best Time to Visit Dharamshala
• Himachal Complete Tourism Guide
• Water Adventure in Himachal
• Skiing in Himachal Pradesh
• Fishing and angling in Himachal
• Himachal Tour Packages

Travel Guides: Shimla Tourism | Kullu Manali Tourism | Chamba Tourism | Khajjair Tourism | Chail Tourism | Kufri Tourism | Kalpa Tourism | Sangla Tourism | Kasauli Tourism | Lahaul & Spiti Valley Tourism

Like & Follow our social media accounts at Twitter , Facebook , Linkedin & Instagram for getting the latest updates & offers on holiday packages .

Disclaimer: We do not take credit for some of the licenced paid images used in our blogs, whether from Google Images, Fotolia & Shutterstock. All such images are the copyrights of their respective owners and we try to provide credit for them wherever we can. If, however, any copyright image has been used on our blog, the concerned person can either mail us directly to remove the image or provide credit to whomsoever the image may belong to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is dharamshala famous.

Dharamshala is one of the best hill stations to visit in Himachal Pradesh. It is a home to his holiness Dalai Lama. You will also see an influence of Tibetan culture. It is also an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Moreover, there are so many beautiful places for nature tourism.

What is the best time to plan a holiday vacation to Dharamshala?

Summers (March to July) are said to be the best time to plan a wonderful vacation in Dharamshala. In the midst of nature and exotic flowers, trekking is an ideal thing to do here during this time. The temperature ranges from 22-degree Celsius to 35 degree Celsius.

What is the distance between Manali to Dharamshala?

Distance between Manali from Dharamshala- 239 Km by road

What is the distance between Dalhousie and Dharamshala?

What is the best way to reach dharamshala.

• By Air - Gaggal Airport is the nearest airport to reach Dharamshala which is a domestic airport serving Dharamshala. You can easily get taxis and buses to reach Dharamshala from the airport.
• By Road- Buses are available from Pathankot which is well connected to the cities of North India. One can easily get buses from Delhi, Chandigarh, Jalandhar, Shimla and Pathankot.
• By Train- Pathankot is the nearest railway station to reach Dharamshala which is well connected to all the parts of the country.

Which are the top tourist attractions in Dharamshala?

• Kangra Fort
• Dharamshala Tea Estates
• Gyuto Monastery

Which are the top activities to do in Dharamshala?

• Paragliding
• Nature Walks

How are the accommodation facilities for tourists in Dharamshala?

Depending on your budget and choice Dharamshala offers wonderful accommodation to the tourists. From budget homestays to luxury hotels and resorts there is no dearth of good accommodation in Dharamshala.

• Surbhi Guest House
• Varada Homestay
• Wood Forest Homestay
• Shiva’s Nest
• Dharamshala- The Sanctuary
• Royal Palace Resort
• Leisure Vacations Karnika Resort
• Snow Hermitage Resort

How many days are required to explore the best of Dharamshala tourism?

You can explore Dharamshala in 2 days easily. However, if you are involved in any adventure activity like Trekking as there are many beautiful trekking trails in Dharamshala then the duration will increase.

What are the popular treks to do in Dharamshala?

• Chamba Trek
• Indrahar Pass Trek
• Dal lake Trek
• Triund Trek

Published: 24 Feb, 2022

About the author

Pallavi Roy

She is a candle who burns and melts in the chaos of infinity, from where her visceral whistles and leaves an imprint of desire in her heart to know the map of an Island where there are different sunrises and sunsets. Her curiosity brightens to conquer the hearts unrelieved and sometimes mysterious. Her name is - Pallavi Roy - A traveller by soul and a writer by Profession.

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15 Best Places to Visit in Dharamshala 2024: Timing, Entry Fee

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Places to Visit > 15 Best Places to Visit in Dharamshala 2024: Timing, Entry Fee

Set against the backdrop of the mighty Dhauladhar Range and dense coniferous forests, Dharamshala is one of the most scenic and serene hill stations in India. Nestled in Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh, this city is at an elevation of 1457 m above sea level. Dharamshala boasts a distinctive blend of Tibetan and Kangra culture and serves as the abode of the Dalai Lama.

Being a beautiful gem in the lap of nature, Dharamshala is dotted with many lakes, waterfalls and other attractions. You can also find some monasteries, temples, vintage forts and museums here. The hill station attracts tourists and devotees year-round and is well-connected to nearby towns and cities by air, road and rail. Kangra Airport (13 km away) and Pathankot Junction (86 km away) are the nearest options for air and rail travellers. The hill station also enjoys good road connectivity with Shimla, Pathankot, Jalandhar, Amritsar and other nearby places. So, you can take the state bus or book a cab to reach Dharamshala comfortably.

To help you plan a memorable trip, here is a list of places to visit in Dharamshala . Each place oozes a distinctive charm and is worth exploring.

1. Triund Hill, Dharamshala

Triund Hill | #1 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

A favourite among trekkers and adventure seekers, Triund Hill is one of the most beautiful places in Dharamshala . It is perched at a height of 2850 m above sea level and surrounded by rolling hills. The clean air and natural environment make Triund Hill a popular choice among those looking for a relaxing break from all the hustle-bustle.

Triund Hill is known for some amazing trekking trails and offer breath-taking views throughout. On reaching the summit, you can bask in the mesmerizing beauty of the snow-capped mountains and pristine surroundings. Triund is a wonderful spot for picnics as well. You can also enjoy night camping here and count the stars on a clear sky.

• Timings: Open 24 hours
• Ideal duration: 5-6 hours
• Entry fee: Free entry

2. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, Dharamshala

Dharamshala Cricket Stadium | #2 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Also known as Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium, Dharamshala Cricket Stadium is a must-visit for cricket fanatics. The stadium is located at an altitude of 1457 m above sea level, amidst the stunning Dhauladhar Range. It is particularly famous for being the highest international cricket stadium in the world.

The best thing about HPCA stadium is that it is open for tourists as well. So, you can visit this amazing place even when no cricket matches are scheduled. The Tibetan style of architecture on the main stand and scenic location make this stadium one of the most amazing Dharamshala tourist places .

• Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Ideal duration: Less than 1 hour
• Entry fee: INR 20 per person (on non-match days)
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

3. St John in the Wilderness Church, Dharamshala

St. John in the Wilderness Church | #3 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Nestled amidst verdant green deodar trees, St John in the Wilderness Church is one of the most serene and famous places to visit in Dharamshala . This Anglican church was built in 1852 and is dedicated to John the Baptist. It is located on the way to McLeod Ganj and is about 8 km from Dharamshala.

Known for its stunning neo-gothic style of architecture, the church is a popular attraction among architecture lovers. The Belgian stained-glass windows add to the charm of this holy place. Although one of the oldest structures in the region, its distinctive construction and peaceful vibes make it one of the most important churches in Himachal Pradesh.

• Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Sunday: 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
• Ideal duration: 30-45 mins

4. War Memorial, Dharamshala

War Memorial | #4 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Counted among the most popular places to see in Dharamshala , War Memorial is worth visiting. It was built as a tribute to the brave soldiers of Kangra who sacrificed their lives during the wars of 1947-48, 1962, 1965 and 1971 and UN peacekeeping operations. The memorial has three huge walls in black marble with names of the martyred soldiers etched on them. The place also houses many replicas of guns, war tanks, airplanes, and more. The surrounding forests and lush green environs add to the beauty of the memorial and make it a famous tourist attraction.

• Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Ideal duration: 1 hour
• Entry fee: INR 20 per person (free for children up to 5 years of age)  

5. Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, Dharamshala

Library of Tibetan Work and Archives | #5 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Founded on 11 th June 1970 by the 14 th Dalai Lama – Tenzin Gyatso, the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives is known for housing some important Tibetan literature. It has over 80,000 manuscripts, documents and books related to Tibetan history, culture, art and politics. Besides these, there are more than 10,000 photographs, over 600 thangkas, artefacts and statues of Buddhist heritage, and many more things.

Although one of the unexplored places in Dharamshala , the library is frequented by history buffs and those interested in Tibetan literature. The library is particularly famous as it has books, manuscripts and archives that the monks brought from Tibet during the 1959 escape.

• The library remains closed on Sundays and second, fourth and fifth Saturdays.
• Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
• Entry fee: INR 100 per month for general readers

6. Bhagsunag Temple, Dharamshala

Bhagsunag Temple | #6 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the ancient Bhagsunag or Bhagsunath Temple is one of the most famous temples in Dharamshala. It is 3 km from McLeod Ganj and is frequented by Hindus and the local Gorkha community. Apart from the main shrine, the temple has a sacred pond and a swimming pool. Devotees visiting the shrine can also take a dip in the holy pond; it is believed that the water in this pond has magical healing powers. The divine aura and peaceful ambience of the temple make it one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala . After paying your respects at the temple, you can also spend some time near the Bhagsunag Waterfalls.

• Timings: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Bhagsu nag

7. Gyuto Monastery, Dharamshala

Gyuto Monastery | #7 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Known for its tantric meditation and teachings, Gyuto Monastery is one of the most famous monasteries in Dharamshala. It was originally established in Tibet in 1474. However, after the communist Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959, it was re-established in Dharamshala by the Tibetan monks. This was the time when the Dalai Lama, monks of the Gyuto Tantric Monastery, and refugees came to India. The monks in the monastery work towards preserving and promoting the tantric teachings of the great teacher Tsongkhapa for the wellbeing of people.

This stunning monastery is located on a hilltop with the majestic Dhauladhar Range in the background. It houses a beautiful gold-plated statue of Lord Buddha that looks particularly breath-taking when illuminated by the morning sunlight. The eye-catching architecture and serene vibes of the monastery make it one of the best tourist places in Dharamshala.

• Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM

8. Kareri Dal Lake, Dharamshala

Kareri Dal Lake | #8 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Surrounded by lush deodar trees and rugged mountains, Kareri Dal Lake is one of the most scenic and best places to visit in Dharamshala for couples . It is frequented by those looking to spend some peaceful time in the lap of nature, away from all the chaos.

Apart from lazing around this calm and serene lake, you can plan a picnic here with your loved ones, take boat rides and seek blessings at the small Shiva Temple on the banks. Kareri Dal Lake is also a popular stopover for adventure enthusiasts trekking up to Sunset Point.

• Timings: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM

9. Dharamkot Studio, Dharamshala

Dharamkot studio | #9 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Located in Dharamkot, a village that is 2 km from McLeod Ganj, Dharamkot Studio is a must-visit for those interested in pottery. The studio has trained instructors who give pottery lessons to tourists and locals looking to try their hands at this beautiful art. One can also opt for courses here to learn different aspects of pottery.

Dharamkot Studio is particularly famous for reviving black pottery – an art used for making utensils. Although counted among the unexplored places in Dharamshala , the charm of the studio makes it a must-visit.

• The studio remains closed on Thursdays
• Ideal duration: 2-3 hours
• Price for Pottery Courses: Starting from INR 1350 per person
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Dharamkot

10. Kangra Fort, Dharamshala

Kangra Fort | #10 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Built in the 4 th century BC by the Katoch dynasty, Kangra Fort is probably the oldest fort in India. It is also the largest fort in the Himalayan region and one of the top Dharamshala sightseeing places . Even after witnessing many battles, the fort stood strong and intact for centuries. However, it suffered heavy damages when a high magnitude earthquake struck the region in 1905. Although in ruins, this ancient structure, which served as the abode of the royal family of Kangra, attracts history buffs and architecture lovers from far and wide.

The fort is home to a small museum, three temples, namely the Ambika Devi Temple, Lakshmi Narayan Temple and Shitlamata Temple, and many other structures. You can also climb the watchtower to enjoy mesmerizing views of the verdant green surroundings as well as the Manjhi and Banganga rivers that flow nearby.

• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Indians: INR 150 per person
• Foreigners: INR 300 per person

11. Tsuglagkhang Temple, Dharamshala

Tsuglagkhang Temple | #11 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Boasting rich Tibetan culture, Tsuglagkhang Temple is one of the most beautiful and tranquil places to visit in Dharamshala . It is also known as the Dalai Lama Temple and is frequented by monks, pilgrims and tourists looking to spend time in a peaceful environment.

The temple is known for a huge idol of Gautam Buddha as well as statues of Padmasambhava, Avalokiteshvara and many other Buddhist monks. The Lamas here spend most of their time chanting mantras on beads and prayer wheels. A huge gold-plated prayer wheel at the centre of the temple with chants of “Om Mani Padme Hum” is a major attraction. Apart from paying your respects, you can also rotate the prayer wheel, meditate in the prayer hall, and visit the temple museum.

• April to October: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• November to March: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Entry fee: Free Entry  

12. Bhagsu Waterfall, Dharamshala

Bhagsu Waterfall | #12 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Plunging from a height of 20 m, Bhagsu Waterfall is one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala . The waterfall boasts unique scenic beauty and is a perfect spot for those looking to spend quality time amidst nature. With the famous Bhagsunag Temple in the vicinity, the waterfall is frequented by nature lovers and devotees alike.

The best time to visit Dharamshala’s Bhagsu Waterfall is during the monsoon season when you can see water gushing down to form a pool below. Although you may get tempted to take a dip in the pool, avoid it if you can’t tolerate extremely cold water. You can also plan a picnic here with your loved ones or go on a trek to enjoy stunning views of the waterfall from different points.

• Timings: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Book Hotels – Couple Friendly Hotels in Dharamshala

13. Jwala Devi Temple, Dharamshala

Jwala Devi Temple | #13 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Jwala Devi, this temple in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh attracts devotees and tourists from around the country. It is also one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India and a highly respected Shakti temple.

Jwala Devi Temple is dedicated to the Goddess of Light. It is also believed that this is the place where Goddess Sati’s tongue fell when her lifeless body was cut into 51 parts by Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra. The temple has no idol and Goddess Shakti is manifested here in a series of natural flames. Devotees believe that the Goddess resides in the flames that have been burning miraculously for hundreds of years without any fuel.

• Summer: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Winter: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM

14. McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala

McLeod Ganj | #14 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Also known as Little Lhasa or Dhasa, McLeod Ganj is a popular and picturesque suburb of Dharamshala. It comes under the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh and is only 5 km from Dharamshala. McLeod Ganj is particularly famous for the Dalai Lama Temple or Tsuglagkhang Temple as this is the place where His Holiness resides.

Besides being a popular pilgrimage for Buddhists, McLeod Ganj is a haven for nature lovers, trekkers and peace seekers. Namgyal Monastery, Nechung Monastery, Naddi Viewpoint and Minikiani Pass are some of the many wonderful attractions here. Boasting a perfect blend of rich Tibetan culture and nature’s bounty, McLeod Ganj is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Dharamshala .

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Ideal duration: 2-3 days
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Mcleod Ganj

15. Kalachakra Temple, Dharamshala

Kalachakar temple | #15 of 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Kalachakra Temple, whose name translates to “Wheel of Time”, is counted among the top places to visit in Dharamshala . It was built in 1992 and is located near Tsuglagkhang Temple. Kalachakra Temple is replete with murals and artworks that speak volumes about Tibet’s rich spiritual and artistic background. Its serene surroundings and divine aura attract devotees and tourists from different parts of the country.

This beautiful temple with eye-catching architecture is dedicated to Kalachakra. It houses a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, mural paintings of 722 deities of the mandala, and a Kalachakra image in the centre. You can also admire some of the finest Tibetan Thangka paintings on the temple walls and columns. The sacred temple complex has a book shop and a small yet charming café as well.

• Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Now that you know about the best places to visit in Dharamshala , you can easily plan a trip to this peaceful and picturesque hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Apart from visiting popular attractions here, you can also check out the local shops for Tibetan carpets, shawls, handicrafts, brass statues and other local products. Just make sure you book air tickets and hotel rooms in advance to avoid end-minute hassles.

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