Best Tourist Places in Dharamshala
Lying in the shadow of mighty Dhauladhar range is the quaint town of Dharamshala. It’s known for its stunning scenery, pleasant climate, and unique blend of Tibetan, British, and Himachali cultures. Dharamshala is surrounded by the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and lush valleys.
Nestled in Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh, this city is at an elevation of 1457 m above sea level. Dharamshala & McLeodganj, a picturesque hill station is a serene retreat that offers a blend of natural beauty, spirituality, and adventure. Known for its Tibetan culture, monasteries, and the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Dharamshala & McLeodganj is a place that will leave you with a sense of tranquillity and peace.
Being a beautiful gem in the lap of nature, Dharamshala is dotted with many lakes, waterfalls and other attractions. There are also several monasteries, temples, ancient forts and museums here. The hill station attracts tourists and devotees all year round and is well connected to surrounding cities by air, road and rail. Kangra Airport (13 km away) and Pathankot Junction (86 km away) are the closest options for air and rail travelers. The hill station also has good road connectivity to Shimla, Pathankot, Jalandhar, Amritsar and other nearby places. So, you can easily reach Dharamshala by taking state buses or booking a taxi.
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.
Best places to visit in Dharamshala
1. McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala:
McLeod Ganj is a suburb of Dharamshala in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, India. It is known as “Little Lhasa” or “Dhasa” as the Tibetan government-in-exile is headquartered here and there is a significant population of Tibetans in the region. McLeod Ganj is located at an average elevation of 2,082 meters (6,831 ft) in the Kangra Valley, in the shadow of the Dhauladhar mountains. It is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful scenery, Tibetan culture, and proximity to Dharamshala.
It’s a great destination to visit year-round, but the best time to go really depends on what you’re looking for:
Summer (March to June): This is the peak tourist season in Mcleod Ganj, with pleasant weather and temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. It’s a great time for sightseeing, hiking, and trekking. However, it can also be crowded and expensive.
Monsoon (July to September): Mcleod Ganj receives moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. The landscape becomes lush and green, but landslides can be a risk. If you don’t mind the rain, you can find some good deals on hotels during this time.
Winter (October to February): The winters in Mcleod Ganj can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing at night. However, the snowfall can be spectacular, and the crowds are much smaller. This is a great time to visit if you want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas in peace.
- For pleasant weather and outdoor activities: March to June (Summer) or September to November (post-monsoon)
- For fewer crowds and lower prices: October to February (Winter)
- To see snowfall: December to February (Winter)
No matter when you choose to visit, Mcleod Ganj is sure to be a memorable experience.
2. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, Dharamshala:
The Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, also known as the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium, is a picturesque cricket stadium located in the city of Dharamshala, Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh.
The stadium is famous for its stunning backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountain range of the Himalayas. It is one of the highest cricket grounds in the world, located at an elevation of 1,457 meters (4,780 ft) above sea level. The stadium is spread over an area of 16 acres and was established in 2003.
The stadium is the home ground of the Himachal Pradesh cricket team and the headquarters of the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association, the governing body of cricket in Himachal Pradesh. It has hosted several international matches, including five matches in the 2023 Cricket World Cup, including India vs New Zealand.
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)
3. Kangra Valley, Dharamshala:
The Kangra Valley is a breathtaking destination nestled amidst the majestic Dhauladhar Range. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, it’s a paradise for nature lovers, adventurers, and spiritual seekers alike.
The valley boasts a diverse landscape, encompassing lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, meadows, forests, and snow-capped peaks. The Beas River winds its way through the valley, while charming villages dot the landscape showcasing the region’s rich culture.
Here are some of the things you can expect to find in Kangra Valley:
- Picturesque Landscapes: From verdant meadows to dense forests and snow-capped mountains, Kangra Valley offers a feast for the eyes.
- Historical Significance: The Kangra Fort, perched on a hilltop, offers a glimpse into the valley’s past. There are also numerous temples and monasteries scattered throughout the valley, each with its own unique history and significance.
- Adventure Activities: The valley offers opportunities for trekking, camping, and white water rafting.
- Spiritual Significance: Kangra Valley is home to numerous Hindu temples and Sikh pilgrimage sites, making it a popular destination for spiritual seekers.
4. Triund Hills, 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. It is situated at the foot of the Dhauladhar ranges, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Triund is a great place to go for a weekend getaway or a longer trek. You can also enjoy night camping here and count the stars on a clear sky.
Best Time to Visit in Triund Hills:
There are two main seasons that are considered the best time to visit Triund Hill:
Spring (March to June): This is the most popular time to visit Triund, as the weather is pleasant and sunny. The temperatures are mild, ranging from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for trekking. The skies are generally clear, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. However, it can also be the most crowded time to visit.
Autumn (September to November): This is another great time to visit Triund, as the monsoon season has passed and the weather is clear and crisp. The temperatures are cooler than in spring, ranging from 5°C to 15°C. The skies are usually clear, offering excellent visibility of the Himalayan peaks. The crowds are also smaller than in spring.
5. Bhagsu Waterfall, Dharamshala:
Bhagsu Waterfall, also known as Bhagsunag Waterfall, is a popular tourist destination located near Mcleodganj. It is a beautiful waterfall cascading down from a height of around 30 feet, surrounded by lush greenery and the Dhauladhar mountains.
The waterfall is a short trek from the main market area of Bhagsunag village. The trek itself is a pleasant experience, with shops selling souvenirs and refreshments along the way. There is also the Bhagsunath Temple, a significant place of pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near the waterfall.
The Bhagsu Waterfall is most spectacular during the monsoon season (July to September) when the water flow is at its peak. Visitors can take a dip in the cool waters of the pool at the base of the waterfall, enjoy the scenic beauty, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere. There are also several cafes and restaurants located near the waterfall where visitors can enjoy a meal with a view.
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.
6. Dal Lake, 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.
7. Bhagsunath Temple, Dharamshala:
The Bhagsunath Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located about 3 kilometers from McLeod Ganj. the ancient Bhagsunag or Bhagsunath Temple is one of the most famous temples in Dharamshala. and is frequented by Hindus and the local Gorkha community. The temple is surrounded by beautiful pools and lush greenery.
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.
Here are some interesting facts about the Bhagsunath Temple:
- Legends: There are two main legends associated with the temple. One legend says that King Bhagsu built the temple after seeking forgiveness from the Snake God, Nag Devta, whom he angered by stealing water from the sacred Nag Dal Lake. Another legend says that the shrine was built under the patronage of a specific Gorkha community called Bhagsuwala.
- Architecture: The Bhagsunath Temple is a small, two-storied structure with a traditional Himachali architectural style. The temple has a sanctum sanctorum, where the idol of Lord Shiva is housed.
- Significance: The Bhagsunath Temple is highly revered by the Hindus and the Gorkha community. The annual fair held here in September is a major draw for pilgrims and tourists.
Bhagsunath Temple is a must-visit for anyone visiting McLeod Ganj. Here are some details for your visit:
- Timings: The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: There is no entry fee to visit the Bhagsunath Temple.
- Time Required: You can plan for 1-2 hours to visit the temple and take a dip in the holy pools.
8. Gyuto Monastery, Dharamshala
Gyuto Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located at Sidhbari on the main road to Palampur, 8 km from Dharamshala and 13 km from McLeod Ganj. It is one of the most important monasteries of the Gelug tradition of Tibetan Buddhism and specializes in the study of Tantric meditation, Tantric ritual arts, and Buddhist philosophy. It was founded in Tibet in 1474 by Jetsun Kunga Dhondup, a disciple of the first Dalai Lama. After the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959, the monastery was re-established near Dharamshala.
9. Kangra Fort, Dharamshala:
Built in the 4th century BC by the Katoch dynasty, Kangra Fort is probably the oldest fort in India. This fort is also known as ‘Nagarkot’ and ‘Kot Kangra’.It stands on a hillock between two rivers (Manjhi and Banganga), among the foothills of the Dhauladhar range. 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.
10. War Memorial, Dharamshala
Counted among the most popular places to see in Dharamshala, War Memorial is worth visiting. The Dharamshala War Memorial is a place to honor the memory of Indian soldiers who lost their lives in service to the country. Located near the entry point to Dharamshala, it’s surrounded by a serene pine forest, offering a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
Aesthetics and Significance
The central structure is a striking design. Three curved walls made of black marble are inscribed with the names of fallen soldiers. These walls rise from a shallow pool, symbolizing the three branches of the Indian Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force). The curved design signifies the continuity of life and the nation.
Colorful gardens with roses in pink, red, and white encircle the memorial, representing the different stages of life – childhood, youth, and old age.
Plan Your Visit
The War Memorial is open every day from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and entry is free. Remember to dress modestly and maintain silence as a mark of respect for the fallen heroes.
The Dharamshala War Memorial is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers. It’s a place for quiet reflection and a tribute to their courage and service.
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