Plan an Unforgettable Trip to Dharamshala

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Nestled in the highlands of Kangra, spread across the Dhauladhar mountain range, Dharamshala is a quiet little town. There are many things you can do in Dharamshala. From adventure activities and tourist attractions to visiting McLeod Ganj for spiritual enlightenment, there is much to do. With something to please everyone, Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj have plenty of things to see and do, as long as you know where to look.

Little Lhasa

From being part of the Katoch dynasty to coming under the control of the Punjab province under British rule, Dharamshala saw many ups and downs and although it used to be a summer retreat for the British, it never gained popularity. 1959. The 14th Dalai Lama had to flee Tibet with his family and his government to escape the Chinese authorities. The Dalai Lama and his entourage arrived in India, where the exiled Tibetan government had been granted sanctuary by Prime Minister Nehru. Today, all the best places in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj reflect the shared heritage of the Indian and Tibetan people who call this place home.

The Experience

When one thinks of things to do in Dharamshala, the name McLeod Ganj automatically comes to mind. Dharamshala is divided into two distinct areas, the upper part of which is McLeod Ganj, covered with dense forests of Himalayan oak, pine and cedar, and the capital in exile of the Tibetan Government. On the other hand the lower part of Dharamsala includes the Kotwali Bazar and other markets around it and is generally a bit warmer than the upper half. Depending on where you plan to spend most of your vacation, your places to visit and things to do in Dharamsala will vary.

The Best Things to See in Dharamshala

For the perfect vacation plan, you should make a list of the best things to do in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj based on your preferences, so that you can create an itinerary that includes everything that interests you. Some of the most popular things to see in Dharamshala include:

Cricket Stadium

One of the highest sports grounds in the world (1457 m above sea level), Dharamshala Cricket Stadium has hosted many domestic, international and IPL matches. A visit to the stadium is not just a big deal for cricket lovers as an afternoon spent here is very enjoyable.

Namgyal Monastery

One of the top things to do in McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala is to visit the Namgyal Monastery, founded in the 16th century by the 2nd Dalai Lama and today the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama. Peace and tranquility pervade the atmosphere of this learning and meditation center and calm the turmoil of any soul that enters.

St. John’s Church in the Wilderness

Built in 1852, it is the most important church in Himachal Pradesh and should be on your to-do list. In a dense forest, on the way from Dharamsala to McLeod Ganj, stands this neo-Gothic building, dedicated to John the Baptist. Known for its Belgian-stained windows, it is the final resting place of the Governor-General of India, Lord Ergin.

Kunal Pathri Temple

On an afternoon in Dharamsala, a walk to the Kunal Pathri Temple is a popular thing you can consider. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, this temple is located about 3 km from Dharamsala, amidst some beautiful, dense tea gardens.

Library of Tibetan Works and Archives

One of the most interesting things to do in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj is to visit this library which houses nearly 80,000 manuscripts and 600 Buddhist artefacts, giving you a unique glimpse of Buddhist culture and traditions.

War Memorial

There were many war heroes in the Indo-China War of 1947, 1962, 1965 and 1971 and UN peace operations, and their sacrifices are commemorated at the War Memorial, where large black stone plaques preserve their memories in stone. This is a very important stop on your list of things to do in Dharamshala.

Dharamkot

If you want to get off the beaten track after a day of covering the best of Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj, you should consider visiting Dharamkot. Uphill from McLeod, lies the sleepy village of Dharamkot, untouched by the tourist crowds and offering the perfect destination for a quiet holiday.

Bhagsunag Waterfall

One of the most popular things to do in Dharamsala is picnicking at Bhagsu Falls. Falling from a height of 30 feet from the Bhagsunath temple, the spring of freezing cold water mesmerizes the onlookers. The falls offer a mesmerizing sight that you should not miss.

Shiva Café

Today, there are many hill stations that boast of ‘Shiva Cafes’, but the original cafe, which apart from its heritage, boasts of the most spectacular views and experiences, is one of the major attractions in Dharamsala. A popular spot among the youth, Shiva Cafe is no less than a hidden gem, where you won’t even notice time passing by as you enjoy amazing food and gaze at the mesmerizing mountains.

Kangra Fort

The largest fort in the Himalayas, perhaps one of the oldest forts in India, Kangra Fort traces its origins to the Trigarta kingdom, mentioned in the Mahabharata. Although it is in ruins today, visiting the ruins of this architectural marvel is one of the most popular things to do in Dharamsala.

The Best Things to Do in Dharamshala

Dharamsala attractions are not the only reason to visit this hill station as there are many more. From adventure activities to great shopping opportunities, Dharamsala has many things to do.

Paragliding

With its abundant hilly terrain, paragliding has become one of the most important adventure activities in Dharamshala. Indranag and Bir Billing are two popular places where if you want to try aerial flying, surrounded by mountain ranges and tea gardens.

Trekking

Trekking is another popular activity in Dharamshala, with many amazing tracks starting from the hill station and its surroundings. Some amazing treks that you can include in your itinerary:

  • Trind: This is an easy 7 km trek starting from Dharamkot. With a gentle incline for the first half and a vertical climb over the last 2km, Triund offers a view that is worth it alone. Moreover, the evening sky is such a breathtaking sight that it makes a great excuse to spend a night camping in Triand.
  • Indrahar Pass: Another easy trek, this is one of the things to do in Dharamshala that one should definitely consider as this route includes another popular trek to Lahesh and Trind Caves. The 14 km trek starts from McLeod and is so picturesque that even the journey leaves you mesmerized.
  • Kareri Lake: About 9 km from Dharamshala is a beautiful Kareri lake, named Kareri Gaon (9 km from the lake). By the end of November, the lake water begins to freeze and remains frozen till April or sometimes even May.
  • Laka Glacier: Also called Snow-Line Trek, this 3-day experience is one of the best things to do in Dharamsala for trekking beginners. The trek takes you far beyond Triand and at the end of the 26 km trek, magnificent views of the Dhauladhar range and a stunning sunset over the Kangra Valley await. Considering the distance and time, the trek also includes a camping experience.

Other things you can consider in Dharamsala include cycling through the countryside, camping under the stars, spending a lazy afternoon at one of the many cafes, shopping at the Tibetan mini market, strolling through the fragrant tea gardens and more.

Regardless of the length of your vacation or what you plan to do, Dharamshala tour packages have everything you need for the perfect vacation!

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