Dharamsala Travel Guide
Dharamsala is a hill station in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India. It has an average altitude of 1400 m to 1750 m. It was founded in 1855. Dharamsala is built along a spur of the Dhaula Dhar range. It lies in the dense monsoon forests. The town is surrounded by deodar forests, set against a backdrop of peaks rising to over 4,750m on three sides. It has a marvelous view over the Kangra Valley and the Shiwaliks, and of the great granite mountains that almost overhang the town.
Dharamsala’s northern walls are densely forested. The southern side’s slides own a beautiful valley, carpeted with paddy fields. It offers excellent fishing opportunities. Dharamsala was one of the 80 hill station established by the British in 1815 to 1857. There is strong Tibetan influence to be found here. Minks in deep red providing a splash of color wherever one look at.
Dharamsala is a twin township with lower and upper Dharamsala, separated by 8 km. Upper Dharamsala has the residence of Dalai Lama. This is a major attraction to the tourists and a holy place for the Buddhists. The Tibetan community has taken over the hospitality business here and offers a wide range of facilities to the tourists visiting Dharamsala.
How to Reach Dharamsala
- Air — Nearest airport is Gaggal, 15 kms away.
- Rail — The nearest station is Pathankot, and the way to reach to Dharamshala is via Kangra.
- Road — MDR44 and NH22 are the roads that connect Dharamshala to other parts of India. The airport is also connected via these means.
Distance of Dharamsala from Below Places:
| Place | Distance (KM) |
|---|---|
|
Delhi |
498 |
|
Pathankot |
88 |
|
Chandigarh |
255 |
|
Dalhousie |
113 |
Weather
Dharamsala Temperature:
- Summer (Apr to Jun) – Temperatures are mild and range between (16°C) to (30°C)
- Monsoon – (Jul to Sep) – Regular rainfall happens. This is not a good season for tourists
- Winter – (Oct to Mar) – Temperatures are low and range between (5°C) to (23°C)
- Best Time to Visit – April to May and Oct to Dec are the best season for tourism
What to See In Dharamsala
The Namgyaima Stupa
The Namgyaima Stupa was made in Indo-Tibetan style. It was made to commemorate the martyrs of Tibet during the war of China.
Norbulingka Institute is a major center of Buddhist teachings and practical work. It was built by the seventh Dalai Lama in 1754 in response to a threat to a survival of Tibetan Buddhism cultural heritage.
St John Church was built in 1860. The structure is made in gothic style with attractive stained glass windows. Lord Elgin the 8th Viceroy from Scotland is buried here. It got destroyed during the 1905 earthquake and later it has been rebuilt.
Dal lake is located behind the Tibetan Children Village. The place is surrounded by oak and birch trees. The popular belief among the locals is that the water in this lake is as pure as Kailash Mansrover. A temple of Lord Shiva is also located on the banks of the lake.
Naddi is located one km away from Dal Lake. this place is famous for sunrise and sunset. It has a height of 700 feet. the scenic beauty of this place is fascinating. The view of Pir Panjal range from Naddi is picturesque.
Other Details
What to Do
Like every other hill station, Dharamshala also offers trekking and hiking options to tourists. While in Dharamshala you may also go visit the Dalai Lama (though there is a long process involved).
Where to Eat
- Chocolate log—A decade old landmark, it is a cake shop that also serves as a café. It is 20 minutes’ walk from Mc Leoad ganj’s Central Square.
- Green Restaurat—Renowned, happening and trendy, good westernpies and Tibetian Dishes are a speciality here. 10 min walk from Mc Leod Ganj.
- Treat Restaurant—Chinese and South- Indian with the comfort of an AC. Extras Indira Market.
What to Buy
- Local Handicrafts
- Silver and copper ‘ diyas’
- Tibetian Shawls
Get Around
If you are in McLeod Ganj, roaming around on foot is the best option. Buses ply between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamsala at regular intervals. There are also chartered auto-rickshaws and taxis. Any of these options can be available.
Popular Tour Plans - Himachal Pradesh
1-3 Days
1. Shimla (2N/3D)
2. Manali (3N/4D)
4-6 Days
1. Shimla-Kulu-Manali (6N/7D)
7-10 Days
1. Shimla-Kulu-Manali-Dharamsala-Dalhousie (10N/11D)
2. Kinnar (Shimla-Sarahan-Sangla-Chitkul-Kalpa-Shimla) (8N/9D)