Best Places To Visit In Dharamshala | Beautiful Places In Himachal

Best Places To Visit In Dharamshala 

Dharamshala is a major tourist and scenic spot located in the Kangra district of the state of Himachal Pradesh. The place is world famous as the holy abode of the Dalai Lama and is home to Tibetan monks in exile. Dharamshala is located at a distance of 8 km from Kangra. Dharamshala city is divided into upper and lower divisions with different elevations. The lower division is the city of Dharamshala known for kotwali Bazar, while the upper division is known as McLeodganj. The word religion carries different meanings in different groups, both culturally and spiritually. Generally, Dharamshala is said to be a shelter or rest house for the pilgrims. Apart from being a major religious city in India, Dharamsala is also a famous pilgrimage center. If you want to visit this place, then read the information given in this article thoroughly, in this we have given complete information about Dharamsala and 10 best places near it.

1. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

Nestled in the lap of the Dhauladhar mountain range of Dharamsala cricket stadium situated at an altitude of 1,457 meters above sea level. Dharamshala cricket stadium is one of the highest and most beautiful criket stadium of the world. The spectacular natural backdrop and the cool breeze blowing continuously across the grounds make a visit to the HPCA Stadium special. 

2. War Memorial Dharamshala

War Memorial is one of the best places and major tourist attraction in Dharamshala. This monument is situated in the deodar forests near the city and is a place worth visiting. There is a beautiful GPG college here which was constructed during the British period. It is the memorial which is built at the entry point of Dharamshala in the memory of those who fought for the defense of our motherland.

3. Dal Lake Dharamshala

Dal Lake is about 11 km from Lower Dharamsala and is situated amidst deodar trees near the hills. This place is a starting point for trekking and excursion. A small temple of Lord Shiva is also situated on the banks of this lake where a grand fair is held every year in the month of september.

4. Triund Trek Dharamshala

Triund is situated at a distance of 9 kms from Mcleodganj. This place is situated at a very high altitude which gives a splendid view of Moon Peak-Indera Pass. This place is great for camping. The clean environment here will win your heart. If you come to visit Dharamsala, then you must also visit Triund, one of the special places here. Triund Trek is one of the most popular treks to go over a weekend. It is perhaps the easiest Himalayan trek to do on your own with breathtaking views of the Kangra valley and the snow-cappeed mountains of Dhauladhar ranges. Triund is the ideal destination for those seeking a hassle-free trekking in the Himalayas. 

5. Bhagsunag Falls Dharamshala

The Bhagsu Waterfall is one of the most famous tourist spot in Dharamshala and attracts tourists who wish to revel in the glories of nature and spend some quiet moments in peace and serenity. The major attraction here is the famous Bhagsunath Temple. It is located 2 km away from McLeodganj which is one of the best places to visit in Dharamsala. Bhagsu Falls is set amidst greenery and nature in its most pristine form which is extremely majestic.

6. Namgyal Monastery, Mcleodganj Dharamshala

Namgyal Monastery is located in the Tsuglakhang complex which is one of the most visited places by tourists near Dharamshala . This complex is the residence of the Dalai Lama as well as temples, book shops, many other shops are located here. The huge number of Tibetan monks have come and carved out the heavenly Namgyal Monastery in Himachal. This place is also known as Little Lhasa. The monastery is known to perform all important Tibetan ceremonies and Tibetan monks from around the world arrives hers to participate in these creemonies.

7. Lama Temple Complex Dharamshala

The Dalai Lama Temple Complex, also known as the Tsuglakhang Temple, is a politico-religious center in Dharamsala, full of Tibetan culture. Garlands are present in the temple for peaceful meditation and religious prayer. The Dalai Lama temple complex is a revered pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Apart from this, the peaceful environment of temple and positive vibes around it attracts tourists from all over the world.

8. Kangra Art Museum Dharamshala

The Kangra Museum reveals the splendid marvels of Tibetan and Buddhist artwork and their rich history. It is located in lower Dharamshala near the bus station. In this museum, you can see things like many old jewelry, rare coin memorabilia, paintings, sculptures and pottery.

9. Masroor Rock Cut Temple

Masroor Rock Cut Temple located at a distance of 32 kms from Kangra is an archaeological site which is presently in ruins. The complex here has a combination of 15 rock cut temples designed in the Indo-Aryan style of architecture. It is said to have been built in the 8th century and is dedicated to the Hindu deities Shiva, Vishnu, Devi and Saura. For history lovers and tourists, this place is not less than a paradise.

10. Naddi Dharamshala

Naddi is a beautiful Village situated in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 2000 meters from the sea level. It is just 3 km from away from McLeod Ganj. This amazing village is a well-known place between the travelers for its trekking experiences. Naddi is visited by thousands of travellers every year. Sunset Point, Naddi view point and eco point are the major attraction that gives you the most wonderful view you will ever experience.

Restaurants And Local Food In Dharamshala

Here you are looking for places to eat in Dharamsala, then let us tell you that there are many restaurants and cafes that can be found here, which give a simple and good meal. Due to the dominance of Tibetan culture, most of the Tibetan cuisine is found here. You can enjoy momos, thukpa and other Tibetan dishes here. Another special thing about this place is that honey ginger lemon tea is quite famous here. Pancakes and sandwiches along with a variety of snacks are also available in many cafes here. The Green Restaurant and Herbal Tea Shop are one of the best establishments here. Foods such as the Tibetan soup and noodles are common here.

How To Reach

By Airplane

If you want to travel by plane, then the nearest airport is located in Gaggal, about 13 km from Dharamsala. Gaggal Airport connects Dharamsala to Delhi with the help of Air India and SpiceJet flights. If you are coming to any other part of India then the best option would be to fly up to Gaggal Airport and book a taxi for your journey to Dharamsala, which is about 13 kms away.

By Bus

Traveling to Dharamsala by bus can prove to be a good option. Dharamshala is well connected to all the cities of North India through state operated buses as well as private bus operator network. Dharamshala is at a distance of about 520 kms from Delhi.

By Rail

An overnight train journey is a good option to reach Dharamsala. The nearest major railway station is at Pathankot, 85 km away. Many trains going to Jammu and Kashmir stop at Pathankot Cant. You can take a taxi or a bus from Pathankot to reach Dharamshala. There is also a small guage railway station in Kangra.