Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Set against the backdrop of the mighty Dhauladhar Range and dense coniferous forests, Dharamshala is one of the mainly picturesque and calm mountain stations in India. Nestled in Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh, this town is at a height of 1457 m higher than sea level. Dharamshala boasts a distinctive mix of Tibetan and Kangra tradition and serves as the abode of the Dalai Lama.

Dharamshala, nestled in the serene Himalayas, offers a rich tapestry of attractions. Explore the spiritual ambiance of the Dalai Lama's residence, the Namgyal Monastery, and the Norbulingka Institute. Marvel at the natural beauty of Bhagsu Waterfall and Triund Hill. Wander through vibrant McLeod Ganj, soak in history at St. John in the Wilderness Church, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Dal Lake. Dharamshala is a perfect blend of spirituality, nature, and culture.

A stunning gem in the tour of scenery, Dharamshala is dotted with so many lakes, waterfalls and other attractions. You can also discover a few monasteries, temples, classic forts and museums at this point. The mountain station attracts travelers and devotees year-round and is well-connected to nearest city and cities by air, road and rail. Kangra Airport (13 km apart) and Pathankot Junction (86 km apart) are the nearby choices for air and rail tourister. The peak station also enjoys fine road connectivity with Shimla, Pathankot, Jalandhar, Amritsar and other nearest spots. So, you can get the state bus or book a cab to arrive at Dharamshala happily.

To help you plan a unforgettable tour, at this point is a list of spots to visit in Dharamshala. Every spot oozes a distinctive charm and is worth exploring.

Highlights of Dharamshala

Coordinates: 32°12′55″N 76°19′07″E, District - Kangra, Population Total - 100,000, Elevation- 1,457 m (4,780 ft),Languages- Bengali, Pin- 176 215, Telephone No - +91- 01892

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Dharamshala tourist places images, best places to visit in Dharamshala, places to see at Dharamshala

1. Triund Hill, a famous tourist point in Dharamshala

Most likely among trekkers and adventure seekers, Triund Hill is one of the most stunning tourist spots in Dharamshala. This tourist place near Dharamshala is suspended at a height of 2850 m on top of sea level and bounded by rolling hills. The clean air and natural environment make Triund Hill a popular variety between those looking for a relaxing break from all the hustle-bustle.

Triund Hill is well-known by some for remarkable trekking trails and offers amazing vision the whole time. On getting to the summit, you can bask in the mesmerizing loveliness of the snow-covered mountains and perfect boundaries. Triund is a magnificent location for picnics as well. You can also enjoy night camping at this point and count up the stars on an apparent sky.

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

2. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, Dharamshala

Also well-known as Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium, Dharamshala Cricket Stadium is a must-visit for cricket. The stadium is located at an elevation of 1457 m more than sea level, amidst the spectacular Dhauladhar Range. It is mainly popular for being the largest worldwide cricket stadium in the world.

The perfect thing about HPCA stadium is that it is open for travelers as well. So, you can visit these remarkable spots even when no cricket matches are scheduled. The Tibetan style of structural design on the actual stand and picturesque spots make this sports ground one of the most wonderful 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 nearby Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

3. St John in the Wilderness Church, Dharamshala

Placed amidst lush green deodar trees, St John in the Wilderness Church is one of the most tranquil and popular places to visit in Dharamshala. This Anglican Church was built up in 1852 and is dedicated to John the Baptist. It is on the way to McLeod Ganj and is about 8 km away from Dharamshala.

Well-Known for its dazzling neo-gothic style of structural design, the church is a famous attraction between structural design lovers. The Belgian stained-glass windows add up to the appeal of this blessed spot. Though one of the oldest structures in the area, its characteristic building and calm vibes make it one of the most significant churches in Himachal Pradesh.

Timings:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Ideal duration: 30-45 mins
Entry fee: Free entry

4. War Memorial, Dharamshala

Take account of the most famous places to see in Dharamshala, War Memorial is worth visiting. It was built up as a tribute to the daring military of Kangra who sacrificed their lives in the wars of 1947-48, 1962, 1965 and 1971 and UN mediation operation. The memorial has three huge walls in black marble with names of the martyred military fixed up on them. The spot also houses so many replicas of guns, war tanks, airplanes, and much more. The bounding forests and lush green locality add up to the beauty of the memorial and make it a popular travelers 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

Located on 11th June 1970 by the 14th Dalai Lama – Tenzing Gyatso, the Library of Tibetan Works and store is well-known for lodging little important Tibetan literature. It has more than 80,000 manuscripts, documents and books related to Tibetan past, tradition, drawing and politics. Besides these, there are more than 10,000 photographs, over 600 thangkas, artifacts and statues of Buddhist heritage, and many more things.

While one of the unknown places in Dharamshala, the library is frequented by pstbuffs and those fascinated in Tibetan literature. The library is particularly popular as it has books, manuscripts and archives that the monks brought from Tibet in the 1959 escape.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Monday to Saturday)
- The library remains closed on Sundays and second, fourth and fifth Saturdays.
Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
Entry fee: INR 100 per month for common readers

6. Bhagsunag Temple, a famous tourist point Dharamshala

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the ancient Bhagsunag or Bhagsunath Temple is one of the most famous temples in Dharamshala. It is 3 km apart 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 holy place can also take a dip in the great pond; it is thought that the water in this pond has paranormal remedial powers. The great aura and calm atmosphere of the holy place build it one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala. Later than paying your respects at the temple, you can also spend a little time nearby the Bhagsunag Waterfalls.

Timings: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
Entry fee: Free entry
Places to Stay: Hotels in Bhagsu nag

7. Gyuto Monastery, Dharamshala

Well-Known for its tantric thought and teachings, Gyuto Monastery is one of the most popular monasteries in Dharamshala. It was first established in Tibet in 1474. Though later than the collective Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959, it was re-established in Dharamshala by the Tibetan monks. This was the moment when the Dalai Lama, monks of the Gyuto Tantric Monastery, and refugees came to India. The monks in the monastery labor towards preserving and promoting the tantric teachings of the nice teacher Tsongkhapa for the wellbeing of the populace.

This dazzling monastery is placed on a top of hill with the royal Dhauladhar variety in the background. It houses a stunning gold-plated statue of Lord Buddha that looks mainly wonderful when illuminated by the morning daylight. The eye-catching structural design and tranquil atmosphere of the monastery make it one of the best tourist places in Dharamshala.

Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
Entry fee: Free entry

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8. Kareri Dal Lake, Dharamshala

Bounded by lush green deodar trees and rugged mountains, Kareri Dal Lake is one of the picturesque and best places to visit in Dharamshala for couples. It is frequented by those looking to expand a few calm times in the lap of nature, apart 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 tiny Shiva Temple on the banks. Kareri Dal Lake is also a famous stopover for exploration enthusiasts trekking up to Sunset Point.

Timings: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Ideal duration: 1 hour
Entry fee: Free entry

9. Dharamkot Studio, Dharamshala

Placed 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 instructors who give clay lessons to travelers and locals looking to try their hands at this gorgeous art. One can also opt for a course at this point to study dissimilar 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.

Timings: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Friday to Wednesday)
- 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

Built in the 4th 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 massive damages when a high size quake struck the area in 1905. While in ruins, this antique arrangement, which served as the abode of the majestic family of Kangra, attracts history buffs and structural design lovers from far and wide.

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

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
Entry fee:
- Indians: INR 150 per person
- Foreigners: INR 300 per person

11. Tsuklakhang Temple, Dharamshala

Boasting rich Tibetan culture, Tsuklakhang 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 Gautama 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 center 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.

Timings:
- April to October: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- November to March: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
Entry fee: Free Entry

12. Bhagsu Waterfall, Dharamshala

Dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Jwala Devi, this temple in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh attracts devotees and travelers from around the country. It is also one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India and an extremely appreciated Shakti temple.

Jwala Devi Temple is devoted to the Goddess of Light. It is also thought that this is the spot where Goddess Sati’s tongue fell when her dead body was cut into 51 parts by Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra. The temple has no icon and divinity Shakti is manifested at this point in a series of normal flames. Devotees think that the Goddess resides in the flames that have been on fire amazingly for hundreds of years without any oil.

Timings:
- Summer: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Winter: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
Entry fee: Free entry

14. McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala

Also well-known as Little Lhasa or Dhasa, McLeod Ganj is a famous and charming town of Dharamshala. It comes below the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh and is just only 5 km from Dharamshala. McLeod Ganj is particularly popular for the Dalai Lama Temple or Tsuklakhang Temple as this is the spot where His sanctity resides.

Besides being a famous pilgrimage for Buddhists, McLeod Ganj is a safe place for natural world lovers, trekkers and peace seekers. Namgyal Monastery, Nechung Monastery, Naddi point of View and Manikin Pass are some of the many excellent attractions at this point. Boasting an ideal mix of wealthy Tibetan culture and nature’s bounty, McLeod Ganj is undoubtedly one of the most gorgeous 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

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 placed nearby Tsuklakhang Temple. Kalachakra Temple is replete with murals and artworks that speak volumes just about Tibet’s rich holy and creative background. Its tranquil bondings and wonderful aura attract devotees and travelers from diverse sides of the country.

This stunning temple with eye-catching structural design is devoted to Kalachakra. It houses a figure of Shakyamuni Buddha, mural painting of 722 deities of the mandala, and a Kalachakra show in the center. You can also approve a few of the best Tibetan Thangka paintings on the temple walls and columns. The sacred temple complex has a book store and a tiny yet delightful café as well.

Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
Entry fee: Free entry

Now that you recognize just about the best places to visit in Dharamshala, you can easily plan a tour to this quiet and charming mount station in Himachal Pradesh. Away from visiting famous attractions here, you can also check out the home shops for Tibetan carpets, shawls, handicrafts, brass statues and other local area.

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What is the famous of Dharamshala?

Dharamshala is popular for its Tibetan tradition, the residence of the Dalai Lama, and its scenic loveliness.

How many places are there to visit in Dharamshala?

There are so many locations to visit in Dharamshala, including the Dalai Lama Temple, Bhagsu Waterfall, and Triund Trek.

Which is better, Nainital or Dharamshala?

I think you should go to Dharamshala. If you plan to go to Nainital, you will not find tricks to do, you will get bored there. You can just enjoy picturesque views, boating, and Trekking at Cheena Peak.

Which is the best season to visit Dharamshala?

Middle-February to middle-July is the perfect time of year to visit Dharamshala because of the loveliness spring and summer months, when temperatures range from 21 to 34 degrees Celsius. Winters bring free cooling temperatures and unpredictable snowfall, but they also add up to the loveliness of the valley.

How many days are needed for Dharamshala?

Plan a tour of 3-4 days to this mountain station of the Kangra district and experience it all in condition of natural loveliness, adventure, food trip, trek, sports, deluxe stay, and much more.

Why Dharamshala is called Little Lhasa?

It is well-known as “Little Lhasa” or “Dhasa” (a short form of Dharamshala used mainly by Tibetans) because of its huge populaces of Tibetans. The Tibetan government-in-exile is main office in McLeod Ganj. It has an standard height of 2,082 metres (6,831 feet).

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