Dharamshala is situated at an altitude of 1,475 meters above sea level in the high portions of the Kangra valley in Himachal Pradesh. The city is encircled by a dense forest of deodar cedar trees. It serves as a key stronghold for Tibetan refugees and the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama of the Tibetan school of Buddhism. Because of its gorgeous surroundings and the presence of the Dalai Lama, the town has become a famous tourist destination for Indians and foreign travelers. Here is a list of the top sites to visit in Dharamshala.
Dharamshala is a tranquil hill station surrounded by coniferous forests of deodar trees, with glittering lakes, gushing waterfalls, old temples, and Tibetan heritage. This destination has enough to offer every type of traveler, from adventurers to nature lovers, history fans, to pilgrims.
Here are some Dharamshala visiting places that have their own unique charm and will make your vacation memorable in 2021.
1. McLeod Ganj
McLeod Ganj, the Dalai Lama’s official residence in India, is a lovely neighborhood of Dharamshala. This location, also known as ‘Little Lhasa’ or ‘Dhasa,’ has long been a favorite of visitors to Dharamshala from Himachal Pradesh. The Dalai Lama currently dwells at the Tsuglagkhang Complex in McLeod Ganj. The complex, which is regarded as one of the holiest places of religion, attracts tourists worldwide. The compound houses the Dalai Lama’s palace and the Tsuglagkhang Temple, Namgyal Monastery, and the Tibet Museum. Inside the complex, there is a magnificent statue of Lord Buddha and statues of Chenrezig and Guru Rinpoche.
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With its rich foliage and breathtaking vistas of the Dhauladhar ranges, this scenic hill station is undoubtedly one of the most famous tourist destinations around Dharamshala.
2. Triund
The journey to Triund is made possible by a wonderful trekking track on the bucket list of travelers from all over the world. To be honest, Triund is one of the most gorgeous hidden jewels that Himachal Pradesh has to offer. The Triund trip will allow you to escape into the arms of the gorgeous Himalayas, enhancing your visit to the city. The trekking track begins in Dharamkot and takes you through the wonderful picturesque views of the Kangra Valley, just a few kilometers from the town of Dharamshala. This basic but lovely spot is unquestionably one of the nicest places to visit near Dharamshala.
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The journey can also begin in the scenic suburb of McLeod Ganj, continuing on to Dharamkot and then the path. Evenings here are among the most visually appealing experiences you’ll ever have. This Dharamshala tourist attraction should definitely be on your schedule, with the sky glittering with a blanket of stars, a glimpse of the snow-capped Himalayas, and nice weather.
3. Kangra
Kangra, a charming tiny hill station near Dharamshala, is dotted with gorgeous views, lush flora, and spectacular panoramas of the massive Dhauladhar ranges. Kangra Valley is known for its ancient temples, rich tea gardens, and enthralling landscapes. This picturesque little hill hamlet is famed for Masroor Rock-cut Temple and is home to one of the country’s oldest forts, Kangra Fort. There are approximately 15 rock-cut temples in this vast complex. This renowned temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an example of ancient era architecture at its finest.
4. Dal Lake
Another place to visit in Dharamshala’s Dal Lake, which has a popular name. Although not as well-known as Kashmir, Dharamshala Lake is worth a visit while in town. The Dal Lake in Dharamshala is a medium-altitude lake that provides visitors with a nice experience. It also boasts a trekking track with an enchanting backdrop of the hills, which is very well complemented by the town’s pleasant weather. The lake is 1,775 meters above sea level. The lake is surrounded by dense green Deodar trees. It has a Shiv Mandir on its banks, making it one of the nicest sites in Dharamshala for a refreshing break.
5. St. John in the Wilderness Church
St. John in the Wilderness Church is one of the most frequented and significant churches in the state. This is one of the most famous destinations to visit near Dharamshala because of its neo-gothic architecture and the grand Belgian stained glass window, which is quickly coupled with the breathtaking backdrop of thick deodar trees. The church was built to honor John the Baptist and is known as the ‘St. John in the Wilderness Church’ due to its location among impenetrable woodlands.
A church of the same name can also be found in Nainital, Uttarakhand. This church is one of the oldest in Dharmshala and a superb example of architectural elegance. Lord Ergin, one of India’s Governor Generals and Viceroys, was laid to rest in this church.
6. Namgyal monastery
Namgyal Monastery is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dharamshala. Namgyal, a sprawling monastery, is a popular destination for monks from all over the world. When the Dalai Lama visits town, he stays here. This Dharamshala monastery is an important learning center and the largest Tibetan temple outside of Tibet. The Dharamshala monastery, which houses roughly 200 monks, appears to be particularly optimistic.
Throughout the year, travelers flock to the Dharamshala monastery. The monastery features Tibetan-style architecture, prayer wheels, elegant furnishings, and a pleasing color scheme. Spend some time exploring the monastery, which includes a cafe. The Namgyal monastery is open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., and there is no admission cost.
7. The War Memorial
The War Memorial, one of the top attractions to see in Dharamshala, will fill you with pride. The memorial honors those heroic souls who gave their lives for the motherland during the Indo-China wars of 1947-48, 1962, 1965, the 1971 conflict, and UN peacekeeping missions. Many of Kangra District’s young brave individuals have given their lives to the service of the homeland. The War Memorial is set among the trees and is magnificently constructed out of black stone.
It is divided into three massive panels, each of which is 24 feet high. The names of the deceased troops are inscribed on the black stone panels, so take some time to pay your respects. This great area to visit in Dharamshala is surrounded by lush greenery. It has a nearby college where you can have some scorching hot tea and food.
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8. Masroor Rock Cut Temple
The Masroor Rock Cut Temple is an ancient landmark carved out in the Nagara style from a single monolithic rock. It is one of Dharamshala’s most popular tourist destinations. The complex, consisting of roughly 15 rock-cut temples built in the Indo-Aryan architectural style, was created in the 8th century facing the North-East towards the Dhauladhar range. The complex is accessible via three different entrances. However, it is thought that there was a fourth entrance that was left unfinished. The temple complex, inspired by Hindu literature, includes a sacred pool of water and asymmetry structure spread out in a square.
9. Kangra art museum
This museum, which was opened in 1990, houses many objects from Tibetan and Buddhist civilizations. The museum has conserved relics from the Kangra valley’s cultural past. Temple carvings, miniature paintings, weaponry, and palanquins belonging to the local royal community are ancient artifacts. It also contains a rare ceramics and sculpture collection.
Aside from these, it displays jewelry from other tribes as well as embroidered outfits. Some of the antiquities on show in the museum date back to the fifth century. Kotwali Bazaar is the location. 10 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. (Closed on Mondays and Public Holidays)
10. Hanuman ka Tibba
It is stated that Lord Hanuman slept here on his way back with the Sanjeevani Buti. This breathtaking and magnificent vista is situated at an elevation of approximately 5639 meters above sea level. The Hanuman-ka Tibba, also known as the ‘White Mountain,’ is the highest peak in the magnificent Dhauladhar mountain range and an excellent site to observe some breathtaking valley views. From here, you can also see the Pir Panjal range in the north.
This location is a refuge for all adventure seekers. It provides for mountain climbing, trekking trails, or simply camping at the base while admiring the magnificent splendor of the mountain range.
11. Dharamshala cricket stadium
The Dharamshala cricket stadium is regarded as one of the greatest in the country. It is located at a high elevation and is beckoned by the snow-capped mountain ranges that surround Dharamshala. Dharamshala’s cricket stadium is a sight to behold. Even if there is no cricket match scheduled in Dharamshala during your stay, you can still enjoy the gorgeous scenery.
The cricket stadium is one of the most beautiful in the world due to its natural setting. It is also the world’s highest altitude cricket stadium. There were a few Ranji, and international matches played here. Include it among your top Dharamshala attractions.
12. The Tea Garden
The splendor of the lush greens combined with the pleasant scent of tea leaves is a winning combination! The Dharamshala Tea Gardens provide an unforgettable experience. The tea garden, known as India’s smallest tea district, is full of elegantly lined tea plants across the Kangra Valley, making it a popular tourist destination in Dharamshala. You can go to the garden, take pictures, and enjoy the beauty that Himachal Pradesh has to offer.
