Dharamshala: Welcome to the Buddha Wonderland
Dharamshala, also known as Dharamsala city, is a Himachal Pradesh town situated in Kangra district, 18 kilometers from Kangra city. The state’s winter capital, Dharamshala, is divided between upper and lower sectors, each at a distinct height from the rest of the city. The lower division is situated inside the city limits of Dharamsala, while the higher section is approximately 3 kilometers outside and is known as Mcleodganj. Dharamsala is a popular tourist destination because of its convenient bus connections and lively market.
Dharamsala is the home of the Dalai Lama, the Buddhist leader who controls his nation from Dharamsala while in exile. The Dalai Lama is the head of state of the Tibetan people. What better spot on the planet to learn about and enjoy the ancient and majestic Tibetan culture than this little hamlet nestled in the foothills of the Dhauladhar ranges?
In 1959, the Dalai Lama traveled to India with his followers and resided in Dharamsala, which he transformed into a miniature version of Lhasa by enhancing its appearance. For many years, Dharamsala has served as a center for meditation and peace-seeking.
Best Time To Visit Dharamshala
Visiting Dharamshala during the spring and summer months (mid-February to mid-July) is the finest time of year since the weather is nice, with temperatures ranging between 21 and 34 degrees Celsius. Winters here are very cold, with sporadic snowfalls yet, this only serves to enhance the valley’s natural beauty. It would help if you avoided the monsoon season (late July to early September) since it may interfere with your travel plans nonetheless, this area does not experience excessive rainfall compared to other sections of Himachal and Uttarakhand.
How To Reach Dharamshala
How to go Dharamshala by plane:
Kangra Airport, 15 kilometers distant from Dharamsala, is the closest international airport. Upon arrival at the airport, taxi/cab services are available. International travelers must first arrive at Delhi International Airport, then take a domestic aircraft to Dharamshala.
The nearest airport is Jammu, which is 148 kilometers away from Dharamshala.
Look for flights to Jammu and Kashmir. Return flight fares to Jammu from major Indian cities are guidelines.
By Road:
Buses link Dharamshala with the cities in the surrounding area, and they are readily accessible. The nearest direct private bus service is accessible from Delhi, 520 kilometers distant.
By Train:
Kangra Mandir railway station, located 22 kilometers from Dharamsala, is the closest railway station. Despite the fact that the nearest major railway station is Pathankot, which is 85 kilometers distant.
Best Places To Visit in Dharamshala
Dharamshala is a beautiful alpine town in Himachal Pradesh. Throughout the summer, you may come now with a group of friends or just by yourself. The top locations to visit there are listed below.
#1. Tsuglagkhang Complex
The Tsuglagkhang Complex, which is situated on Temple Road and serves as a religious center as well as one of Dharamshala’s most popular tourist destinations. His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s first trip to India, in 1959, resulted in the construction of the temple, which was given to the people of India. The complex, which contains the Dalai Lama’s residence and monastery, is among the most important places to see in Dharamshala and is well worth a visit. This facility now hosts public and private Dalai Lama meetings and various Tibetan dance and music events.
#2. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
The Dharamshala Cricket Ground, located in the highlands of the charming town of Dharamshala, is the city’s main attraction. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. It is also one of the highest cricket fields in the globe due to its elevation. It is located at the height of 1,457 meters. The Dharamshala stadium’s surroundings contribute to the grandeur of the location. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dharamshala.
#3. Jwala Devi Temple
Located near Kangra, the Jwala Devi temple, which is also renowned as one of the top tourist attractions in Dharamshala, draws tourists from all over the country. Visiting the temple while on vacation in Dharamshala is something you should definitely miss out on doing while in the city. The temple is located 56 kilometers from Dharamshala and is smoothly affordable by public transportation. The flames at this Kangra temple, dedicated to Jwala Devi, have been igniting mysteriously for millennia.
#4. Indrahar Pass
Indrahar Pass, one of the best hiking paths in Himachal Pradesh, is another site to visit in Dharamshala. In Dhauladhar Ranges, at an elevation of 4,500 meters above sea level, this pass provides spectacular views. Tourists from all over the world come to the Indrahar Pass and Triund Hill to do hiking or mountain climbing. If you like natural beauty, be sure to include Indrahar Pass in your travel plans.
#5. Nechung Monastery
Are you looking for something to do in Dharamshala? What about this lovely monastery, which is one of the most popular destinations in this area? If you’re seeking a really spiritual experience, Nechung Monastery is the place to go. It is said to be the residence of an oracle who served as and continues to serve as the ultimate guide for all of the monks who live there. In addition, the monastery has a library that provides information on Tibetan religion and history.
#6. Kareri Dal Lake
Kareri Dal Lake, which has an area of one square kilometer and is titled after Kashmir’s spectacular comparable, is the largest lake in India. This attraction is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dharamshala, because of its breathtaking beauty and serene surroundings. The beautiful lake, which is encircled by snow-capped peaks and rich green deodar flora, is a photographer’s fantasy come true.
It is situated at an altitude of 1775 meters above sea level, and the tranquility and natural beauty of the surroundings attract a huge number of visitors. It also acts as a campsite for hikers who are planning trips into the nearby mountains.
Dharamshala restaurants and local cuisine
There are several restaurants and cafés here that provide good meals. Due to the Tibetan culture’s dominance, Tibetan food is the most common dish provided. Tibetan dishes such as momos, thukpas, as well as other delicacies are well worth tasting. Honey ginger lemon tea, a delightful drink, is another specialty of this establishment. Many cafes also provide English breakfast options such as pancakes, omelets, and sandwiches.
There are a few bars in the area that offer foreign alcohol as well as cuisine and have live music playing in the background. Here, momos are a specialty. Timo momos, Tibetan-style samosas known as Baklebs, and a soup-and-noodle dinner known as Thukpas are the most prevalent dishes.
You should have an excellent idea of what to do and see in Dharamshala if you follow the recommendations on the list. So, to avoid the sweltering heat, gather your leaves and begin organizing a delightful summer getaway to this little and scenic hill town in the countryside.