AQI
46
Average Nightly Rate : 3000
Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India

About the Dharamshala

Dharamshala, nestled in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is a hill station known for its scenic beauty and spiritual significance. It's divided into two distinct parts: Lower Dharamshala (Dharamshala town) and Upper Dharamshala (McLeod Ganj). McLeod Ganj, also known as 'Little Lhasa,' is the home of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile. Dharamshala offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure activities, spiritual exploration, and cultural experiences.

Best Time to Visit

March to June (Summer) and September to December (Autumn). Summer offers pleasant weather for trekking and sightseeing. Autumn provides clear skies and stunning views of the mountains.

Trip Duration

3 days 4-5 days
3-5 days is ideal to explore Dharamshala and its surrounding areas.

Place To Visit

Tsuglagkhang Complex Dalai Lama Temple
Tsuglagkhang Complex Dalai Lama Temple
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Bhagsu Nag Waterfall Pathway
Bhagsu Nag Waterfall Pathway

Popularity

Triund Trek
Triund Trek
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Dal Lake
Dal Lake
★★★★

3.7

Popularity

Dharamkot
Dharamkot

Popularity

Masroor Rock-cut Temple
Masroor Rock-cut Temple
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Kangra Fort
Kangra Fort
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Norbulingka Institute
Norbulingka Institute
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamshala
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamshala
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Church of St. John in the Wilderness
Church of St. John in the Wilderness
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Places to Eat

Tibet Kitchen
Tibet Kitchen
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Morgan's Place
Morgan's Place
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Four Season Cafe
Four Season Cafe
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Jimmys Italian Kitchen in McLeodGanj
Jimmys Italian Kitchen in McLeodGanj
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Common Grounds Cafe
Common Grounds Cafe
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Moonpeak Deli
Moonpeak Deli
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

The Other Space
The Other Space
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

New Seed Cafe
New Seed Cafe
★★★★

3.7

Popularity

Lung Ta Japanese Restaurant
Lung Ta Japanese Restaurant
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Namgyal Cafe
Namgyal Cafe
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Accommodation

HOTEL CENTRE POINT
HOTEL CENTRE POINT
★★★★

4

Popularity

Hotel Asian Plaza - Dharamshala
Hotel Asian Plaza - Dharamshala
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Fortune Park Moksha - Member ITC hotels' group
Fortune Park Moksha - Member ITC hotels' group
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Zostel Mcleodganj
Zostel Mcleodganj
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Shivaay Morex
Shivaay Morex
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Brij Anayra, Dharamshala | A Himalayan Luxury Retreat
Brij Anayra, Dharamshala | A Himalayan Luxury Retreat
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Hotel Bob's n Barley
Hotel Bob's n Barley
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Hills Heaven
Hills Heaven
★★★★

3.3

Popularity

Sunny home stay
Sunny home stay
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

D'Polo Club & Spa Resort, Dharamshala
D'Polo Club & Spa Resort, Dharamshala
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

How to Reach

Air

The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (DHM), also known as Kangra Airport, located about 13 km from Dharamshala. Several airlines operate flights from Delhi. Taxis are readily available from the airport to Dharamshala.

Car

Dharamshala is well-connected by road. You can hire a taxi or drive your own car. The road journey offers scenic views of the Himalayas.

Bus

Dharamshala is well-connected by road to major cities in North India. Several state-run and private buses operate from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other nearby cities. You can also hire a taxi or drive your own car. The road journey offers scenic views of the Himalayas.

Train

The nearest major railway station is Pathankot (PTK), which is about 85 km from Dharamshala. From Pathankot, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Dharamshala. Another option is the Kangra Mandir Railway Station (KMRH), which is a narrow-gauge railway station connecting Pathankot to Joginder Nagar. However, the train journey is slow.

Important Notes

Respect local customs and traditions.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Be aware of the altitude and take it easy on the first day.
Carry warm clothes, even in summer, as the weather can change quickly.
Bargain when shopping in the markets.
Obtain necessary permits for trekking and other adventure activities.
Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
Be mindful of the environment and avoid littering.
Dharamshala uses Indian Standard Time (IST) - GMT+5:30.
The currency is the Indian Rupee (INR).
Tipping is customary in India.
Driving is on the left side of the road.
Be aware of the strong sun and use sunscreen.
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.

Nearby Destinations

Palampur

Palampur

Known for its tea gardens and scenic beauty.

Distance : 23 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.1

Popularity Score : 4.2

Must Visit : Tea Gardens, Tashi Jong Monastery, Neugal Khad.

Bir

Bir

A paragliding hub.

Distance : 41 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.4

Popularity Score : 4.5

Must Visit : Paragliding landing site, monasteries.

Kangra

Kangra

Historical town with the Kangra Fort.

Distance : 13 KM (approx)

Rating : 3.9

Popularity Score : 4

Must Visit : Kangra Fort, Brajeshwari Temple.

McLeod Ganj

McLeod Ganj

Historical town with the Kangra Fort.

Distance : 3 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.2

Popularity Score : 4.1

Must Visit : Kangra Fort, Brajeshwari Temple.

Kareri Lake

Kareri Lake

Historical town with the Kangra Fort.

Distance : 11 KM (approx)

Rating : 3.8

Popularity Score : 3.9

Must Visit : Kangra Fort, Brajeshwari Temple.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to get around Dharamshala?
Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available for getting around Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj. Walking is also a good option, especially in McLeod Ganj, as the distances are relatively short.
Is it safe to travel to Dharamshala?
Dharamshala is generally a safe place to travel. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself from theft and other crimes.
What are some of the must-try foods in Dharamshala?
Momos, thukpa, thenthuk, tingmo, and other Tibetan dishes are must-try foods in Dharamshala. You should also try the local Himachali cuisine, such as siddu, madra, and chana madra.
Are there any ATMs in Dharamshala?
Yes, there are several ATMs in Dharamshala, especially in the main market areas. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash with you, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
Do I need a visa to travel to Dharamshala?
If you are a foreign national, you will need a valid visa to enter India. Please check the visa requirements for your nationality before traveling.
Is there good mobile network connectivity in Dharamshala?
Yes, most major mobile network providers have good connectivity in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj. However, network coverage might be spotty in remote trekking areas.

Location Map

Coordinates: Latitude 32.2167, Longitude 76.3167 (Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India)