Tourism in Dharamshala

Dharamshala stands at the foot of Dhauladhar With dramatic mountain ranges of Himachal Pradesh. The term Dharamshala means 'The Holy Refuge' and this scenic town is roosted in the Kangra valley and belongs to the group of the 80 hills that were developed by the British to help them fight the dust and sweltering sun. It is also recognized as headquarters of Kangra District in 1855. Dharamshala is the place where the winds of change are rushing to shatter in its quiet calm and and has a magnificent view of snowy peaks, deodar and pine forests, tea gardens and beautiful hills. That's why a person must travel at least once in his lifetime here. Dharamshala now really has become international, with a number of Tibetan settlements and the residence of Noble Laureate the 'Dalai Lama' which is located at an altitude of 4,550 ft above sea level.

A nearby snow line with numerous streams and Tourism in Dharamshala has rapidly in progress because cool healthy atmosphere makes the surroundings very attractive. That's why it is counted as one of the most famous tourist spot in India. There are a number of lodging and hotels facilities are available. Dharamshala is divided into two parts: upper Dharamshala and lower Dharamshala. The upper part is known as Mcleod Ganj and Forsyth Ganj while the lower part is the main Dharamshala where you will see hills, bungalows, churches, monasteries and cantonment. Tourist enjoy their holidays a lot in this place because of all above qualities that we have explain.

How to Reach

The airport at Gaggla at a distance of 13 km. The nearer railway station is Pathankot at a distance of 85 km and this places is also easily accessible by roads.

Places to visit in Dharamshala

Bhagsunag waterfall

Bhagsu Waterfall is situated at Bhagsu Distance 11 km from Dharamshala. It lies behind the famous Bhagsunath Temple. The fresh water spring falls from 30ft which looks very glorious. This water falls can be approached by road. This fall is the main attractions of Mcleodganj many tourist visit here speacially to see this fall and you can also take a bath in the chilly water of fall. It is an ideal spot for picnics and recreation.

McLeodganj

Located in the upper part of Dharamshala serves as the seat of leader, the Dalai Lama. He came to the place along with thousands of refugees in 1959 and open many several monasteries and Tibetan schools. They spread religious education among all people as well as children. The British established this town as known as McLeodganj and it is one of the most popular tourist hill stations in India these days. This place give a lot of piece to mind and nice experience of hill station tour. Mcleadganj emerged as a major Buddhist center.

St. John's Church

Distance 8 km. from Dharamshala. The church Located in the forest between Mcleod Ganj and Forsyth Ganj and it is hardly of 15 minutes of walk. This monument was small in size which is built in 1852 and dedicated to Lord Elgin, one of the viceroys of India. The Church was built of high glass windows and there is a bell brought from England which is installed outside in the compound. It is situated in the majestic 'Deodar' forest.

War Memorial

It is situated in Dharamshala town near the entry point to Dharamshala on the memory of those who fought at that time for the honor and defense of the mother land. The place is basically placed in the forest where you see a lot of pine trees. The Walk on this pine forest give a very enjoyable walk to the tourist. Just behind the War Memorial there is a GPG College Dharamshala and cafe which serving fast food and beverages.

Dal Lake

Dal Lake is a small mid altitude lake which is a famous picnic spot in Dharamshala. It is around 11 km from lower Dharamshala and 3 km from upper Dharamshala. It is an artificial lake, here you find different kinds of fish, this lake has greenish water Which is in oval shape and stands encircled by deodar trees. There is a small Shiva temple on its banks. Every year a fair is host, in September. At that time a lot of tourist visit here.

Triund

In case you are looking for some adventure then you can visit Triund located at 17 km from Dharamshala. It is an altitude of 2,827 meters. The snowline starts just 5 km from McLeodganj is interesting and which will take you across the quaint villages of Rakkar and Dharamkot. It is a popular picnic and trekking spot where you explore the wildlife of the region, comprising of wild goats, black bear and pigs. Those who go for trek and want to return on same day then we are advised to start early. Food is available at tea shops. But it is always safer to carry one's own food and drink. It is the famous trek route for local people as well as for tourists.

Dharamkot

Distance 14 km from Dharamshala, it is situated on the crest of a hill. The site offers nice views of the Dhauladhar range and the kangra valley. This is also a favorite picnic spot in Dharamshala. One can reach Dharamkot by a simple trek from Bhagsu,(where small temple of God Shiva is located) various shops and tea stalls are situated near the path. Dharamkot is the Tibetan Village, which runs a school and training institute to about 2,500 students.

Norbulingka Institute

Located at a distance of 4 km from Dharamshala, This is a place for whom who are interested in exploring culture of Tibet. Norbulinka Institute has a picture of old rural Tibet with all its old paths, wooden bridges, small streams and water falls, along with wooden carvings, Tibetan Thangka paintingsand handicrafts. This institute was established in 1754. This is basically known as "The Center of Arts".

Kangra Fort

Kangra Fort is sited on a cliff of the Ban Ganga and Manjhi rivers and the seat of power of Katoch rulers, who ruled the land for over 2000 years. An earthquake destroyed the fort in 1905 but, today it stands in ruins.

Kangra Art Museum

Kangra Museum is located near kotwali market of Dharmshala. This Museum is offers the Kangra valleys arts, crafts, costumes and other treasures which can be traced to as far back as 5th century. Here you find famous paintings and a collection of sculptures, pottery. Kangra Art Gallery was inaugurated in 1990.

Gopalpur Zoo

Gopalpur Zoo was established by the Government of Himachal Pradesh on Dharamsala-Palampur road, in Kangra District. It is spread over 30 acres of thick forest. Here you can easily see black bear leopard, asiatic lion, sambhar, hog deer, barking deer and red fox.

Bajreshwari Devi Temple

In the middle place of the town of Kangra, the temple is established which is dedicated to Bajreshwari Devi which is commonly known for its wealth, It was Destroyed completely in an earthquake by 1905, but know it was rebuilt.