Dharamshala is located on the foot of snow covered Dhauladhar ranges. It offers a breathtaking view of snow wrapped peaks, deodar and pine woodlands, tea gardens and lovely hills. Dharamshala is home to many Tibetans and is also the residence of the great spiritual and worldly guru of the Tibetans, His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Dharamshala is a significant town in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. In Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala is situated in the Kangra district. Legion streams, cool pure air, breathtaking surroundings and the closely situated snowline makes Dharamshala the perfect destination for a blissful holiday. This town in bubbling with life yet offers peace to the mind.
Attractions in Dharamshala:
1. Mcleod Ganj: When His Holiness the Dalai Lama arrived in Dharamshala along with innumerous refugees in the year 1959 this place came to life. In Mcleod Ganj you will get to see several Tibetan settlements along with some well established spiritual education centers and rehabilitation centers. Mcleod Ganj as of date as emerged as a major center of Buddhist learning and pilgrimage. To take a sneak peek into the Buddhist way of life you must visit this part of Dharamshala. You will surely fall in love with it.
2. Bhagsunag Fall: This fall is situated at a distance of about eleven kilometers from the Dharamshala town. This fall is well reckoned for the old temple, a freshwater natural spring, several water falls as well as slate quarries. The Bhagsunag falls are eaily accessible by road.
3. St. John’s Church: This church is situated at a distance of eight kilometers from the main Dharamshala town. The beauty of this church is magnified due to its astounding location. It is located amongst the deodar woodland between the famous Mcleod Ganj and Forsyth Ganj. This church has a monument built in honor of Lord Elgin who was one of the viceroys of India. Lord Elgin died in the Mandi district in the year 1863 and was buried here.
4. Dharamkot: Dharamkot is situated on a hill top at a distance of about fourteen kilometers from Dharamshala. This beautiful picnic point offers a staggering bird’s-eye view of the Kangra valley as well as the snow covered Dhauladhar range. This place offers a nice and peaceful trekking opportunity from Bhagsu. While trekking to Dharamkot you will come across several small shops, stalls and restaurants offering basic refreshments and beverages.
5. War Memorial: The war memorial is situated in the Dharamshala town. This memorial stands in honor of those who fought bravely and gave their lives for the country.
6. Kunal Pathari: This is a rock temple situated at a distance of three kilometers from Dharamshala.
How to reach:
The nearest airport is the Gaggal airport which is at a distance of fifteen kilometers from Dharamshala. Dharamshala is easily accessible by road. The nearest railway station is at Pathankot at a distance of ninety five kilometers from Dharamshala.
Accommodations: In Dharamshala you will find all kind of budgets hotels and guesthouses. My suggestion is that you stay in a hotel which is hill facing and away from the crowded parts of the city.
What to buy: When in Dharamshala you can buy beautiful Tibetan handicrafts which are quite inexpensive.
When to visit: This is the beauty of Dharamshala, you can visit this town round the year, no special months!
