The town of Dharamshala in northern India is a wonderland that displays the true beauty of the natural world. This bustling settlement of 30,000 inhabitants, situated in the foothills of the Himalayas on a spur of the Dhauladhar range, serves as a link between two different worlds. People from all over the world come to Dharamshala, India, to explore, take in, and learn more about Tibetan culture.
OVERVIEW
Location: Himachal Pradesh
Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport or Dharamsala-Kangra Airport
How to reach: by air / train / road
Famous for: Dalai Lama Residence, Tibetan culture, handicrafts and temples
Best time to visit: October-November/March-April
WHAT TO SEE
Triund Hill, Gyuto Monastery, Tsuglag Khang, Namgyal Monastery,
Bhagsu Waterfall, Bhagsunath Temple, Dalai Lama Temple Complex, Chamunda Devi Temple,
Indru Nag Temple, Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, St John in the Wilderness Church, The War Memorial
History:
Dharamshala India has been a part of Kangra’s Koch Dynasty for decades. But with the arrival of British Rule in India, Dharamshala became a part of Punjab’s province. The Gurkhas restored the city when it was destroyed in 1905, and the Bhagsunag Temple became the Heritage of the 1st Gurkha Rifles in Dharamshala India.
Culture:
In your Dharamshala tour, you will witness the vibrant and traditional culture practiced by the people in the city. While doing the Dalai Lama tour, you will notice the spiritual angle of the city, which conveys peace and tranquility. If you visit this city during Buddha Purnima, you will witness the rich festivity vibes around every corner.
Triund Hill: Triund Hill is also known as the Crown Jewel of Dharamshala. It is located in the middle of the Dharamshala mountains providing you with a spectacular view to capture nature. This place is also one of the most famous trekking spots in India, attracting large numbers of people.
Gyuto Monastery: Gyuto Monastery is located at Sidhbari at a distance of 8 km from Dharamshala. It was established in 1474 by Jestun Kunga Dhondup. It is one of the most prominent monasteries providing specialization in Tantric meditation, Tantric ritual arts, and Buddhist philosophy. This monastery is also the center of Tibetan Kagyu Buddhism. The monastery’s main hall is called TCV High, which has a magnificent Buddha statue.
Tsuglag Khang: The TsuglagKhang was constructed in 1959 it houses the famous Namgyal monastery, a museum, a cafe, a library, and the Dalai Lama’s private residence. Thousands of tourists come to TsuglagKhang to seek blessings from the Tibetan leaders and experience the Dalai Lama tour. The TsuglagKhang is also the prominent place where the Dalai Lama conducts his private and public audiences.
Namgyal Monastery: The Namgyal Monastery was established in the 16th century, located next to Potala Palace. It is famous because of its monks who have supported the Dalai Lama in his religious affairs. Namgyal Monastery conducts annual prayers every year for the welfare of Tibet and its people. Namgyal Monastery has played a very integral role in establishing Buddhism in Tibet. The serenity created by this monastery inclines every visitor to know more about the Buddhist culture.
Bhagsu Waterfall: Bhagsunag Waterfall is one of the most famous tourist spots in Mcleodganj. It is located in the small village of Bhagsu. The devotees also visit this place because of the presence of a nearby temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Shiva cafe is quite popular in this area as it takes you to the panoramic view of the whole Bhagsu valley.
Bhagsunath Temple: Bhagsunath Temple is just a distance of 3 km from Mcleodganj. It was founded by King Bhagsu after obtaining forgiveness from Nag Devta. The temple is highly esteemed by the Hindus and the Gorkha. During September, an annual fair is held in the temple, which gathers a large crowd. The principal attractions around this holy shrine are the Dal River, Kotwali Bazaar, and Bhagsu Fall.
Dalai Lama Temple Complex: Dalai Lama Temple Complex is also known as the Tsuglagkhang Temple. Every year Dalai Lama visits this temple to preach to people; therefore, it is commonly known as Dalai Lama Temple Complex. When you enter this temple, you will find numerous shops selling a variety of ritual books and objects based on Buddhism culture, tradition, and history.
Chamunda Devi Temple: The Chamunda Devi Temple is located at a distance of 15 km from Dharamshala. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, one of the forms of Durga’s divine mother and one of the seven Matrikas. The temple is famous for its natural beauty set against the backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountains.
Indru Nag Temple: Indru Nag Temple is situated near a small village named Chohla Town. Indru Nag is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located at the top hill and can get a clear view of the ranges of Dharamshala. Indru Nag is also famous for Paragliding. At the top of the hill, there is a small plateau that is used by paragliders as a starting walk for a 15-20 minute run.
Mcleodganj: Mcleodganj is also known as Little Lhasa and is home to the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama. Mcleodganj is a beautiful town situated near upper Dharamshala. This place is nested with greenery and is culturally blessed by a prominent Tibetan presence. It has one of the most mesmerizing landscapes and a scenic lake, considered to be the most prominent picnic spot of Mcleodganj.
Other attractions:
Tea Gardens: Visiting the tea gardens in the Dharamshala tour offers you natural greenery. The tea garden is said to be the foothills of Dharamshala. It is spread over acres of land and is a beautiful natural place offering you the time to soak the peaceful surroundings. You will see some beautiful birds as you pass through the narrow paths of the tea garden.
Trekking: A Dharamshala tour includes a number of trekking choices that let you discover Himachal Pradesh even more thoroughly and precisely. The treks typically range in altitude from 2000 m to 4000 m, with climbs and descents that pass through low slopes and allow you to see small, picturesque towns in Himachal Pradesh.FoodThe delectable Madra in Dharamshala is legendary. Vegetables and chickpeas are used to prepare the dish. This meal has a wintery flavor thanks to the way it was prepared—well fried in oil and with a variety of spices. Try this dish if you’re thinking of taking a trip to Dharamshala. This dish can be found in both large restaurants and tiny eateries.ShoppingOne of the most well-known retail areas in Dharamshala is Kotwali Bazaar. There are numerous stores selling lovely shawls, sweaters, and other essentials for daily living throughout the market. The culture of Tibet has a significant influence on every item in this market. Along with this, you may find some fashionable items like jewelry made of bright beads and other objects with sophisticated designs.
Where to Stay:
Dharamshala is the winter capital hill station. A trip to this beautiful place involves exploring serene nature, seeking harmony in McLeodganj, and doing some hillside adventure.
We have listed the top two hotels for the Dharamshala tour, offering you all the services that you need.
Pavillion: The Pavillion is a mix of tradition and modern sophistication; it very well represents the Indian Spirit. The hotel offers spacious and luminous rooms to cater to all your needs.
Fortune Park Moksha: Fortune Park Moksha has hotel rooms rich in color, providing their guests an opportunity to relax by offering a great ambiance and the best services.Nearby Attractions
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