- Apr 09, 2025
Located in the Kangra Valley, Dharamshala is a town in Himachal Pradesh, and it has become a prominent part of Himachal tourism. In the shadows of the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas, Dharamshala offers scenic views of deodar forests, temples, and lined tea gardens. Dharamshala offers the same picturesque setting as any other part of the state, strongly influencing Tibetan culture. To have a genuinely undefinable experience of the culture and have the fullest of what Dharamshala has to offer, here are some top Dharamshala tourist attractions you should visit during your stay here.
1. Triund
Located at 2828 meters, Triund is a small hill station in the Kangra district that is an excellent trekking spot. It is a fascinating place to trek and camp while admiring the views of the surrounding valleys and Dhauladhar ranges. This Tirund hill is called the crown jewel of Dharamshala. It is a primary spot for trekkers and other adventure enthusiasts, making Dharamshala one of the Best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Even if you are not an adventure enthusiast, it is a place you should not avoid because the view it will offer will make it worth it.
2. Dalai Lama Temple/Namgyal Monastery
Dharamshala's main epicentre for promoting Tibetan culture in Dharamshala is the Dalai Lama Temple, which is locally known as the Namgyal Monastery. Some may also consider it the most peaceful place on earth. The Dalai Lama temple is the personal monastery and official residence of the 14th Dalai Lama and other 200 monks. Outside the boundaries of Tibet, it is the largest Tibetan Monastery. As you visit the temple, you will feel the purity and serenity in the air as the hums of prayers will reach your ears. You will undoubtedly have an outstanding experience here as you will see Buddhism in its purest form.
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3. Bhagsunath Temple
Bhagsunath Temple is an ancient temple made to honour Lord Shiva, which is situated in the village of Bhagsu. Due to this temple, the town has become one of the most popular. Thus, there are a lot of restaurants and guesthouses which have become a prime source of income for tourists. The temple is surrounded by the exceptional beauty of nature, which is also why tourists flock around here near this temple. Near the Bhagsu village, there are several popular spots, such as the Bhagsu Waterfall, Dharmkot, and Triund Trek. It is a perfect place, especially for those who are considering Budget trips in India.
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4. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
Established in 2003, this Cricket stadium is the home ground of Himachal Pradesh's and women's cricket teams. The governing body of cricket in Himachal Pradesh, the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association, is headquartered here, and they also hosted 5 2023 Cricket World Cup matches. Cricket fans from around the country arrive here to witness the most beautiful cricket stadium in the world, which is also nestled among one of the best hill stations in India.
5. Chinmaya Tapovan
Located on the banks of Bindu Saras and offering panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, this ashram lures a lot of peace seekers. This is the abode for siddhas and those who are seeking some peace in solitude, presenting a blend of serenity and tranquillity. In the ashram's complex is a temple dedicated to Lord Rama and a nine-foot-tall statue of Lord Hanuman. If you are considering visiting this place, consider visiting in March and June, as this is one of the best Places to visit in March in India
6. Chintpuri Temple
Chintpurni Temple is a temple which is incredibly famous for granting the wishes of the devotees, as it is said that Goddess Chintpurni is the youngest of all 9 devis which makes it easier for the devotees to make her happy. The name "Chintpurni" translates to "the Goddess who removes the anxiety and sorrow", and according to the locals, she grants all the wishes which have been made with honesty and positivity. It is an important place for those who follow Hinduism, resulting in many tourists and devotees arriving here making it one of the most popular Temples in Dharamshala.
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7. Dharamshala Tea Garden
The Dharamshala Tea Gardens are situated in the Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh and have produced black and green tea since the 19th century. The special Kangra tea, which is produced here, is said to have medicinal properties. Besides that, waking through these gardens offers serenity and peace, along with the aroma of fresh tea leaves. During your walk, you might also witness the process of tea-picking or just take a guided tour by a Dharamshala travel guide, as they will introduce you to the process and help you see the best locations.
8. Kalchakra Temple
The Kalchakra temple was built in 1992 and is a prominent destination for those who practice Buddhism. It is dedicated to Buddha's teachings of the wheel of time. It is the epicentre where people arrive to learn the teachings of Dalai Lama in the beautifully made temple, which displays the architecture of Tibetan Culture. It is one of the prime locations for McLeod Ganj Sightseeing, as people arrive here to attain peace. People arrive here to learn more about the Buddhist culture regardless of religion, caste, race or community.
See also: 10 Famous Temples in Madhya Pradesh
9. Aghanjar Mahadev Temple
Nestled among the foothills of Dhauladhar, Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is believed to have been built over 500 years ago and is one of the Top attractions in Dharamshala. Besides the spirituality of this temple, the place is surrounded by forests, mountains, a tiny cascading waterfall, and a tiny cave near the temple. If you seek peace and spirituality, then Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is one of those places where you can be. Even if you are looking for an ideal spot to witness natural beauty or photography, this place offers much.
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10. Hanuman ka Tibba
Hanuman Tibba lies on the Dhauladhar Range, the highest mountain peak in the Kangra district. It is a well-recognised peak locally because of its Pyramid-like shape, which makes it one of the most thrilling peaks here. Dharamshala sightseeing is said to be incomplete without it, as it offers opportunities to indulge in adventure activities like mountain climbing or hiking. Those who crave thrill must visit this 19,000-foot tall peak, which stands proudly and offers Dharamshala's undefinable view.
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11. The War Memorial
The War Memorial of Dharamshala gives tribute to the martyrs of Kangar district who were laid down during the war of 1947-48, the Indo-China war of 1962, 1965, and 1971. Visitors will also see the war tanks with the names of the soldiers who fought for the glory of their motherland. The memorial is surrounded by pine forests, lawns and mountains; there are also some cafes and restaurants for their visitors. The War Memorial is a key attraction and among Dharamshala famous places.
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12. Nechung Monastery
Nechung Monastery is one of the most famous Monasteries in Himachal Pradesh, the seat of Tibet's oracle. It is also called the Sungei Gyelpoi Tsenkar, which translates to "Demon Fortress of the Oracle King." Besides being the residence of the Oracle, the Monastery also has a library that consists of books and scriptures about Buddhism and Tibetan history. It is a must-visit place for those who seek the ultimate spiritual experience it has been delivering this experience since the 18th century.
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13. Naddi Village
Naddi Village is situated at an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level and is home to the people of the Gaddi tribe. This calm, charming, and serene village is visited by tourists from all over the world because of the picturesque views it offers for the guests. This is one of the best Offbeat places in Dharamshala, and it is also often visited by the Dalai Lama himself, and people emerge to get a glimpse of him. When the weather is clear, visitors can also expect to witness the snowy peaks of the Dhauladhar ranges, which creates a fairy-tale-like background.
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14. St. John in the Wilderness Church
This neo-gothic church was built centuries ago near Dharamshala, and the way between McLeodganj, which is one of the most beautiful cities in India. The church is built amongst the lush green trails of Deodar and is recognised for its Belgian stained glass windows. The building of this church might give you a scary feeling, but if you want to explore some quiet place, then this is an ideal location.
15. Tibetan Art Museum
If you are looking for Dharamshala places to visit in summer, then here is another place to let you learn more about the Tibetan culture. The main mission behind this Museum is to let people know more about the history and culture of Tibet. The museum currently displays over 30,000 photographs, day-to-day life objects, exhibitions, and more. During your stay in Dharamshala, consider giving a glimpse into how Tibetan culture evolved with time.
Conclusion
These are some top Dharamshala tourist places that you should not miss during your stay there, as they will not only let you learn about Tibetan culture but also expose you to serene nature. Especially if you live in a city, Dharamshala will be like a new world to you. If you are considering an ideal place to visit for upcoming summers, then Dharamshala might be your best option.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places to Visit in Dharamshala
Q. How many days are enough to explore Dharamshala?
A. Three to four days is more than enough time to explore all the major attractions of Dharamshala, including all the adventure activities.
Q. Is Triund Trek suitable for beginners?
A. Yes, the Triund trek is one of the easiest treks you can do alone, making it suitable for beginners.
Q. Are there good cafes and restaurants in Dharamshala?
A. There are many cafes and restaurants in Dharamshala, ranging from rooftop cafes to cosy Tibetan cafes. All offer magnificent views. Their menus include various cuisines, including Italian, Tibetan, and more.
Q. What is the best time to visit Dharamshala?
A. This may be subjective, but mid-February to July is considered the best time to visit Dharamshala because it is ideal for outdoor activities.
Q. Is it safe to travel solo in Dharamshala?
A. Dharamshala is absolutely safe to travel for a solo traveller, as there are many solo travellers who visit here.
Q. What are some offbeat places to visit in Dharamshala?
A. Here are some Offbeat places to visit in Dharamshala:
- Kareri Lake
- Guna Devi Temple
- Naddi Village
- Triund
- Kangra Fort
These are some offbeat places to visit in Dharamshala.
Q. Can I experience snow in Dharamshala?
A. During the late winters, snow can be experienced in Dharamshala from late December to February, and this is the peak month for experiencing the white landscapes.
Q. How to reach Dharamshala?
A. By air, the closest airport from Dharamshala is Gaggal Airport/Kangra Airport, and by train, the nearest railway station is Pathankot.
Q. Are there adventure activities in Dharamshala?
A. There are so many Things to do in Dharamshala, including trekking, paragliding, rock climbing, repelling, camping, and more.
Q. Is Dharamshala good for a family trip?
A. Dharamshala is an excellent choice for family trips. During your trip, you will experience the culture and witness the natural beauty.
Q. What are the best shopping spots in Dharamshala?
A. Maximus Mall, Kotwali Bazaar, Temple Road Market, and Moti Mahal are some of the best shopping spots in Dharamshala.
Q. Are there budget accommodations in Dharamshala?
A. Dharamshala welcomes all kinds of tourists, and there are various accommodation options available, including affordable options.
Q. What food is Dharamshala famous for?
A. Tibetan Dumplings, Thukpa, Siddu, Bhey, and Babru are some of the most popular foods in Dharamshala.
Q. Is a permit required to visit monasteries or do meditation retreats?
A. During visiting hours, anyone can enter monasteries regardless of gender, caste, religion, or community. However, there are some rules everyone must follow and respect the Tibetan customs.
Q. Can I visit Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj in one day?
A. Visiting both in one day can be hectic, and you will not be able to explore any of those places properly, so it is not recommended to visit Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj in one day.
Q. Which is the most famous place in Dharamshala?
A. The Dalai Lama Temple complex has to be the most famous place in Dharamshala because those who want to learn Buddhism and seek peace declare it the most peaceful place in the world.
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