The winter capital of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala lies at an elevation of 1,457 mts above sea level and stretches along the Dhauladhar mountain range. With lush tea gardens and mist-soaked hills that are home to thick Pine, Cedar and Himalayan Oak trees, Dharamshala is indeed a paradise for travellers who love the great outdoors.
Dharamshala
Concierge Recommends
Explore Kangra Fort
The Katoch family trace their history back to the Mahabharata making this fort the oldest recorded fort in India. Known for its importance in Indian history, the Kangra Fort is also the largest in the Himalayas. With historic artefacts in the inner chambers from the Mughal and British eras, a tour of the iconic fort is a must-do.
A walk in Tea Orchards
Tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world and India is the second largest producer of tea in the world. While not as large as the plantations in Assam or the North East states as they mostly cater to local consumption, the plantations can be visited throughout the year.
Triund Trek
To the north of Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj lies Triund - the crown jewel of Dharamsala.
A trek to the top of the Triund hill gives you stunning views of the Dhauladhar Mountains on one side and Kangra Valley on the other. Alternatively, one can start the trek from Bhagsu Nag which leads through verdant forests and mountain curves to the Triund summit. Several establishments serve beverages and light snacks along the trail to make the trek easier.
Visit Mani Lhakhang Stupa
Situated approximately 5 km from Dharamsala city, Mani Lhakhang Stupa was constructed in 2001 under the instructions of the Dalai Lama.
Also known as the Prayer Wheels Monastery, it is part of 5 stupas that could survive a natural calamity. Marvel at the gold-plated statue of the Buddha in his signature lotus position and spend your evenings immersed in the hypnotic hymns of Buddhist monks
Watch a Cricket Match
More popularly used for Ranji Trophy matches as well as domestic cricket matches, the stadium is 8 km away from Kangra Airport. Catch a game here and enjoy the sport as you take in the breathtaking and majestic snow-capped mountains in the background.
Meditate at Gyuto Monastery
A key monastery in Buddhist culture, it is the host to a tantric college and the monks follow the principles of the Gelug Order. A charming place to visit to relax and meditate, the sheer beauty, and tranquillity of the monastery is unparalleled.
Visit Dal Lake
Located on Dal Lake-McLeod Ganj Road, to the north of Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj in the Kangra district, Dal Lake is surrounded by exotic Deodar trees. The lake is a popular tourist spot while the locals visit the Shiva temple on its banks. Due to its close proximity, finding transportation from Dharamsala is easy.
Local Area Paragliding Experience
Paragliding is one of the world's most exhilarating sports and provides the glider with an incredible adrenaline rush.
Paragliding on one of the highest places in the world is a thrill that few experience. Soaring over the beautiful and clear blue sky of Dharamshala and witnessing the beauty of the Himalayan ranges while taking in an amazing birds-eye view of the gorgeous landscape is an unforgettable experience.
Stop by the Sherabling Monastery
At Keori, Himachal Pradesh about 60 km from Dharamshala is the Sherabling Monastery.
Established in 1975 in a protected pine forest by the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa’s disciples, the monastery is built in typical Tibetan architecture. It is also the holy abode of Tai Siti Rimpoche, a much-respected figure in the Buddhist sect and has several rooms for meditation and worship.