Best Tourist Atrractions in Dharamshala
McLeod Ganj: The Heart of Tibetan Culture
A quaint village owned by the local Gaddi tribe, McLeod Ganj earned its name from Sir Donald Friell McLeod, the British governor of Punjab, who held the position from 1865 to 1870. The place became a hotbed of politics after the 14th Dalai Lama was granted this place as its official residence by the Government of India after he fled from Tibet during the country’s Chinese invasion in 1959.
Since then, the place has had significant Tibetan influence, and it is known as mini Lhasa. The place has become a spiritual centre of Tibetan tantric Buddhism, with beautiful monasteries in the area.
You will also find another settlement on your way to McLeodGanj from Dharamshala, which is known as ForsythGanj. Understandably, this place has also been named after a Britisher who is believed to have been a commander of the army during the early 19th century when the cantonment was being made here.
What I Loved:
The steep terrain offers small alleys of the McLeod Ganj, abundant with food joints, Tibetan souvenirs, prayer flags, bookstores, and monasteries. There is warmth in the air with the smell of momo and cafes. There is some sort of meditative calm in the streets too. You definitely should not leave without visiting Tsuglagkhang Complex, which hosts the temple of the Dalai Lama. This place specifically is filled with heavy air, where one can hear chanting and feel the energy from spinning prayer wheels to take a glimpse into Tibetan culture.
Entry Fee & Timings: Most of the monasteries and the temple complex are free to enter and remain open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Location: McLeod Ganj is about 9 km from Dharamshala town.
The Best Time to Visit is March to June and September to October when the weather is cool and clear. Winters and rainy seasons can be difficult here.
How to Reach: Taxis and shared jeeps from Dharamshala can take you to McLeod Ganj in under 20 minutes.
Triund Trek: A Panoramic Escape
For anyone seeking to have some adventure around Dharamshala, there is no better adventure than the Triund Trek. This is one of the most easily doable treks but has great returns in terms of scenery as it provides an excellent view of the Dhauladhar ranges and the Kangra Valley. Actually, it is one of the most famous destinations in Dharamshala for the lovers of nature and for the lovers of the adventures as well.
My Experience
The trek starts at Bhagsu or the Gallu Devi Temple and is a steady 7 km hike that typically takes around 3-4 hours. The trail is lined with rhododendron trees, and if you're fortunate, you might catch a glimpse of mountain goats grazing nearby. Once you arrive at Triund, the breathtaking view will take your breath away. The peaceful plateau, with its stunning mountain backdrop, is truly a sight to see, especially during sunrise.
Entry Fee & Timings: No entry fee, but the trek is best done during the day.
Best Time to Visit: March to June or September to November.
How to Reach: Start the trek from Gallu Devi Temple, a short drive from McLeod Ganj.
Bhagsu Waterfall and Bhagsunag Temple: A Refreshing Retreat
When it comes to great tourist destinations in Dharamshala, another place in this city of Himachal Pradesh is Bhagsu Waterfall. Located at the backdrop of Bhagsunag Temple, this waterfall is one of the most frequented spots for the people of Dharamshala and outsiders.
A Personal Note:
I like Bhagsu Waterfall because it’s a serene place. So the waterfall cascades down around 30 feet and it’s the perfect place to unwind or even take a dip if you’re want to try. Once you have walked around the Bhagsunath Temple, which is a place of worship to Lord Shiva, trekking up to the waterfall feels almost like a spiritual experience in its own right.
Timings: Free entry, and the waterfall is open all day.
Location: About 2 km from McLeod Ganj.
Best Time to Visit: April to June, when the waterfall is in full flow.
How to Reach: A short walk from Bhagsunath Temple leads you to the waterfall.
Namgyal Tantric: A Haven for Inner Peace
Also known as Namgyal Tantric College, the Namgyal Monastery offers a space for quiet contemplation and was built in 1992. As the personal monastery of the Dalai Lama, this is one of the famous places in Dharamshala that shouldn’t be missed if you seek spiritual solace.
My Quiet Reflection:
The prayer hall at Namgyal Monastery is unlike anywhere else. As I sat among the monks chanting their prayers, serenity took over me. Golden statues of the Buddha, the flickering of butter lamps, and the soft resonation of the Tibetan chants- it’s hard not to get lost in the serenity of this place.
Entry Fee & Timings: Free entry, open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings are the best to experience the calmness.
How to Reach: Easily accessible from McLeod Ganj.
Dal Lake: A Serene Picnic Spot
Surrounded by deodar trees, Dal Lake is a beautiful location that is serene as opposed to the busy streets of Kotwali Bazaar or Macleod Ganj in Dharamshala. It's one of those places that I would recommend it for a quiet picnic or just a peaceful walk around the lake.
My Experience:
Early in the morning, I set off for a stroll on the Dal Lake; as I reached there, the mist floating upon the calm waters was surreal. The surrounding luscious greenery combined with the distant sounds of bells ringing from the temple provided a perfect setting to connect with nature. A visit here is not complete unless a halt is made at the nearby Shiva Temple, which has a deep spiritual aura. I sat down in the temple with my eyes closed, and I felt a deeply
Entry Fee & Timings: No entry fee, open all day.
Best Time to Visit: March to October.
How to Reach: About 3 km from McLeod Ganj, easily accessible by taxi.
War Memorial: Honouring the Brave
Not all tourist places in Dharamshala are about nature and spirituality; some tell tales of bravery and sacrifice. The War Memorial in Dharamshala, in the Cheelgari area, is one such place dedicated to the memory of the soldiers who laid down their lives for India. In fact, one of the highest army recruits are from Himachal Pradesh; you will find the fervour of getting into the Indian army among the local population. I also noticed a lot of retired army people settled in the area.
You will also find the YOL Cantt and Dharamshala Cantt around the town. Also, a fun fact: the first Param Veer Chakra awardee, Major Somnath Sharma, was also a resident of Kangra Valley.
My Thoughts:
Walking through the beautifully landscaped gardens of the War Memorial, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of respect for the soldiers who are commemorated here. The black marble panels inscribed with the names of the martyrs serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for our country.
Entry Fee & Timings: A nominal fee of ₹20; open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
How to Reach: It is situated in the Cheelgari area in Dharamshala, which is easily accessible by road.
Kangra Fort: A Journey Through Time
A short drive from Dharamshala will take you to the ancient Kangra Fort, one of the largest and oldest forts in the Himalayas. The fort, perched on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley and the confluence of the Banganga and Patalganga rivers. This fort was the seat of the Katoch dynasty, the glorious dynasty that ruled the Kangra region, which was known as Nagarkot. The fort has also an ancient Jain temple dedicated to the 22nd Tirathankar Lord Neminath, which is known to be 3500 years old.
My Exploration:
The Kangra Fort is not just a historical site; it’s a storyteller. I was told that the region was known as Trigartha Desh during Mahabharata time, who fought from Kaurava’s side. As I walked through its massive gates, I could almost hear the echoes of the battles fought and the dynasties that once ruled here. The fort is well-preserved, and the view from the top is simply breathtaking. Don't miss the Museum at the entrance, which houses artefacts from the fort’s glory days.
Entry Fee & Timings: ₹150 for adults; open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach: Located about 20 km from Dharamshala, easily accessible by road.
Norbulingka Institute: A Celebration of Tibetan Art
If you're fascinated by Tibetan culture and art, the Norbulingka Institute is a must-visit. This institute is dedicated to preserving Tibetan culture and offers workshops on thangka painting, wood carving, and embroidery.
My Artistic Journey:
What stood out to me at Norbulingka was the sheer dedication and craftsmanship of the artisans. Watching them create intricate thangka paintings was a mesmerizing experience. The institute is also home to a beautiful Japanese-style garden, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Entry Fee & Timings: ₹50 for adults; open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime during the year.
How to Reach: Located 8 km from Dharamshala, easily accessible by taxi.
St. John in the Wilderness Church: A Gothic Marvel
Built in 1852, the St. John in the Wilderness Church is one of the most beautiful churches I’ve seen in the mountains. Its neo-Gothic architecture, combined with its serene location amidst deodar forests, makes it one of the best places to see in Dharamshala. The church’s graveyard has the grave of Lord James Bruce, 8th Earl of Elgin, the Viceroy of India, who passed away at Dharamshala in 1863.
My Reflection:
This church, with its stained-glass windows and rustic stone walls, has a unique charm. As I stepped inside, I was struck by the sense of timelessness that enveloped the space. The quiet surroundings, with only the rustling of leaves and distant bird calls, made it feel like I had stepped into a different era. St. John in the Wilderness Church is not just a place of worship but a reminder of Dharamshala’s colonial past when it was established as a cantonment by the British in 1849 and got its name from the place.
What makes it even more interesting is the grave of Lord Elgin, the Viceroy of India, which lies in the churchyard. The entire experience felt like a walk through history, making it one of the most famous places in Dharamshala for history buffs.
Entry Fee & Timings: Free entry, open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach: Just 8 km from Dharamshala and a short walk from McLeod Ganj.
Tea Gardens of Palampur: A Green Escape
One of the lesser-known yet delightful places in the region is Palampur, which is famous for its beautiful Tea Gardens. Although not as famous as those in Darjeeling or Assam, the tea gardens here offer a serene escape from the usual tourist spots. You can reach Palampur easily by road; it is around 30 km away from Dharamshala and is a beautiful hill station. You can also visit tea gardens in Dharamshala, near Kunal Pathri temple. However, the best tea gardens in the area are in and around Palampur.
A Refreshing Experience:
On my visit to tea gardens in both Dharamshala and Palampur, I was captivated by the lush green slopes covered with tea plants. There’s something meditative about walking through the garden paths, surrounded by the smell of fresh tea leaves and the gentle hum of workers plucking leaves. The view of the surrounding mountains only adds to the experience. If you’re a tea lover, you can even purchase some freshly processed Kangra tea to take back home from the Tea factory in Palampur or in local shops. Their April-plucked tea is the best of the lot, which is locally known as April-tod.
Entry Fee & Timings: No entry fee, open all day.
Best Time to Visit: March to October, when the gardens are lush.
How to Reach: Located about 3 km from Dharamshala.
Gyuto Monastery: Where Spirituality Meets Beauty
Known for its stunning backdrop of the snow-clad Dhauladhar ranges, the Gyuto Monastery in Sidhbari is one of the most unique places to visit in Dharamshala. It is the seat of the Karmapa, the head of the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. The place is a school for Buddhist studies, for young students.
My Spiritual Encounter:
The moment I entered the Gyuto Monastery, I was enveloped by a deep sense of serenity. The architecture of the monastery is simple yet captivating, with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze and monks chanting their daily prayers. The monastery is also known for tantric meditation, making it a hub for spiritual seekers. I spent a quiet afternoon here. I saw the Kaal Chakra Mandala, the school of tantra where young monks were chanting and learning.
I was impressed with the ambiance and the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Entry Fee & Timings: Free entry, open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit: All year round.
How to Reach: Located at Sidhbari, Dharamshala, accessible by taxi.
Maharaja Sansar Chand Museum: A Peek into History
If you’re a history and art enthusiast, the Maharaja Sansar Chand Museum is one of the top tourist places in Dharamshala that you simply can’t miss. The museum is named after Maharaja Sansar Chand II of Kangra, the last king of Nagarkot or Kangra, who recaptured his ancestors’ fort from the Mughal by forming an alliance with Sikh Misls. Raja was crowned here in 1774.
The museum was recently built by Aishwarya Dev Chandra Katoch, the present honorary king of Kangra and his mother, Rajmata Chandresh Kumari Katoch in 2011. It offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Kangra Valley, showcasing artefacts from as far back as the 5th century.
My Artistic Journey:
I was amazed by the museum’s collection of Kangra miniature paintings, ancient pottery, and sculptures. The highlight for me was the traditional costumes and jewellery worn by the Kings and queens of the Kangra. It’s fascinating to see how art and culture have evolved in this region over the years.
Entry Fee & Timings: ₹50 for adults; open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays).
Best Time to Visit: All year round.
How to Reach: Located near the old Kangra fort, easily accessible by foot or taxi.
Dharamkot: A Quaint Hippie Village
A little offbeat and away from the crowd, Dharamkot is a charming village perched on a hilltop near McLeod Ganj. Known for its laid-back vibe and yoga retreats, it’s one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala if you’re looking for some solitude and relaxation.
My Peaceful Retreat:
I discovered Dharamkot on my second visit to Dharamshala and fell in love with its bohemian charm. The village is dotted with quaint cafes offering vegan and organic food, and it’s a hub for yoga enthusiasts. I stayed in a small homestay that offered stunning views of the valley and spent my days hiking in the nearby forests and practicing yoga. If you want to disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself, Dharamkot is the place to be.
Entry Fee & Timings: No entry fee, open all day.
Best Time to Visit: March to November.
How to Reach: A short trek from McLeod Ganj or accessible by a short taxi ride.
Naddi Viewpoint: A Sunset Lover’s Paradise
If you’re someone who loves sunsets, then Naddi Viewpoint is one of the most picturesque places to see in Dharamshala. Located at an altitude of 2,000 meters, this viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar range and the Kangra Valley, especially during sunset.
A Memorable Sunset:
I reached Naddi Viewpoint just in time for the sunset, and it was nothing short of magical. The sky turned shades of pink, orange, and purple as the sun dipped behind the mountains. The view of the snow-capped peaks glowing in the golden light is something I’ll never forget. It’s the perfect place to sit with a cup of tea and watch the day turn into night.
Entry Fee & Timings: No entry fee, open all day.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset time from March to June and September to November.
How to Reach: Located about 4 km from McLeod Ganj, easily accessible by taxi.
Indru Nag Temple: Adventure with a Spiritual Twist
The Indru Nag Temple is not just a place of worship but also a hub for paragliding enthusiasts. Situated on a hilltop, the temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and is one of the most exciting places to visit in Dharamshala if you’re looking for adventure.
My Thrill-Seeking Experience:
I came to Indru Nag primarily for paragliding, but the temple itself was a serene stop. After paying my respects at the temple, I strapped on my gear and took off for a thrilling flight over the valleys. The view from up there was unlike anything I’d ever seen before—rolling hills, deep valleys, and the majestic Dhauladhar range in the distance. It’s an experience I would highly recommend to anyone seeking both adventure and spirituality.
Entry Fee & Timings: No entry fee for the temple; paragliding costs vary depending on the service provider.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November for paragliding.
How to Reach: Located 6 km from Dharamshala, accessible by taxi.
