Dharamshala

Dharamshala and its upper suburb McLoedganj are pretty much entwined as tourist destinations. Nestled in the spellbinding Dhauladhar Range overlooking the verdant Kangra Valley, this holy adobe of the Dalai Lama is certainly a coniferous heaven. McLeod attracts thousands of international travelers; many of them taking courses in Buddhism, meditation or yoga; trekking up the Dhauladhar range or just enjoying the quiet spiritual vibe of the town.

Major Attractions

Tsuglagkhang Complex
A picture of purity and humility, Tsuglagkhang Complex, houses the private abode of the Dalai Lama. Its beautiful Kalachakra Temple (Wheel of Time) with compelling murals is a thing of beauty. The complex also houses a caf? & library in its premises. With fluttering prayer flags and chanting monks, Tsuglagkhang is a perfect spot to soak in the Buddhist spiritualism.

Namgyal Monastery
Located inside Tsuglagkhang Complex, this monastery is the offshoot of Namgyal Monastery established in the 16th century in Tibet. After the Chinese invasion and Tibetans fleeing to India, this monastery was re-established in Dharamshala to preserve and maintain the Tibetan culture and traditions.

Dal Lake
Tranquil lush surroundings, calm waters and a tiny temple on its banks set the tone for the Dal Lake in McLoedganj.

Kangra Fort
Built in 4th century BC by the Kangra Royal Family, this fort is one of the oldest in the country. With seven magnificent entryways and high ramparts, Kangra Fort offers great views of River Manjhi and Banganga snaking through the valley.

Bhagsunag Falls and Bhasunath Temple
A short trek from McLoedganj takes you to these mesmerizing falls. Many legends are associated with the falls and the ancient Shiva Temple at the site.

Jwalamukhi Devi Temple
One of the 51 Shkati Pithas in India, this temple located on the outskirts of Dharamshala does not house an idol. Instead, the deity of flaming mouth is worshipped in the form of flames coming out of the rock fissure.

St. John Church
Located amidst thick deodar forests, this gothic style church is aptly named-‘St. John in the Wilderness’. Built in 1852, this solid structure adorned with pretty Belgian stained glass windows is a famous attraction in McLoedganj.

Norbulingka Institute
Named after the summer residence of Dalai Lama in Tibet, this institute was founded in 1988 for preserving Tibetan art, literature and culture. The institute offers training, education and employment to Tibetans and various art workshops.

Other Attractions

• Kangra Art Museum
• Gyuto Monastery
• Library of Tibetan Works and Archives
• Namgyalma Stupa
• Kunal Pathri Temple

Fairs & Festivals in Dharamshala

• Haldi or Maghi Festival- January
• Losar- Tibetan New Year in February or March
• International Himalayan Festival- December
• Dal Fair- August or September
• Budh Poornima- Birthday of Lord Buddha in March or April

Shopping in Dharamshala
Beautiful prayer wheels, prayer flags, Feng Shui objects, Thangakas, images of Buddha and a host of Tibetan handicrafts are some of the memorabilia you may buy in Dharamshala.

Food in Dharamshala
Tibetan cuisine rules the roost in Dharamshala. Thupkas, momos, gyuma and beklabs are just amazing here. Do try the typically local Bun-Cholle too! Besides this, lot of restaurants and cafes serve Israeli, Italian, European and even Japanese cuisine in Dharamshala.

Best time to Visit
Dharamshala is pleasant and accessible all-year-round but the peak season is from March-May and then from September to December.

How to Reach
By Air- The nearest airport in Gaggal, around 13kms from Dharamshala, is connected to IGI Airport, Delhi.
By Rail- The nearest major railway station in Pathankot, around 85kms from Dharamshala, is well-connected by rail to all parts of the country.
By Road- Dharamshala is well-connected to all parts of the country with a good network of highways & roads.

Check out our Tour Packages and immerse in the spiritual vibe of Dharamshala. Do reach out to us for Personalized Tour Package for your family and friends.