Dharamshala has grown to be one of the most iconic hill stations in India with some of the most beautiful and serene views. It is situated in the Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh which is full of coniferous trees. Dharamshala is 1457 metres above sea level and is a miraculous mixture of Kangra and Tibetan culture. In this article, we will discuss the top places to visit in Dharamshala.
1. Triund Hill:
This is the perfect spot for hikers, trekkers or people who want to do something adventurous. It is absolutely beautiful with greenery everywhere and also provides clean paths for trekkers. It is more than 2800 metres above sea level so those who get mountain sickness, beware! You don’t have to pay any entrance fees and people can go here any time of the day. If you want to have a fun time while enjoying the beautiful ice-covered mountains then Triund Hill is just the place for you.
2. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium:
This cricket stadium is truly like no other. I am sure you all must have seen this in the latest Indian Premier League. It is also known as the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium and is the highest cricket stadium in the world. Made in 2013, this station can seat more than 20,000 people. It would only take less than an hour to visit this stadium and you will be able to look at some stunning Tibetan-style architecture. On a non-match day, the ticket price is 20 rupees.
3. War Memorial:
This is the most famous tourist attraction of Dharamshala. The War Memorial was made to commemorate the soldiers of Dharamshala who lost their lives in the wars of 1947-48, 1962, 1965, 1971, and UN Peacekeeping Operations. The structure is made of 3 black walls which have the names of the martyred soldiers engraved on them. It is situated in the middle of a green and luscious landscape which makes the memorial even more beautiful. The price for one ticket is 20 rupees, while children under 5 years of age can visit for free.
4. St. John in the Wilderness Church:
This is another iconic tourist destination in Dharamshala. This church is surrounded by beautiful green trees which add to the peaceful and serene environment of the church. Dedicated to John the Baptist, this church was built in 1852. Even though it is 8 kilometres away from Dharamshala, you absolutely cannot miss this beauty. From the atmosphere to the construction of the church, this is a truly unique place in all of Himachal Pradesh. Entry is free for everyone and it will not take you more than 45 minutes to cover this destination.
5. Library of Tibetan Works and Archives:
This library was founded on 11th June 1970 by Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama. It has some of the most significant Tibetan literary pieces. If you are looking to know more about the history and culture of Tibet, this library has around 80,000 manuscripts, books and documents filled with Tibet’s history, culture, origins, art and more. This destination is not as famous as all the other ones, but I would say it is a must-visit since it gives you an inside look at the place. The entry ticket price is 100 rupees and the library is closed on all Sundays.
6. Bhagsunag Temple:
This temple is the most famous in all of Dharamshala. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is frequently visited by Hindus and the local Gorkha group. You can easily locate it as it is 3 kilometres from McLeod Ganj. The temple along with the main shrine also has a holy pond and a pool. The water in the pond is said to have healing powers, adding to the divinity of the area. One to two hours is enough to visit and entry is free for everyone.
7. Gyuto Monastery:
This monastery is one of the most popular monasteries in Dharamshala. It is well known for its meditative teachings and tantric ideas. It was originally made in 1474, but when the Chinese invaded Tibet in 1959, it needed to be re-established by Tibetan monks. This monastery sits on top of a hill in the Dhauladhar Range and has done a remarkable job in protecting and encouraging tantric teachings and ideas. The entry to the monastery is free for all and you only need one to two hours to explore it.
8. Kareri Dal Lake:
If you are going to visit Dharamshala with your partner, then Kareri Dal Lake will tick all your boxes for a romantic getaway. It has some of the most beautiful views and the environment is very quiet and serene. It is not as crowded as the other tourist spots making it the perfect place to just sit around and soak in all the views.
9. Dharamkot Studio:
Dharamkot is a village 2 kilometres away from McLeod Ganj. The studio has trained potters and tourists can go here to try their hand at pottery. If you wish to master the art, you can also take pottery courses instead of one-day workshops. This place is not as frequently visited and for one session you have to pay 1350 rupees for one person.
10. Kangra Fort:
This fort was made in the 4th century by the Katoch dynasty. If you are someone who likes sightseeing, then this place is perfect for you. The fort stands strong, even though it faced a lot of damage due to an earthquake in 1905. The fort consists of a small museum and three temples.
I am sure this list has convinced you to visit Dharamshala. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags now!