Are you planning to get some fresh air and relax? Then Dharamshala is your stop. As you know Dharamshala trip is famous as it is the home of the Dalai Lama, who was the Tibetan Buddhist leader. It is also a renowned centre of Buddhism. Dharamshala is a picturesque little hill station in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Here, you will get to see plenty of Tibetan architecture and experience the rich culture of Tibet. Dharamshala is home to numerous monasteries, temples, lakes, waterfalls, and more.
Here is a Guide if you are planning a Trip to Dharamshala
When to visit Dharamshala
Do you know that Dharamshala is known as the winter capital of Kangra district? God blesses us with a pleasant climate during summer as well. The perfect time for you to visit Dharamshala is from the end of March till the end of June. If you want to explore, the mornings and the afternoons are perfect for you as they give you a balmy feeling of weather. The weather will slightly change when the sun sets. But do not worry about it! It won’t get frosty; you can expect little rainfall and hailstorms from May onwards.
But if you plan to visit during the monsoon season, it is not a good idea, from July to September, as there is a high risk of landslides.
However, if you are an adventure enthusiast, the winter months of December to February are best for you.
If you love to enjoy the serenity and want a peaceful retreat, then March to April and October to November give you tranquil moments. You know, Dharamshala is a year-round destination that attracts every type of traveller throughout the year.
Now, it depends on you what you want? Do you want to trek in the snowy mountain or enjoy the lush green mountain?
How to reach Dharamshala
- By air
Airlines are the best option if you want to save time and reach in a short time. Gaggal Airport is the airport closest to Dharamshala. Also referred to as Kangra Airport, it is around 15 km outside the city and about a 30-minute drive from Dharamshala. But it also offers you flights from big towns like Chandigarh and Delhi. You can take a bus or taxi after you land in Dharamshala to get where you’re going.
- By train
Pathankot railway station is the closest railway station to Dhramshala, which is located in Punjab and is around 86 kilometres away, if you would rather take the train and enjoy the ride. You can take a bus or a taxi from Pathankot to Dharamshala. You will be able to take in the breathtaking scenery for three to four hours. From your hometown, you can purchase tickets to Chandigarh or Pathankot.
- By road
If you are a road trip lover, you will be happy to know Dharamshala has good road connectivity. The mesmerising hill station is 29 km from Kangra, 85 km away from Pathankot, 119 km away from Dalhousie, 241 km away from Chandigarh, 486 km from Delhi, 2016 km away from Kolkata, 1798.7 km from Mumbai. If you opt for bus travelling, you will get numerous bus options such as Volvo and many other luxury sleeper buses. These buses will offer you a blend of comfort and luxury.
Places to visit in Dharamshala
Namgyal Monastery
Namgyal Monastery is one of the world’s largest and most beautiful monasteries. Around 200 monks live in this monastery. Monks who live there organise peaceful and soulful prayers and meditation sessions, making this place a peace lover’s paradise. When you are in Dharamshala, this monastery is a must to pay a visit as it is Dalai Lama’s home. The second Dalai Lama established this monastery in the 16th century, and it happens to be the largest Tibetan monastery built outside of Tibet.
Tsuglagkhang Complex
You must include this place in your Dharamshala tour packages. When the Dalai Lama left Tibet, he stayed in the Tsuglagkhang complex ever since, and currently, many Dalai Lama sessions are held here along with Tibetan cultural programs. The trail will lead you through mesmerising hillside views, prayer wheels, and prayer flags and shrines.
Hanuman Tibba
If you are an adventure lover, Hanuman Tibia is a must–have in your Dharamshala trip. It is the highest point in the Dhauladhar range, with an elevation of 5860 meters. The journey to the peak of Hanuman Tibba will leave you mesmerised, which is why it is every hiker’s dream. But remember, this trek is challenging; it needs lots of guts, practice, and experience. If you are a beginner, this trek is not a good choice. Witnessing the sunset from Hanuman Tibba is a treat to your eyes!
Tea Gardens
Who does not want a hot cup of tea in chilly weather? You can see the tea gardens of Dharamshala trip, with lush green landscapes and rolling hills covered with tea plantations. You can take a tour of the gardens. Besides that, you can learn about the tea-making process and taste some of the tea that is produced. Once you taste the tea, you can differentiate between local tea and Dharamshala’s tea directly from the tea gardens. Its flavour and aroma make it a must-have in at least one cup!
Bhyagsunag Waterfalls
Are you among the people who love the sound of water? Then it would be best if you went to Bhyagsunag Waterfalls, situated in the quaint little village of Bhagsu. These falls are one of the most well-known and visited tourist attractions in the Dharamshala district.
A trekking trail takes you up to the point from where the waterfalls are. The path of the trek might be slippery; hence, the elders and children should avoid it.
Conclusion
Embrace the beauty of nature. Dharamshala’s scenic beauty will leave you spellbound. It will soothe both your eyes and soul. Its charm will remain in you for a longer time. Dharamshala’s beauty is something that no one can resist visiting at regular intervals.
