Dharamsala, India
Beautifully nestled amidst the lush greenery, snow-covered mountain peaks and gushing waterfalls, Dharamshala (also spelt as Dharamsala) is one of the most famous hill stations of India. Shining like a gem in the northern-state of Himachal Pradesh, this beautiful place is situated at the foothills of the Dhauladhar ranges and thus, provides charming views of the steep valleys, pine-covered hills and deodar forests.
This hill station is divided mainly into two parts, the Upper Dharamshala (also known as McLeod Ganj) and Lower Dharamshala, which is notably a commercial centre. This place is also the seat of exiled leader, ‘His Holiness the Dalai Lama’, and therefore, it is a home to a large number of Tibetan settlements. One can find a large number of monasteries with the blissful sound of bells almost all around. So, if you are seeking for a peaceful holiday destination to enjoy the holiday and relax in the laps of Mother Nature, then Dharamshala is the perfect option.
Visit in Dharamsala
Snuggled amidst the massive ranges of lower Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, Dharamsala is an abode of faith, harmony and knowledge. It is considered to be one of the most popular spiritual destinations this place is the perfect location to go on sightseeing tours. A tour to Dharamshala will rejuvenate not just your body and mind, but your soul too. This place offers the best combination of breathtaking views and soul satisfying experiences. Check out major tourist attractions in a tour to Dharamshala.
This monastery is the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama since his exile. It is a major attraction that you should definitely visit on your trip to Dharamshala. Besides normal visitors, Namgyal Monastery is a significant destination for Buddhist pilgrims from Indian and all across the world. Situated in the Center of Tibetan Studies, Namgyal Monastery is one of the first tourist destination visited by travelers.
Also known as Upper Dharamshala, McLeod Ganj serves as the prime seat of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Post His exile from Tibet, He migrated to McLeod Ganj along with large number of his followers. Later, several Buddhist monasteries and Tibetan schools established here at McLeod Ganj and today, the place is often called as the 'Little Lhasa of India'. A bit away from more-commercial ‘lower Dharamshala’, McLeod Ganj is a peaceful place to relax and an ideal option for a weekend spiritual retreat for tourists.
Located in the forest near Forsyth Ganj, about 15 minutes walk away from McLeod Ganj is the charming Anglican Church is truly an amazing British establishment. The foundation of “The Church of St. John In The Wilderness” was laid down in the year 1852 by the then British Viceroy, Lord Elgin. This wonderful church is constructed as per Neo-Gothic architectural style and is known for its peaceful environment and renowned “Belgian stained glass windows”.
People, interested to explore the charming culture of Tibet, must pay a visit to Norbulingka Institute. As far as the study of Tibetan culture and arts is concerned, Norbulingka Institute is renowned as a leading institute in the world. This institute was established in the year 1754 and houses 3 academies, namely, 'The Academy of Tibetan Culture', 'The Centre for Arts', and 'The Literary and Cultural Centre'.
Surrounded by wonderful natural lake and lush green and tall deodar trees, Dal Lake (not to be confused with the Dal Lake of Kashmir) is a fun place for picnic and family outing.
It is a memorial of the post independence warriors (soldiers) of Kangra district in the state of Himachal Pradesh.
The Kangra Art Museum is an art gallery that was inaugurated in the year 1990. This art gallery features a noteworthy collection of arts, crafts, attires, artifacts and other treasures related to the history of the state.
Apart from these, the Triund, Dip Thekchen Choeling Monastery, Chamunda Devi and Tsuglagkhang are some of the other famous tourist places near Dharamshala.
Dharamsala, India
April-July, Pleasant and cool weather
Temperature:22°C-30°C
July-September, Heavy continuous rainfall
Annual rainfall -290-380 cms
September to November, pleasant and greenery mountains all around Trekking season
Temperature:20°C- below 0°C
Sights of Dharamsala