Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh
A detailed information on Dharamshala Hill Station in the Kangra valleys of Himachal Pradesh.
Dharamshala is one of the most popular hill stations located in the Northern India. It is situated in the Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh. Very commonly referred as the 'Queen of Hills', Dharamshala attracts a large number of Indian and foreign tourists throughout the year.Reaching Dharamshala
By Air: The closest airport is Gaggal Airport which is around 15 km from Dharamshala, which means just an hour's drive from it. This airport receives flights from Delhi and Chandigarh. Other airports which receive regular flights from major cities in India and international flights too include Jammu which is around 210 km and Chandigarh around 210 km from Dharamshala respectively.
By Rail: The nearest rail station is Pathankot which is around 95 km from Dharamshala. One also gets to reach to Dharamshala through a narrow gauge railway line from Pathankot to Jogindernagar. This train is popularly known as the Kangra Valley Toy Train. The nearest station for Dharamshala on this narrow gauge line is Chamunda Marg. Dharamshala is around 30 minutes away from this station.
By Road: Dharamshala can be accessed by road from all the major cities like Chandigarh, Jammu, Delhi and Shimla. Many buses, mostly air-conditioned ply regularly on this route. Best Time to travel
The best time to visit Dharamshala is from January to June and then from September to December. It should be avoided during monsoons as this place receives heavy rainfall and the weather conditions are unfavorable. Clothing suggested
Heavy woolens are suggested during winter as there is a heavy snowfall in this area. The temperature may drop extensively and hence one should preferably wear heavy woolens. However in summer, light woolen are suggested.Places of Interest
Mcleod Ganj: This is a major Buddhist center situated at 1770 m. The place is also referred as 'Little Lhasa', and is the residence of Dalai Lama.
Dal Lake: Dal Lake is around 11 km from Dharamshala and offers a picturesque beauty of this enchanting and scenic picnic spot.
Bhagsunath: This place is known for its ancient temple amd fresh water spring. It is located 11 km from Dharamshala and is one of the must visit tourists attractions.
Dharamkot: Located 14 km from Dharamshala, it is situated on the crest of a hi;ll and serves as a beautiful picnic spot.
St. John's Church: St. John's Church is located in the middle of the forest between the Macleod Ganj and Forsyth Ganj. It is dedicated to one of the viceroys of India, Lord Elgin who was buried here after his death in the year 1863 A.D.
Triund: Located 17 km from Dharamshala, this place offers a picturesque view of the snow capped mountains and the steep valley. It is also one of the popular picnic spots and lot of trekking is done in this area.
Other than these places there are many more places to visit in Dharamshala including the War Memorial, Jwalamukhi Temple, Nurpur and Kareri to name a few.Tibetan Cuisine
Tibetan Cuisine dominates over Indian food here in Dharamshala. Though there are several restaurants and food joints that serve Indian cuisine, still one should definitely try on the Tibetan delicacies like Momos and Thentus.Trekking
Dharamshala is one of the most popular places when it comes to Trekking. It is the starting point for treks and rock climbing through the Kangra valley. The most popular trekking route is the Chamba Valley and Toral Pass.Places to stay
Dharamshala has several accommodation options like the HPTDC's hotels, guest houses, PWD houses, and private hotels and resorts. Few hotels are listed below:
1.The Dhauladhar: A hotel of Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation(htpdc)
Address- The Dhauladhar
Kotwali Bazaar
Dharamshala
Tel - +91-1892-224926/ email – Dharamshala@hptdc.in
2. Asia Health Resorts: A Health resort located in the scenic foothills of Dharamshala.
3. The Bhagsu: A htpdc hotel located at Macleod Ganj.
The Bhagsu
MacLeod Ganj
Dharamshala
Tel - +91-1892-221091/ email-dharamshala@htpdc.in
