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12 Best Offbeat Places in Dharamshala
1. Kareri Lake: A High-Altitude Gem
Highlights:
Offbeat Things to Do at Kareri Lake:
2. Guna Devi Temple: A Sacred Seclusion
Spiritual Retreat
Highlights:
Offbeat Things to Do at Guna Devi Temple:
3. Naddi Village: A Panoramic Paradise
A Scenic Getaway
Highlights:
Offbeat Things to Do in Naddi Village:
4. Triund: A Trekker’s Delight
The Classic Trek
Highlights:
Offbeat Things to Do at Triund:
5. Kangra Fort: A Historic Hideaway
Journey Through Time
Highlights:
Offbeat Things to Do at Kangra Fort:
6. Masroor Rock Cut Temple: An Architectural Marvel
The Himalayan Ellora
Highlights:
Offbeat Things to Do at Masroor Rock Cut Temple:
7. Dal Lake: A Serene Retreat
Nature’s Calm
Highlights:
Offbeat Things to Do at Dal Lake:
8. Norbulingka Institute: A Cultural Oasis
Tibetan Art and Culture
Highlights:
Offbeat Things to Do at Norbulingka Institute:
9. Bhagsu Waterfall: Nature’s Wonder
A Refreshing Escape
Highlights:
Offbeat Things to Do at Bhagsu Waterfall:
10. Indrahar Pass: A Thrilling Expedition
The Ultimate Adventure
Highlights:
Offbeat Things to Do at Indrahar Pass:
11. Pong Lake & Dam: A Boating Paradise
The Aquatic Adventure
Highlights:
Offbeat Things to Do at Pong Lake:
12. Shiva Temple at Trilokpur: A Spiritual Oasis
The Divine Sanctuary
Offbeat Things to Do at Shiva Temple:
Conclusion
Off Beat Places In Dharamshala: A Hidden Gem Adventure
Located high in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala is an ideal place for those who seek calm and silence among awe-inspiring rocks. Of course, its monasteries and bazaars attract a lot of tourists, but there is much more to see for those who will look closer. Envision walking through small communities, finding out about and exploring clear water lakes, and trekking in Dharamshala, all of which are not typical mass tourism zones. This beautiful city is full of things that can fulfil every traveller’s imagination.
Unexplored in its regular tourist route, there are so many hidden places in Dharamshala. Not only are these locations free from the many distractions that can be found in the usual tourist haunts, but they also hold a considerable degree of excitement for those who are willing to go out of their way and search for something extraordinary. Thus, the real beauty and excitement of Dharamshala are still unknown and untapped in these unexplored gems!
For those who would like to get more adventurous, Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages will offer a profound insight into the region’s most tourist sights as well as the ones less known. Such packages are normally accompanied by a guided tour of such off-beat destinations so that you do not miss out on any unique activity that Dharamshala has for you. Therefore, let us prepare for the journey and begin discovering the wonders of this fabulous town that has so many tales to share.
12 Best Offbeat Places in Dharamshala
1. Kareri Lake: A High-Altitude Gem
The Kareri Lake is one of the most popular off beat places in Dharamshala among tourists to visit in Dharamshala. This glacial lake is situated in the region with an altitude of 2,934 meters, so hearing the sound of the water and fresh air is a perfect opportunity to escape from the noisy chaotic world. The trek to Kareri Lake is quite adventurous as it passes through thick forests, beautiful villages and meadows.
Highlights:
- Starting Point: Kareri Village
- Trek Duration: 2-3 days
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to November
Offbeat Things to Do at Kareri Lake:
- Camping: Spend a night under the stars by the lakeside.
- Photography: Capture the pristine beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
- Bird Watching: Spot a variety of Himalayan birds in their natural habitat.
2. Guna Devi Temple: A Sacred Seclusion
Spiritual Retreat
Other cultural highlights include the Guna Devi Temple which is one of the best off beat places in Dharamshala as it provides beauty and spirituality. This temple which is 10kms from Nainital on the Nainital Ranikhet road is also situated at an altitude of 2,310mts; It is a very important centre of worship for people of this area as it is the temple of Goddess Goddess Kali.
Highlights:
- Location: Near Naddi Village
- Trek Duration: 2-3 hours
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
Offbeat Things to Do at Guna Devi Temple:
- Meditation: Find peace and calm amidst the serene surroundings.
- Picnic: Enjoy a picnic with panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range.
- Photography: Capture the scenic beauty and vibrant cultural rituals.
Suggested Read: Best Places to Eat in Dharamshala In 2024
3. Naddi Village: A Panoramic Paradise
A Scenic Getaway
Naddi Village is one of the off beat places near Dharamshala which provides the most breathtaking view of the Dhauladhar hills. This beautiful village is an ideal destination for travellers who do not want to be surrounded by lots of tourists and would like to enjoy the natural scenery of the Himalayas.
Highlights:
- Location: 3 km from McLeod Ganj
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Offbeat Things to Do in Naddi Village:
- Sunset Point: Witness mesmerizing sunsets over the mountains.
- Trekking: Explore various trekking trails around the village.
- Cultural Experience: Interact with the locals and learn about their way of life.
4. Triund: A Trekker’s Delight
The Classic Trek
Triund is one of the famous offbeat places near Dharamshala and is famous for its trekking level and natural beauty. The trek to Triund is moderate and can be contemplated by first-timers, which is why it is popular among the youth. Hence, this trekking experience is one of the most satisfying things to do in Dharamshala Himachal.
Highlights:
- Starting Point: Gallu Devi Temple
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
- Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to December
Offbeat Things to Do at Triund:
- Camping: Set up a camp and enjoy a night under the starry sky.
- Bonfire: Share stories and songs around a cosy bonfire.
- Stargazing: Experience the magic of the clear night sky.
5. Kangra Fort: A Historic Hideaway
Journey Through Time
Kangra Fort is one of the best off beat places in Dharamshala that transports you to the Medieval Period. This historic fort, also called Kotgarh, was constructed by the royal descendants of the Kangra kingdom to help the village better understand its history and cultural heritage. The fort is located on a hill and offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Highlights:
- Location: 20 km from Dharamshala
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
Offbeat Things to Do at Kangra Fort:
- Historical Exploration: Discover the fort’s history through its ruins and artefacts.
- Photography: Capture the majestic architecture and scenic views.
- Hiking: Explore the trails around the fort for a more adventurous experience.
6. Masroor Rock Cut Temple: An Architectural Marvel
The Himalayan Ellora
Another incredibly offbeat destination near Dharamshala to visit is the Masroor Rock Cut Temple. Also known as the ‘Ellora of the Himalayas,’ this temple complex is carved directly into the rock face – the elaborate sculptures and unique design of the buildings make it a great site for history and architecture lovers.
Highlights:
- Location: 32 km from Dharamshala
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
Offbeat Things to Do at Masroor Rock Cut Temple:
- Temple Exploration: Admire the intricate carvings and architectural brilliance.
- Photography: Capture the beauty of this ancient marvel.
- Meditation: Find a quiet spot and meditate in the serene surroundings.
7. Dal Lake: A Serene Retreat
Nature’s Calm
Dal Lake which is different from the one in Kashmir is one of the most serene and unseen tourist destinations in Dharamshala. This is a small but beautiful lake that is located amidst deodar trees and offers a quiet relief for those interested in nature. It is a great place to relax as the surface of the water is relatively still and the surroundings are very peaceful.
Highlights:
- Location: Near McLeod Ganj
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
Offbeat Things to Do at Dal Lake:
- Boating: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake.
- Picnic: Have a picnic by the lakeside amidst nature.
- Trekking: Explore the nearby trails for a more adventurous experience.
Suggested Read: 7 Best Shopping Places in Dharamshala (2024)
8. Norbulingka Institute: A Cultural Oasis
Tibetan Art and Culture
The Norbulingka Institute is one of the off beat places in Dharamshala but is significant as it gives insights into Tibetan art and craft. This institute is committed to promoting the Tibetan culture and offering a peaceful ambience to tourists.
Highlights:
- Location: Sidhpur, Dharamshala
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Offbeat Things to Do at Norbulingka Institute:
- Art and Craft Workshops: Participate in workshops and learn traditional Tibetan crafts.
- Museum Visit: Explore the Losel Doll Museum and Norbulingka Museum.
- Garden Walk: Stroll through the beautiful Japanese-inspired gardens.
9. Bhagsu Waterfall: Nature’s Wonder
A Refreshing Escape
Bhagsu Waterfall is a fascinating place that can be visited on the outskirts of Dharamshala. This beautiful waterfall has a drop of about 30 feet making it an ideal place to relax besides the water. The Bhagsu Waterfall can be approached through a trek that comes with beautiful views and general exposure to nature.
Highlights:
- Location: Near Bhagsu Village
- Trek Duration: 1-2 hours
- Best Time to Visit: March to October
Offbeat Things to Do at Bhagsu Waterfall:
- Swimming: Take a dip in the cool, refreshing waters of the waterfall.
- Photography: Capture the beauty of the waterfall and its surroundings.
- Café Visit: Relax at one of the nearby cafés and enjoy the view.
10. Indrahar Pass: A Thrilling Expedition
The Ultimate Adventure
For the more adventurous tourists, Indrahar Pass is one of the most adventurous Dharamshala offbeat travel. This high-altitude pass lies at an altitude of 4,342 meters of great restoring views of his majesty Himalayan range through a tough trek. The trek involves crossing through forests, meadows, and rocks, which will give you one of the best experiences you can ever imagine.
Highlights:
- Starting Point: McLeod Ganj
- Trek Duration: 4-5 days
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
Offbeat Things to Do at Indrahar Pass:
- Camping: Set up a camp at various points along the trek.
- Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes and panoramic views.
- Adventure: Experience the thrill of trekking through diverse terrains.
11. Pong Lake & Dam: A Boating Paradise
The Aquatic Adventure
Pong Lake or Maharana Pratap Sagar is an artificial basin which was created with with the construction of Pong Dam across the Beas River. This beautiful offbeat place in Dharamshala is an ideal destination for water skiing. Water sports lovers and nature enthusiasts would love this place. Bordered by some hills and a beautifully calm environment, Pong Lake is a perfect place for a day of fun boating.
Highlights:
- Location: Approximately 50 km from Dharamshala
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
Offbeat Things to Do at Pong Lake:
- Boating: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
- Bird Watching: Pong Lake is a designated bird sanctuary, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching with over 220 species of migratory birds.
- Fishing: Try your hand at fishing in the well-stocked waters of the lake.
Suggested Read: Exploring The Unexplored With The 25 Best Offbeat Places To Visit In India
12. Shiva Temple at Trilokpur: A Spiritual Oasis
The Divine Sanctuary
Shiva Temple at Trilokpur is one of the unknown locations for tourists in Dharamshala, which provides a calm and spiritual atmosphere. This temple is thousands of years old and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is located in the centre of a jungle providing a serene atmosphere to those who visit.
Highlights:
- Location: Approximately 25 km from Dharamshala
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Offbeat Things to Do at Shiva Temple:
- Meditation: Find peace and calm in the serene surroundings of the temple.
- Nature Walk: Explore the lush forests surrounding the temple, which is perfect for a quiet nature walk.
- Photography: Capture the ancient architecture and the natural beauty of the area.
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Conclusion
Try your luck at these amazing unexplored places in Dharamshala. From awe-aspiring mountain peaks, ancient monasteries, skiing, and trekking to the most off-beat locations near Dharamshala, there’s so much for everyone.
So dear wanderers, what are you waiting for? Pack your essentials and get set go!
Happy Wandering!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
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