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1. Explore McLeod Ganj

2. Visit Bhagsu Waterfall

3. Trek to Triund

4. Explore the Norbulingka Institute

5. St. John in the Wilderness Church

6. Dal Lake and Naddi Viewpoint

7. Gyuto Monastery

8. Shopping in Local Markets

9. Visit the Kangra Fort

10. Indulge in Local Cuisine

11. Yoga and Meditation Retreats

12. Paragliding in Bir Billing

13. Visit the Tea Gardens

14. Cricket Stadium

15. Kangra Art Museum

16. Hot Springs of Tatwani and Machhrial

17. Adventure Activities

18. Attend Local Festivals

19. Bhagsunath Temple

20. Volunteer Opportunities

Conclusion

Top 20 Things to Do in Dharamshala: A Complete Guide

Q: What is Dharamshala famous for?

Dharamshala is best known for its outstanding natural beauty of the region, as well as the culture of Tibet and the Dalai Lama. It is also popular for activities such as trekking and paragliding and also favoured for its monasteries and temple.

Q: What are things to do in Dharamshala?

There are many things to do in Dharamshala, which include, tours to McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu Waterfall, Triund, Norbulingka Institute, St. John in the Wilderness Church, Dal Lake, Gyuto Monastery, shopping at local markets, and cuisines at various restaurants and bars, Kangra Fort among others. You can also indulge in yoga retreats, paragliding in Bir Billing, visiting tea gardens, participating in local festivals, and contributing to the locals through the NGOs.

Q: How do I reach Dharamshala?

Dharamshala can easily be reached by air, road and by rail. The nearest airport is Gaggal airport which is approximately 13 kilometers from Kangra. The nearest railway station is at Pathankot, which is 85 kilometres away from the resort. Local transportation facilities like government and private buses, and taxis are available from neighbouring cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.

Q: What is Dharamshala famous for?

Dharamshala is well-known for its Tibetan culture, monasteries and being home to the Dalai Lama. It is also renowned for its natural beauty, adventure attractions, and tourism events and celebrations.

Q: How many days are required to visit Dharamshala?

It is recommended that you spend 3 to 5 days touring Dharamshala and other attractions in the region. This duration helps you to do some sightseeing; indulge in some adventure activities; and learn about the culture.

Dharamshala is a calm town blessed with natural beauty and ancient traditions. If you are planning a trip to this charming destination, then there are so many things to do in Dharamshala. Whether you are on a couple trip, travelling solo, or visiting with family, Dharamshala has all the adventures you are seeking. From magnificent beauty to the perfect hiking spots, there’s so much to enjoy.

To explore this hill station to its fullest and enjoy the best things to do in Dharamshala, you must consider Himachal tour packages, as these travel packages are specifically curated to meet your needs. From your travel, and accommodation to adventurous activities to indulge in, these packages have everything sorted for you.

Let’s see what all the things you can do at Dharamshala and the best places to visit. Let the adventure begin!

1. Explore McLeod Ganj

Dharamshala’s upper area known as McLeod Ganj or ‘Little Lhasa’ is one of the most popular places to visit in Dharamshala. This beautiful city acts as host to the Tibetan government-in-exile as well as the home to the 14th Dalai Lama. Take a walk through the markets, see the Tsuglagkhang Complex and then make your way to the peaceful Namgyal Monastery. The Tibetan Museum should not be missed as it gives a peep into the past and traditions of Tibetans.

2. Visit Bhagsu Waterfall

Of course, besides the Norbulingka, the Bhagsu Waterfall remains one of the most beautiful and fascinating sites to visit on a trip to Dharamshala. This waterfall is 20 metres high and is situated near the Bhagsunath Temple, it is one of the most popular sites for photography lovers as well as nature lovers. The route to the waterfall is quite gentle hence the trip to this lovely site is among the best for families, couples, and tourists in Dharamshala Himachal Pradesh. The state of ensuring that the environment around is free from any form of disturbance, coupled with the noise of the flowing water guarantees rest.

3. Trek to Triund

Trekking to Triund is considered to be one of the most popular things to do in Dharamshala among adventure lovers. This trek is all about splendid views of the Dhauladhar range and the beautiful Kangra valley. This trail is easy to follow and does not require much effort, which makes it one of the best things to do in Dharamshala for couples and those travelling alone for some soul-searching. Tenting at Triund is one of the most memorable experiences you are likely to undertake.

4. Explore the Norbulingka Institute

Founded in 1995, the primary objective of the Norbulingka Institute is to promote the culture and arts of Tibet. This institute is situated in the Sidhpur suburb and it also bears testimony to the colourful and original architecture of the Tibetan people. Explore the exotic gardens, stroll through the numerous workshops and watch local people carving exquisite pieces of art in the typical Tibetan manner The campus of the institute provides a doll museum and an inviting tea house where you can taste Tibetan delicacies.

5. St. John in the Wilderness Church

Located in the midst of deodar trees, St. John in the Wilderness Church is undoubtedly one of the finest places in Dharamshala for history lovers. Located in Tottenham, this neo-gothic church was constructed in 1852 and has a quiet and stunning environment with attractive stained glass windows. The church is also the graveyard of Lord Elgin, the British Viceroy of India. It is quite peaceful and is therefore ideal for some relaxation and thinking time.

6. Dal Lake and Naddi Viewpoint

One of the most famous things to do in Dharamshala is to enjoy boating at Dal Lake. The Dal Lake is situated in serenity with beautiful trees around the lake mostly deodar trees providing favourable vantage for picnicking and walking. Near the village of Tota Rani, this small lake has boating facilities and is an excellent place to relax at the Dal Lake boathouses. The Naddi Viewpoint which again is a marvellous viewpoint to see the Dhauladhar range, as well as the Kangra Valley, is just a few kilometres away from Dal Lake. One of the most beautiful experiences is watching the sunset over the mountains in the Naddi area in Dharamshala Himachal Pradesh.

7. Gyuto Monastery

Gyuto Monastery is special for tantric meditation and it is among the highlights of Dharamshala. This monastery serves as a temporary home for the seventeenth Karmapa, Orgyen Trinley Dorje. This monastery has indeed great architecture, and the serene atmosphere is suitable for any person who wants to pray and meditate.

8. Shopping in Local Markets

Visiting the markets of Dharamshala is one of the best things to do there. The Kotwali Bazaar and the Tibetan Handicrafts Center are excellent centres to shop for souvenirs like Tibetan articles, gem jewellery, woollen garments and ethnic handicrafts. The liveliness of the markets is strongly related to the multicultural background of Dharamshala and it is fun to shop in Dharamshala.

9. Visit the Kangra Fort

It is about 20 km from Dharamshala where the major attraction is the Kangra Fort which is one of the famous sightseeing attractions in Dharamshala. This fort was constructed during the 4th BC and represents the biggest fortification located in the area of the Himalayas. It exhibits marvellous views of the valley. See the fascinating structures and designs of the fort, visit the aged temples and the small museum with relics from the area.

10. Indulge in Local Cuisine

When in Dharamshala you cannot fail to enjoy some of the delicious meals that the region has to offer. Right from the local Himachali cuisine to the Tibetan food, Dharamshala has a lot to offer in the culinary aspects. Sample on, momos, thukpa, and butter tea from some of the local restaurants. It is also a great pleasure just to eat out in Dharamshala, McLeod Ganj itself as there are a number of great cafes like Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen, and Nick’s Italian Kitchen.

11. Yoga and Meditation Retreats

The city of Dharamshala is considered one of the best spots for practising yoga and meditation in India and is among the world’s favourite destinations for yoga and meditation tourists. Regardless of whether you are new to practising yoga or are a regular practitioner, the best thing that one can do while in Dharamshala is to attend a retreat. Namely, the Vipassana Meditation Center and Tushita Meditation Centre provide their visitors with distinct courses and programmes.

12. Paragliding in Bir Billing

Adventure lovers would also find paragliding in Bir Billing one of the most satisfying activities to do in Dharamshala. Bir Billing which is nearly about 65 km from Dharamshala is the one that is regarded as one of the world’s best paragliding sites. The feeling of flying over the mountains and valleys is so special and provides an entirely different view of the landscape of the area.

13. Visit the Tea Gardens

Tea gardens are one of the main attractions and specialities of the Kangra Valley, and a tour through the tea gardens is one of the best things to do in Dharamshala. Explore the 61 tea estates with the help of local tour guides and enjoy Kangra tea, the process of making which will be described to you in detail. Plantations involve a lot of greenery and are good for relaxation, especially for photographers.

14. Cricket Stadium

Located in Dharamshala, HPCA Stadium is one of the most beautiful cricket venues anywhere in the world. The stadium is located and bordered by towering mountain ranges which provide a spectacular sight during cricket games. If you love sports, then watching a match in this state is one of the best things to do in Dharamshala.

15. Kangra Art Museum

The Kangra Art Museum which is located in Dharamshala exhibits the glorious cultural-related art of the centre. Kangra Valley Museum consists of age-old articles such as costumes, wood art, jewellery, and paintings are also a special attraction here. For art and history lovers, one of the best things to do in Dharamshala is to visit this museum.

16. Hot Springs of Tatwani and Machhrial

Tatwani and Machhrial hot springs are natural thermal springs located close to Dharamshala. A visit to these hot springs is one of the activities that one can undertake in Dharamshala, especially for newlyweds and lone travellers seeking for some calmness. People believe that the temperature of the water is suitable for healing purposes and it is free from stress and other activities of life.

17. Adventure Activities

Dharamshala offers numerous fun activities for tourists apart from trekking and paragliding some of which include, rock climbing, rappelling and zip-lining. It is one of the leading activities to do in Dharamshala, especially for adventure freaks. These thrilling experiences are set within some beautiful scenes.

18. Attend Local Festivals

Visiting festivals is among the highlighted options on the best things to do in Dharamshala Himachal Pradesh to have a feel of the region’s cultural blessings. Losar (Tibetan New Year,) Buddha Purnima & Dharamshala International Film Festival & many more are some famous festivals that draw global tourists. These festivals give a sneak peek to the traditions, music, dance and food of the region.

19. Bhagsunath Temple

One of the famous places to visit in Dharamshala is Bhagsunath Temple which is the temple of Lord Shiva. This is a sacred temple built many centuries ago at the foothills of the Bhagsu Waterfall and people from all over come to pray. The location of the temple and the nearby waterfall are relatively calm and quiet making it suitable for meditation.

20. Volunteer Opportunities

There are several volunteering opportunities for individuals willing to volunteer and give back to society in Dharamshala. Offering your time with local NGOs and organizations involved with educational institutions, hospitals, and animal shelters can be one of the most rewarding activities to indulge in while travelling solo in Dharamshala. It is a perfect method to communicate with the locals and perform some good deeds for them.

Conclusion

So, all in all, it is easy to say that Dharamshala could be appealing to literally anyone. Regardless of whether you are an adventurer at heart, want some peace and serenity, want to tour cultural and heritage places or wish to be on a journey to self-discovery, this beautiful hill station will make your journey and stay memorable for generations to come. So grab your bags and get all set because here are some useful tips on some of the fun things that you can do in Dharamshala!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q:What is Dharamshala famous for?

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Q:What are things to do in Dharamshala?

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Q:How do I reach Dharamshala?

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Q:What is Dharamshala famous for?

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Q:How many days are required to visit Dharamshala?

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