Located in the upper reaches of the Kangra valley in Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala has steadily become a most favored destination for travelers and backpackers.. The place is situated at a height of approximately 1770 meters and has the most beautiful background.
This place is all about colorful Tibetan flags, prayer wheels, the sound of ringing bells and chirping birds. With only 3 days to spare, here's my experience a serene short vacation exploring the exquisiteness of nature in the picturesque Dharamshala.
Tsuglagkhang Monastery
Every place in Dharamshala has its own unique reason and Tsuglagkhang monastery stands out for its world renowned monasteries that give visitors a peep into Buddhism and a feel of Tibetan culture.
At a distance of 4 km from Dharamshala, Tsuglagkhang Monastery is the home complex for His Holiness Dalai Lama and his devotees, monks and other meditational devotees. Being in the monasteries is an inspiring experience that is sure to help you reconnect with your inner-self.
Tsuglagkhang Monastery is beautifully built with simplicity, opened for all tourists during day time, but the home residence of His Holiness & quarters of other followers are not allowed to visit for tourists.
Thus, every Indian and Tibetan who visit Dharamshala stop by the Tsuglagkhang monastery to inhale the purity and humility that is filled with the air of the premises.
Dharamshala stadium - Partially dream came true
Lying around km from Dharamshala this is one of the high altitude stadiums in the world. HPCA stadium has the most scenic view with a great Himalayan mountain behind. this place gives you goosebumps with some amazing views around the stadium,. I just assume how it would feel to a player while playing. I am not sure how cricketers are able to focus on game than watching such serene view.
If you are at Dharamshala this is must visit place, with or without cricket. Stadium with snow mountains as back wallpaper... endless view ... just Wow ! It was a wonderful evening ever.
Located 20 km from Dharamshala, Kangra fort is situated on the outskirts of the town of Kagnra in Himachal Pradesh. Build by Royal family Katoch Kings of Kangra. This fort is covering an area of 463 acres, it is one of the 8 th largest forts in the India.
The architecture of the fort is amazing and would surely be of interest to you if you like visiting and studying historical monuments. It possesses a wonderful collection of artifacts, crafts, arts, costumes, and treasures, many of which are essentially related to Tibetan history. The fort is said to have 21 treasure well, each well is 5 meters deep. The sultan of Ghazni looted eight wells, the Birtish in the 1890s found five more wells. Local people beliefs are that the fort still hides within its wall eight more treasure wells.
Pilgrims from all over trek up the long stairs to the top of Kangra Fort, where magnificent views are to be enjoyed. Kangra fort is a major tourist attraction where tourist can also explore famous ancient temples and a watchtower from where you get a bird's-eye view of the whole area.
Dharamkot is located about 14 km away from Dharamshala. This is one of the best tourist place in Dharamshala.
Dharamkot has its own beauty. The quaint village, nature, fresh air, mountain view, simple life of Himalayas set the scene for a great place and find peace within yourself.
Dharamkot is the perfect base for multiple treks such as Triund, Indrahar Pass, etc. This village doesn't have roads. If you're searching for a relaxed vacation that doesn't involve hiking or walking around, then Dharamkot is NOT the place for you.
Shop at the local markets: Kotwali Bazaar
Dharamshala has plenty to offer. Tibetan silver jewelry, monuments, Tibetan T-shirts, Kurtis, prayer wheels, colorful flags, Tibetan hats, bags, trousers, slippers, and Chubas (sheepskin coats) etc.
Shopping in Dharamshala an be an enriching experience that gives you insight into the culture and spiritualism of the hill station.
Music is in the air
A short 20-minutes walk from Dharamkot will get you to the TIPA. If you are a traveler looking to experience the different cultures, arts, songs, then a visit to the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts is a must. Tibetan music, dance and opera alive and ever vibrant.
Once you in Dharamshala, don't miss the cultural Tibetan shows on Tibetan culture.
Had momos in many place, but no comparison to momos here... I am a big fan of Tibetan food... Chicken Momos in Dharamshala is absolutely worth dying for...The most delicious momos we found in the town was the one made by a Tibetan lady who was selling outside of the Tsuglagkhang Complex.
My weekend in Dharamshala was unforgettable, magical! The bustling life and the natural beauty of Dharamshala never neglected to amaze me and even as I set out for my journey back home, the spiritual chant of Om Mani Padme Hum kept ringing in my ears.
Travel options for Dharamshala
The closest airport is at Gaggal, about 13 kilometers away from Dharamshala.
There are taxis available at the Gaggal airport as well as the Pathankot railway station for Dharamshala. From Pathankot, it takes around 3 hours to reach Dharamshala. The drive from Delhi via Chandigarh, Kiratpur and Bilaspur should take around 12-13 hours. From Delhi and Shimla, luxury buses ply to Dharamshala.
An overnight train journey is a good option to reach Dharamshala. The closest major railway station is at Pathankot, 85 kilometers away. You can take a taxi or bus from Pathankot to reach Dharamshala.