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Dharamshala & Mcleodganj

Nestled in the mystic hills of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala and Mcleodganj captivate tourists with their picturesque natural beauty and a unique blend of Tibetan, British and Himachali cultures.

Things To See & Do

Bhagsunag Falls

Cascading waterfalls.

Suggested Time

Kangra Fort

Beautiful ancient fort.

1 to 2 hours

St. John Church

Neo-gothic structure.

Masroor Temples

Rock-cut hindu temples.

Namgyal Monastery

Renowned tibetan monastery.

Hanuman Ka Tibba

Amazing sunset point.

Dal Lake Near Dharamshala

Peaceful lake, best time to visit dharamshala & mcleodganj, all year round destination, peak season, moderate season.

• Whattoexpect : Snow covered region.
• Thingsyou'lllove : Dhauladhar ranges, trekking and monasteries.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Haldi Festival Mid-January

Losar Festival (Tibetan New Year) February/March

International Himalayan Festival December

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Dharamshala delight: a blend of serenity and cultural heritage.

Dharamshala & McLeodganj, a picturesque hill station in Himachal pradesh Pradesh, India, is a serene retreat that offers a blend of natural beauty, spirituality, and adventure. Known for its Tibetan culture, monasteries, and the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Dharamshala & McLeodganj is a place that will leave you with a sense of tranquillity and peace.

Best Time To Visit In Dharamshala

The best time to visit Dharamshala & McLeodganj is between February and June when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. The monsoon season from July to September is also a good time to visit if you enjoy the rain and the lush greenery that follows.

How to Reach Dharamshala

Dharamshala & McLeodganj is well connected by road from major cities in North India. The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, about 15 km away. The nearest railway station is Pathankot about 85 km away, and from there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Dharamshala & McLeodganj.

What are the Things to See and Do in Dharamshala?

Dharamshala & McLeodganj offers a plethora of activities for tourists. You can visit the Dalai Lama Temple, explore the Tibetan Museum, take a stroll in the beautiful tea gardens, or go trekking in the Dhauladhar mountains.

Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Dharamshala & McLeodganj is home to many attractions that cater to different interests.

Tsuglagkhang Complex:

The Tsuglagkhang Complex is the residence of the Dalai Lama and a significant place of worship. It houses a monastery, temples, and a museum.

Dharamshala Cricket Stadium: 

The Dharamshala & McLeodganj Cricket Stadium, set against the backdrop of snow-clad mountains, is one of the highest cricket stadiums in the world. It offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.

War Memorial:

The War Memorial, located in the beautiful pine forest, is dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives during the Indo-China war.

Restaurants In Dharamshala

Dharamshala & McLeodganj offers a variety of dining options, from local Himachali cuisine to international dishes.

Jimmy's Italian Kitchen:

Jimmy's Italian Kitchen is known for its delicious Italian food. The restaurant's cosy ambience and friendly staff make it a favourite among tourists.

The Other Space:

‘The Other Space’ is a quaint café known for offering delicious food, warm hospitality and breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Places to Stay in Dharamshala

Dharamshala & McLeodganj offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets.

Fortune Park Moksha:

Fortune Park Moksha is a luxury hotel located amidst the scenic beauty of Dharamshala & McLeodganj. It offers comfortable rooms, a spa, and a restaurant serving a variety of cuisines.

Pink House:

Pink House is a budget-friendly guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms with beautiful views of the mountains.

Food to Try in Dharamshala

Dharamshala & McLeodganj offers a variety of local dishes that you must try. These include Sidu (a local bread), Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), and Momos.

Things to Buy in Dharamshala

Dharamshala & McLeodganj is known for its Tibetan handicrafts, woollen clothing, and Thangka and Mandala paintings. You can buy these at the local markets or at the Tibetan Handicraft Centre.

Kotwali Bazaar:

Kotwali Bazaar is the main shopping area in Dharamshala & McLeodganj. Here, you can find a variety of items, from clothing to handicrafts.

McLeod Ganj Market:

The McLeod Ganj Market is known for its Tibetan artefacts, woollen clothing, and local handicrafts.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Dharamshala & Mcleodganj

What are the things that you should not miss out on when you are in dharamshala & mcleodganj.

If you are a true traveller, you should definitely not miss out on Cascading Waterfalls, Beautiful Ancient Fort, and Neo-Gothic Structure when you are in Dharamshala & Mcleodganj to make a funfilled vacay.

What are the best places to visit in Dharamshala & Mcleodganj?

How is the weather of dharamshala & mcleodganj in peak season.

The weather of Dharamshala & Mcleodganj in peak season is snow covered region. It means you can easily plan a trip in this season for maximum fun during this season.

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Dharamsala (also spelled Dharamshala) is known as the home of the Dalai Lama, though in fact the Tibetan spiritual leader is based about two miles up the hill in McLeod Ganj, and that's where most visitors are heading. Dharamsala proper is a market town mostly useful for bus connections.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tsuglagkhang Complex

Mcleod Ganj

McLeod's main focus for visiting pilgrims, monks and most tourists is the Tsuglagkhang complex, a custard-coloured concrete monastic village that's home…

Norbulingka Institute

Soothingly set amid bamboo, trees and flowing water, the delightful Norbulingka Institute, 6km southeast of Dharamsala, was established in 1988 to teach…

Tibet Museum

This must-see, two-storey museum sets out to remind visitors of Tibet's history as an independent nation, mourning the Chinese occupation (since 1949) and…

Men-Tsee-Khang

Men-Tsee-Khang is an organisation established to preserve the traditional arts of Tibetan medicine and astrology. The Gangchen Kyishong branch includes a…

Library of Tibetan Works & Archives

Inside the government-in-exile compound, nearly 2km downhill from the Tsuglagkhang complex, the Library of Tibetan Works & Archives began life as a…

Gyuto Tantric Gompa

Standing in for the 1474 Tibet original, this large monastic complex forms an attractive scene backed by mountainscape at Sidhbari village (7km from…

Men-Tsee-Khang Museum

Three floors of displays explain the sophisticated sciences of Tibetan astrology and medicine.

Kalachakra Temple

Visiting the Tsuglagkhang clockwise, as is required by Buddhist convention, you pass a prostrating area then a door leads into the westernmost building,…

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Dharamsala and beyond

The Complete Guide to Dharamshala, India

Dharamshala is a picturesque hill town in the lap of the Dhauladhar range. Located in the upper reaches of the Kangra valley, it serves as the winter capital of the Himachal Pradesh state. Often overshadowed by the more popular suburb of McLeodganj, Dharamshala is more of a laid-back and calm destination to spend a long weekend. Plan your trip to Dharamshala with this comprehensive guide.

Historically, the Kangra valley was part of the ancient Trigarth region that extended from the plains of Punjab to the hills of Himachal. It was ruled by the Katoch dynasty until the British invaded in 1810. In the year 1860, the 66th Gurkha light infantry moved to the site of an old rest house at the seat of Dhauladhar range—known in local parlance as Dharamshala—and converted it into a subsidiary cantonment. This soon grew into a cluster of 14 Gurkha platoon villages, and the battalion later became the 1st Gurkha Rifles. The town of Dharamshala was thus established.

In 1959, thousands of Tibetans, along with their leader His Holiness Dalai Lama, fled their homeland due to Chinese invasion and atrocity. They were given refuge in India, and resettled in the upper reaches of Dharamshala that has eventually come to be known as McLeodganj . Over the years, several Tibetans have settled here, establishing schools, monasteries, and temples.

The cantonment still exists in Dharamshala, coexisting with the Tibetan settlement and the local pastoral Gaddi tribe villages.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Dharamshala is from March to July and again from September to November. The months of December through mid-March are the coolest months, with temperatures dipping to single digits and heavy snowfall hitting upper Dharamshala.

The annual Dharamshala International Film Festival is an unmissable event held every year in the first week of November. It's a perfect time to catch exceptional Indian and international movies, documentaries, and workshops.

Things to Do

Stroll through the lush forested town and visit the Neo-gothic 19th-century St. John in the Wilderness church, nestled amidst oaks and pines. A little further along, you'll stumble upon Dal Lake, which draws tourists with its 200-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as well as boating facilities.

In the upper reaches of Dharamshala is the Tibetan settlement of McLeodganj , dubbed Little Lhasa. Be sure to check out the Tsuglagkhang Complex , the temple and monastery where the 14th Dalai Lama currently resides, before visiting the Tibet Museum and grabbing a helping of momos (Tibetan dumplings) at one of the local restaurants.

Drive down the hills of Dharamshala to watch a match at the HPCA cricket stadium . Even if you're not into the game, it's worth stopping to get a glimpse of it at the very least; with the Dhauladhar mountain range in the backdrop, it is one of the most picturesque cricket stadiums in the world. 

Further down (4.7 miles from Dharamshala) is the Gyuto monastery , where you can get a glimpse into Buddhist tantric rituals and traditions. Nearby is the supposedly 500-year-old Aghanjar Mahadev temple; also dedicated to Lord Shiva, it draws many devotees who seek spirituality and serenity. At a 1.9-mile distance from the Mahadev temple is the Norbulingka monastery.

Located on the banks of the rivulet Bindusaras, the Chinmaya Tapovan , Sidhbari (5 miles from Dharamshala) is the perfect place to attend spiritual classes and meditate. The ashram complex includes a Rama temple; meditation hall; 30-foot-high statue of Lord Hanuman; and the samadhi hall of Swami Chinmayananda, a noted exponent of the Bhagavad Gita. 

A detour from Sidhbari takes one to Kangra valley (12 miles from Dharamshala). Perched high on a hill overlooking this valley is the Kangra fort; considered one of the oldest forts in India, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Don't miss the 8th-century Masrur rock-cut temples, around 21 miles from the Kangra fort and 25 miles from Dharamshala.

Learn pottery at India's first pottery studio, Andretta artist village, which is around 28 miles from Dharamshala and near Palampur and Bir Billing. While you're here, you may want to visit the 13-century Baijnath temple, where Lord Shiva is prayed to as the god of physicians.

Dharamshala is also the perfect place to complete the pilgrimage circuit road tour of ancient and revered temples, including Bajreshwari temple in Kangra and Chamunda Devi temple near Palampur.

Foods to Try

Apart from the regular north-Indian fare, Dharamshala is famous for momos ; thukpas (Tibetan noodle soup), and hot tea with ginger, honey, and lemon. There are numerous food stalls and restaurants across town where you can find all of the above.

Where to Stay

There is no dearth of accommodation in and around Dharamshala. From guesthouses to homestays and five-star properties to dormitories, this Himachal town caters to every pocket. The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department Corporation (HPTDC) runs government-owned guesthouses and hotels at different locations around town; online bookings are available and room rates start at around $22 a day.

The five-star Hyatt Regency at Dharamkot is a 20-minute uphill drive from Dharamshala. With well-appointed rooms and an in-house restaurant that serves international and Indian cuisine, it offers exceptional comfort amidst luxury, plus stunning views of the snow-capped mountains.

The tea plantations of Dharamshala and Palampur are quite famous, and many of them conduct guided tours. If you fancy staying in a beautiful resort with a revolving restaurant and tea plantation views, then look no further than RS Sarovar Portico in the beautiful town of Palampur (22 miles away from Dharamshala, near the Gopalpur zoo). Room rates start at $53 (excluding taxes).

However, if you plan to stay in a typical Himachali architecturally-styled home, then your best bet is the boutique property of The 4Rooms . It's run by Frank Schlichtmann, an Indo-German artist who also manages the 4tables cafe, located a stone's throw away from the property. It's located in the village of Gunehar, around 42 miles from Dharamshala and close to the paragliding site of Bir Billing.

Getting There

To get to Dharamshala, you'll first need to get to Kangra, which is 8 miles away. You can take a domestic flight from Delhi to Gaggal airport in Kangra; alternatively, you could board a train that takes you to Pathankot, then hop on a toy train that chugs through a scenic route on the way to Kangra.

From Kangra, you can either drive up to Dharamshala in a hired taxi or get into a comfortable minibus. If you're on a budget, you can board a government or private Volvo bus and travel directly from Delhi to Dharamshala.

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What does this travel guide to Dharamshala contain?

• My Dharamshala trip at a glance
• About Dharamshala District, Himachal Pradesh.
• My best things to do in Dharamashala.
• What is the best time to visit Dharmshala?
• How to reach Dharamshala, India?
• How to reach Dharmshala from Delhi?
• Where to stay in Dharmsala?
• How much would a Dharamashala trip cost?
• What to bring to Dharamshala?
• Is Dharamsala safe for solo travelers?

How to avoid the smoking culture of Dharamshala if you don’t want to be a part of it?

• How to go on a long trip to Dharamshala India?
• Around Dharmashala and further reading.

Things to do and places to visit in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

This is not your typical Dharamshala travel guide.

During my six weeks in Dharamshala, I hardly ever searched for “things to do in Dharmshala” or “best places to visit in Dharmashala.”

What was I doing? I was busy taking my Dharamshala trip slow.

This might sound clichéd, but I was learning the art of doing nothing .

Visiting Places in Dharamshala and Doing Things at My Pace

I started my journey in Dharamshala by attending a Vipassana course in Dharamkot, one of the many green villages of the Dharamshala district. After a much-needed ten-day silence of body and mind, I packed my bags and headed out of the deodar forests of the Dharamkot Vipassana center. My plan was to stay for a week in upper Dharamkot. 

But something made me leave Dharamkot in two days. Was it the smoky air of my Dharamkot hostel or the hippies lining the cafes in Dharamkot market, I am not sure. I went to live on the other side of Dharamkot to Upper BhagsuNaag, another lush village in Dharmshala .

I had gone to Bhagsu for a week, and I didn’t know I would end up spending more than a month there. 

What was I doing in Bhagsu village for so long?

I was just being.

Soaking sunshine, breathing in fresh air wafting from the pea fields, reading, writing , hanging out with travelers from around the world, hiking in Dharamashala , learning the flute, understanding my body, doing Vipassana meditation, and practicing yoga were some of the things I did during my one-month stay in Bhagsu. (You might like my ideas on a happy, healthy, and aware life , too.)

Some days, I walked to Mcleodganj. On other days I hiked to Dharamshala city by finding obscure paths through the jungle. In Dharmsala, I saw my first movie alone in a theatre, devoured bowls of mushroom soups in local Tibetan stalls, gorged on parathas loaded with butter at Himachali food shops, and found green trails to discover a new village or practice flute with birds.

Even though writing, blogging , and learning new things occupied me, life in Dharamshala still felt slow.

If I couldn’t wander in the wild for whatever reason, my feet got itchy.

Exploring tiny trails through garlic fields, watching goats and sheep climb up and down, chatting away with the farmer ladies feeding the cows, watching children walking back home on treacherous paths, listening to loud streams gushing close by, choosing one from the hundred tiny mud paths all curling towards the same place, walking under the umbrella of the fragrant deodar and pine trees, admiring the blood-red rose bushes that jump out of nowhere, I didn’t realize how time went by.

At the end of the day, I often tucked up in bed with a piece of Bhagsu cake in hand and an Antman movie on my computer or a Ruskin Bond book (he inspired me to have fun at work ). If it rained, I ordered masala chai to warm my hands and soul.

Don’t judge me for too much chai. I needed those steamy cups on the moody days in Dharamshala in Himachal more than the French need their wine after work.

The weather in Dhramsala shifted like the mood of a disappointed life partner . Suddenly clouds would come floating close to my balcony. At other times it hailed as if someone had opened a door. I even ran downstairs to get hit by the icy balls in my head, but the young caretaker at my homestay scolded me and asked me to go back to my room. Then I sat around the restaurant kitchen to drink masala chai or rum and coke. At other times, I wore my pink rain jacket and walked to lower Bhagsu for a tattoo had to be made.

I haven’t told anyone about the tattoo bit yet. Sshh.

I might have lied a little when I said I was doing nothing. At least I felt I wasn’t doing much in Dhramsala.

Sometimes, I sat and admired the caravan of nature. On other days, I became a part of it. And why wouldn’t I? The scenery was breathtaking, the mood was vibrant, and the sun was generous, at least a few days of the week.

Whatever I did, the white-chocolate-sprinkled Dhauladhar range stood tall and peeked at us from everywhere in Dharamshala. Everything was ethereal.

At those heights, you rarely feel stressed. Life seems like a tiny spectacle in front of the gigantic mountains (one of the reasons I travel and live as an itinerant writer ).

People of Dharamshala don’t have an easy life.

I kept asking locals about their routines. If the restaurant people made enough money to support their families. If the guy who sold rudraksha malas in Mcleodganj  had enough. If the 20-year-old boy from Kashmir could study along with his day job that feeds his family back home.

Like everywhere else, some people in Dharmsala struggled more than others. Some hoped for a better tomorrow.

But none of them told me they wanted to go somewhere else. They were all content living in the mountains away from the chaos of cities.

When you travel to Himachal Pradesh, talk to some people there (if you don’t already). They have interesting stories to tell (this tale of a Himalayan woman in a small village taught me much about resilience and repetition).

Also see these 71 photos in which I remember my favorite moments from Himachal Pradesh

Even though it seems almost clichéd to say you should travel or visit the mountains to be free. To look at the bigger picture. To find yourself .

Looking down on the world while nestling in a sleeping tent on the top of the Himalayan peaks does add a skyline to the mundane.

So what do you say? Let’s visit some mountains this year. Let’s do the clichéd. Let’s get out and climb some hills. Who knows what we might find.

Travel can be the catalyst to a small change , which can in turn transform our life.

Though I am painting a fairytale picture here, over the past few years Dharamashala has been getting many more tourists than a village hamlet should. Israelis, Europeans, English, and North and South Americans all come here to live in peace, learn yoga in Dharamsala , and progress on the path of spirituality. But the exponential growth in Dharamshala tourism has its disadvantages.

Occasionally, you will find crowds of young Israelis playing loud music at 1 in the night. Your table and chair would disappear from your balcony or would be loaded with dirty plates some drunk people didn’t care to put in the kitchen. You would wake up to almost-naked men sun-basking as if they were in a private garden.

Travelers wouldn’t move for days and would smoke away expecting you to join. Your music teacher might not show up for classes no matter how many times you remind him. Someone would light a joint right after a yoga class at 10 in the morning. Even if you try to work, people would come over and sit at your table expecting you to expect company. They won’t move but you would have to.

I was able to thrust away some of this social conundrum. Some days it bothered me. Other times I joined. And some afternoons I quietly shifted to another table in the sun hoping to write the persuasion away .

Do what you have to do. Not wanting to smoke doesn’t make you uncool. Whatever you do, remember to not step over others’ space. 

Related Read: 15 things we overthink about

However hard the struggle to keep a peaceful environment might sound, I would have it no other way. This constant switch between comfort and discomfort makes me who I am .

At times I couldn’t stop smiling for serendipity unfolded and left me in the middle of amazing people.

On days, you would find yourself wandering in the woods while at times you would sit in your homestay watching the sky catch fire with a cup of tea and conversation with your host. You can eat paneer butter masala and roti for lunch while dinner could be a burger with salad and potato fries. You can sit with a laptop or you can meditate.

Everything is possible in Dharamashala.

About Dharmshala, Himachal Pradesh

Do you know Dharamshala city is the second capital of Himachal Pradesh after Shimla? The district headquarters of the Kangra district in Himachal, Dharamsala is also the Dalai Lama’s and thousands of Tibetans’ home after Tibet was occupied by China.

Surrounded by the snowy Dhauladhar ranges, Dhramshala is a peaceful place to visit.

My Best Things to do in Dharamshala

The location of Dharamashala makes the district an amazing place to hike, relax, eat, learn, read, and live. Some refer to Dhramshala as Dharamshala hill station, a place tucked away in the mountains.

This list will take you to the nooks and corners of Dharmshala and to some well-known places to visit in Dharamsala while making you feel you haven’t been doing much.

Remember there are a plethora of activities in Dharamshala to choose from. See what you like.

Let’s start.

1. Take a meditation course and change your life

My favorite meditation center, or to say realistically, the only one I tried was the Vipassana meditation center in Dharamkot.

Vipassana is an ancient meditation technique passed on by our beloved Buddha himself. I have yet to write an article on Vipassana, but for now, I would say meditation isn’t as fancy as it seems. You are basically trying to control your thoughts, body, and brain while focusing on your breath (and your body parts). You try to become mindful .

The ten-day-long Vipassana course at the Dhamma centers is good for beginner meditators or those who want to know more about meditation. Though Vipassana is a hard course and you have to sit on the floor to meditate for about fifteen hours a day, suffering is an intended part of the course. The pain arising from long sittings has to be observed until it passes. Whether it rains or hails, you meditate.

Vipassana doesn’t only help focus the mind and manage the pains, it also helps in rewiring our behavior. I still need to meditate more regularly. But since I have gone to the course, I don’t take many medicines for period pain. I know the pain is temporary and it will pass. Try the course if you want to use meditation techniques to live a more present life.

When to go: The Dharamkot Vipassana center is closed in the winter so the best time to go is March/April to September/October.

H ow to go: Apply on the Dhamma website . When you receive a confirmation, follow the steps in this article to travel to Dharamshala. Dharamkot is a small taxi or bus ride away from the Dhramsala bus stand.

2. Hike in Dharamashala – Best way to Visit Places in Dharamshala

My best way to travel in Dharamshala was to walk. And to your surprise, most places in Dharamshala (and Himachal) can be hiked up to by many different paths.

I am listing down all the places to see in Dharamshala and around I hiked to or lost my way. Feel free to go on some of these hikes or find your own.

You can read my guide to trekking in Dharamsala for complete information on all these treks.

• Kareri lake — Kareri Lake lies a trek away from the village of Kareri.   Located at a high altitude of 2934 meters, Kareri lake is a freshwater lake that is said to have the most gorgeous landscape. I almost went for this trek but my plan got canceled and I ended up in Amritsar instead. 
• Naddi — A village walkable from Mcleodganj. Go here for beautiful sunsets.
• Dharamkot or Bhagsu to Dharamashala city —   A long but beautiful walk. Take the road that forks from the Bhagsu-Mcleodganj road and goes down, and keep walking. Ask the locals for the way. You can also walk along the stream that goes down from Bhagsu waterfall and continues. Or you can choose to walk up the hills as I did. More details in the Dharamshala hiking guide.
• T o an unnamed waterfall in Dharamkot — One of my best places in Dharamshala to visit

A gorgeous waterfall (in which you can swim) lies a two-three-four hours hike (depending on your speed) from Dharamkot and Bhagsu. Walk up to the Gallu Devi temple (one of the many revered temples in Dharamshala) above Dharamkot and ask for the way. 

• To BhagsuNag waterfall by two different paths— Walk to the Bhagsu waterfall from either upper or lower Bhagsu. The upper part of the Bhagsunag waterfall is quieter than the lower.
• To the  Triund campsite and the snow-capped mountains of Dhauladhar — A six km uphill walk under the red rhododendrons from Upper Dharamkot would bring you to the Triund hill. Do it yourself or take a guide, the walk is pretty either way. More details on this are in the hiking guide.

One other things to do on your Dharamshala trip is to hike through the Indrahar pass. This trek takes about four days and three nights to complete.

Sightseeing in Dharamshala by hiking is much more interesting than taking a bus or a taxi. Walk it away. Remember, the altitude of Dharamshala is about 1450 meters, so if you start panting, don’t be hard on yourself. 

3. Sign up for a yoga course in Dhramshala

Due to the scenic Dhauladhar Himalayas enveloping Dharamshala from all sides, the Dalai Lama, and the mediation centers around Dharamashala, yoga has become a popular activity to do in Dharamshala.

Yoga is such a trend in Dhramsala that everyone who goes there has yoga added to their itinerary. Due to the demand for yoga classes in the area, many yoga centers have opened up and they run on run on donation-based hourly yoga classes.

Though new yoga teachers have opened up yoga centers for different kinds of yoga, many old yoga centers still thrive in the area. 

My guide to Dharamshala yoga (which also includes an introduction to yoga in India) will help me fully understand the yoga scene in Dhramshala. It also lists many yoga centers and how to find a yoga center if you are looking for one.

4. Live in a village in Dharmashala

What is better than waking up to a silent village, a few birds chirping to wake up the world, and a misty view from your balcony?

I lived in Bhagsu village for more than a month (linked is the narrative) doing the many things I mentioned above. If you love a location-free lifestyle, just hop onto one of the many villages in Dharamshala and see how life goes on in Himachal.

But having said all the nice things about a village stay, let me tell you the unlimited self-growth classes – music, yoga, meditation, and healing have sort of compromised on the local feel of the Himachali villages. Sometimes you would feel as if you are in Europe or some other cosmopolitan place outside India.

Amongst the tonnes of self-improvement classes, travelers forget to go out in nature and see how healing nature can be. By stepping aside from the main paths, find the magic of the Himalayas on your own.

5. Practice a musical instrument, and, again, change your life 

Many classical musicians and singers from around India flock to Dharamshala not only for some respite from city life but also to teach aspiring singers and musicians.

Go try the Jolly music shop at the center of Dharamkot. It is easy to find. You get to choose an hourly class of an instrument of your choice. The price per class is around 400-500 rupees.

Sit out in the many classical music festivals held at restaurants and cafes at night and get inspired to learn.

Update 2022: I’m sad to inform you that Jolly baba is no more, as all of us lovingly called him. Hope he took the music with him.

6. Enjoy Tibetan and Nepali food while not forgetting we have also got parathas and rajma chawal in Dhramsala 

Food is westernized and expensive in Dharamshala villages. As few Indians stay put in a destination for long, restaurants make food for an international palette. The almost bland food processed by these restaurants is sometimes thought of as real Indian food by foreign tourists.

Request the restaurant to balance spices in your curries while you order. Mcleodganj has more local, simple, and cheaper food options than the villages.

My favorite places to eat in Dharamashala,

• Roja Cafe, Upper Bhagsu — Home-grown wheat chapati and aloo gobhi. Poori sabzi (dry veggies with pooris). And more.
• Jungle Calling, Upper Bhagsu — Chocolate balls. Hundred rupees for one piece (woah).
• Tibet Kitchen, Mcleodganj, Dharamshala — All Tibetan thukpas, momos, and finger-licking.
• Bishnu Trekkers tea house — Small Himachali stall near Mcleodganj Square. Thali or the Himachali Dham for rupees 61. Unlimited food but please pay more for you can only get so much in 61.
• White Rabbit, Upper Bhagsu — For authentic Indian thali and crispy dosas.
• Evergreen Cafe — Upper Bhagsu. Spinach burger with fries. All things Indian are good here. Their sister also runs a place called Evergreen on the way from Dharamkot to Bhagsu. All good food and ginger lemon honey. 
• Bodhi Greens, Dharamkot — Good sandwiches and cakes.
• The Yak Cheese Sandwich shop — Dharamkot. For fresh yak cheese sandwiches and all things sweet.
• Heena Cafe— Upper Dharamkot near Bunker hostel. For good Indian and Tibetan food.
• Brahma Cafe — Upper Bhagsu. For Indian thali and garlicky palak paneer.
• Namgyal cafe — For those days when you need good crunchy pizza.
• Samosa and tiki shops in Mcleodganj on the Dalai Lama temple road.
• Small stalls in Mcleodganj – For kadhi chawal, rajma chawal, and aloo paranthas. If you want simple and cheap food, Mcleodganj is your best bet.

Places I didn’t like :

Little Buddha, on the way from Upper to Lower Bhagsu – Food was very average here though the place was always crowded.

Trimurti gardens in Dharamkot — I liked this place but I didn’t understand the hype.

Trek and Dine – A very popular place in Dharamkot but I found the food to be average. Also, the place was full of people (ahem Israelis) who rudely always shifted places as they liked and didn’t respect anyone else.

To name a few.

7. Try your hands at photography under Dharamshala’s deodars and pines

Chase those birds but from a distance. Capture that golden sunset. Set up the tripod and trace those stars in the sky. This is the time.

8. Get acquainted with Buddhism and the simple way of living

The Dalai Lama stays in Dhramshala in the Dalai Lama main temple (one of the best p laces to visit in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj ). Along with him came many of his followers from Tibet, and Tibetans now have their own government in exile in Dharmshala.

Dharamsala has been a spiritual center for decades now. Tushita meditation center in Dharamkot is next to the Vipassana meditation center.

You can sign up for a ten-days introductory course to Buddhism three or attend some open and free meditation classes in the morning.

Walking around Dharamshala is also a great way to interact with the monks and understand their life. You can strike up a conversation in the Dalai lama temple (a good place to visit in Mcleodganj) or in the streets of the district.

Staying close to people living such humble lives is eye-opening.

Also, the simple lives of the people of Himachal are no less than guidance in our 21st century. Most of the people of Himachal are quite well-doing and have multiple homes and farmlands. But you would never see them sitting idle, hiring many machines to do their work, engrossed with the phone, or showing their money in jewelry or expensive things – women were especially hard workers as far as I noticed.

Their simple lives would help you focus on what’s important.

9. See some crazy art performances from around the world — One of the many intriguing activities in Dharamshala.

Dharamashala is a spiritual place that attracts all kinds of travelers and non-travelers from around the world.

You can be part of a lot of spiritual and art activities in Dharamasala. Regular messages are posted on the Dharamkot information board. Or join the Bhagsu, Dhramkot, or Dharamsala Facebook group and stay updated.

Slow travel is the best travel in Dharamshala.

And if you are in a rush, pick a few things from this list and do as much as you can. Or practice the art of doing nothing. You can also opt for this GetYourGuide full-day Dharamshala tour with a local guide who will help you navigate the city and show some of its must-sees in a day while providing local insights.

What is the best time to visit Dharamsala, India?

The weather in Dharamshala shifts quicker than you can imagine.

The best time to visit Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh is summer which lasts from mid-April to June/July when the monsoon begins. Though the summer months are supposed to be dry, Dharamshala receives heavy rainfall and hailstorms even in summers. So be prepared. 

In the summers in Dharamshala, you can manage during the day with a shawl or a light jacket. But the evenings can get chilly so carry a thick jacket. Don’t worry about things to bring to Dharamshala for I have covered them later.

In winters, Dharamshala gets covered under heavy layers of snow, and many businesses shift to Goa to cater to the customers there. If you plan to visit Dharamshala in December or any other winter months, inquire first about the availability of places and guesthouses.

Most dangerous are the months of July, August, and September when Dharamshala receives heavy rainfall making landslides a common scene. Please take extra care during these months, stay alert with news, and ask locals for advice.

How to reach Dharmsala, India?

The nearest airport to Dharamshala is the Dharamshala airport. Fly to Dharamshala from Delhi or take any other domestic flight. 

Traveling to Dharamsala is also convenient from Pathankot and Amritsar, cities in Punjab. So fly to these cities or reach them via a bus or train. Then you can either fly from Pathankot and Amritsar or take another bus to Dharmshala. Pathankot to Dharamshala distance is approximately 85 km but do keep a buffer for local buses have their own moods and stops.

You can also travel to Dharamashala by bus from many other places such as Bhuntar, Manali , Shimla, and other cities in Himachal.

Book your HRTC or private buses on Redbus . If you don’t see many buses, check on Cleartrip, Yatra, and other websites. When I was traveling in Himachal, I realized all the Himachal and Punjab buses weren’t listed on Redbus.

Please note – Dharamsala doesn’t have a railway station, and the nearest railway station to Dharamshala is Pathankot in Punjab. 

Taking a taxi up to Dharamshala is also a good way to travel if you are short on time or don’t want to enjoy the experience of traveling in an ancient bus on curvy paths on the Himalayas.

Mcleodganj and Dharmshala are connected by buses and shared taxis which don’t run at night. Get a private taxi at night from the Dharamshala bus stand. Taxi prices are fixed, and Dharmshala to Mcledoganj is about 350/400 rupees during the day/night.

Don’t forget to download an offline Google map of Dharamshala.

How to reach Dharamshala Hill Station from Delhi?

Delhi to Dharamshala by Bus — This is the most common option for traveling to Dharamshala from Delhi. Get an overnight bus from either old or New Delhi to Dharamshala city. The Delhi to Dharamshala journey would take about 14 hours.

Delhi to Dharamshala by Train — You can only travel until Pathankot. Then either take a taxi, bus, or flight to Dharamshala. 

Delhi to Dharamshala by taxi or self-driving — A good option always. Be prepared to drive on mountainous roads. 

Delhi to Dharamshala by Air — Fly to Dharamshala airport.

If you are planning a trip to Mcleodganj from Delhi, get a direct bus from Delhi that goes until Mcleodganj.

Where to stay in Dharamshala?

Even though Dhramshala is a great place to stay, not all homestays in Dharamshala are really homestays. Locals have commercialized their places and the homestays have become more like hotels where you come, go, and live independently and don’t spend much time with a Himachali family.

I was not particularly excited by this commercialization of Dharamsala homestays as I like to know the locals and spend time with them. But I had to instead focus more on interacting with locals outside my home for homeowners seem to have had enough of tourist interaction. Of course, this isn’t true for all the homestays, and especially new guesthouses are more inclusive.

Having said that, you can find places to stay in Dharamsala just by walking around. But do book a place to stay for your first night if you are arriving late. If you are heading straight away to villages, book a place in either Bhagsu or Dharamkot. The taxis can come up to a certain point and then you’ll have to walk.

Book a place in Dharamashala here on Booking . R emember most of the places the website shows come up in Bhagsu, Mcleodganj, or Dharamkot. If you are arriving late at night, ask your guesthouse about how to reach the place at night.

After spending a day, feel free to walk around, lose your way in the hidden trails of the valley, and ask for availability and prices. Many guesthouses aren’t registered on any tourism website so your best bet to find an affordable place is by walking and asking around.

My guides on finding home accommodations in India and affordable Indian guest houses might help too.

I liked Bhagsu and Dharamkot better than Mcleodganj for living. Mcleodganj was louder and had a fast-moving influx and outflow of tourists.

Dharamkot is a nice area to stay in if you like to stay close to the action. Upper Dharamkot is more peaceful than lower.

Upper Bhagsu is less crowded and more peaceful than lower Bhagsu, which is visited by a lot of tourists coming in to pray at the Bhagsunag temple.

Guesthouses in Dharamshala are of many kinds. Homestays are easy to find by asking around and so are hostels and hotels. I chose to stay in a homestay for a month at the price of almost 15k per month (discounted from 700 rs to 550 and am sure I could have gotten it for 500). The room has an attached balcony and a toilet with 24-hours hot water. I used to get a bird’s eye view of Dharamshala from my balcony so it was worth it.

For me, the best place to stay in Dharamshala would be Upper Dharamkot or Upper Bhagsu.

On that note, here are some hotels, home stays, and guesthouses I like in Dharamshala,

Bhagsu homestay in Upper Bhagsu

Minhas Homestay in Dari village  of Dharamshala

Prakriti Aalay in Dharamshala city

Buddha House Himalayan Brothers , again in Dharamshala town

S amdupling Himalayan Brothers in Dharamshala

Farm’s Nature Nest in Dharamshala city

How much would a Dharamshala trip cost?

I spent about five hundred rupees on my stay, and about five hindred more on food, coffee, and daily necessities. 

Additional costs:

A hatha yoga class for one and half hours — two hundred rupees minimum donation.

A flute lesson — four hundred rupees per class for a one-hour class.

Fruits – Few apples, bananas, and mangoes cost about two hundred rupees, maximum of three dollars, in lower Bhagsu.

Taxis and autos run on fixed prices. Though you wouldn’t be able to take them much as the roads aren’t always motorable. Also, walking around Dharamsala was so much fun and a natural exercise I almost always walked on my Dhramshala solo trip.

If you are visiting many places near Dharamshala, hop onto buses, a fun way to explore Himachal.

What to bring to Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh?

• Bring along a  rain jacket . 
• Reliable  walking shoes  and  flip-flops . 
• Comfortable track pants (both thin and thick) for walking.
• A few t-shirts, thick ones if you come in the winter and thin ones for the summer. 
• Some warm clothes as the weather gets colder in the evening. You would also need those warm clothes or at least a  woolen shawl  or a  jacket . (I brought a sweater, too, but I sent it back because I didn’t need one in the summer.) You can buy a shawl from Dharamshala, too.
• Your  toiletries  and  sunscreen  and a  hat  for the sun. 
• A  headlamp  or  torch  for night walks through the mountains. 
• Bring a  mosquito repellent . 
• Long socks , a  full-sleeved shirt , and  full-length trousers  for treks.
• Bring  binoculars . A  good camera . Ask that friend for his heavy lens, you might need it to click a whistling thrush.
• Basic  medicines .
• Yoga matt or buy one from Dharmshala.
• A refillable water bottle. You have to pay 10 rupees for a bottle of filtered water at most of the guesthouses. But my  LifeStraw bottle filters water on the go and has saved me much money. I fill it up from any community tap around the village as the water comes directly from the Himalayas. Even if it was not coming from the mountains, Lifestraw has a strong filter. No more buying plastic water bottles. 
• Some lovely  books  to read.

Is Dharamshala Safe for solo travelers?

I was never scared to walk alone in Dharmsala. Himachal Pradesh — in general — is a pretty safe place even for a solo woman. 

Having said that, please do take the basic precautions every traveler needs to take. Don’t venture out late at night alone. Bring a torch. Ask the locals for help. Let someone know if you are heading out to one of the places to visit near Dharamshala. See the weather and then plan the hike of the day.

I have written more safety tips on traveling alone and in a group in my Dharamshala trekking guide .

Smoking h*** is a culture in Dharamshala.

Remember if you don’t like to smoke, you can always say no. You don’t become less cool if you don’t smoke. Do what you have to do. You would have to find your space and also be ready to feel out of the group (not always and you might want to stay away from groups who don’t respect your choices).

If you want to smoke, do it responsibly and while being respectful to the locals. 

How to go on a long trip to Dharamshala?

My digital nomad lifestyle allows me to travel.

But if you have a job, how can you visit any place for longer?

Combine holidays. Think about long weekends and join them together with your other holidays. Take sabbaticals. Get a break in between jobs. Give yourself a chance to see the world after graduation. Ask your partner to plan a trip with you. Pamper your child with a getaway to the grandest mountains  of the world.

Well, you get the idea.

Places to visit near Dharamshala and further readings.

You have access to many places around Dharamshala for you are in the mighty Himalayas.

Here are some of the places near Dharamshala I visited on my Himachal trip:

Spiti Valley

Traveling Alone in Spiti – My Travel Guide to Spiti Valley

Surreal Spiti in Photos – Everyday Pictures of Spiti – Photos of Spiti that show regular Spitian life

Parvati Valley

Kalga Village, Parvati, Himachal – My favorite village in Parvati

Kalga to Bunbuni Pass and then to Kheerganga – Hiking on offbeat paths in Parvati

Manikaran Sahib, Parvati valley – A timeless village in Parvati

Running away from Shilha village – Escaping the loudspeakers in Parvati

Travel guide to Kasol village in Parvati – Only the gateway to Parvati valley

An honest travel Guide to Parvati Valley – No sugarcoating but only the real scene of Parvati and peaceful places to go.

My offbeat travel guide to the best places to visit in Manali

Travelogue of Naggar , a small village near Manali

Some other places to visit and things to do in Himachal Pradesh,

• Hiking down to the leopards in a Shimla village
• Living in Shakrala village of Shimla (in the lockdown)
• Making a picnic at Kanag Devi temple , on top of one of the hills in Shimla
• Why not to visit Fagu village in Shimla
• Admiring the blood moon From Mashobra, Shimla
• An Itinerant Writer’s life in Mashobra, Himachal
• No one knows about these Shivpur temples in Mashobra
• Why I loved Pangna village in Mandi
• Daring to hike Shikari Devi temple on our own, in Mandi
• Plucking apples with Himachal Pradesh families
• How a dam destroyed Tattapani hot water springs
• Roaming around Karsog to buy shoes, Mandi district

Did you like my Dharamshala blog? Let me know in the comments.

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28 thoughts on “6 Joyful Weeks in Dharamshala – Here’s What I Did”

Wow, thanks a lot for sharing! Planning my first trip to India and Dharamshala will definitely be on my list 🙂 Not sure if you check comments section still but how is WiFi there? I am working remotely so I am trying to understand whether it’ll be comfortable to work there or should I take a few days off… I would appreciate if you could share your experience.

Thanks, Eugeniya

hey, thanks for your comment. Yes, wifi works well in Dharamshala. If a place doesn’t have internet, one can always use phone’s 3G/4G which connects well. Enjoy your trip 🙂

This is one of the best tour guides about Dharamshala. You know I took inspire from your blog to Improve my blog quality thanks a ton for this blog.

Aaroham Resort by Aamod at Dharamshala Address: SATOBARI HILLS ROAD,MCLEODGANJ, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176216 Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 11:30PM Phone: 062300 75111

Dear Priyanka, Thank you for sharing this blog.You have done really a great job … appreciated… Blessings!!!

Dharamshala is a beautiful destination and images that you shared are very amazing they are making me excited to go to visit Dharamshala i promise to myself this year.

Hi,am planing a solo trip to himachal.planning to visit most attractive places like manali,kullu,spiti,etc.wanted to know how the means of transportation is,like if we want to see most of the places in dharmashala.travelling by taking cabs individually will be expensive I hope.do we have any other means.please advise.

Hi Mobin. Consider taking the local buses if you are on your own. That’s the best option to travel intercity.

Well, the article is well worth to read.

Hi Priyanka, it’s written and explained beautifully. I am in Rakkar (a small village near Dharamshala)for a month with my family. Your blog is really helpful to explore the more unexplored places. Keep on writing Love Renu Datta

Love your article, Beautiful explore!!! Keep posting the same.

Hello! It was delightful to your blog.

Awesome article!!! Keep posting the same.!!!

Hi Priyanka,

This was not only comprehensive but as I read I felt like I was a part of the journey too and that is something eh? Kudos!

thanks a lot 🙂

I have been to Dharamshala twice and after reading this blog post, I need to go more often. Flute and meditation in Himalays is such a bliss.

Your Dharamsala guide is comprehensive and fantastically written. Kudos.

Thanks for reading. I am glad it helped.

Amazing , I live in Dharamsala but you have beautifully explored every moment..amazing

Loved your article. I live in USA and work in IT so I can understand the urge to change. Didn’t know anything about Dharamshala before and now will surely plan a trip there. Sooo happy for you that you are living your dreams. Way to go girl. Will join onmycanvas to read your traveling adventures

Loved reading this Priyanka. Headed there next week. Will keep referring to your Himachal blogs ?

Wow, thank you so much for this guide. I cannot wait to go see some of these places and eat the foods and find my self 🙂 great article Priya

Felt like reading some sort of encyclopedia. Great information How did you manage to take such fantastic photographs.

Hey. Thank you for dropping by and for the beautiful comment. Pictures are a mix of phone and Nikon. But still mostly phone. Encyclopedia? Really? That’s nice 🙂

This is a brilliant guide.

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2-Day Dharamsala Itinerary

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Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: off the beaten path, shakti peeth chamunda devi temple.

Gyuto Tantric Monastery Temple

Norbulingka Institute

Dharamshala cricket stadium, state war memorial, maximus mall, dharamshala, bhagsu naag temple, where to eat, norling hummingbird cafe, chilly beans cafe, willow tree restaurant, mcllo beer bar and restaurant.

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Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

St. John in the Wilderness

Naddi view point, tsuglagkhang complex dalai lama temple, kunal pathri mata mandir, aghanjar mahadev, namgyal cafe, common grounds cafe, trek & dine, taste of tibet.

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Popular road trips from dharamsala, what's the weather like in dharamsala.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Dharamsala for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Dharamsala in January
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All road trips from Dharamsala

• Dharamsala to New Delhi drive
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• Dharamsala to Hyderabad drive
• Dharamsala to Bengaluru drive
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• Dharamsala to Pune drive
• Dharamsala to Nainital drive
• Dharamsala to Pokhara drive
• Dharamsala to Lahore drive
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Explore nearby places

• McLeod Ganj
• Baijnath Tehsil
• Joginder Nagar

All related maps of Dharamsala

• Map of Dharamsala
• Map of McLeod Ganj
• Map of Dharamkot
• Map of Bhagsu Nag
• Map of Naddi
• Map of Kangra
• Map of Palampur
• Map of Bharmour
• Map of Kohri
• Map of Baijnath Tehsil
• Map of Baijnath
• Map of Chamba
• Map of Jwalamukhi
• Map of Nurpur
• Map of Khajjiar
• Map of Dalhousie
• Map of Pragpur
• Map of Duhka
• Map of Nadaun
• Map of Joginder Nagar
• Map of Chintpurni
• Map of Salasi
• Map of Hamirpur
• Map of Kufri
• Map of Pathankot
• Map of Madhopur
• Map of Gushal
• Map of Kathua
• Map of Keylong
• Map of Burwa

Dharamsala throughout the year

• Dharamsala in January
• Dharamsala in February
• Dharamsala in March
• Dharamsala in April
• Dharamsala in May
• Dharamsala in June
• Dharamsala in July
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• Dharamsala in November
• Dharamsala in December

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Day itineraries for nearby cities

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Dharamshala weekend getaway tour package from delhi, dharamshala dalhousie honeymoon tour package, dharamshala dalhousie sightseeing package by volvo, amritsar dalhousie dharamshala tour package: family edition, dharamshala and bir billing in volvo (group tour), dharamshala travel essentials.

Ideal duration: 2-4 days

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"The little Lhasa in India"

Dharamshala tourism.

Dharamshala is a beautiful hill town in the Dhauladhar range of Himalayas. It is the winter capital of Himachal Pradesh and is located in the upper slopes of the Kangra valley. Once known as a british hill station during the colonial era, Dharamsala soon became occupied by Tibetan communities and is now home to the greatest Buddhist leader Dalai Lama. 

Dharamshala, sometimes overshadowed by the more prominent neighbourhood of McLeodganj, is a more laid-back and tranquil spot to spend a long weekend if you're visiting from nearby cities like Chandigarh, Delhi, Amritsar or Jammu. Apart from Mcleodganj, you can explore the quaint little hippie village Dharamkot that's untouched by crowd of tourists. Hence, away from clamour of other tourist spots, Dharamsala is also known to be one of the top destinations for solo travellers.  Aside the serenity, Dharamsala is flocked by tourists for its thangka paintings, museums, bustling street markets, and cuisine. There are also a number of trekking options in Mcleodganj, that's hardly 3kms away from Dharamsala.  And just like Shimla , Manali and Dalhousie , Dharamsala also experiences freezing winters, making spring and summers (mid-February to mid-July) the best time to experience the rich and regal Tibetan culture in this little Lhasa in India. 

Must Know Before You Travel to Dharamshala

• Ensure etiquette while visiting monasteries, as photography and visitation are restricted in some areas. 
• If you're trekking, carry your own water during the trek. You might not get the opportunity to refill your water stock on the way.

Places To Visit In Dharamshala

Dalai Lama Temple

St. John in the Wilderness Church

Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

Gyuto Monastery

Bhagsu Falls

Top Hotels In Dharamshala

SCR 309 onwards

SCR 153 onwards

SCR 21 onwards

SCR 36 onwards

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29 Best Things To Do In Dharamshala & Mcleodganj | Itinerary

Here are the best things to do in Dharamshala that you should include in your Dharamshala and McLeodganj itinerary.

Dharamshala, the beautiful winter capital of Himachal Pradesh is a traveller’s delight in more ways than one. The things to do in Dharamshala and the places to see are soul-soothing, to say the least. Dharamshala and its suburb, McLeodganj which is also known as, “ Little Lhasa ,” together have a plethora of activities and places that are sure to charm visitors.

The presence of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government-in-exile lends a unique aura to Dharamshala. It comes alive with the vestiges of the colonial presence seamlessly integrated with Tibetan cultural influence and ancient Hindu culture. Any Himachal Pradesh itinerary would remain incomplete if you were not to include a Dharamshala and McLeodganj itinerary within it.

We present here a comprehensive list of places to visit in Dharamshala and McLeodganj , and you can plan a 2 Day trip to Mcleodganj and Dharamshala from the places and activities that we have listed out. So, you can either fit in places and activities for a Dharamshala/Mcleod Ganj Itinerary of 2 Days , or factor in more days for your trip.

Table of Contents

Top Things To Do In Dharamshala And McLeodganj

One of the top things to do when in Dharamshala or Mcleodganj is actually to do nothing! Just soak in the beautiful vibes of the Dhauladhar ranges, and let the mountain air rejuvenate your body, mind, and soul. But if you are out there to see places and experience activities, there is much to experience amidst the swaying cedar trees that greet you at every twist and turn in the road.

Things To Do In Dharamshala | Dharamshala Mcleodganj Itinerary | Dharamshala Itinerary 2 Days

There is a lot to do in Dharamshala and McLeodganj . There is something that is bound to appeal to all types of travellers, across age groups. Nature spreads its arms wide for nature lovers with amazing viewpoints and treks. For those looking for spiritual solace, there are temples, churches, and monasteries that beckon visitors with their divine aura.

For those who want to delve deep into history and heritage, museums and other heritage sites stand with open doors. Finally, for adventure junkies, there are many exciting activities at Dharamshala and McLeodganj. In a nutshell, whether you are travelling with your family, solo, or as a couple, Dharamshala has something exciting for you to discover and experience.

Experience Spirituality In The Monasteries – Things To Do In Dharamshala

Dharamshala is a place where the sounds of the rustling leaves of Cedar trees and mystical Buddhist chants merge harmoniously in the air. One of the main reasons why tourists flock to Dharamshala is the presence of the Dalai Lama . Apart from the Dalai Lama temple, many other Buddhist monasteries add to the place’s spiritual aura.

Visit Dalai Lama Temple (Tsuglagkhang Complex)

The Tsuglagkhang Complex, popularly known as the Dalai Lama Temple , is the main motivation for most people to visit Dharamshala. It is a sacred place and a pilgrimage destination for Buddhists , especially Tibetans. It houses the official residence of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government-in-Exile. A monastery where more than 200 Buddhist monks live and study is also housed within the complex. The Buddhist temples of Thekchen Choeling and Kalachakra are also housed within the complex.

Visit Theckchen Choeling Buddhist Temple

The Theckchen Choeling Temple is located within the larger Tsuglagkhang Complex. It is the main temple inside the complex and the principal deities are Shakyamuni Buddha , Padma Sambhava or Guru Rinpoche, and Avalokieshwara.

The temple architecture is spartan, but the images of the deities are truly resplendent and embellished with gold, silver, and other precious metals, as well as precious stones. The Theckchen Choeling temple also has stupas fashioned from bronze and bell metal. The temple also houses about 100 volumes of Kangur which are ancient Buddhist texts believed to contain the teachings of Buddha that were directly spoken by him. About 225 volumes of Tengyur, a collection of commentaries on Buddhist teachings are also treasured in the temple.

Visit Namgyal Monastery 

The Namgyal Monastery is the personal monastery of the Dalai Lama and is the one that is actually known as the Dalai Lama Temple . It is located within the Tsuglagkhang Complex. It is a monastery that includes all the four main lineages of Tibetan Buddhism, namely, Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug , in the curriculum and rituals of the monastery.

The Namgyal Monastery was originally established by the second Dalai Lama, Gedun Gyatso in the 15th century in Tibet. It was relocated to Dharamshala after the Dalai Lama established the Tibetan Government-in-Exile there. It is also known as Namgyal Tantric College , and more than 200 monks study the tenets of Buddhism here.

Visit Kalachakra Temple 

The Kalachakra Temple is also located within the Tsuglagkhang Complex. Kalachakra which literally translates as, “wheel of time,” is a Buddhist tantric practice. The Kalachakra temple has beautiful murals of Avalokiteshwara and Sand Mandalas. The Namgyal Monastery trains monks in various aspects of Kalachakra including initiation, construction of Sand Mandalas and other rituals and dances of the Kalachakra ceremony.

Visit Gyuto Monastery 

The Gyuto Monastery is located in the Sidhbari suburb of Dharamshala town. It is about 12 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple. This is a monastery that is dedicated to the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.

Visit Nechung Monastery 

The Nechung Monastery is considered sacred as it is the seat of the State Oracle of Tibet. After the formation of the Tibet Government-in-Exile in Dharmashala, the Nechung Monastery has been established in McLeodganj. It is located about 2 kilometres from the Tsuglagkhang Complex.

Visit Dip Tse Chok Ling Monastery 

The Dip Tse Chok Ling Monastery , also referred to as Tsechokling Monastery is located at a distance of under 2 kilometres from the main Dalai Lama Temple in Upper Dharamshala. It belongs to the Gelug lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Like many other monasteries, the original one was established in Tibet during the 18th century. The monastery in Dharamshala in the current location came up in 1984.

Visit Mani Lakhang Stupa 

The Mani Lakhang Stupa which is also known as the Prayer Wheels Stupa was established in Dharmashala under the guidance of the third Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche. The Mani Lakhang Stupa was established in the year 2001 and is a hallowed spot for Buddhists. The Mani Lakhang Stupa is located within 2 kilometres of the main Dalai Lama temple.

Come Close To Divinity In The Temples – Things To Do In Dharamshala

If Buddhist chants fill the air of Dharmashala with spirituality, the chants from Hindu temples merge seamlessly with them. There are a few ancient temples that have many interesting legends associated with them. These temples are linked to ancient Hindu mythology and are places that you must visit when in Dharamshala or McLeodganj .

Visit Bhagsunag Temple 

The Bhagsunag temple lends its name to the village in Mcleodganj, where it is located. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva and the serpent God, Nag Devta. The temple is small and within the temple complex is situated a holy spring, whose sacred waters are believed to possess healing properties.

The Bhagsunag Temple is associated with the legend of a King named Bhagsu, who was challenged to a duel by the Serpent God and was vanquished. The water that he had taken from the Nag Dal Lake, fell, creating a spring at the place. The Bhagsunag temple is at a distance of about 3 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple, in McLeodganj.

Visit Aghanjar Mahadev Temple 

The Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to be over 500 years old. The temple is located in a suburb of Dharamshala, called Khanyara, at a distance of about 11 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

The temple nestles in a scenic location, surrounded by lush forests, mountains, and streams. Legend has it that in the Mahabharata, Arjun was on his way to Kailash to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva for the Kurukshetra war. Lord Shiva appeared before Arjuna at the spot where the Aghanjar Mahadev temple is located.

Visit Shri Durveshwar Mahadev Temple 

The Sri Durveshwar Mahadev Temple is a Shiva temple that is located on an elevation that overlooks the Dal Lake. It is believed that the legendary Rishi Durvasa, had meditated here, hence the name Durveshwar Mahadev. The current temple is built by a person named Kaleshar Singh Rana, according to a board near the entrance to the temple.

The Dal Lake and the Durveshwar Mahadev temple are considered as sacred as the Mani Mahesh Lake and Kailash Parvat. The place has been referred to as Chhota Mani Mahesh. People who are unable to undertake the arduous Mani Mahesh Yatra, visit the Dal Lake and bathe in its sacred waters, after which they take darshan of Lord Shiva at the Durveshwar Mahadev temple.

The Durveshwar Mahadev Temple is located about 5 kilometres from the Dalai Lama Temple, on the way to Naddi Village from McLeodganj.

Visit Mata Chintpurni Temple 

The Mata Chintpurni Temple is located exactly opposite the Sri Durveshwar Mahadev temple and overlooks the Dal Lake. This is a small temple set in serene surroundings and is not to be confused with the Chintpurni temple in the Una District of Himachal Pradesh. That temple is a Shakti Peeth, where a part of Sati’s feet is believed to have fallen.

Mata Chintpurni Devi is a manifestation of Durga and is also known as Maa Chinnamastika – the one with a detached head. The temple is located about 5 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

Experience Serenity In The Churches – Things To Do In Dharamshala

Dharamshala was a hill station that was established by the British . Many vestiges of the colonial period have survived the ravages of time and the devastating earthquake that rocked the Kangra valley in 1905.

Visit St John In The Wilderness Church

St John In The Wilderness Church is a very old church that dates back to the colonial period. The beautiful St John In The Wilderness Church lies beneath the benevolent shade of giant cedar trees and is a serene place to visit. The church was built in the year 1852.

A memorial to James Bruce, the 8th Earl of Elgin and Viceroy and Governor-General of India in the 19th century, is located within the churchyard. Many Britishers who died in the earthquake lie buried along with James Bruce in the Church Yard of St John in the Wilderness.

This church is a beautiful example of neo-gothic architecture, complete with exquisite stained-glass windows. The Church is located about 3 kilometres from the Dalai Lama Temple in a suburb of Dharamshala called Forsythganj.

Experience Nature’s Magic – Things To Do In Dharamshala

You are sure to notice a spring in your walk as soon as you step into the enchanting environs of Dharamshala. The sheer beauty of the Dhauladhar ranges , the forests, the gurgling streams, the cascading waterfalls , and the never-ending stretch of Deodhar trees are simply mesmerising. Here are some of the beautiful spots where nature unfolds its magic in McLeodganj and Dharamshala.

Visit Bhagsu Falls

A small trek from behind the Bhagsunag Temple takes you to the foot of the Bhagsu waterfalls . The water cascades down in a steady stream from a height of about 20 metres. and creates a small rocky pool. The real beauty of the Bhagsunag waterfall can be appreciated in the rainy season when the water is in full flow.

During winters the area is covered by snow. One can also trek to the top of the waterfalls. From the Bhagsunag temple, one needs to trek about a kilometre to reach the foot of the falls. The falls are located at a distance of about 4 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

Visit Dal Lake

The Dal Lake is a captivating waterbody that is fringed with tall Deodhar trees on one side. Sacred temples overlook the lake, giving it a mystical aura.

The Dal lake is also known as, “ Chhota Mani Mahesh ,” and is considered as sacred as the Mani Mahesh Lake in Kailash. Dal Lake is about 5 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

Visit Naddi Village View Point

Naddi Village is a picturesque village located about 6 kilometres from the Dalai Lama Temple. It is the starting point for many treks. The Naddi Village View Point offers a ringside view of the majestic Dauladhar range of mountains.

The snow-capped mountains can be viewed at close range from the vantage point that Naddi Village offers. The presence of dainty cafes and Yoga and meditation camps, make Naddi Village a much sought-after destination in Dharamshala.

Educate Yourself At The Museums, Memorials And Heritage Sites – Things To Do In Dharamshala

One of the first things to do in Dharamshala is to visit the museums and other heritage and historic sites, as this would give a better understanding of the place. Museums, especially open windows to the past and foster learnings about a place that are not found in any book.

Visit The War Memorial In Dharamshala

The War Memorial in Dharamshala is a place you must visit to pay your tribute to our country’s war heroes. The Dharmshala War Memorial was built in 1972 as a tribute to the Himachal War Heroes who laid down their lives defending the country. The names of the martyrs are etched in gold on three curved walls that are part of the main memorial monument.

The three curved walls represent the three wings of the armed forces. The names of the martyrs are engraved on five of the faces of the walls while a mural can be seen on the sixth face. Beautiful fountains and landscaped gardens provide a sense of calm to the place. The State War Memorial is in Dharmshala town, located about 6 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

Visit The Tibet Museum

The Tibet Museum is an effort to preserve the Tibetan Culture and history and educate the world about it. The Tibet Museum consists of permanent and temporary exhibitions. The permanent exhibition is titled, “I am Tibetan and this is my story.” It showcases the real story of Tibet and Tibetans as opposed to the versions propagated by China. The exhibits showcase various aspects of Tibetan history and culture.

Visit The Norbulingka Institute

The Norbulingka Insitute is a place that lovers of art and crafts are sure to be impressed with. It is a place that was established to preserve and nurture the traditional arts and crafts of Tibet. It offers employment to around 300 Tibetans and also ensures that the ancient arts and crafts of Tibet live on in Dharamshala.

Visitors can appreciate Tibetan art and craft in the Norbulingka Institute and also shop for them here. If you are keen on learning the arts and crafts, workshops are also offered. Guided tours of the institute are available for visitors. The Norbulingka Institute is about 10 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple, on the Palampur-Dharamshala road.

Visit Kangra Fort

The Kangra Fort is a historic fort that is believed to be the oldest fort in India dating to the 4th Century BCE. It is believed to have been built by a king of the Katoch Dynasty . The Katoch Dynasty finds a mention in the Mahabharata, in the Chakravyuha incident in which Abhimanyu, the son of Arjuna is killed by the Kauravas.

The Katoch King Susharma Chandra, who was fighting alongside the Kauravas was tasked with distracting Krishna and Arjuna, while Abhimanyu was trapped in the Chakravyuha. The Katoch king ruled over the land known as Trigarta and Kangra is believed to have been a part of this kingdom that is mentioned in the Mahabharata. The ruins of Kangra Fort hold many a story from the lost chapters of history and mythology. The Kangra Fort is located about 20 kilometres from Dharamshala.

Other Experiences Not To Miss – Things To Do In Dharamsala

If you are in Dharamshala or McLeodganj, you must include these activities in your itinerary and a list of things to do in Dharmshala.

Visit HPCA Stadium

A visit to the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium is a must, especially for cricket lovers. Never mind if there is no match, you can still visit the stadium. Visitors are allowed into one of the stands in the stadium and can spend time looking at the beautiful cricket ground.

The green grounds set against the backdrop of snow-clad mountains of the Dhauladhar range kissed by floating clouds are indeed a wonderful sight to behold. There is a ticketed entry into the HPCA stadium.

Take A Cable Car Ride

The Dharamshala Skyway is a ropeway that connects Dharamshala and McLeodganj across 1.8 kilometres in length. The journey can be done by cable car in less than 10 minutes.

The cable car ride is a thrilling experience, as one can feast on panoramic views of the mountain ranges and dramatic landscapes below.

Shop At Kotwali Bazar

There are ample opportunities for shopping in Dharamshala from modern malls to the quaint little shops that line McLeodganj and Dharamshala. Kotwali Bazar is the main shopping area in Dharamshala. The Bazar is essentially for the locals to shop for their daily necessities, but makes for an interesting stroll.

Shop At Bhagsu Market

The street that leads to the Bhagsunag temple is a colourful lane with shops selling souvenirs and other articles on either side of the street.

Visit The Cafes of McLeodganj

Your visit to McLeodganj and Dharamshala cannot be complete without chilling out in one or more of its famed cafes. The Cafes at McLeodganj and Dharamshala are colourful and have beautiful locations and are quirky places to hang out.

Some of the top cafes in Dharamshala are Illiterati, Yellow Llama, Himalayan Musafir, Woeser Bakery, Moonpeak, and Carpe Diem, among others.

Things To Do In Dharamshala – Treks In And Around Dharamshala

Himachal Pradesh is one of the favourite haunts of trekkers. Its hilly and forested terrain lures trekkers in search of nature and adventure. Places like Manali , Kasauli, Bir, Shimla , and Dharamshala, are the places to embark on the most beautiful and fulfilling treks in the country. Dharamshala is the starting point for many of the treks that showcase the beauty of the Dhauladhar ranges.

Triund Trek

The Triund trek is the crown of the Dhauladhar treks . It is the most famous and sought-after trek from Dharamshala. It is a scenic trek and is about 6.8 kilometres from Dharamshala. The trek is an easy one except for the last kilometre which has many twists and turns.

Kangra Trek

The Kangra trek brings alive the beauty of the Kangra valley in all its splendour. The total distance covered is 27 kilometres. The trek provides an experience of both trekking and camping in the beautiful locales of the Kangra valley.

Indrahar Pass Trek

Indrahar Pass Trek is a trek that is about 10.7 kilometres long and takes the trekkers through dramatic landscapes amidst the mountainous regions. The views on the trek include meandering rivers, streams, and panoramic views of the valleys.

Trek To Kareri Lake

Trek To Kareri Lake is a 10-kilometre-long trek that takes the trekkers to the beautiful surroundings of the Kareri lake. The enchanting lake and the presence of the Pir Panjal mountain ranges in the backdrop make for a beautiful camping experience.

How To Get To Dharamshala | Mcleodganj

Dharamshala is the headquarters of the Kangra District in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India.

• Delhi To Dharamshala distance is about 468 kilometres
• Amritsar To Dharamshala distance is about 201 kilometres
• Chandigarh To Dharamshala distance is about 237 kilometres
• Pathankot To Dharamshala distance is about 85 kilometres
• Dalhousie To Dharamshala distance is about 117 kilometres
• Dharamshala To Mcleodganj distance is about 6 kilometres

The nearest airport to Dharamshala is Kangra Airport in Gaggal, at a distance of about 13 kilometres. It is a regional airport and has flights to and from Chandigarh , Hisar, and Delhi . The alternate airport is Pathankot at a distance of about 90 kilometres.

The closest broad gauge railway head to Dharamshala is Pathankot. There is a narrow-gauge railway from Pathankot to Jogindernagar. Kangra Mandir is a railway station on this line which is at a distance of 32 kilometres from Dharamshala.

Dharamshala and McLeodganj are well connected by road to other towns and cities of Himachal Pradesh. Himachal Roadways buses to Mcleodganj are available from Delhi and other places.

If you are planning a visit to Dharamshala/Mcleoganj, you can book your flight tickets right here through Cleartrip  or Makemytrip  or  CheapAir  or  Priceline  and fly to Pathankot or  Amritsar . If you are thinking of a   road trip , do check out the rental car and bus options.

Best Season To Visit Dharamshala | Mcleodganj

Dharamshala can be experienced in its different forms during different seasons. Dharamshala weather is cool and pleasant during the summers and makes for a cool getaway from the plains between March and June. Temperatures during this time range between 20-35°C.

If you want to experience the romance of the rains in Dharamshala then head out there between July to September, when the temperatures range between 18-22°C.

If you love the winter vibes, then the best season to visit Dharamshala is from December to February when the temperature ranges between 4-7°C. Suffice to say that the beauty of Dharamshala is enchanting throughout the year.

Mcleodganj Dharamshala Itinerary – Where To Stay In Dharamshala | Best Hotels In Dharamshala / Mcleodganj

There is no dearth of hotels to stay in Dharamshala and McLeodganj . There are luxury hotels and resorts, budget hotels, as well as hostels. We stayed at the Spring Valley Resort , which is located very near the Bhagsunag temple. You can book the Spring Valley Resort or any other hotel right here.

Click to book  Spring Valley Resort , one of the best places to stay in Mcleodganj.

You can  book Hotels  in Mcleodganj,  Hotels in Bir ,  Hotels in Dharamshala ,  Hotels in Palampur or any destination right here through any of the options here –  TripAdvisor  or Cleartrip or  makemytrip or  goibibo or  Booking.com or  HotelsCombined or  Agoda  and save a lot by getting the best deals on booking your stay.

Travel Around Himachal Pradesh, India

There is so much to see and experience in Himachal Pradesh. If you prefer package tours and looking for these, you can plan your Himachal Pradesh itinerary and book your  Himachal Pradesh trips , right here.  So go ahead and book online places to see in Himachal Pradesh and popular activities in Himachal Pradesh and cover attractions in Himachal Pradesh.

McLeodgang Images | Dharamshala Images

We hope you liked reading our blog post about the best things to do in Dharamshala . We are sure that the information provided here will help you in charting out your own Dharamshala itinerary .

We leave you with some lovely images of Dharamshala and McLeodganj that are sure to make you pack your bags!

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23 thoughts on “29 best things to do in dharamshala & mcleodganj | itinerary”.

WOW, your pictures are stunning and there is a lot to do indeed in Dharamshala & Mcleodganj! I would love to check out the Treks In And Around Dharamshala, look so beautiful

So much to do and see. I would love to visit that waterfall.

I do love to travel but haven’t been able to in a while. It seems like you visited a fair few places there. The temples and monasteries must have been interesting to see they are all so different.

Wow! There’s a lot to do there! I would love to visit The Theckchen Choeling Buddhist Temple! My whole family would love to be here!

I can hardly imagine doing half the things during a visit anywhere and I love that there’s at least 29 right here! It seems like Dharmshala and Mcleodganj are very culture-rich areas and filled with such beautiful scenery in between. I would love to visit the monasteries and churches the most because I’m just in love with their architecture.

This looks like a wonderful place to visit and I love exploring the world and will have to add this to my bucket list 😉

This looks like a fun place to visit. A lot of fun things to do. Thanks for sharing this.

I would so love to see all of this in person. Absolutely beautiful!

Love the St. John church. Beautiful pics. I would love to visit one day. Thank you so much for sharing!

I love doing nothing in new cities! It’s the perfect way to get to know your surroundings.

Wow…it is hard to decide what to cover and what to leave for next trip. I didn’t know that Dharamshala has so much to cover. Now, I must make a trip to this beautiful place.

Looks like a great place to visit and explore. There is so much history to learn too, for sure.

So many beautiful and unique places to visit. Love to discover these natural corners!

I remember going on a gondola ride when we were in Colorado one year when I was younger. I’d love to go on one again here.

These pictures and description has reviewed the old memories. But I guess we missed visiting so many places mentioned in your post, may be next time!!

You’ve covered all the points here. If I could read your itinerary before our trip! We missed some spots you have mentioned here. However, we might plan a trip in near future. Would definitely explore thise places.

I had heard about the beautiful monasteries in McLeod Ganj but didn’t know that there were so many, and such beautiful temples as well. The Dal Lake from Kashmir extends till here?

This is a great compilation of places at Dharamshala and Mcleodganj. I surely plan to visit these places and saving this post for reference.

Amazingly detailed post of an amazing place. I have so many places to visit up north. Dalai Lama temple is something I can’t miss. Dharamshala has both spiritual and historical value with amazing natural beauty.

Whoa, you have suggested so many places that I feel it won’t be possible for traveller like me to cover them in two days. This list fore is a itinerary for seven days. HPCA stadium is something I want to visit and enjoy the game of cricket for couple of hours there.

Dharmashala has been on our list for quite a long time, but exploring it through your post is a great experience. If we cover half of the places as a family that would be an achievement for us.

Oh wow looks like a rich place to visit, I would love to visit all of these places, the temples look very interesting

Mountains are a blessing! These two places are truly heavenly. I have been to Dharamshala and it is so serene. Have visited the other place through your blog too. This is brilliantly covered.

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Travel Guide to Dharamsala

Table of Contents

Things to see and do in Dharamsala for nature lovers and spiritual seekers

Our travel guide to Dharamsala will help you discover this unique hill station in Himachal Pradesh, located among the Himalayan mountains in north India. Dharamasala — which includes the adjacent town of McLeod Ganj — is a place that has long attracted spiritual seekers, Buddhists, hippies, Yoga practitioners, adventure travellers, curious tourists, and those who just love scenic views and the great outdoors.

There’s a lot to see and do in Dharamsala, and lots of places that cater to domestic tourists and international visitors, such as dozens of modest guest houses, resorts, cafes, and small restaurants. Along with momos – the tasty dumplings that are a mainstay of Tibetan cuisine – you can find Japanese restaurants, pizza parlours, and the ubiquitous German bakery. There are also a lot of courses available in everything from classical Indian music to meditation, and from Yoga to pottery.

Dharamsala is in the Dhauladhar mountain range, which forms part of Kangra valley. It’s famous for its scenic landscapes and picturesque locations. The town spreads out along a slope, and ranges from an altitude of 1,250 in lower Dharamsala to 1,550 metres in upper Dharamsala (also known as McLeod Ganj).

Due to the presence of the Dalai Lama, Dharamsala is a popular pilgrimage destination for Tibetan refugees, Tibetan Buddhists, and many others who are drawn to this bright light. A darker element is also attracted to the town, so the usual cautions about being alert to conmen, beggars, and those who prey on gullible tourists are in order.

In the Dharamsala region, you can immerse in Tibetan Buddhist culture by visiting monasteries, volunteering, taking teachings, and touring the various institutes, museums, and centres set up by the Tibetan government-in-exile. You can also enjoy the immense scenic beauty of the Himalayas.

Read more on Breathedreamgo

• Buddhism in the Himalaya

Volunteering in Dharamsala

• Himalayan village adventure
• Top 10 reasons to visit the Himalayas

HH Dalai Lama’s exile in India

In March 1959, a young, bespectacled monk secretly escaped from his home among the snow-capped Himalayas, a place known as the rooftop of the world. He disguised himself as a soldier and, along with a retinue of supporters, travelled through the harsh terrain towards freedom and safety. For two weeks, the world wondered and waited, not knowing whether he was dead or alive.

Then, on March 31, he reached Arunachal Pradesh in Northeast India, and his followers rejoiced. Rumours spread that he was hidden and kept safe by mists and low clouds, conjured up by the prayers of holy men.

The young monk was of course the Dalai Lama , and his escape from Chinese-occupied Tibet is now known around the world as one of the most dramatic and harrowing incidents of the 20 th century.

India welcomed the Buddhist monk and leader of the Tibetan people, and his supporters, as refugees. The following month, India’s prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru granted the Tibetan exiles a home among the lower Himalayas of North India, in Dharamasala, Himachal Pradesh. They have been there ever since.

Today, the Dalai Lama, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, is a household name, and a Buddhist teacher who travels the world non-stop spreading a message of love and compassion. His home is still in Dharamsala, the centre of the Tibet government-in-exile.

A sprawling town has developed around the Dalai Lama to support the Tibetan refugee population and the Tibetan government-in-exile. Some of the notable landmarks include:

• Namgyal, the home monastery-in-exile of the Dalai Lama,
• Nechung Monastery, the seat of the State Oracle,
• the Tibetan Medicine and Astrology Center,
• the Tibetan government’s parliament-in-exile,
• the State Library and Archives, and its adjoining Museum of Tibetan Art,
• the Tibetan Children’s Village, which houses 2,000 students, and
• Norbulingka Institute, which works to preserve the arts and traditions of the Tibetan cultural world.

Many visitors to Dharamsala get an audience with his Holiness. He also holds teachings in Dharamsala every year. People come from all over the world to attend.

When the Dalai Lama gives public teachings in McLeod Ganj / Dharamsala, they are held at his main temple at Namgyal Monastery, Temple Road, next to his residence. Visit  his website for his schedule  and for  practical advice for attending the teachings in India .

Many visitors to Dharamsala volunteer their time to work with the Tibetan community. When I was there in 2006, I volunteered with a program called Art Refuge on the roof of the Tibetan Reception Centre. The program was run by Ama Adhe, a hero to the Tibetan people. She was imprisoned for 27 years by the Chinese for aiding resistance fighters. After her release, she travelled to Dharamsala to support the Dalai Lama, wrote a book called The Voice That Remembers , and ran the Art Refuge program to help Tibetan refugee children adjust to life in India before they start school at the Tibetan Children’s Village.

There are many opportunities for volunteering in Dharamsala, from teaching English to working at animal shelters. You can find out about volunteer opportunities at these places, among others, but please research carefully before making a commitment:

• Dharamsala Animal Rescue
• Dharmalaya Institute
• GoAbroad volunteering programs
• Workaway — animal rescue

Trekking in Dharamsala

There are several treks you can take directly from Dharamsala itself, and the city is a good jumping-off point for expeditions into Himachal Pradesh. Within walking distance of the city are trails to Dharamkot and the Bhagsunag Waterfall. Meditation and yoga retreats, including the Dhamma Sikara Vipassana Centre, cafes, resorts, and guest houses abound in this area.

The state of Himachal Pradesh is known for deep, fertile valleys that cut through soaring Himalayan peaks. Here, trails wend through forests thick with deodar, oak, rhododendron, and pine trees, and across alpine pastures and streams. Deer and wild goats wander freely.

The state is an ideal destination for nature lovers as its home to 12 main national parks and animal sanctuaries, including The Great Himalayan National Park, which was established to protect endangered fauna and flora. There are 1,200 species of birds and 359 animal species in Himachal Pradesh – including leopards, ghoral, snow leopard, and musk deer, the state animal.

Yoga and meditation in Dharamsala

No guide to Dharamsala would be complete without mentioning the many courses available in meditation. You can read about Vipassana meditation in India here , which is available at a Vipassana meditation centre called Dhamma Sikhara just outside of Dharamsala in Dharamkot village.

Tushita Meditation Centre is a centre for the study and practice of Buddhism from the Tibetan Mahayana tradition. They have a wide range of courses and retreats.

There are many Yoga ashrams, meditation centres, spas and other wellness opportunities in Dharamsala — far too many to list! You can discover some in this article .

So, whether your interest is cultural, spiritual, or natural, Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh is sure to make a lasting impression. In fact, many visitors to India cite it is as their favourite destination. It was certainly a hit with the Dalai Lama – he is known for being the “longest guest of the Indian government.”

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About Mariellen Ward

Professional travel writer Mariellen Ward is the founder of award-winning Breathedreamgo. Mariellen has a BA in Journalism and has been travel writing and blogging since 2005. She has won many awards, including a National Tourism Award from Incredible India Tourism, and writes for some of the world’s leading publications including BBC Travel and NatGeo Traveller India.

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Dharamshala Tourism and Travel Guide

All you need to know about dharamshala tourism.

Read real accounts of travellers in Dharamshala, upcoming events, latest news, and find all you need to know to discover Dharamshala, the winter capital city of Himachal Pradesh!

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Best Time To Visit Dharamshala

Peak Season to visit Dharamsala is from February to June, when the weather ranges from pleasantly cool to bearably warm.

Shoulder Season : November to January is winter season in Dharamsala when you can see snow fall on the mountains. The temperature ranges from -1 to 7 degrees Celsius, making it a great time to visit Dharamsala.

Off-season: Dharamsala sees monsoon season from July to September. But the town doesn’t see too much rainfall, so if you don’t mind a little drizzle when you are out and about and like off-season discounts, head to Dharamsala at this time.   

Budget For Dharamshala

For Budget Travellers: INR 800-1300 a day

• Accommodation in hostels and guesthouses: INR 600-800
• Food: INR 200-500

For Mid-range Travellers: INR 1500-2000 a day

• Accommodation in mid-range hotels: INR 1200-2000
• Food: INR 600-900
• Local transport in autos and taxis: INR 400-500

For Luxury Travellers: INR 3000 and upwards

• Accommodation in 4* or 5* hotels: INR 4000 and upwards
• Food in upscale restaurants and bars: INR 1800 and upwards
• Local transport in cabs: INR 1000 and upwards       

26 Things to Know Before Traveling Dharamsala, Mcleodganj

Mcleodganj is a backpacker enclave high in the hills, where travelers love feeling a part of the Indo-Tibetan community. Crimson robes filled the streets reminding you that you are in a place of Buddhism. This Dharamsala travel guide shares things to know before traveling Dharamsala.

Table of Contents: 26 Things to Know Before Traveling Dharamsala, Mcleodganj

• 1.1 1. Mcleodganj
• 1.2 2. Hiking
• 1.3 3. Bhagsu Falls
• 1.4 4.  Momos and taking a Tibetan Momo cooking class
• 1.5 5. Attend a Dalai Lama sermon
• 1.6 6. Watch monks debate
• 1.7 7. Get blessings from the Karmapa
• 1.8.1 Yoga teacher training courses in Dharamsala
• 1.9 9. Get spiritual healings and readings
• 1.10 10. McLeod Ganj’s Main Street
• 1.11 11.  McLeod Ganj is easy town to live long-term
• 1.12 12. Learn astrology
• 1.13 13.  Mcleodganj will test your fitness
• 1.14 14. Limited water supply
• 1.15 15. Beware of Monkeys
• 1.16 16. Thunderstorms and occasional power cuts
• 1.17 17. Visiting Mcleod ganj Hospital
• 1.18 18. Clean & Filtered Water
• 1.19 19. Indo-Tibetan community
• 1.20 20. Volunteer programs in Mcleodganj
• 1.21 21. Where to volunteer in Mcleodganj
• 1.22 22.  Food in Mcleod Ganj
• 1.23 23. Finding an apartment in Mcleodganj
• 1.24 24. Accommodations in Mcleodganj
• 1.25 25. Best travel insurance for India
• 1.26.1 Flight
• 1.26.3 Train
• 1.26.4 What would you add to this Dharamsala travel guide and list of things to know before traveling Dharamsala?
• 1.27 Trip planning for India and want to know where to start?
• 2 More Yoga in India Articles
• 3 Watch India Travel Guides for Solo Travelers!

26 Things to Know Before Traveling Dharamsala

1. mcleodganj.

Traveling to Dharamsala most travelers stay in Mcleodganj and they stay from weeks to months. On one side, you have a city of monasteries and temples and red-robed monks roaming the streets, eating at restaurants and cute cafes. On the other side, you have scenic valley vistas, towering mountain ranges and the feeling of being closely connected with nature. There’s a surprising amount of things to do for such a small town.

I arrived in Dharamsala and got a month-long rental room in an guesthouse so I could have a home base for an  intensive yoga teacher training certification class program with Himalaya Yoga Valley.

You can trek to Triund or visit Bhasu Falls nearby in the neighboring town of Bhagsu . There are a lot of pastures to explore in these hills where you might find goat herders, travelers or monks laying their clothes out to dry.

3. Bhagsu Falls

Located in the neighboring town of Bhagsu, Bhagsu Falls is an impressive waterfall for this hilly region.

4.  Momos and taking a Tibetan Momo cooking class

Indo-Tibetan food is at the heart of cooking in Mcleodganj. You’ll find many Tibetan food cafes and of course, momos from the street to restaurants. I took a Tibetan momo cooking class with Llamo Cooking Class . It was my first cooking class and it took place in Llamo’s humble home. It was surprisingly fun and relatively easy to make. When I got back home to New York , I made it a lot!

5. Attend a Dalai Lama sermon

Tsuglagkhang Complex (aka the Dalai Lama Temple ) is a definite must. It houses a Tibet Museum (Hours: 9a-5p) and you’ll find many residential monks roaming the grounds for spiritual training, debate and sermons. Check out the His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s sermon schedule . Hours: 5am-8pm . Address: Temple Road, Central Chapel (near the main square)

6. Watch monks debate

One of the monk practices and training in Tsuglagkhang monastery is debate. You’ll find that compassion and calm is not a monk’s only emotion. During a monk debate , they are known to get pretty fiery!

7. Get blessings from the Karmapa

Not far from McLeod Ganj, situated in Gyuto Monastery in Sidbhari, Ogyen Trinley Dorje  is the 17th Karmapa .There are different sects in Buddhism and each sect has their own spiritual leader. The karmapa is similar to the Dalai Lama but a different sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Read my incredible experience meeting the karmapa .  Check out the Karmapa’s schedule for meeting and sermon updates.

8. Study yoga or alternative healing

Dharamsala has many reputable yoga schools offering 200 and 500 hour teacher training programs along with drop in classes.   There is also an Iyengar Institute located in a woodsy area on the edge of McLeod Ganj ; it’s a perfect escape into nature.

Yoga teacher training courses in Dharamsala

Here are some teacher training courses in Dharamsala. It is up to you to research and find the best yoga teaching for you.

Yoga Vidya Mandaram – 22 Day 200 Hour Hatha & Ashtanga Teacher Training in Dharamsala- Dharamkot, starts $1599

Sarvaguna Yoga – 28 day 300 Hour Dual style Teacher Training in Dharamsala- $1606

Om Yoga Ashram – 25 day 200 Hour Yoga teacher training, starts at $750 (stay at an ashram over a guesthouse)

Aranya Yoga Ashram – 31 day 300 Hour Multi-style Yoga teacher training, starts at $1855 (includes ashram housing)

Read: Things to know about yoga ashrams . or Guide to Yoga in India

9. Get spiritual healings and readings

Dharamsala has a community of visiting and resident teachers, who offer a variety of workshops, healing sessions and classes. Learn and/or practice healing: Reiki, Ayurvedic, Energy. I also took a reiki advanced certification workshop and had an energy healing to help heal my muscle fatigue during my yoga session. I also had a local astrology reading. Look for signs advertising classes posted on community walls around town. They all cost a fraction of what I might pay in the U.S.

10. McLeod Ganj’s Main Street

McLeod Ganj’s Main Street is Jogiwara Road. The street is lined with businesses from cafes, restaurants with rooftop views of the valley, bookstores, souvenir shops. McLeod Ganj’s main street is Jogiwara Road.

Read 5 Essential Tips for India

11.  mcleod ganj is easy town to live long-term.

Dharamsala  is a city in Himchal Pradesh. It is so removed from the craziness of India that it doesn’t feel like India.  Mcleod Ganj  is a small town in Dharamsala (nicknamed Little Lhasa) . It is also the home to the Dalai Lama.  The lush hills and valleys tell a different story of beautiful skies, nature and laid back Indo- Tibetan community  which seems for the most part, content. There is a strong backpacker-traveler flux which comes through this town, so the streets are lined with businesses from cafes, restaurants with rooftop views of the valley, bookstores, souvenir shops.

You’ll find many travelers extending their stay in this town, sometimes for a month or longer.

12. Learn astrology

You can learn astrology at Men-Tsee-Kang, the Tibetan Medical & Astrological Institute.

13.  Mcleodganj will test your fitness

Due to the hilly setting, you’re practically hiking daily getting from shop to shop. Having my apartment and yoga shala located at the base of a hill, it was  a daily StairMaster hike    up a crumbling 300+ stairway  just to get meals.  That one steep stair was my only access to town, where there are grocery stores and restaurants and believe me, after a day of developing aching limbs training in yoga, you’ll wish you didn’t have to eat!

14. Limited water supply

There is a lot, lot, lot of beauty in Dharamsala and it feels like such a sanctuary. But there are ugly sides  which make you more aware of how your footprint and waste has an impact on the community and its cleanliness. Spaces for vendors are limited and some spill over into the road.

15. Beware of Monkeys

Dharamsala has wild monkeys which roam and scamper on rooftops. Remember to close your windows and doors and never leave belongings outdoors unattended.

16. Thunderstorms and occasional power cuts

Despite being April and other parts of India are spitting with sweat, weather in McLeod Gganj can be freakishly cold. At nights, it can feel like it’s 40 degrees Celsius and that brisk feeling can mellow out to 70 degrees Celsius by 11:00am. Street vendors sell wool blankets and scarves and they are a godsend if you haven’t packed for winter.

And thunder storms… oh, how they howl and boom with rabid ferocity, only to pitter-patter and clear up the next day, releasing a mountain full of yellow butterflies! I lived with occasional power outages, an eco-aware attitude about recycling and  got used to the fact that a 10- minute hot shower was necessary to keep Dharamsala clean and healthy.

17. Visiting Mcleod ganj Hospital

Staying a month in Dharamsala, I got comfortable and slacked where it came to food safety. So I got sick with amoebic dysentary . India is great because it has a lot of local pharmacies and they are easy to find. Nevertheless, I visited a doctor (who’s diagnosis wasn’t accurate), then ultimately, ended up at  Mcleod Ganj hospital, a five minute drive from my apartment. As a small hospital servicing a small hill community, the facilities were old but good. I was clear health in a week.

Read my  Food Safety Tips for Travelers

18. Clean & Filtered Water

You don’t think about clean water until you don’t have it. Although Dharamsala had water tanks for practical uses of bathing, toilets, etc…, a sip of clean water always took either, money or effort. So I thought about it often–  how and where I was going to get my water, make it and use it.  There were water stations, where the water had already been boiled and sterilized and you could refill your drinking water for a few ruppees.  Our guesthouse also sold boiled drinking water too and I also had my own ways of boiling and sterilizing water on my own.

From using a sports bottle filter to a boiling wand, each either took time or effort. Either I got tired of fist-pumping my sports bottle for every sip or I got tired of drinking only hot water and tea. Pick your poison. Buy, boil, squeeze… it all boiled down to how lazy I was that day.

Tip: Take a water sterilization pen (Read my  SteriPEN review )

Read 5 Essential Tips You must know before traveing India

19. Indo-Tibetan community

Each day, I pass a flock of red-robed monks enroute to His Holiness, the Dalai Lama’s temple. Some hang out at cafes. I pass old Tibetan grandmas and grandpas faintly murmur “ Om mane padme om ” with jangling prayer beads and this is easily drowned under the cackle of Tibetan toddlers, just out of school.  All these subtleties of daily living make up different notes of a grand opera. They collide, clash and resolve together.

To live as a part of this environment is humbling. Each day I feel a mix of both, gratitude and awe. For me, there are no words to describe the privilege I feel to experience this. … to describe the realization of knowing I chose this place and got here on my own… solo. How can I be capable of such choices, such a bold act and such a daily lifestyle?

I don’t know, but I’m living it right now.

20. Volunteer programs in Mcleodganj

There are many programs for travelers like myself (even short-term ones) to have a positive impact on the community, and it doesn’t entail dishing out gross amounts of money on “voluntourism programs”. I’m actually surprised how easy it is to find and take part in volunteer programs in Mcleodganj.

I’ve seen Tibetan volunteer programs in Mcleodganj take short-term and long-term travelers. Usually, there are three types of volunteer programs:

• English Conversation: You show up in a room filled with travelers and Tibetans, find a Tibetan and converse with them to help them practice their speaking skills. Usually, there is a facilitator, who might have prepared questions written for you to ask. If you have more time to commit, you can tutor people or teach at one of the facilities. (There are a few of these programs)
• Environmental cleanup: Dharamsala has a bad littering problem. You go out and help clean this up.
• Daycare/Babysitting: You babysit and accompany Tibetan toddlers to where the program needs to take them.

21. Where to volunteer in Mcleodganj

Volunteering with non-profit organizations in Mcleodganj is as easy and open, as donating an hour or more of your time to pick up trash in Dharamsala or joining an informal English conversation group with Tibetan students. Many organizations are flexible to travelers and their schedules.

For travelers, it’s a great opportunity to meet people, get involved in the community .

Rogpa  (  www.tibetrogpa.org ) runs a child day care center and a coffee shop with a clothes donation clothes section. Located on Jogiwara Road (just before the steep steps going down the hill to other guesthouses, they are a small shop which also posts fun events and performances around the town. Volunteers needed: companions for the children and babies and people to work in their shop. Clothes donations are welcome and will either be donated to refugees or resold for charity.

Gu Chu Sum Movement of Tibet  ( www.guchusum.org ) provides help to Tibetan political refugees and former political prisoners. Their classes (from 4:30pm-6:30pm).

Tibet Hope Center  ( www.tibethopecenter.org ) is a center in which volunteers can offer their time to conversation classes (from 4:30pm-6:30pm), community cleanup, being nanny’s to children and English language classes.

22.  Food in Mcleod Ganj

Living in Dharamsala for a month, I had international food at it’s fingertips.   Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Italian, as well as, baked goods shops.  It’s almost as if foreign travelers have been figured out-  keep them happy with some western baked goods like donuts, chocolate chip cookies, cheesecake…) It all feels a little odd and a bit like cheating if you’re in Dharamsala wanting to experience native foods.

There’s also a nice selection of Tibetan and Indian restaurants to choose from.  If you want to go local’, Tibetan is it. Tsampa (tibetan porridge) is a bit like oatmeal but made with sweet barley (Yum).   Momos (or Tibetan dumplings) are another easy staple, which travelers love and find filling.

 My fave restaurants were located on the main center road of Jogiwara: Tibet Quality Bakery (mini shoebox bakery on the side of Jogiwara Road)  Tibetan Kitchen (veg momo soup, fried and steamed momos; Located on  Jogiwara Road ), Lungta Restaurant (Korean food, Located off of Jogiwara Road)

23. Finding an apartment in Mcleodganj

Mcleodganj is the most convenient town to stay in as it has the best traveler infrastructure with things to do, restaurant options and a buzzing community of Tibetan Buddhism. To awaken each day to the lush green of mountains and occasional goat herders with their pack and Tibetan flags… To stroll the streets, to pass a cobbler running his business part street-part shack, buy groceries from street fruit vendors and wait for a donkey to pass so you can continue your stroll on the narrow stone walkway to your guesthouse.  The streets are small and winding, so you essentially see some of the same faces daily. The next town beyond Mcleodganj is a ten minute walk to Bagsu. It is significantly smaller with less shops, but further into the hills.

24. Accommodations in Mcleodganj

There is wealth of guesthouses in McLeodganj, with dorm rooms starting at 150 rupees per night.

Long-term rooms can be found with cooking facilities and range from 3000-6000 rupees (US$60-$120) per month. Jogibara Road, below McLeod Ganj, and around Bagsu Road are quieter and are out of town.

Finding my apartment in Mcleodganj is simple as there is a lot of housing for travelers. From small hotels to apartment buildings, you’ll find accommodations in the heart of Mcleodganj as well as on the outskirts. The further you go from the center of town, the less it costs. So I stayed in the cluster of apartment buildings on a lower street along the valley where the view of the mountains were breath-taking and I could see the other nearby towns of Bagsu across the way.

When I arrived in Mcleodganj a week early, I stayed at two other guesthouses in the vicinity, before moving into the apartment recommended by my Yoga Teacher Training program,  Himalaya Yoga Valley. We stayed at the Sidarth House , where there was a studio space on the rooftop. I had a large studio room with a mini kitchen, a TV, closet and dressers and an outdoor balcony .  My room was just below the yoga shala. It was quite nice for budget accommodations in India . After a month of traveling India, it felt nice to root down!

Read my yoga teacher training experience in Dharamsala .

25. best travel insurance for india.

American travelers often pay a premium on travel insurance.  World Nomads offers economic solutions for travelers who seek security and peace of mind.  It covers 150 countries.

26. Getting from Delhi to Mcleodganj

Mcleod Ganj bus station is about 20 kilometers away from Dharamsala and is accessible by frequent buses and taxis. Always ask your school if they do airport pickups first. This is the easiest way.

You can fly into Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) or Dharamsala’s Gaggal Airport (DHM).   From Delhi, you will either take the train, bus, taxi or ask your school if they have an airport pickup. The Dharamsala airport is 40 minutes away from Mcleodganj

Tip: fly to Dharamsala direct. You might find yourself on a flight with the Dalai Lama (a couple of students in my program were!)

There is a 10-hour overnight bus from Delhi to Dharamsala. Buses leave around 8pm and drop you at Dharamsala bus stand, where you catch a public bus, shared jeep, or taxi to Mcleodganj bus station.  Alternately, you can take a bus from Delhi to Pathankot (my bus broke down and I got dropped away from the bus station and need to tuk-tuk there). Then take the government bus to Dharamsala and transfer to the bus to Mcleod Ganj.

Read  Is taking the Indian bus safe for solo travelers?

You can book india trains and buses in advance here ..

Take an overnight train from Delhi to Pathankot (the closest station to Mcleod) takes approx 7 hours and will cost around 1400 Indian Rupees for a seat in second or third AC. Sleeper and day trains run  daily. From Pathankot, take the public bus to Dharamsala. The bus journey from Pathankot to Dharamsala is 90 kilometers or 55 miles and takes approximately three hours. There is a prepaid taxi stand outside of the Pathankot railway station. Read my Complete guide to Indian trains for Solo travelers .

Read my India transportation guide to prepare yourself!

What would you add to this dharamsala travel guide and list of things to know before traveling dharamsala, trip planning for india and want to know where to start.

Learn the India trip essentials from India scams, dress etiquette, itineraries , accommodations , food insights , how to take the bus, dealing with sexual harassment and indian trains , and staying at ashrams .

More Yoga in India Articles

• Why is Yoga in India not like yoga in the West ?
• How to Choose a Yoga School in India for Yoga Teacher Training .
• Eat,Pray, Love… 10 Things about an Indian Ashram?

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15 Things You Must Pack For Your Dharamshala Trip

Winter season is approaching slowly, and numerous travelling souls like you cannot wait further to hit the mountains in India. Specifically, the snow-clad hills of the mighty Himachal Pradesh call for travellers from all across the globe. You must be having a long pending travel plan to explore the beauty of Himachal Pradesh and plan for a Dharamshala trip as a solo traveller or in the company of near and dear ones around. In that case, you must be ready with your preparation well in advance. It is mainly in terms of finding the  best hotel & resort in Dharamshala near Mcleodganj for early booking. 

A Complete Travel Guide for Dharamshala Trip

Most importantly, prepare your packing checklist before making a booking at the best 5-star hotel near Mcleodganj   or any area around.

To help you carry the right and essential things on your Mcleodganj travel experience, we have created this 15 must-pack things list. 

1. Rucksack : First and foremost thing that you cannot fulfill your Mcleodganj travel experience is a spacious and lightweight rucksack. The best way to explore the inside regions of Dharamshala and Mcleodganj above is by walking across different pathways. And no way you can carry that heavy-loaded luggage case everywhere. The best resort you have is carrying a shoulder-hanging rucksack that must have several compartments, pockets, and zippers inside. It must be your one complete walking luggage, no matter wherever you proceed on the hill station. 

2. Walking shoes : Experiencing unforgettable travel on this hill station is incomplete without waiting for lightweight and comfortable shoes. Unlike normal footwear, you need a sports shoe that is light, bumpy, and cushioned inside to cross difficult pathways with ease.

3. Extra pair of socks:  The unpredictable weather of Dharamshala and Mcleodganj can make your feet freeze in cold conditions. Thus, you need an extra pair of socks inside the rucksack to keep your feet always covered up and heated from inside. 

4. Rain jacket : In relation to the above point of unexpected weather at this hill station, you might experience little too heavy showers of rain at any point in time. Therefore, carrying a rain jacket or even a poncho is a must for you, and avoid getting wet outside. 

5. Fleece jacket: A thin-lined and high-quality fleece jacket is your best partner while walking across the glittering streets of Mcleodganj with ease. A little bit of cold weather conditions can make you feel chilled from inside. And wearing a good choice of fleece certainly makes you warm inside. 

6. Gloves:  Do carry at least one pair of woolen gloves while heading outside in the chilly weather condition of this hill station. Keeping your hands warm is essential to make the most out of the external roaming experience with ease. 

7. Extra sets of t-shirts:  You must pack extra sets of half sleeves and full-sleeved t-shirts in your luggage. It could be used for night sleeping comfortably at your  accommodation in Dharamshala   or even during walking in the afternoon sunlight.

8. Thermals:  If you are planning to reach the snow-clad mountains on the top of the Triund trek in Mcleodganj, then it is imperative to carry or wear your thermals. It is necessary to beat the fresh snowfall and minus temperature on top of the mountain.

9. Woolen cap:  Keeping your head and ear warm is essential to bear the cold weather currents flowing in every direction of the hill station. Depending on the requirement, you can carry simple-looking or fancy-looking woolen headwear.   

10. Flip flops:  Spending incredible days in this magnificent hill station is incomplete without feeling comfortable all day long. Wearing flip-flops during the daytime while going for outside lunch or brunch will make your walk all the more simple. 

11. Hiking shoes:  If you are planning for a trekking adventure in Dharamshala, then having hiking shoes is a bare minimal requirement. Wearing good quality and ankle-length high shoes for hiking is essential to stay protected against bruises or feets hitting stones on the way. 

12. Hiking stick:  Another thing that you must carry while hiking or trekking upwards is your hiking stick. It keeps you balanced on difficult pathways and even allows you to cover more distance. 

13. Power bank:  Stay connected with your near ones back at home and other people around by having your smartphone always charged. Do carry a fully charged power bank with you to stay charged up. 

14. Hot water bottle:  Carrying a metal bottle during the cold weather season is essential to keep drinking hot water and staying warm from the inside. It is your best hydrating partner while covering distance or even staying outside for a long. 

15. ID card : Lastly, your identification card or any personal proof is a must to carry inside the luggage. Especially after the pandemic, it is imperative to carry your ID card with you always. 

Fulfill your travel plans towards the little Buddhist tribe which is Mcleodganj near Dharamshala. Prepare your travel in the best manner by carrying the most essential things with you and staying comfortably. Moreover, choose to have accommodation at any of the top resorts in Dharamshala   to experience celebrity-like staying pleasure.

• A Complete Guide for Planning a Lavish Destination Wedding in Dharamshala
• Travel Guide for Dharamshala and McLeodganj
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Dharamshala Mcleodganj Trip – How to Plan & What to See

In my last few articles, I talked in detail about a trip to Dharamshala and Mcleodganj separately; covering details like how to reach, where to stay, and tourist attractions that a person should visit. I also wrote a couple of other articles providing information on monasteries in the area, trekking destinations like Triund and Snowline, and other nearby villages like Dharamkot. In this particular post, I will put all of this information together and talk about how you can plan your Dharamshala Mcleodganj Trip over a period of 4 – 5 days covering all of these places.

I will draft a sample itinerary and then run it down providing a day by day breakup of sightseeing and other activities. Hopefully, after reading this article, you will have a fair enough idea of how you can plan your trip in the best possible manner.

I said 4 to 5 days because in my opinion that is a minimum period of time a person should dedicate to visiting Dharamshala and Mcleodganj. There are is a lot of things to do in this area and with at least 5 days in hand, you will be able to explore and enjoy your trip. Any less than this and it will just be a ‘Touch & Go’ kind of a deal. With that being said, if you were living in close vicinity like Pathankot or Chandigarh, you can also do a trip in 3 days as well.

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Mcleodganj Trip Itinerary

For the sake of the itinerary, I will assume Delhi as your starting point. However, even if you were coming from a different place, only the journey on the first and the last day will be different. The rest of the details will still apply. I will begin with an itinerary for 5 days but will also share a few other versions of the same.

Delhi to Mcleodganj – Day 1

Depending on where you started from in Delhi, the total distance till Dharamshala and Mcleodganj can be slightly over 500 kilometers hence an early start is highly recommended. The good news, however, is that the road is mostly smooth all the way so the entire journey can easily be completed in 10-11 hours. The only thing that can cause a further delay is if you got stuck in traffic around Dharamshala or Mcleodganj.

Find a hotel per your liking and check-in if you did not book one in advance. You can stay at either Dharamshala or Mcleodganj as both of the places are equally good. My advice would be to stay at Mcleodganj because it gives you better sightseeing access. Whether or not to book a hotel in advance is entirely your preference.

My recommendation would be to book your stay. Sometimes both Dharamshala and Mcleodganj can get a bit crowded, especially over long weekends; which means that you may have to run around a bit finding a hotel with a vacancy. Hence better would be to search a bit online and book a hotel per your preference and budget.

Also Read: How to Plan Your Trip to Prashar Lake?

Sightseeing in Mcleodganj – Day 2

You will be spending the entire day today in Mcleodganj, visiting some of the popular tourist destinations and the local market. You will be doing a lot of walking today as well so make sure your feet and shoes are ready. Get up early if possible and your first destination will be the Bhagsu Waterfall. Why I am saying early is because it is one of the most visited tourist destinations in all of Mcleodganj and can get a bit crowded as the day progresses.

You will have to walk a couple of kilometers to get to the waterfall so be prepared for it before you leave the hotel. Reach the waterfall and spend some time. There are a few tea shops near the waterfall and also on the way so you can also have your morning tea and breakfast here. I would suggest that you have tea on the way but for breakfast, trek a little further than the waterfall and eat at the famous Shiva Cafe there.

On your way back to the hotel, visit the famous Bhagsu Nag Temple which is located at the starting point of the path that goes towards the waterfall. Return to the hotel and relax for a little.

Towards noon, pay a visit to Saint John in the Wilderness Church and then go to Dal Lake. Return to the hotel in time and then reach Sunset point to enjoy an amazing view of the Sunset from Mcleodganj. The sunset point is located near Naddi Village, about 4 kilometers from Mcleodganj town; but you will easily find a rickshaw to take you there. After sunset, have dinner at any of the numerous restaurants of Mcleodganj and return to the hotel.

Mcleodganj to Triund – Day 3

Today you will embark upon one of the most known trekking destinations of India, the Triund Top. This trail attracts more than half of the tourist population coming towards Dharamshala and Mcleodganj. The reason why it is so well known is because of its difficulty level and stunning location. Anyone can do this trek, even an absolute beginner with plenty of breaks in between. This was in many ways my first trek even and I did it wearing floater sandals.

For trekking to Triund, first either board a rickshaw or taxi from Mcleodganj till Gallu Devi Temple. This is the starting point of the trek where the road ends and the dirt trail starts.  The entire length of the trail is about 7 kilometers; of which, the first 5 is a gradual ascent. For the final 2 kilometers, however, it climbs rapidly and may seem a little difficult for some people.

Depending on how physically fit you were, your walking pace, and breaks, the average time taken to complete the trek is about 3 to 4 hours. But since you have plenty of time, I wouldn’t recommend rushing at all. Take as many breaks as required and reach Triund Top. You will be camping at top of Triund under countless stars and stunning views all around you. There are numerous campsites here. Find one as per your liking, negotiate a deal and make arrangements for your night stay.

Also Read: Ghosts of Shimla and the Haunting Stories

Triund to Mcleodganj – Day 4

You will trek down to Mcleodganj today the same way that you came but will be covering two more places before reaching back to your hotel. A little ahead of Triund Top is the snowline cafe which gives stunning views of Dhauladhar Range and Indrahar Pass. This is where you will be headed before trekking back down to Mcleodganj. I highly recommend visiting this spot along with Triund Top.

Get up early and ensure that you are on your way to Snowline Cafe by 7 AM. It will take you about two hours to get there. Reach the cafe, have something to eat, enjoy the view, click tons of pictures, and head back to Triund Top. Depending on the pace you were walking at, you should be able to get back to Triund from snowline before 12 noon.

Now it is time to head back to Mcleodganj. Get something to eat first at any of the dhabas at Triund Top and start trekking down. It will take you no more than 2 hours to reach back Gallu Devi Temple because walking back down is easier than climbing up. Right at the spot where the Triund trail starts, there is another trail that goes towards Gallu Waterfall and you will be covering that too before reaching back at your hotel.

Gallu Waterfall

The broader trail on your right leads to Triund, while a narrower trail to your left leads to the Waterfall. There is also a pipeline here that you can follow as your guide. After a walk of about 2 kilometers, this trail will take you to the amazing Gallu Waterfall which unlike Bhagsu Waterfall is not at all crowded. There is hardly anyone around and it is a good spot to take a dip in the waterfall. There is also a cafe near the waterfall where you can get something to eat.

Relax at the waterfall but keep a track of the time. Return to Gallu Devi Temple again; find a ride to take you back to Mcleodganj at your hotel. Freshen up and step out to have dinner and spend your last evening in Mcleodganj.

Also Read: Top 10 Offbeat Places in Himachal Pradesh

Mcleodganj to Delhi – Day 5

The journey today will be of returning home the same way that you came. It is going to be a long and monotonous drive back home in about 11-12 hours. But before you go home, stop for a while at the monasteries in Mcleodganj and Dharamshala.

Tsuglagkhang Complex and Namgyal Monastery (Mcleodganj) and Dalai Lama Temple are definitely worth a visit. Spend some time at the monastery, spin some prayer wheels, talk to the monks, relax and head back home. If you had time, you can actually visit these monasteries on either of your previous days in Mcleodganj as well.

Dharamshala Mcleodganj Trip Itinerary

Now the above itinerary was perfect for someone wanting to focus more on Mcleodganj and including a bit of trekking in their trip as well. But not everyone would have Triund and Snowline as part of their itineraries. For planning a trip with your family, you would, of course, want to stay in the town and have a great time there rather than walking around in the jungle. For a trip like that, below is the itinerary you can follow.

Delhi to Dharamshala – Day 1

As per this itinerary, you will be dividing your time between Dharamshala and Mcleodganj. Your stay too will be at both of these places.

• Get an early start from Delhi and reach Dharamshala. Break your journey here for Day 1.
• Travel time of 10-12 Hours
• Booking accommodation in advance is advised.

Sightseeing in Dharamshala – Day 2

Your day will be spent in Dharamshala itself visiting the local places.

• Visit the Dalai Lama Temple.
• Visit the HPCA Stadium, also known as Dharamshala Cricket Stadium. It is one of the highest cricket stadiums in the world.
• Visit the Dharamshala War Memorial, built in the memory of war heroes and their efforts to protect their motherland.
• Spend the rest of the day exploring the local market, always bustling with colors and energy all around. Do some shopping if you would like to and pick a few souvenirs.
• Return to the hotel and step out to have dinner at any of the numerous and magnificent restaurants in the town.
• Overnight stay in Dharamshala.

Also Read: List of Necessary Items to Carry for Trekking

Dharamshala to Mcleodganj – Day 3

I will recommend moving to Mcleodganj on Day 3 and stay at a hotel there so please make your bookings accordingly.

• Check out early and start driving towards Mcleodganj. It will not take you more than half an hour to get there. Starting really early in the morning will also give you the benefit of avoiding a traffic jam that can be maddening sometimes.
• Check into a hotel and step out for sightseeing.
• Your first destination will be Bhagsu Nag Temple and Waterfall.
• Take a drive to Saint John in the Wilderness Church.
• Enjoy a boat ride in Dal Lake.
• Have something Tibetan, Israeli or even Indian at any a local restaurant in the evening.
• Night stay at Mcleodganj.

Sightseeing around Mcleodganj – Day 4

Your Day 4 of the trip will be spent exploring the beautiful Kangra Valley.

• Do not check out of the hotel as you will be returning back by evening.
• Take a drive to the beautiful Kangra fort, located about 30 kilometers from Mcleodganj. It is known to be the largest and probably the oldest fort in Himachal Pradesh .
• After spending some time at Kangra Fort, continue driving further towards beautiful Masrur Temples. You will have to take the road via Ranital and Lunj. The temples are cut into stones and are known for their beautiful architecture and stunning location. Distance between the fort and the temple is another 30 kilometers and will take you slightly over an hour to reach.
• After visiting the temple, take the road via Lunj, Parai, and Chetru to return to Mcleodganj. The total distance will be about 50 kilometers and will take you a couple of hours to get back to Mcleoganj.
• Freshen up and step out to enjoy the local market and spend your last evening in Mcleodganj.

Not much to say about this day except that it will be a long and monotonous drive back home.

Itinerary # 3

You can also plan this trip in the following manner.

• Day 1: Drive up from New Delhi, begin preferably very early in the morning. Reach Dharamshala in about 10 hours and check in to the hotel.
• Day 2: Sightseeing around Dharamshala – Dal Lake, Dalai Lama Temple Complex and the War Memorial. In the evening, go shopping at the Tibetan markets.
• Day 3: Sightseeing in McLeodganj – Visit Bhagsu Nag Temple and waterfall, St. John’s Church in the wilderness and Lord Shiva’s Temple. Take in the sunset at Talho Sunset Point. You can also trek up to Naddi Village in the Kangra Valley.
• Day 4: Day trip to Palampur – Chamunda Devi Temple, Gopalpur Zoo; and Palampur Tea Gardens.
• Day 5: Breakfast followed by departure to New Delhi

Dharamshala Mcleodganj Dharamkot Itinerary

Dharamkot is a small but beautiful village located 3 kilometers uphill from Mcleodganj. It actually falls on the way to Gallu Devi Temple. A lot of people chose to stay at Dharamkot rather than Mcleodganj because it is way more peaceful and a lot less crowded. If Dharamkot is on your plans then you can plan the trip like mentioned below. For more details on Dharamkot, please read Dharamkot Travel Guide.

• Delhi to Dharamkot – Day 1
• Relax in the village. Trek to Gallu Waterfall, enjoy the sunset at Naddi, and taste delicious food in the restaurants – Day 2
• Trek to Triund and return by evening – Day 3
• Travel down to Mcleodganj and stay here for a day. Visit Bhagsu Nag Temple and Waterfall. Walk in the local market, do some shopping and spend time relaxing in the town – Day 4
• Mcleodganj to Delhi – Day 5

More Itinerary Examples

A few other ways to do make this trip are as mentioned below.

Dharamshala Mcleodganj 6 Days Itinerary

• Delhi to Mcleodganj. Start early from Delhi and visit Kangra Fort on the way – Day 1
• Sightseeing in Mcleodganj. Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex, Namgyal Monastery, Dal Lake, and Sunset Point – Day 2
• Visit Bhagsu Nag Temple and Waterfall. Trek to Triund and camp there for the night – Day 3
• Trek down to Mcleodganj from Triund. Visit the local market, do some shopping and spend time relaxing in the town – Day 4
• This is an optional day but fun if you can add. On this day, you can either drive to Masrur temples and stay another day in Mcleodganj. Or you can drive from Mcleodganj to Bir Billing and enjoy Paragliding there – Day 5
• Return to Delhi – Day 6

Dharamshala Mcleodganj 5 Days Itinerary

• Delhi to Mcleodganj – Day 1
• Bhagsu Waterfall, Bhagsu Nag Temple & Shiva Cafe. See the market in the evening – Day 2
• Triund Trek. Camp for the night – Day 3
• Trek down to Mcleodganj and drive to Dharamshala. Stay for the night in Dharamshala – Day 4
• Dharamshala to Delhi – Day 5

Also Read: Thanedar, Himachal – How to Plan your Trip & Explore

Dharamshala Mcleodganj 4 Days Itinerary

If you were traveling by Public transport and thinking of making a short trip especially for Triund Trek then you can travel in the following manner.

• Leave for Mcleodganj from Delhi ISBT by evening – Day 1
• Arrive early morning at Mcleodganj. Rest for a bit, eat something and leave for Triund. Reaching Triund should take about 5 hrs and you will be there by evening. camp for the night – Day 2
• Leave from Triund and come down to Mcleodganj. Explore Mcleodganj till evening and catch the 6 pm bus to Delhi – Day 3
• Reach Delhi early in the morning – Day 4

So in a way, you are actually just spending 2 days on the trip.

Another way the journey can be made is as below. This is for people who have no interest in trekking to Triund .

• Delhi to Mcleodganj & Night stay at Mcleodganj – Day 1
• Mcleodganj Sightseeing. Visit Namgyal Monastery, Adishakti Temple Naddi, St. John In The Wilderness – Day 2
• Visit Bhagsu Waterfall and come down from Mcleodganj to Dharamshala – Day 3
• Dharamshala Sightseeing – Day 4

Also Read: Shimla – A Complete Travel Guide & Itinerary

Weather of Dharamshala & Mcleodganj

The weather in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj remains cool and pleasant throughout the year. Owing to the high altitude, this entire region is considerably cooler than the surrounding plains. The monsoon months, however, tend to be incredibly wet and humid. The skies remain cloudy and it may rain for days on end. The Winter season here starts in the month of November and lasts till early March, and is extremely cold. In the upper reaches of Dharamshala, near the areas of Mcleodganj and Dharamkot, the night temperature can get close to 0 in these months. Spring arrives in the month of April and the weather remains to be on the pleasant side until June.

July and August is the peak monsoon time and Dhauldhars happens to be one of the wettest Himalayan regions. So until early September, it can rain anytime and anywhere. October is the month of autumn and this is when the valleys all around turn golden. By the end of October, winter starts to settle again. The weather continues to get colder throughout November and it starts to snow in the upper areas by Mid December.

Also Read: Himalayas in Monsoon : Top Tips for a Safe Trip

Best time to visit Dharamshala Mcleodganj

The months of April, May, and June are considered to be the best to plan a trip to Dharamshala and Mcleodganj. It is so because the weather at this time is at its best with clear sunny skies. Days are moderately warm and nights pleasantly cold. This is the best time to plan a trip here with family but if you do not like crowded places, you should avoid a trip at this time. The majority of the people visit here in these months and it may feel like too many people around.

In terms of photography, the months of July, August, and September will be the best. The scenery in these months is at its greatest with lush green hills all around. But it is also the time when the monsoon season can wreak havoc in the area. It can sometimes rain non-stop for days causing landslides and blocking roads. If you do not want to risk it, then avoid traveling in the monsoon season.

For a budget trip as well, July to September and November will be best because it is off-season and you can get a good deal at hotels. For the purpose of trekking, March to May and then October and November are the best months to visit.

Also Read: HP Forest Rest House – How to Book Online & Offline?

How to reach Dharamshala and Mcleodganj

Due to its location in the hills, arriving at Dharamshala and Mcleodganj is only possible by road. You can drive by your own vehicle, board a Bus, catch a train or fly to the nearest airport. All these options are available and it is entirely your own choice to decide how to travel. I will explain all these modes of travel in detail further.

How to reach by Road

Let me begin by first explaining the journey if you decided to travel by your own vehicle, either a car or a motorcycle. For the sake of explaining the route, I will assume Delhi as the starting point. Even if you were coming from a different city, the information below can still help to understand how you can plan your trip.

Starting from Delhi, the route will be as mentioned below.

Delhi – Panipat – Karnal – Chandigarh – Rupnagar – Anandpur Sahib – Una – Amb – Kangra – Dharamshala – Mcleodganj

It is the fastest and the best way to travel but there are a few other alternate routes as well. The total journey will be of about 500 kilometers depending and can be completed in 10 to 12 hours approximately, depending on your speed and breaks. Road conditions for the entire journey will be a mix of good and average but mostly good.

There is a regular Bus service to both Dharamshala and Mcleodganj from almost every nearby city. HRTC operates both Ordinary and Luxury buses out of Dharamshala to places like Delhi, Chandigarh, Pathankot, Shimla, Manali , etc. If you were coming from Delhi, you can board a bus from Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, Majnu ka Tila, and ISBT.

Apart from the state-run buses, Private travel agencies and tour operators also have luxury buses plying on the route. You can search and book these at sites like RedBus . Booking for HRTC can be done at their online Portal Himachal Roadways Bus Booking .

The entire journey takes about 10 to 13 hours and the fare per person will be around Rs. 600-700 for ordinary and between Rs. 1200 to 1500 for luxury buses. The best way to travel would be to board an overnight bus so that you can sleep throughout the journey and reach Dharamshala or Mcleodganj by morning.

How to reach Dharamshala by Flight

The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, 15 kilometers away from Dharamshala. It is also known as Dharamshala airport actually. The airport code is DHM. A flight from Delhi to Dharamshala takes slightly over an hour to reach.

This airport operates commercial flights, private chartered flights to cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Jaipur; and also provides helicopter landing pads. A private taxi from Gaggal to Mcleodganj will cost Rs. 800-900 in peak season.

There is no international flight to this airport and foreign travelers have to travel via Delhi. If there was no flight to Dharamshala from your city, then you the next major airports are located at Chandigarh, Amritsar, or Jammu.

All these three cities are about 200-250 kilometers from Dharamshala and you can either board a Bus or a taxi from these airports to reach Dharamshala.

How to reach Dharamshala by Train

Pathankot Railway Station is the closest one to Dharamshala, located at a distance of about 80 kilometers. From the train station, you can easily get a Taxi or a Bus to reach Dharamshala. Buses by both private operators and state transport are available on this route.

Travel time will be of 3 hours approximately and fare per person is about Rs. 150. If you were coming from Delhi, then an overnight train journey will be the best option. There are several trains available between Delhi and Pathankot.

Another great option to travel from Pathankot to Dharamshala would be Kangra Valley Railway, a scenic six-hour journey. This is a narrow-gauge railway station at Kangra and is only about 30 kilometers away from Dharamshala. The train that brings you to Kangra is a Toy Train (like the Kalka Shimla one) so unless you were hoping in to enjoy this train ride, better would be to board a train for Pathankot only.

There are 6 toy trains available in the day that travel from Pathankot to Joginder Nagar that stop at Kangra. From Kangra, you can book a private taxi or share a cab to reach Mcleodganj.

Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Chail – Himachal Pradesh?

Local Transport in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj

Below are details on how you can commute locally between Dharamshala and Mcleodganj.

Local Buses

There is a local Bus service in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj and it travels to almost all major spots in and around Dharamshala. Fare per person will be between Rs. 10 to Rs. 30. In terms of cost, yes it is a good option but it will take up a lot of your time. The frequency of these buses is one in every hour so a lot of your time will be wasted waiting around. The movement of these buses too is very slow as they continue to stop to pick and drop passengers.

Private taxis

These typically charge Rs. 2500 per person for the Pathankot-Mcleodganj journey and Rs. 800-900 for the Mcleodganj-Dharamshala journey. A share taxi would reduce the cost to Rs. 300-600 per person. The government approved Dharamshala Taxi Union stand is near Kotwali Bazaar in Dharamshala and they have fixed rates for sightseeing in and around the city. Apart from the taxi stand, you can also find a taxi near the Mcleodganj market or in Dharamshala.

Auto Rickshaws

Auto Rickshaws are probably the best and most favorite mode of commute available here. They too have fixed rates (decided by the union) for moving from one place to another and sightseeing. Depending on the distance you want to cover, it will cost you between Rs. 100 to Rs. 500 making it a great choice in terms of both time and money.

Motorcycle Rentals

There are also several motorcycle rental agencies available as well. A lot of people hire automatic bikes like Activa to move around in the town. The usual charge is Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1500 per day for Enfield and Rs. 800 for scooters.

Last but not least, Dharamshala and Mcleodganj are best explored on foot. Take your time and enjoy the picturesque beauty of this hill station on long walks.

Also Read: Narkanda: How to Plan a Trip & What to See?

Where to Stay in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj

Mentioned below are details on accommodation during your trip to Dharamshala and Mcleodganj.

Mcleodganj is a major tourist destination and hence, hotels here are in ample; and they are spread throughout the town. No matter what your budget or preference is, you will easily be able to find a place here to stay. Whether or not to book in advance is really a personal choice.

I find it better to first reach the destination and negotiate an on the spot deal. But if it gives you peace of mind, then you can book your stay prior to your arrival as well. Most of the hotels and guest houses are located close to the main bus stop.

If the budget is not a problem then you have a wide range of hotels to choose from. If you are on a strict budget, then try looking for accommodation in Dharamkot. Bhagsu and Dharamkot are 2 smaller villages where a lot of people chose to stay because they are less crowded and quieter. Both of these places are within walking distance.

If you want a quieter place within Mcleodganj itself then try finding a hotel on Jogiwara Road. If you want to stay for a longer duration, there are a few cheap places near Yongling School on Jogiwara Road. Just head down the steep set of stairs near the school and ask around.

Every year around March, the Dalai Lama holds a teaching session that lasts for about 10 days or so. At this time, the entire town gets very crowded and the prices of hotels get inflated. In this case, you should look around Dharamkot and Upper Bhagsu for cheaper accommodation.

For someone traveling on a tight budget, staying at a hostel is a great choice. There are a couple of hostels in Dharamkot with dormitory-style accommodation and shared lounges which is a great choice for anyone traveling on a budget. Flugler in upper Dharamkot is one such hostel that can be a good place to stay.  The Bunker Hostel is another one where it will cost you about Rs. 700-800 per day.

Dharamkot again is the place where some of the best homestays are located. There are a few in McLeodganj and lower Dharamshala as well but Dharamkot would be much better.

Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Sarahan – Himachal?

What to see & Things to Do

Below is a list of all tourist places in Mcleodganj & Dharamshala and other nearby areas.

• Bhagsu Falls
• Bhagsu Nag Temple
• Sunset Point
• Saint John in the Wilderness Church
• Namgyal Monastery
• Kangra Fort
• Masroor Rock-Cut Temples
• Tibet Museum
• Norbulingka Institute
• Gunna Devi Temple
• Kareri Lake
• Indrahaar Pass and Minkiani Pass

I have actually covered this topic in greater detail in different posts that I will recommend you to read because covering this information here would have resulted in this page getting way too heavy and long. For a detailed explanation of all the places I listed above, please read Tourist Attractions and Activities in Mcleodganj .

For a detailed explanation of the monasteries located here, please read Monasteries in Mcleodganj and Dharamshala .

If you had plans to stay at Dharamkot, then please take a look at Dharamkot Travel Guide .

For a detailed explanation of the trek route from Mcleodganj to Triund, please read Triund Trek – How to Plan Your Adventure .

Things to Do

Below is a list of tourist activities in Dharamshala that you can indulge yourself in. I am only listing below things that you can do in Dharamshala apart from visiting all of the above-mentioned places.

Paragliding

• Where: Several places around Dharamshala and McLeodganj
• When: Summer
• Cost: Depending on the duration of the flight, anywhere between Rs. 2000-8000 per person

Triund Trek

• Where: Begin from Galu or alternatively from Bhagsu Nag
• Cost: Begins from Rs. 3000 per person, depends on the number of days and nights in trek itinerary
• Where: Between Dharamshala and McLeodganj
• Cost: Begins from Rs. 12,000 per person

Kareri Lake Trek

• Where: Take a bus from Dharamshala to Ghera to begin the trek
• Cost: Begins from Rs. 6000 per person

Also Read: Places to visit in Mcleodganj and Things to Do

What & Where to Eat

Let us also talk about one of the best things about Mcleodganj, it’s food.

Food to Try in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj

Some of the items that I would recommend you to try will be the Wood fried Pizza at Trek & Dine. In Tibetan, try Gyuma which is mostly served with Beer. Mutton Momos at Sheila Chowk in Dharamshala and Bun Chhole will be great street food to taste.

In Beverages, try the juice of locally grown Keenu. I really liked the Pasta at Morgan’s Cafe. Trek & Dine and Moonlight Cafe are known for their amazing coffee.

Eat at any of the cafes here and you can have near-perfect Pizza, pasta, lasagnas, pancake, and Israeli Shakshuka. Bhagsu Cake is one item that I will recommend for you to try as a sweet dish or even breakfast. It comes in white and black colors and you should try both. Both white and Black versions of the cake taste quite different.

What’s more? Every restaurant has its own way of making it and it actually tastes different at each of them. The common thing however is that would be delicious no matter where you eat it.

For a quick bite, try the Yak cheese sandwich. In terms of beverages, try the herbal teas available at almost every cafe. And by Herbal tea, I mean Honey, lemon, ginger, and mint tea. Common Tibetan food like soup, noodles, momos are available pretty much everywhere. For alcoholic drinks, try Himalayan fruit wines and Apple cedar available at almost every grocery shop in the village.

Where to Eat

World on a plate is what I really call the cuisine of Dharamshala and Mcleodganj. There are a lot of foreign nationals living in this area including the permanent Tibetan residents due to which, the food here is an amalgamation of Tibetan, Israeli and Italian dishes as well as Indian dishes like Himachali, Punjabi food.

Indian food sadly is not that great but the rest is amazingly mouth-watering. In areas around Dharamshala, you will find mostly Indian and Tibetan food but in Mcleodganj and Dharamkot, it is all European, American, Japanese, Vegan, Israeli, and Italian food joints.

Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Sangla Valley – Himachal?

Israeli Food

There are a lot of Israelis living in this region and for several months actually. Some of them have opened their own food restaurants in places like Dharamkot (along with Italians). Dharamkot is the area where most of these continental restaurants are located. Trek & Dine and Morgan’s cafe are the two most famous ones.

Most of the Israeli dishes like Falafel, Ziva, and Pita are available here. Some of the other great places to try some Israeli food are Four Season Cafe, Hummingbird, Snow Lion Restaurant Moon peak cafe, and Woeser bakery.

Italian Food

Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen is the most famous Italian restaurant in all of Dharamsala and Mcleodganj. If you move to Dharamkot, Trek & Dine will again be the best place to try Italian food. They serve a wood fried Pizza which is simply awesome. Morgan’s Place in Dharamkot and Namgyal cafe in McLeodganj are two other good restaurants to eat Italian cuisine.

Tibetan Food

Mcleodganj is also fondly known as Little Tibet. The Dalai Lama lives here and the place is dominated by Refugee Tibetans so yes, there is authentic Tibetan Food available all over the town. Kailash Restaurant is probably the most famous one in all of Mcleodganj.

Ask at your hotel and they will all advise you to go there. Jimmy’s Tibetan Cuisine and Tibet Kitchen are two other good restaurants. If you are in Dharamkot, try Tibetan at Trek & Dine only. Their momos are one of the best I have ever had.

Japanese Food

Lung Ta Japanese Restaurant is the most known place to try some authentic Japanese food. Other restaurants like Nick’s Italian Kitchen and Sakura Hotel too serve Japanese dishes.

Indian Cuisine

Unfortunately, I found the Indian food in this area to be just about average. There was nothing too great about it. Punjabi food was very bland. I would recommend trying something Himachali though. If you know of a good Indian restaurant here, please do comment and suggest the name.

Also Read: Chitkul – How to Plan your Trip and Explore?

Listed below are some interesting items you can buy in Mcleodganj.

• Singing Bowls: These Bowls produce a beautiful melody when rubbed with a wooden stick.
• Buddha statues
• Different types of tea like Kangra Tea, Tibetan Tea, and Green Tea
• Prayer wheels
• Prayer flags
• Local Tibetan handicrafts
• Decorative knickknacks
• Bead necklaces
• Metalwork jewelry
• Silk and satin wall hangings
• Fabric paintings
• Woolen items like Sweaters, scarves, and socks
• Clothes and bedspreads with ethnic designs
• Colorful Bags and Purses
• Handcrafted diaries
• Handmade paper
• Books on Tibetan culture and Buddhism
• Rugs and carpets
• Mandala paintings

Where to go shopping in Mcleodganj & Dharamshala

Jogibara Road, Kotwali Bazaar, Tibetan Mini Market, and craft shops near the Dalai Lama temple are some great places to go shopping.  There is a shop at the Norbulingka Institute that sells some beautiful wall hangings and decorative pieces. ‘Nowrojis’ is known to be the oldest shop in Mcleodganj.

It was opened in 1860 and they have a beautiful collection of metal crafts, wooden masks. The Green Shop is an outlet that sells handcrafted diaries and paper and other ‘green’ Items.

Dharamshala Tea Company is where you can buy different kinds of tea. TCV Handicrafts is a non-profit organization selling some great handicraft items like woolen garments, carpets, silverware, etc. Profit from their sales goes towards the education and welfare of Tibetan refugee children.

Also Read: Mcleodganj to Delhi – The Return Journey Home

Facilities Available

Last but not least, below is the information on some basic facilities in Dharamshala & Mcleodganj.

ATM in Dharamshala & Mcleodganj

Almost every major Bank has its branch in Dharamshala & Mcleodganj and they all provide ATM services. The villages of Dharamkot, Gallu, and Bhagsu, however, have not ATM. Most of the ATMs are located in the main market area of both Mcleodganj and Dharamshala. My advice would be that you carry sufficient cash from home or somewhere in plains only, especially during peak tourist season.

Mobile Network in Dharamshala & Mcleodganj

No matter which network you were on, your phone will work fine in both Mcleodganj and Dharamshala. Data connectivity also will be fast and reliable. The only time you will lose network is when you go towards Triund.

Medical Assistance

There are several hospitals and clinics in both Dharamshala and Mcleodganj and they are all well-equipped ones. So getting medical help here will not be a problem at all. The villages of Dharamkot, Naddi, Gallu, and Bhagsu, however, have no hospitals and you will have to come down to Mcleodganj.

Also Read: 11 Tips On Making New Friends While Traveling

Petrol Pumps and Mechanics in Mcleodganj and Dharamshala

There is no petrol pump in Mcleodganj but there are several in Dharamshala and on the route. Mechanics too are available in Dharamshala but you may find a few in Mcleodganj as well for minor fixes like punctured tire etc.

Electricity and other facilities

There is electricity in the town and all the hotels. High-speed internet and Wi-Fi is available at restaurants, guest houses, and hotels. Mobile phones will get 4G data. As a tourist, you will get every facility that you may need.

Tibetan, Hindi, and English are the main languages spoken and well understood in Mcleodganj. Locals also communicate Himachali languages like in Pahari or Kangri.

That covers most, if not all, of the information that you need to know before planning your Dharamshala Mcleodganj Trip. I hope the details above were of help. If you have any other questions; or need any other details; please feel free to ask in the comments section below, or at our Community Forum ; and I will be glad to answer.

Vargis.Khan

Not much to write about me really except for that I love to travel around whenever I can and to wherever I can. This blog is just a small attempt to share my travel experiences with the world. Hope you like it !!!

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Hello Vargis,

Thanks a lot for the piece of information. I need few suggestions to plan itinerary for 4 days and 3 night during summer vacation in June . we are a family of 2 adult +2 child. we are not much into the trekking part. Also, I wish to include jwala ji and Chintapurni Darshan in the trip . I am planning to board train from delhi to Amb Anduara and cab from amb to Dharamshala. Please suggest.

Hello Vargis

Thank you for a detailed and precise blog. I’m planning a trip to Dharamshala with my husband and 7months baby(would be 7 months by then) by March 2nd week. Is it doable considering the infant and is there any specific points to consider before visiting? Thanks in advance

Hey Vargis, have been reading your travel blogs. Indeed, you have written extensively about the places you have visited. I have never read any blogs which covers so many varied things related to the place. Very well written. Keep up the good work. It indeed helps many people like me to plan their trip smoothly. Thank you again for taking time and writing all about these places.

Thank you Sandeep Bhai for taking the time to drop a note and for your kind words

Vargis, Pl. suggest I’m Planning a trip with Fmly in June Month , 2 kids – 15 & 22 yrs age . Flight Delhi – Amritsar , by Road to Dalhousie 2 N , then Khajjar 2 N then Dharamsala/ 3 N then Flight Dharamsala- Delhi . Kindly suggest Best Route & No. of Night spend in each Destination s.

Hi Vargis, is it okay to travel to dharmsala and Mcleodganj in end December.

Hello Faiza – Yes it is Ok to go in December

I am planning for a 6 day trip to Dharamshala starting from 10th July, is it advisable ? with family ? Will I get a chance for outing or will have a stay inside hotel all the day due to rain ? How serious is the landslide issues ? Will I be able to go to all those places you have explained above ?

Thank you so so much for writing everything in so much details it proved so helpful in planning and executing our Mcleodganj trip …..gratitude to you Mr Vargis Khan .

Thank you Aarti ji for taking the time to drop a note

Hello Vargis I have never read such a detailed blog. Thank you for writing this.

Two questions We can camp at triund top or we have to go somewhere else from camping?

If we can camp we have to book our camp before hand or we can do after reaching there?

Thank you Chahak. Camping is not officially allowed anymore at the top but some people I heard were still able to do it. There are no campsites readily available anymore. You will have to book in Mcledoganj and they can make arrangements for you.

Thank u for the detailed information provided. I am planning to go dharmasala, dalhausie end of March . please tell me is this suitable time to visit there. can i find snow there. waht will be the temperature etc? Also can i do Triund treck with a child aged 7 years. please let me know.

You have covered almost everything needed to go on a trip here. Thank you for writing this blog. Blogs like these help us in planning and making the most out of our trips. Very helpful!

You have written everything which can be possibly required on the journey. What a wonderful post.

Thank you for taking the time to drop a note Gautam.

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