Are you thinking of visiting Dharamshala this time? Wow, what a great decision you've made! Surrounded by Dhauladhar Range of the Himalayas and dense deodar forests, Dharamshala is a picturesque hill station that captures tourists' attention. It became most significant since His Holiness the Dalai Lama chose this place as his home. The city is around 1457m above sea level and is a blend of Tibetan and Kangra cultures. From peaceful landscapes and dense forests to vibrant temples and beautiful lakes, or mesmerizing waterfalls, there are numerous places to visit in Dharamshala that one must definitely explore during their trip. This season, plan a trip to Dharamshala and discovers its fascinating destinations.

Places to Visit in Dharamshala for Stunning Himalayan Views

Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Dharamshala, a peaceful and lovely hill station in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is a great retreat for people seeking peace and solace. When touring the town, visitors will be treated to  beautiful views of the Himalayan ranges. The town is separated into two sections: ‘Lower Dharamshala’, a commercial center, and ‘Upper Dharamshala’. The latter is home to lovely little Lhasa or McLeod Ganj, a calm residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The town is popular not just with visitors, but also with spiritual searchers and religious travelers. So, if you are also planning to explore the stunning places to visit in Dharamshala, try to visit during the spring and summer months i.e. between mid-February and June. During these months, you can enjoy the picturesque beauty, snow, and adventure activities without facing any hurdle.

Here is the list of top 15 places to visit in Dharamshala:

  • Triund Hill
  • Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium
  • McLeod Ganj
  • Namgyal Monastery
  • Bhagsunag Waterfalls
  • Kangra Fort
  • Bir Billing
  • Kareri Lake
  • Dharamshala Tea Gardens
  • Library of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA)
  • St. John in the Wilderness Church Pray amidst Nature
  • War Memorial
  • Gyuto Monastery
  • Tsuglagkhang Temple
  • Jwala Devi Temple

1. Triund Hill: A True Paradise for Trekkers

Triund Hill

Triund is a popular trekking destination and ranks first among the top 5 places to visit in Dharamshala. It is located at an altitude of 2,875 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. The trek to Triund Hill is relatively easy and takes around 4-5 hours. Tourists can also camp overnight at Triund Hill and gaze at the starry sky. The trail itself is  beautiful, and it offers the best Dharamshala sightseeing opportunity to trekkers. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery from the top of the hill as trekking is one of the most enjoyable adventure activities when you come to explore the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.

Location: Kangra, Himachal Pradesh

Entry Fee: Free

Popular Hotels:

  • Hotel Holiday Hill
  • Hotel Moon Walk Residency
  • Hotel Wood Castle
  • Hotel Varuni Mcleodganj
  • Hotel Akash - Luxury Hotel In McLeod Ganj

Popular Restaurants:

  • Tibet Kitchen
  • Main Point Restaurant & Cafe
  • Norling Restaurant
  • Falak Open Air Roof Top Restaurant
  • Kalsang Cafe and Restaurant

Major Attractions:

  • Lahesh Cave
  • Laka Glacier Trek
  • Snowline, Laka Glacier Trek
  • Jota Wali Mata
  • Maujhi Waterfall

Best Time to Visit: March to June

Ideal Stay Duration: 5-6 Hours

Things to do: Trekking, Sightseeing, Photography

2. Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium: Competition amidst Marvelous Hills

Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

If you're looking for some amazing places to visit in Dharamshala in one day, you should definitely explore Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium, one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world. Also known as Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, it's a great place for cricket lovers and they can spend their whole day strolling around this stadium. Located at an altitude of 1457 m above sea level, the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium is one of the most popular Dharamshala tourist places. This magnificent stadium has a seating capacity of around 25,000 spectators and is nestled among the greens of the Himalayan Dhauladhar range, and its allure is beyond words. The most interesting part of the stadium is  its Tibetan-style architecture. The stadium is designed in a way that the thrill of sports and the charm of nature coexist.

Location: Stadium Rd, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215

Contact Number: 0189 222 9539

Opening Hours:

  • Monday – Tuesday – Thursday – Friday – Saturday – Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Wednesday - 9 AM to 5 PM; 6 PM to 7 PM

Entry Fee: Free

Nearby Hotels:

  • Infinitea Centric Dharamshala
  • Hotel Centre Point
  • Hotel City Plaza
  • Hotel Solitude
  • Gk Conifer

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Shiva Drink & Dine
  • Kapoor's
  • Food Safari Dharamshala
  • The Burger company
  • Nutmegg Restaurant

Nearby Attractions:

  • War Museum
  • Kangra Art Museum
  • Naddi Hill Point McLeod Ganj
  • Namgyal Monastery
  • Lahesh Cave

Best Time to Visit: March- Mid July (Depends on scheduled matched)

Ideal Stay Duration: 30 mins- 1 hours

Things to do:  Watching Cricket, Sightseeing, Photography

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3. McLeod Ganj: Meditate and Pray at the Home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama

McLeod Ganj

It is one of the best tourist places in Dharamshala. McLeod Ganj is the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and a significant Tibetan settlement in India. It is located in the upper part of Dharamshala, and tourists can visit the Dalai Lama Temple, which is a place of worship for Buddhists. The temple has a beautiful statue of Lord Buddha where you can see the Tibetan monks meditating or praying. Popularly known as Little Lhasa or Dhasa, this picturesque small town is known for adventure excursions, exploring enchanting natural wonders, and seeking tranquility, some of the best things to do in India.

Location: Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219

Entry Fee: NA

Popular Hotels:

  • Hotel Holiday Hill
  • Hotel Moon Walk Residency
  • Hotel Wood Castle
  • Hotel Akash - Luxury Hotel in McLeod Ganj
  • Best Western Plus Revanta

Popular Restaurants:

  • Tibet Kitchen
  • Main Point Restaurant & Cafe
  • Norling Restaurant
  • Falak Open Air Roof Top Restaurant
  • Kalsang Cafe and Restaurant

Major Attractions:

  • Dalai Lama Temple, Tsuglagkhang Complex
  • Naddi View Point
  • Namgyal Monastery
  • Bhagsunag Waterfalls
  • Dharamshala Skyway - McLeod Ganj Station

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

Ideal Stay Duration: 2- 3 days

Things to do: Prayer, Sightseeing, Photography

4. Namgyal Monastery: The Largest Monastery Outside of Tibet

Namgyal Monastery

Another popular destination that lies on the list of best places to visit in Dharamshala is the Namgyal Monastery. Located in McLeod Ganj, it  is the largest Tibetan monastery outside Tibet and more than 200 monks practice Buddhism here. Also referred to as “Dalai Lama’s Temple”, this monastery  was established in 1575 by the third Dalai Lama and is a significant center of learning and meditation for the Tibetan community. Tourists can witness the daily prayers and rituals performed by the monks at the monastery. As one of the most alluring places to see in Dharamshala, it provides a unique cultural experience as well as dazzling views of snowcapped mountains and lush flora all around.

Location: McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 8 PM

Entry Fee: Free

Nearby Hotels:

  • Hotel Centre Point
  • Nandini Villa
  • Hotel Varuni Mcleod Ganj
  • The Panda Hotel in Dharamshala McLeod Ganj
  • Agastya Residency

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Shiva Drink & Dine
  • Kapoor's
  • Ramailo Restaurant & Cafe
  • Midtown Restaurant and Bar
  • Kyizom Himalayan Eatery

Nearby Attractions:

  • Dalai Lama Temple, Tsuglagkhang Complex
  • Dip Tse Chok Ling
  • Kalachakra Temple
  • Gyuto Tantric Monastery Temple
  • Nechung Monastery

Best Time to Visit: September to June

Ideal Stay Duration: 1-2 hours

Things to do: Prayer, Sightseeing, Photography

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5. Bhagsunag Waterfalls: Inhale the Mystical and Spiritual Vibes

Bhagsu Waterfalls

One of the best places to visit in Dharamshala in October is Bhagsu Waterfalls that you should definitely explore during your trip. Popularly known as Bhagsunag Waterfalls, this scenic spotll is located near the Bhagsunath Temple in McLeod Ganj. It is surrounded by lush greenery, and the sound of the water cascading down is very soothing. Tourists can spend some time playing in the lake formed by the waterfall. The splendor of the waterfall's 30-foot cold, chilling, and refreshing water gives mystical and spiritual vibes and makes it one of the most popular places to visit in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.

Location: Near McLeod Ganj market area, Kangra, Dharamshala

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 9 PM

Entry Fee: Free

Nearby Hotels:

  • DLS Meghavan Resort
  • Hotel Sky Pie
  • Hotel Triund Heights
  • Hotel Sky Bhagsu - Hotel in Bhagsu Nag
  • Him Holiday Ventures

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Chilly Beans Cafe
  • Lord Krishna Rasoi
  • Sandy's Kitchen
  • Lotus Punjabi Dhaba
  • The Unmad Kitchen

Nearby Attractions:

  • BhagsunathTemple
  • Dalai Lama Temple, Tsuglagkhang Complex
  • Namgyal Monastery
  • Lahesh Cave
  • Tea Gardens

Best Time to Visit: October and November

Ideal Stay Duration: 1-2 hours

Things to do: Enjoying waterfall, Sightseeing, Photography

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6. Kangra Fort: Witness the Marvelous Heritage

Kangra Fort

Located at a distance of around 20 kilometers, Kangra Fort is one of the best places to see near Dharamshala It is one of India's oldest forts and a renowned tourist site, attracting many tourists from around the country. The Katoch dynasty constructed the fort in the 4th century BC, and tourists may see the remnants of the fort as well as witness wonderful views of the surrounding area from the fort. The fort houses a small museum and three temples, known as Ambika Devi Temple, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, and the Shitla mata Temple. Climb the highest point to experience  breathtaking views of the luscious green surroundings and nearby flowing rivers. Also, if you are looking for some of the most popular places to travel in India in summer while traveling to Dharamshala, Kangra Fort is a great tourist spot to visit.

Location: Old Kangra, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh 176001

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM

Entry Fee:

  • INR 150 for Indians
  • INR 300 for Foreigners

Nearby Hotels:

  • Hotel River Retreat – Dharamshala
  • Clarks Inn Suites, Kangra
  • Hotel Oasis
  • Hotel The Mango Tree
  • Hotel The Grand Raj

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Cafe hummingbird
  • Brewbakes
  • Royal Hotel & Restaurant
  • Kangra Kitchen
  • Daily grillz

Nearby Attractions:

  • Gupt Ganga Temple
  • Maharaja Sansar Chandra Museum & Cafe
  • Rani Ka Talaab
  • Shaktipeeth Shri Bajreshwari Devi Temple, Kangra
  • Achhra Mata Kund

Best Time to Visit: March to August

Ideal Stay Duration: 1-2 hours

Things to do: Trekking, Sightseeing, Photography

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7. Bir Billing: The Paragliding Capital of India

Bir billing

It will be the most incredible experience of your life to soar across Bir's skies like a wild bird. Located around 75 km from Dharamshala, Bir Billing is one of the most popular places to visit near Dharamshala to explore the tranquil beauty and cultural richness of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. As the capital of flying, Bir Billing attracts travelers from all around the world who want to paraglide, and Bir is well known for its use of thermal lift and ridge lift techniques. The best months to visit this location are between early March and June and September to November, since the weather is great for paragliding. The Paragliding World Cup held each year in Bir. Tourists can also opt for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and camping in addition to paragliding at the various gorgeous places to visit in Bir Billing.

Location: Joginder Nagar Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Nearby Hotels:

  • Infinitea Retreat Bir
  • Zostel Plus Bir
  • The Trippy Tribe Extended
  • Sunset Point Home Stay And Food Corner
  • North Wind 57

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Olive Kitchen || Casper’s Cafe
  • Millets Beed
  • Himachali Dhabha
  • Ara Cafe – Bir
  • Bir Biling Dhaba

Nearby Attractions:

  • Bangoru Waterfall
  • Gunehar Hidden waterfall
  • Amuzium Illusion Museum
  • Gunehar Valley
  • Sherabling Monastery

Best Time to Visit: March and June, September to November

Ideal Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Things to do: Trekking, paragliding, mountain biking,  fishing, camping, photography

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8. Kareri Lake: Cherish the Surreal Beauty

Kareri Dal Lake

Kareri  Lake is a small lake located in the lower Dharamshala area and is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala in May. It is surrounded by magical hills and is an incredible picnic spot for tourists. Surrounded by cedar trees, the lake stays frozen from December to March, so if you are looking for adventure and peace, you should include Kareri Lake in your list as it is one of the most offbeat places near Dharamshala. The glaciers of Dhauladhar Hills are the main source of water in the lake. You can reach the lake by hiking through stunning woods, streams, alpine grassland, deep slopes, and Chilgoza pines.

Location: Kangra, Himachal Pradesh 176001

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 6 PM

Entry Fee: Free

Nearby Hotels:

  • Snow Biscuit Huts
  • Kareri Cottages
  • Zostel Plus Kareri
  • Sort By Stays, Kareri
  • The Hosteller Kareri

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Salt and pepper restaurant
  • Dhauladhar view cafe
  • Hotel Morya – Kareri
  • Hotel Himalayan off trails
  • Evaans Cafe

Nearby Attractions:

  • Minkiani Pass
  • Dalai Lama Temple, Tsuglagkhang Complex
  • Gallu waterfall
  • Ghera Village
  • Bhagsu Naag Waterfall

Best Time to Visit: March to May, October

Ideal Stay Duration: 1 hours

Things to do: Trekking, Sightseeing, Photography

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9. Dharamshala Tea Gardens: Admire the Taste of Tea amidst Lush Green Landscape

Dharamsala Tea Gardens

Dharamshala Tea Gardens or Tea Gardens of Dharamshala  is a serene haven for tea enthusiasts and provides picturesque views of the spectacular snow-capped Dhauladhar mountain range. The garden is spread across a lush green landscape and is home to excellent tea plants that produce some of the world's finest and freshest tea leaves. The tranquil setting and invigorating tea leaves make the tea garden one of the must-see Dharamshala tourist places in the midst of nature.

Location: Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh (about half an hour from McLeod Ganj)

Opening Hours:

  • Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday – Closed

Entry Fee: Free

Nearby Hotels:

  • Hotel Centre Point
  • Dhauladhar Hills Resort & spa
  • The Royal Castle
  • Hotel City Plaza
  • Dadhwal BnB

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Shiva Drink & Dine - Restaurant & Bar in Dharamshala
  • Kapoor's - Best Restaurant & Bakery shop in Dharamshala
  • Park Restaurant
  • R Square
  • Moti Mahal Delux, Maximus mall

Nearby Attractions:

  • Namgyal Monastery
  • Bhagsu Waterfall
  • Dal Lake
  • Laka Glacier Trek
  • Kangra Fort

Best Time to Visit: March - June

Ideal Stay Duration: 1-2 hours

Things to do: Tea tasting, Sightseeing, Photography

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10. Library of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA): Discover the House of Precious Tibetan Collection

Library of Tibetan Works and Archives

The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA) is a world-renowned Tibetan literature, art, and culture institution in Dharamshala. The library is one of the best  places to visit in India that contains a large collection of rare manuscripts, books, and thangka paintings that give insight into Tibet's rich cultural past. The LTWA, founded in 1970 by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, also provides courses in Tibetan language, history, and culture, making it a center for Tibetan studies and this is the reason why Dharamshala tourist places list  is incomplete without exploring LTWA. The library is a popular location for scholars, researchers, and visitors interested in learning more about the Tibetan people's old wisdom, traditions, and customs.

Location: Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215

Opening Hours:

  • Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 1 PM
  • Sunday – Closed

Nearby Hotels:

  • Nandini Villa
  • Agastya Residency
  • Pong View Hotel Dharamshala
  • Hotel Dhauladhar (HPTDC)
  • Surbhi Guest House

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Midtown Restaurant and Bar
  • Vinod’s Rasoi
  • Rajinder Vaishnav Dhaba
  • Kyizom’s Kitchen
  • Mannat Fast Food

Nearby Attractions:

  • Tea Gardens of Dharamshala
  • Dharamshala Skyway - McLeod Ganj Station
  • Bhagsu Nag Waterfall
  • State War Memorial
  • Thatharana Trek

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

Ideal Stay Duration: 1-2 hours

Things to do: Tea tasting, Sightseeing, Photography

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11. St. John in the Wilderness Church Pray amidst Nature

St. John in Wilderness Church

Explore the tranquility of St. John in the Wilderness Church, one of the best places to visit in and around Dharamshala and make the most of your trip. The church, famed for its gorgeous design, is nestled within deodar woodlands and is filled with memorial stones of British soldiers who were stationed here. It may appear to be an ancient and abandoned edifice from the outside, yet the insides are still extremely well maintained and highly lively, making it one of the most scenic Dharamshala sightseeing places.

Location: Road to Naddi Village from McLeod Ganj, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215

Opening Hours:

  • Monday - Saturday - 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM
  • Sunday: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM

Entry Fee: Free

Nearby Hotels:

  • Hotel Holiday Hill
  • Hotel Moon Walk Residency
  • Hotel Wood Castle
  • Hotel Akash - Luxury Hotel in McLeod Ganj
  • Best Western Plus Revanta

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Tibet Kitchen
  • Main Point Restaurant & Cafe
  • Norling Restaurant
  • Falak Open Air Roof Top Restaurant
  • Kalsang Cafe and Restaurant

Nearby Attractions:

  • Namgyal Monastery
  • Kalachakra temple
  • Start of kora circuit, McLeod Ganj
  • Dharamshala Skyway - McLeod Ganj Station
  • Dalai Lama Temple, Tsuglagkhang Complex

How to reach: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, approximately 18 kilometers away from Dharamshala.

Best time to visit: March to June and September to November

Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours

Things to do: Exploring the church, nature walk amidst pine forests, picnic, and photography

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12. War Memorial: Pay Tribute to the Soldiers

War Memorial

War Memorial  is one the best tourist spots in Dharamshala for all country lovers to honor the Himachal War Heroes who sacrificed their lives for Bharat Mata. The main monument has three curved walls in black marble that bear the inscribed names of the warriors of our motherland. Reflect in the peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by landscaped gardens and memorial walls inscribed with names. War Memorial  is one of the among Dharamshala tourist places to discover the museum showcasing historical artifacts and exhibits related to the Indian armed forces.

Location: HP State War Memorial Service and Development Society, Civil Lines, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday - 6 AM to 8 PM

Entry Fee:

  • INR 20 per person
  • Free for children up to 5 years

Nearby Hotels:

  • Infinitea Centric Dharamshala
  • Hotel Centre Point
  • Hotel City Plaza
  • Hotel Solitude
  • Dadhwal BnB

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Shiva Drink & Dine
  • Kapoor's
  • Food Safari Dharamshala
  • Ramailo Restaurant & Cafe – Dharamshala
  • Anshul Food Point

Nearby Attractions:

  • Dhauladhar view
  • Tea Gardens
  • Kunal Pathri Mata Temple
  • Shiva Temple
  • Himalayan Art Museum

How to reach: Visitors can reach Dharamshala by air, with Gaggal Airport being the nearest airport. Road transport is also available from nearby cities and towns.

Best time to visit: March to June and September to November

Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours

Things to do: Pay respects to the fallen soldiers, stroll in the gardens, explore artifacts, and learn about the history of Indian Army

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13. Gyuto Monastery: Step into the Land of Buddha

Gyuto Monastery

One of the amazing places to visit in Dharamshala is Gyuto Monastery that consists of a beautiful gold-plated statue of Lord Buddha.  This temple is highly known for its  tantric meditation practices and vibrant Buddhist culture. Visitors can witness monks chanting sacred hymns, performing captivating rituals, and experiencing spiritual serenity. Also, you can marvelat the monastery's intricate murals and explore the library's vast collection of Buddhist scriptures. It is one of the best tourist places in Dharamshala for meditation and learning about Tibetan traditions. The monastery’s unique architectural beauty and rich history make it a must-visit destination for those seeking peace and enlightenment.

Location: 59P9+XG6, Sidhbari, Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh 176053

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday - 5:00 AM - 4:30 PM, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Entry Fee: Free

Nearby Hotels:

  • Highland Village Resort by L'âge Voyage
  • GK Resorts
  • Jujurana Resort & Spa
  • Him View Home Stay
  • Hotel Red Carpet

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Willow Tree Restaurant
  • Delicious Delight
  • Hot & Chilli spicy
  • V J Dhaba
  • Taste of Spiti Cafe

Nearby Attractions:

  • Naam Art Gallery
  • Tea Gardens
  • Lahesh Cave
  • Dalai Lama Temple, Tsuglagkhang Complex
  • Bhagsu Nag Waterfall

How to reach: The nearest airport is Gaggal or Kangra Airport. Visitors can also reach Dharamshala by road from nearby cities and towns.

Best time to visit: March to June and September to November (specially on Buddha Poornima)

Ideal stay duration: 2-3 hours

Things to do: Witness the rituals and ceremonies performed by the resident monks, explore the monastery's architecture and murals, and visit the library housing Buddhist scriptures.

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14. Tsuglagkhang Temple: Indulge in Serenity

Tsuglagkhang Temple

Another Dharamshala sightseeing is Tsuglagkhang Temple which attracts Buddhist pilgrims throughout the year. Being one of the best tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh, the temple is also known as the Dalai Lama Temple. Located within McLeod Ganj, the temple is mainly known for its colorful Tibetan architecture and breathtaking views. Here, one can discover resplendent Buddha statues, witness serene chants, and explore the museum showcasing Tibetan art and relics. Tsuglagkhang Temple is also one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala to find  inner peace and gain insights into Tibetan Buddhism.

Location: McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM, Daily

Entry Fee: Free

Nearby Hotels:

  • Hotel Centre Point
  • Nandini Villa
  • Hotel Varuni McLeod Ganj
  • Agastya Residency
  • The Panda Hotel in Dharamshala McLeod Ganj

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Shiva Drink & Dine - Restaurant & Bar in Dharamshala
  • Kapoor's - Best Restaurant & Bakery shop in Dharamshala
  • Ramailo Restaurant & Cafe – Dharamshala
  • Midtown Restaurant and Bar
  • Vinod’s Rasoi

Nearby Attractions:

  • Namgyal Monastery
  • Tibetan National Martyrs Memorial
  • Nechung Monastery
  • Dharamshala Skyway - McLeod Ganj Station
  • Kalachakra temple

How to reach: By air (Gaggal Airport), by train (Pathankot), or by road

Best time to visit: March to September

Ideal stay duration: 1-2 days

Things to do: Visit the main temple, explore the Tsuglagkhang Complex, attend spiritual discourses, explore McLeod Ganj, trekking and nature walks.

15. Jwala Devi Temple: Soak in the Spiritual Energy

Jwala Devi Temple

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Dharamshala in October, Jwala Ji Temple or Jwala Devi Temple is totally recommended to you. Ascend the scenic hill to Jwala Devi Temple in Kangra which is one of the most sacred religious tourist attractions in Dharamshala. This sacred place is renowned for its eternal flame that symbolizes the presence of Goddess Jwalamukhi. Pay homage to the Hindu Goddess and witness the eternal flame that has burned for centuries. Absorb the spiritual energy and soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Location: Jawala Ji Temple Road, Kohala, Jwalamukhi, Himachal Pradesh 176031

Opening Hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 9 PM (During winter)
  • Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 10 PM (During summer)

Aarti Timings:

  • Mangal Aarti- Everyday: - 5:00 AM - 6:00 AM during summer; 6:00 AM - 7:00 AM during winter
  • Panjupchaar Pujan- After Mangal Aarti
  • Bhog Aarti- Everyday: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM during summer, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM during winter
  • Evening Aarti- Everyday: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM during summer, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM during winter
  • Shaiyan Aarti- Everyday: 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM during summer; 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM during winter

Entry Fee: Free

Nearby Hotels:

  • Clarks Inn Suites, Kangra
  • Hotel Oasis
  • Hotel Abhi Residency
  • OYO 62320 Hotel Laj
  • Sharma Guest House

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Royal Hotel & Restaurant
  • Kamal Dhaba
  • The Londonn Burger Co
  • Gopu Kangra Dham Bata Gully
  • Food Safari Kangra

Nearby Attractions:

  • Dalai Lama Temple, Tsuglagkhang Complex
  • Naddi Hill Point Mcleod Ganj
  • Tea Gardens
  • Kangra Fort
  • Namgyal Monastery

How to reach: By air (Gaggal Airport), by train (Jwalamukhi Road Railway Station), or by road.

Best time to visit: March to June and September to November.

Ideal stay duration: 1 day

Things to do: Seek blessings at the temple, explore the surrounding area

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Some Additional Information About Dharamshala

Dharamshala

These places to visit in Dharamshala must have tempted you to go there and explore every nook and corner. If you have already started planning in your mind, take a few more minutes and read some additional information to have a hassle-free tour of these hypnotic attractions in Dharamshala:

How to reach Dharamshala:

  • By Air: Dharamshala can be reached via Gaggal or Kangra Airport, which is approximately 13.2  kilometers away
  • By Train: The nearest major railway station is Pathankot, around 85 kilometers from Dharamshala
  • By Road: The city is well-connected by road, and buses are available from various nearby cities and towns

Best time to visit Dharamshala: Mid-February and June

Best time for snowfall in Dharamshala: December to February

Dharamshala is ideal for: Dharamshala is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers. It offers breathtaking landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities, and a peaceful atmosphere for those seeking solace and tranquility.

Best food in Dharamshala: Tibetan cuisine, Momos, Thukpa, and local Himachali dishes. Don't miss trying the delicious butter tea and local sweets like Tibetan butter cookies.

Famous adventure activities in Dharamshala: Paragliding, camping, trekking, rock climbing, and river rafting in and around Dharamshala

Famous Treks in Dharamshala: Some popular treks in Dharamshala include Triund Trek, Kareri Lake Trek, Indrahar Pass Trek, and Bhagsu Nag Trek

Famous Markets in Dharamshala: McLeod Ganj Market, Kotwali Bazaar, and Tibetan Handicrafts Center are famous to shop for Tibetan artifacts, handicrafts, jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs.

To experience the tranquil ambience and learn about Tibetan culture, one must keep these amazing places to visit in Dharamshala, including the famous Dalai Lama Temple. Some other notable sites in the vicinity are the Bhagsu Nag Temple and Waterfalls, Triund Hill, Namgyal Monastery, and Kangra Fort. One can indulge in a plethora of adventure sports, such as paragliding, camping, trekking, rock climbing, cycling, and trekking in the hills and meadows. Overall, Dharamshala provides an enthralling combination of culture, adventure, and natural beauty that you can explore by availing yourself one of the best Dharamshala tour packages.

Places to Visit in Dharamshala – FAQ's

Q1. What is the best time of the year to visit Dharamshala?

The best time to visit Dharamshala is between mid-February and June when the weather is mild. Though you can travel here in the months of December and January too if you like cold weather and winter excursions.

Q2. What is the best way to reach Dharamshala for a vacation?

Dharamshala is well connected by the major cities, one may travel to the town through Gaggal or Kangra Airport or Pathankot railway station followed by taxis and buses, or by private vehicle.

Q3. What are the top activities to indulge in in Dharamshala?

Some of the best things to do in Dharamshala for an exciting holiday include:

  • Paragliding in Bir Billing
  • Camping
  • Hiking
  • Rock Climbing
  • Bicycling
  • Trekking
Q4. What are the best hotels to stay in Dharamshala during my trip?

There are many hotels and resorts in Dharamshala where you can make your stay comfortable during you trip including:

  • Hotel Holiday Hill
  • Hotel Sky Pie
  • Hotel Moon Walk Residency
  • Nandini Villa
Q5. What are the best places to visit near Dharamshala?

Dalhousie is situated nearby many beautiful hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, some of them includes:

  • McLeod Ganj - 5.2 kms
  • Manali - 234 kms
  • Bir - 64 kms
  • Shimla - 236 kms
  • Prashar Lake - 166 kms
  • Dalhousie - 116 kms
  • Khajjiar - 117 kms
Q6. Is there snowfall in Dharamshala?

Yes. During the months of December and February, Dharamshala experiences snowfall. If you enjoy snowfall, Dharamshala might be a wonderful destination to come to witness the seasonal snowfall.

Q7. How many days are enough for a tour to Dharamshala?

Dharamshala is easily explored in two days. But, if you participate in any adventurous activity, such as trekking (there are many magnificent trekking paths in Dharamshala), the period will be extended.

Q8. What are the popular treks to do in Dharamshala?

Dharamshala has many trekking trails from beginner level to Pro level. Some popular trekking trails include:

  • Kareri Lake Trek
  • Chamba Trek
  • Indrahar Pass Trek
  • Dal lake Trek
  • Triund Trek
Q9. Can you list out some of the amazing places to visit in Dharamshala in 2 days?

Dharamshala has numerous places to visit, and you should make your plans for at least 2-3 days as there are more to cover up and you cannot finish it in just one day. Here is the list:

  • Visiting the Dalai Lama Temple Complex
  • Trekking to Triund Hill
  • Wandering through the Tibetan Market
  • Exploring McLeod Ganj
Q10. Are there any places to visit in Dharamshala at night?

Of course, there are. Here, we have mentioned some of the best places that you should explore during the night:

  • Jwala Devi Temple
  • McLeod Ganj
  • Bhagsu Waterfalls