Dharamshala
- Himachal Pradesh
- India
- Things to do in Dharamshala
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Dharamshala Travel Essentials
Weather: 12 – 18°C
Ideal duration: 2-4 days
Best Time: Mid-February – Mid-July Read More
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Things To Do In Dharamshala
Explore Triund trek, Kareri lake trek, Paragliding, Camping, Kangra Fort, Visit Dal Lake, Meditate at Gyuto Monastery, Visit Jwalamukhi Devi Temple, Bhagsu Waterfall, Tea Gardens, Visit Mani Lhakhang Stupa, Cricket Match at HPCA Stadium, Aghanjar Mahadev Temple, Dharamshala War Memorial, and many more things to do in mcleodganj and Dharamshala.
Dharamshala, also known as Bhagsu, is a picturesque city in the upper Himalayas that offers a variety of attractions and natural landscapes. The Dalai Lama’s home and the Central Tibetan Administration are both located here, making it particularly important in Indo-Tibetan ties.
Its beauty and culture make it a must-see destination for visitors, and there are plenty of things to do in Dharamshala to keep visitors entertained and delighted.
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Top Things to do in Dharamshala
1. Triund Trek
Triund is located north of Dharamshala, and McLeod Ganj is known as Dharamshala’s crown jewel. The view from Triund Hill is spectacular, with the Dhauladhar Mountains on one side and Kangra Valley on the other, and best things to do in dharamshala To begin the hike, travel to McLeod Ganj and then book a taxi to Galu.
You can alternatively drive to Bhagsu Nag and begin your hike there. The hike leads you through beautiful woodlands lined with trees that are only found in high-temperature zones. You will also have to battle steep mountains and twists on your route to the Triund top.
There are numerous restaurants along the way that sell refreshments and light snacks, making your journey more easier. This is a journey.
The best time to visit triund trek:- Summer because it will be a more manageable time to hike the trail.
2. Kareri Lake Trek
Regular buses run to Ghera from Dharamshala, making it simple to travel there. The hike to Kareri Lake from Ghera takes 8 to 9 hours. The path is occasionally difficult and narrow.
It’s less well-traveled than treks to Triund or Bhagsu Nag, making it feel more remote. In Kareri, there are many camping areas where you can spend the night before heading back to Dharamshala the next day.
Best time to visit :- Summer is the best time to trek the trail because it will be less challenging.
3. Paragliding In Dharamshala
Paragliding is an adventure sport in which a glider with no rigid support system is flown. It is similar to a hot air balloon in that it relies heavily on centripetal and centrifugal forces to assist it glide through the air.
Many tour and travel agencies in Dharamshala offer this service. If you like the adrenaline rush that comes with adventure sports, this is a terrific activity to try. This area’s natural hilly terrain makes it a popular destination for such sports. Indrunag and Bir Billing are two of the most popular spots for paragliding in Dharamshala. Paragliding in dharamshala is the Top Things to do in Dharamshala.
Activity Location: Indrunag, Dharamshala
Best time to visit :- Summer is a time when the wind will be more controlled.
Approximate Cost: Prices range from 2000 to 8000 rupees per person.
4. Camping in Dharamshala
The trail between Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj is a popular camping spot, and there are often large crowds. You can also camp a few distance after McLeod Ganj, which is less crowded and more tranquil. It does, however, limit the amenities available locally.
Best time to visit :- Summer and spring are the best seasons to camp because the terrain is easier to camp in.
5. Discovering Bhagsu Waterfall: A Natural Wonder
The waterfall is a 30 foot plunge positioned between two mountain caves and is a magnificent sight to behold. The waterfall is a 20-minute climb from the temple, but it is well worth the effort once you witness the beautiful water and relax in the peace and quiet among lush nature. It is a must-see attraction that should be on your list of things to do in Dharamshala.
Best time to visit :- The best time to visit Bhagsu Waterfall in Dharamshala, India, is during the summer and early monsoon months, which typically run from March to July. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the waterfall is at its fullest due to the melting snow from the nearby Dhauladhar mountains and the onset of the monsoon rains.
6. Visit Dal Lake
This charming lake is a wonderful day trip from Dharamshala because it is close by and transportation to the lake from Dharamshala is simple. It’s definitely something to add to your list of things to do in Dharamshala.
Best time to visit :- Summer and spring are the best times due to clear weather and less chances of road blockage caused by snow.
7. Gyuto Monastery : Great place to meditate
This is a lovely location to visit to unwind and contemplate. This monastery’s natural beauty, combined with its peace and quiet, is likely to relax anyone. It’s a must-see for anybody visiting Dharamshala and is a must-see for anyone looking for things to do in Dharamshala.
Best time to visit :- The best time to visit is all year round.
8. Enjoy Delicious Tibetan Food
Complementing these dishes is tingmo, a soft steamed bread that pairs perfectly with savory curries. These Tibetan flavors are accessible and pleasing to a variety of palates, providing a taste of the region’s rich culture and traditions. Exploring Tibetan food in Dharamshala is not only a gastronomic adventure but also an immersive cultural experience.
Read more9. Shopping: Stone Jewelry & Handicrafts
Unlike in many other Indian shopping sites, bargaining in McLeodganj Market may not be fruitful. However, we recommend that you visit other stores where you can get some items at a lower cost.
Read more10. Dharamshala to Mcleodganj Ropeway
The route begins in Dharamshala’s city center and travels through the Himalayan foothills to an altitude of 362 meters. The picturesque hamlet of McLeod Ganj, the residence of The Dalai Lama, gradually falls as you are entranced by the majesty of the mighty Dhauladhars all around you. So that was the end of it! These Dharamshala activities will excite you from head to toe. most important Top Things to do in Dharamshala. That is for certain! Plan your vacation to Dharamshala as soon as possible! Entry Fee:- One Way Trip – 450 and Round Trip – 675
Read more11. Namgyal Monastery: A Spiritual Retreat
Best time to visit :- The best time to visit Namgyal Monastery , is during the spring and autumn months.
Read more12. Exploring Naddi Village: A Tranquil Getaway
Best time to visit :- The best time to visit Naddi village near Dharamshala is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Winter (December to February) can be quite cold and may not suit all travelers.
Read more13.Visit Mani Lhakhang Stupa
This lovely Stupa houses a gold-plated statue of the Buddha in his traditional lotus stance. There are many prayer wheels at the Stupa that you can spin for good luck. It is easy to go to from Dharamshala because there is a lot of transportation to this location. In the evenings, you can pamper your senses by listening to the monks sing hymns that will make you want to return here again and again. Best time to visit :-The best time to visit is all year round.
Read more14.Witness a Cricket Match at HPCA Stadium
The HPCA stadium in Dharamshala is more commonly utilized for Ranji Trophy matches. The stadium’s high altitude makes it difficult to utilize for international cricket since rain or snow can block roadways, making transportation difficult. Catch a game while you’re here and enjoy the sport while seeing the stunning and spectacular mountains in the background.
Best time to visit :- The best time to visit is all year round. Read more15. Aghanjar Mahadev Temple: A Sacred Place of Worship
The temple has a long history related to the Mahabharata. Before the Mahabharata war, Lord Shiva is said to have granted Arjun the gift of victory. The temple honors and celebrates this boon and is very religiously significant. There is also a lovely brook nearby that can be visited. Large stones embellish and enhance the beauty of this place. This is a must-see for everyone looking for activities to do in Dharamshala. Best time to visit :- The best time to visit is all year round.
Read more16. Dharamshala War Memorial: Honoring Heroes
The names of all the troops and martyrs who died in the wars and peacekeeping missions in 1947-48, 1962, 1965, and 1971 are engraved on the monument. This is an extremely important structure. Soldiers’ sacrifices are often forgotten in popular media, but buildings like these remind and inspire people to remember and keep fighting the good fight. Keep this on your list of Top things to do in Dharamshala when you visit.
Best time to visit :- The best time to visit is all year round.
17. Dharamkot Village: A Serene Retreat
The village’s basic way of life will entice you and force you to stay forever. The village also provides yoga and meditation classes to ensure that you have the most peaceful vacation possible. Make a point of visiting this location while in Dharamshala.
Best time to visit :- The best time to visit Dharmkot village, which is near McLeod Ganj in Dharamshala, India, is during the spring and autumn seasons. Winter (December to February) can be quite cold and is less popular for tourism.
18. Sherbling Monastery: A Peaceful Himalayan Retreat A Serene Retreat
The monastery can accommodate 500 monks and includes numerous shrine rooms and halls for meditation and worship. It is a major structure in Tibetan Buddhist activities, with many followers and pilgrims visiting it every day. The monastery is the holy residence of Tai Siti Rimpoche, a well-known Buddhist figure. The monastery will provide you with a lot of solitude and quiet. Best time to visit :- The best time to visit is all year round.
Read more19. Visit Kharota valley : A Charming Destination A Serene Retreat
The simplicity and tranquillity of life in Kharota are a welcome change from city life. Whether you want to rest or go on an adventure, Kharota is a friendly place where the beauty of nature and the kindness of its people leave an indelible impact. Best time to visit :-The best time to visit Kharota is during the spring and summer months, which typically span from April to June
Read more20. Explore Kangra Fort
It is also the Himalayas’ largest fort. The fort is well renowned for its significance in medieval Indian history because it was a sought-after fort by the Mughals and successfully resisted many Mughal sieges. The fort’s outside wall is 4 kilometers long, and the inside chambers include many relics from many periods, most notably the Mughal and British occupied India centuries. There are temples as well as regal rooms. Best time to visit :- The best time to visit is all year round.
Read more21. The Lahesh Cave Trek
With this camping adventure, you will stay in these caves, which are sometimes used by shepherds, while participating in a variety of other daring activities. During the trek, you may expect to walk for about 4-5 hours per day. Trek on to the Triund mountains and the snow line, passing through oak, deodar, pine, oak, and fir forests until arriving at the breathtaking Best time to visit :- The best time to visit Lahesh Cave is during the summer months, typically from May to June and September to October.
Read more22. Visit Jwalamukhi Devi Temple
The most unusual aspect of this temple is that it contains no deity. Instead, the flames that emerge from within the rocks through fissures in the ground are revered as the Goddess expressing herself. The temple is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas of Hindu mythology and is a respected holy destination that draws thousands of pilgrims each year.
Best time to visit :- The best time to visit is all year round. Read more23. Bir Billing: Paragliding
One of the best things to do in Dharamshala is paragliding. This will be the highlight of your journey to Dharamshala. Bir Billing, about 65 kilometers from Dharamshala, is one of the best destinations in India for paragliding.
This place is well-known across the world for hosting the world’s first paragliding world cup, and visitors from all over come to experience one of India’s best paragliding sessions. Paragliding, one of the best things to do in Dharamshala, is a divine reward after a two-hour trip to Bir Billing.
Best time to visit :- The best time to visit Bir Billing is during the spring and summer months, which typically span from April to June and September to November.
Things To Do In Bir-Billing: Paragliding, Trekking, Camping, Skiing
24. Masrur: Explore The Rock Cut Temples
Masrur is a well-known archaeological site with gorgeous rock-cut temples that will capture your attention. The temples are stunning and provide a glimpse of Indo-Aryan art.
Observe and marvel at the rich intricacies of the temple structures, and take photos for memories.
Best time to visit :- The best time to visit is all year round.
Location: Kangra,Himachal Pradesh
25. St John’s Church
The chapel looks like something out of a movie and will undoubtedly captivate you. There, seek your blessings and relish the beauty. Location: Road to Naddi Village from McLeod Ganj, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215
Read more26. Cycling: Fun Around The Town
The most of the roads in town are well-maintained, and because network issues are nearly non-existent, you may use GPS to locate the best routes throughout town.
Read more27. Cafes in Dharamshala
It is one of the most enjoyable activities in Dharamshala. Aside from Tibetan cuisine, did you know Dharamshala boasts the greatest Momos? Asking around will most likely lead you to Kirpal, Aanand, or Maximus vale Dai. Confused?? These are the stall proprietors who sell Dharamshala’s best momos. Do you doubt us? Simply ask around.Satisfy Your Hunger and Travel Anxiety! Cafes to Visit in Dharamshala.
Read more28. Visit Tea Gardens
While not as huge as those in Assam or the North Eastern states, the plantations are large enough to keep one occupied for a couple of hours. The plantation mostly serves local export, i.e. consumption on the Indian Peninsula. The fragrance mist of tea, combined with the lush vegetation all around, is enough to captivate and should be on your list of things to do in Dharamshala. Best time to visit :- The best time to visit is all year round.
Read more29. Galu Temple Trip
Stroll about the temple complex and meditate or simply sit quietly for a while, soaking in the peace and quiet. Take in the stunning majesty of the lush green cedars and crimson rhododendron as you continue your journey. While appreciating the amazing views from the summit, have a delicious packed lunch.
Read more30. Traditional Day at Dharamshala
Move your feet and learn about Dharamshala’s culture while watching the traditional dance. Dress yourself in traditional attire, pose for photos with the locals, and bring back a plethora of memories. Take a seat for a delicious meal including local cuisines, and then set aside some time to explore the forest-covered village on your own. If you’re lucky, you might find yourself strolling through village fairs and/or carnivals. This is unquestionably one of those events.
Read more31. Zipline in Dharamshala
Ziplining is the finest exhilarating sport in Dharamshala that you must experience if you love adventure. Enjoy this exhilarating activity with a qualified and experienced instructor. Best Months to Visit: October to June
Read more32. Palampur Tea garden
The name of the town comes from the local word palum, which means “a lot of water.” From Palampur, various streams run from the highlands to the lowlands. Palampur is distinguished for its use of vegetation and water. Palampur is located at the meeting point of the plains and the hills, and the scenery reflects this. Best time to visit :- Winters in the town are very harsh, thus one must visit the tea gardens during the comfortable and pleasant summer months.
Read more33. Thatharana Trek
It is a 5km hike but do not underestimate the distance because the trek is a bit difficult and will take you 3 to 5 hours to complete depending on your endurance and capacity. The difficulty would be moderate, but it would not be justified to say it was a piece of cake. It is true that the nicest sights come after the most difficult ascent. Best time to visit :- The best months to visit the Thatharana trip are April to May and October to November, when there is less chance of rain or snow and the temperature is comfortable.
Read more34. Pong dam
Pong Dam Lake (also known as Maharana Pratap Sagar) is a man-made reservoir built by the construction of the Pong Dam on the Beas River in the wetland zone of the Shivalik hills in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district. The Pong Dam was built in 1975 and is India’s highest earth fill dam.
The lake’s catchment area is 12562 square kilometers, while the lake’s overall geographical area is 207 square kilometers, mostly up to 1410 feet. In 2002, Pong Dam Lake was declared a Ramsar site under Ramsar criteria 5 and 8. The lake has been home to about 420 bird species from 56 different groups.
This wetland has everything that children, students, authors, poets, saints, environmentalists, anglers, visitors, adventurers, and sportsmen need. This lake is considered to be one of the best Bird’s Paradise in the world. Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the shores of Pong Dam Lake.
Activities: Bird Watching, Camping, Short Trekking, Spiritual tours
Best time to visit :- Winter is the greatest time to visit the Pong Dam. It is the season when the migrating bird population is at its peak.
35. Toy Train
While you will undoubtedly enjoy the scenic panoramas along the journey, you will also pass through small settlements and experience the rural way of life in the hills. Best time to visit :- The best time to visit and enjoy this picturesque ride is during the spring and summer months, which typically fall between March and June.
Read more36. Saurabh Van Vihar
The natural park provides a panoramic view of the Dhauladhar Range and is home to a diverse range of plants, trees, and birds, which add to the park’s attractiveness and draw visitors from all around. Entry Fee :- INR 20 per person Best time to visit :- The best time to visit is all year round but check the weather during monsoon.
Read more37. Gopalpur Zoo (Palampur)
It is located in the beautiful Kangra Valley and is a must-see for all visitors. The zoo, which is flanked by the Dhauladhar Ranges, is a must-see in Kangra.
Best time to visit :- The best time to visit is all year round
Things to do in Dharamshala in November: – In November, Dharamshala, nestled in the scenic Himalayan foothills, offers a delightful array of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the must-try things to do in this beautiful town.
Things to do in Dharamshala in December: – In December, Dharamshala, nestled in the stunning Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, offers a magical and serene experience for travelers. Here are some delightful things to do in Dharamshala during this wintry month.
People also ask about Things To Do In Dharamshala
Have the most memorable trip possible by participating in the most enjoyable Dharamshala activities. Take a look at the specifics.
Paragliding – This sport is well-known for its natural hilly terrain.
Triund Trek – This trek is well-known for its breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar Mountains and Kangra Valley.
Camping – This area is well-known for its gorgeous contours and mountainous terrain.
Kareri Lake Trek – Known for its lush greenery and diverse flora.
Dharamshala’s Traditional Day – Known for delicious lunches featuring traditional foods.
You can reach Dharamshala by air, road, or train. The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, while well-connected highways and a railway station at Kangra ensure smooth travel.
The months of February through June are ideal for visiting Dharamshala. it is the time of year when temperature does not rise above 25 degrees Celsius. The valley is especially beautiful during this time of year because the flowers are in full bloom and it is fairly lovely. Furthermore, the trekking paths are open, making it a great time for trekkers to explore Dharamshala.
Absolutely! Dharamshala offers a range of thrilling activities, such as paragliding, trekking, and camping. Triund, Bir Billing, and Indrahar Pass are some of the best destinations for adventure enthusiasts.
Yes, Dharamshala offers various trekking opportunities, including the Triund Trek, Indrahar Pass Trek, and Kareri Lake Trek.
Yes, Dharamshala is a hub for spiritual seekers, with numerous meditation centers and monasteries, such as Tushita Meditation Center and Gyuto Monastery.
Dharamshala offers a mix of Indian and Tibetan cuisine. You can try momos, thukpa, and Tibetan butter tea along with North Indian dishes.
Explore Tibetan culture by visiting the Tibetan Museum, attending teachings by the Dalai Lama, and walking through the Tibetan markets.
Shop for Tibetan handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs in the local markets and around McLeod Ganj.
You can take day trips to Kangra Fort, Palampur, and Dal Lake,Chamunda devi temple all of which are within a reasonable distance from Dharamshala.
Dharamshala is good for peaceful nature and Tibetan culture. Manali is better for adventure and bustling markets. It depends on what you like.
The ideal amount of time to spend in Dharamshala depends on your interests and what you want to do. For a basic visit to explore the main attractions, 2 to 3 days can be sufficient. It’s best to plan your stay according to your preferences and the activities you want to enjoy.
Dharamshala is usually safe for girls, but it’s important to take regular safety precautions, like staying in well-lit areas and avoiding late-night solo walks. Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly.
Dharamshala is definitely worth visiting if you enjoy natural beauty, Tibetan culture, and serene surroundings. It’s a peaceful place with beautiful landscapes, monasteries, and trekking opportunities.
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Dharamshala Reviews
GoodBased on 1340 reviewsGagan Garg2023-10-21It was fun planning my first planned holiday with Pluto. They have very reliable links in local areas. Nitin was my POC for the trip and he managed it so well that every small request and query had the fastest solution and response. I will highly recommend him and will plan my next trip through his dedicated work. Altaf(driver) in Srinagar was very well mannered and entertaining. He was dedicated to best customer service and no doubt he achieved it all the way. I requested for hotel upgrade and it was handled quickly on last minute. I highly recommend Pluto and their services for planned holidays. Ask for Nitin and Altaf(if in Srinagar).Pradeep Choudhary2023-10-19It was very great experience with Pluto tours Travels. Friendly nature with tourists everyone should be experience with Pluto travels. Helping And Guiding At Every Point on Trip. Ambience was Good like food, Breakfast,Dinner,& Rooms are clean. And they make us my memorable memories Thank You to Pluto Travels & Specially to Nitin to help n Guiding In everything 😊😊 thank you so much ❤️❤️Padman Patel2023-10-19Very good services good staf food is berry testy. Thnx nitin sirKlirmina Bongrungpi2023-10-11Nice experience with Pluto they organised our tour. we all are from Assam and Pluto gave us a reasonable and budgetable tour tq Pluto ....ashutosh mishra2023-10-04Tour was good, initial experience was not good with the tour operator, I had asked for aura grand hotel with early check in, at the time of finalising the plan and making the payment, they were saying that we will get the aura grand hotel in Amritsar. But at last moment same hotel was not provided and they forced us to check-in in their own property which is Diamond Villa in Amritsar which was not so good. Mr. Vikram Rana tried fooling till last moment, Mr. Anurag also not provided correct information about the hotel booking. However our driver Mr. VINAY (BUNTY) was very good. Mr. Nitin of Pluto helped very well in executing the trip in good manner.