20 Best Places To Visit In Dharamshala: Gateway to Himalayan Wonders

February 22, 2024

best places to visit in Dharamshala

Are you interested in a quick getaway this winter? Embark on a journey to the hills to soothe your Winter blues in the most popular tourist place in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. 
With winter, snowfall has arrived in November. Though it is a popular tourist spot all year, snow lovers find winter to be the best time to visit Dharamshala. Being the birthplace of the Dalai Lama, it is also a place of culture, spirituality, and history covered in the blanket of snow. This makes the hill station all the more appealing as one of the best places to enjoy snowfall in February in India.

Among the numerous hill stations, history and art lovers travel because of the spectacle of the mountain ranges, the fountains, and the famous temples of Dharamshala.

If you are a connoisseur of beautiful sightseeing and adventure, check out the list of places to visit in Dharamshala. 

1. Triund Hill, Dharamshala

Triund Hill is one the best places to visit in Dharamshala

A tiny hill station located about 17 km away from Dharamshala shows a spectacular view of its hilltop. It is a great place to go for a trekking adventure. If you want cozy things to do in Dharamshala, many families or friend groups also come here for picnics. 

The Triund Hill is located between the heavenly views of Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar range. It is also a greenery set, especially in the summer, with Deodar, Oak, Rhododendrons, and Pine Valley of Dharamshala covering the scene.

Location: Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215
Don't miss: the Tibetan Museum, Bhagsu Waterfall, Kalachakra Temple, Bhagsunath Temple, Naddi View Point, and Guna Devi Temple.
Opening hours: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
Entry fee: Rs 999 per person

Also Read: 25 Offbeat Destinations In Himachal Pradesh: Discovering Hidden Gems

2. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, Dharamshala

If you are a cricket fanatic (or not), take advantage of the world's highest cricket stadium, Dharamshala. One of the specialties of this stadium is its ryegrass, which keeps the stadium covered in its brightest green even during winter, making it a popular Dharamshala stadium in winter.

Location: Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, University Road, Police Line, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215
Don't miss: The awesome views from this point
Opening hours: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Entry fee: Rs 30 per entry

Also Read: 35 Best Places To Visit In March In India 2024

3. St John in the Wilderness Church, Dharamshala

Constructed in 1852, John in the Wilderness Church is one of the most popular churches in Dharamshala, dedicated to St John the Baptist. It is a Protestant church located amongst the lush green of the Deodar forest. In Dharamshala, the best time to visit the church is in the mornings.

Location: McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215
Don't miss: Its neo-gothic architecture, the Deodar forest, Memorial stones, and the Churchyard, which is also the resting place of Lord Elgin.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday- 7:00 am to 6:30 pm, Sunday- 9:00 am to 6:30 pm
Entry fee: Free

Also Read: 30 Best Places to Visit in November in India You Must Visit

4. War Memorial, Dharamshala

The main focus of the Dharamshala War Memorial is its main monument, which is covered by walls on three sides, curved in black marble. It holds the memories of all War Heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country. It is one of the best historical Dharamshala tourist places.

Location: Kachehri Road, Jawahar Nagar, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215
Don't miss: The mural, The Main Monument, with names of the War Heroes, Garlands, and medals offered to the Heroes.
Opening hours: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
Entry fee: Rs 20 per person, free for children up to 5 years

5. Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, Dharamshala

Though known as a library, the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives also functions as an archival museum and a hub of academic courses. It holds at least 80,000 books and manuscripts. 

Besides, it also protects about 600 statues, thangkas, and other Buddhist antiquities. History lovers find it one of Dharamshala's most important tourist places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.

Location: Gangchen Kyishong, Upmuhal, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215
Don't miss: The Tibet Museum, Dalai Lama Temple, Tibetan artifacts
Opening hours: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm (Closed on Saturday and Sunday)
Entry fee: Free

Also Read: 30 Best Places To Visit In Winter In India

6. Bhagsunag Temple, Dharamshala

The 5100-year-old Bhagsunag temple, established in the valley of Kangra, is one of the popular Dharamshala tourist places. After the 1905 earthquake, it was obliterated but was later rebuilt. The temple is believed to possess miraculous healing power.

Location: Manisha Rd, Bhagsu Nag, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219
Don't miss: Dal Lake, Kotwali Bazaar
Opening hours: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm
Entry fee: Free

Also Read: 25 Famous Temples In Himachal Pradesh For Spiritual Bliss

7. Gyuto Monastery, Dharamshala

Gyuto Monastery is one the best places to visit in Dharamshala

One of the most loved tourist places to see in Dharamshala for spiritual people is the Gyuto Monastery. It is a popular center for the study of Tantric Meditation. Surrounded by buildings, it is a space of peace and order. One can visit the Monastery to observe the monks' daily habits.

Location: Sidhbari, Dharamshala 176219
Don't miss: Tantric meditation, Tantric ritual arts, Buddhist philosophy
Opening hours: 5:00 am to 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Entry fee: Free

Also Read: 30 Best Hill Stations in India You Must Visit

8. Kareri Dal Lake, Dharamshala

Kareri Dal Lake is one the best places to visit in Dharamshala

A famous trekking destination in Dharamshala is near the Kareri Dal lake. It takes one to cover 10 kilometers of challenging trekking to reach the clean stream of water. During the winter months, however, the lake remains frozen. For couples, Kareri Dal Lake makes one of India's most loved honeymoon destinations in India in low budget.

Location: Kareri, Himachal Pradesh 176218
Don't miss: Trekking, View of mountain ranges
Opening hours: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm, preferably
Entry fee: Free

Also Read: 30 Best Places To Visit In India In January For A Memorable Experience

9. Dharamkot Studio, Dharamshala

Dharamkot Studio is an art studio designated solely for pottery lovers. Often overlooked by many tourists, it is built in a small village. Remember to dirty your hands and create beautiful clay pieces if you visit. With the end of winter, it is one of the art lovers' favorite places to visit in India in February.

Location: Dharamkot Studio Rd, Dharamkot, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219
Don't miss: Bhagsunath Temple, Tibetan Museum
Opening hours: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, closed on Thursdays
Entry fee: Rs 2200 per person for workshops

Also Read: 35 Best Wedding Destinations in India for Your Dream Celebration

10. Kangra Fort, Dharamshala

Kangra Fort is one the best places to visit in Dharamshala

The Fort of Kangra has its origin in the ancient Trigarta Kingdom. It is the largest Fort built in the Himalayas by the royal family of Rajputs. The Fort is about 3,500 years old. This makes Kangra Fort to be one of the most artistic places to see in Dharamshala.

Location: Old Kangra, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh 176001
Don’t miss: the Banganga River, Manjhi River, Kangra Valley
Opening hours: 9:00 am to 7:30 pm
Entry fee: Rs 150 per person

Also Read: 20 Best Snowfall Places In India You Must Visit 

11. Tsuglagkhang Temple, Dharamshala

Tsuglagkhang, or the Dalai Lama Temple Complex, is known for homing the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama. It is also among the best places to visit in Dharamshala because of its majestic architecture.

The Tsuglagkhang Temple was built in the 7th century, which makes it a famous temple in Dharamshala.

Location: McleodGanj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219
Don't miss: Photang, Tibet Museum, Namgyal Gompa
Opening hours: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm
Entry fee: Free

Also Read: 55 Best Places To Visit In North India With All Tourist Attractions

12. Bhagsu Waterfall, Dharamshala

Bhagsu Waterfall is one the best places to visit in Dharamshala

The photogenic view of the 20-metre-tall cascade makes it a great place for a picnic spot. To reach the destination, you have to cover a mild 30-minute trek. It is a well-maintained spot for newlyweds and is often included in honeymoon packages in India

Location: Bhagsu Nag Waterfall Pathway Himachal Pradesh 176219
Don't miss: Nadi View Point, Guna Devi Temple, Bhagsunath Temple
Opening hours: 7:00 am to 9:00 pm
Entry fee: Free

Also Read: Explore The 30 Best Honeymoon Places in India 

13. Jwala Devi Temple, Dharamshala

Jwala Devi Temple is one the best places to visit in Dharamshala

Dedicated to Goddess Jwalamukhi Devi, the Goddess of light, it is highly popular amongst the religious masses. The Jwala Devi Temple is among the 52 Shakti Peethas spread across India, thus making it an attraction in the Himachal tour package. The temple is believed to be a sacred place, blessed by the presence of Shakti.

Location: Jwalamukhi, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219
Don't miss: Kangra Fort, Baijnath Temple, Indrahar Pass
Opening hours: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm
Entry fee: Free

Also Read: 15 Best Places To Visit In Summer In India

14. McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala

McLeod Ganj is one the best places to visit in Dharamshala

One of the most popular hill stations in Dharamshala, Kangra district, McLeod Ganj, is home to famous spots of temples, monasteries, hotels, and food places. Many tourists choose McLeod Gunj as the perfect place to stay as it is close to all major sightseeing spots. To reach McLeodGanj, you can take the train to Dharamshala. Your destination will be a 20-minute driving distance.
It is popularly known as the shopping spot. Many tour packages also include the McLeod Gunj Cultural tour. Walking Tour events are arranged from the nearest railway station to Dharamshala.

Location: Kangra, Himachal Pradesh 176219
Don't miss: Namgyal Monastery, Kalachakra Temple, Naddi View Point
Opening hours: Open all times
Entry fee: Free

Also Read: 30 Most Romantic Places In The World

15. Kalachakra Temple, Dharamshala

To learn more about the beauty of Tibetan architecture, prayer wheels, and murals, visit the Kalachakra temple at the heart of the McLeodGanj. It is a fairly new temple, as it was established in the early 1990s. One of the most interesting attributes of the temple is its "Clock of Time'' walls.

Location: McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219
Don’t miss: Tsuglagkhang Temple, Bhagsu Nag Temple
Opening hours: 5:00 am to 9:00 pm
Entry fee: Free

Also Read: Best Places To Visit In India In April

16. Chinmaya Tapovan

Chinmaya Tapovan is one the best places to visit in Dharamshala

Surrounded by lush, the Chinmaya Tapovan is a peaceful spot. It is located near the Dhauladhar Mountain range and offers beautiful sightseeing opportunities. Tourists, both young and older, can enjoy the breathtaking view while bathing in the serenity.

Location: Tapovan, Sidhbari, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh 176057
Don't miss: Dhauladhar Mountain Range, Gyuto Tantric Monastery Temple
Opening hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Entry fee: Free

Also Read: 30 Best Places To Visit In December In India

17. Lahesh Caves

Lahesh Caves is one the best places to visit in Dharamshala

The Lahesh Caves, located in the Dhauladhar Range, is a popular trekking destination. Situated at a height of about 3,500 metres, it also provides a majestic panoramic view.
Lahesh Caves is a great choice for adventure-loving newlyweds.  If you are looking for a trek, it starts from the McLeodGanj Bus Stop and covers 12 kilometres of trekking distance. To ensure proper safety and a good time, find the best deals on honeymoon packages in India.

Location: Trail to Lahesh Caves, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219
Don't miss: Triund Trekking, Bhagsu Nag Temple, Bhagsu Waterfall
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry fee: Free

Also Read: 30 Best Places To Visit In October In India

18. Nechung Monastery

Nechung Monastery is one the best places to visit in Dharamshala

Nechung Monastery, or the Nechung Gompa, allows visitors to observe the daily life of the Tibetans. It comes with the best tour packages in India. It is a center for Buddhist schooling about spirituality, history, and culture. The Monastery can be found just below the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives. 

Location: Upmuhal, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219
Don't miss:  Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, Rock Cut Temple
Opening hours: 5:30 am to 8:00 pm
Entry fee: Free

Also Read: 30 Best Places to Visit During Monsoon in India

19. Chintpurni Devi Temple

Chintpurni Devi Temple is one the best places to visit in Dharamshala

Located near the border of Punjab, the temple resides above 977 meters above sea level. The Chintpurni Devi Temple is covered with stone. Like many other temples of Himachal Pradesh, this temple also marks the beauty of its architecture. 

Location: Chintpurni, Himachal Pradesh 177110
Don't miss: Thaneek Pura, Sheetla Devi Temple, Vajreshwari Devi Temple, Pong Dam
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry fee: Rs 1100 for up to 5 people

Also Read: What Is The Best Time To Visit Manali For Snowfall

20. Hanuman Ka Tibba

Hanuman Ka Tibba is one the best places to visit in Dharamshala

Another trekking site that offers guided treks, Hanuman Ka Tibba, falls on the trail to Triund Hill. It is an expedition trek conducted in Manali's Pir Pinjal Range. If you are trying out trekking for the first time, it is recommended to avoid Hanuman Ka Tibba as it requires high fitness and prior experience. Definitely add this to the list of best places to visit in India before you turn 30.

Location: Dhauladhar Range, Himachal Pradesh 148025
Don't miss: Manali, Dhundi, Beas Kund Glacier
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry fee: Free entry with Trekking fees

How Do Trip Planners India Help You?

Places in Dharamshala are filled with numerous culture-heavy spots. Trip Planner India helps you navigate your interests and list the places you would like to visit. 
Every traveler looks for a unique experience. To cater to their needs, the best trip planners in India help them find tickets, book hotels, and find the best tour packages. 

If you are looking for a quick gateway to the hill stations, check with a tour planner today to figure out the essentials. Knowing about the place, its heritage, and crucial itinerary information including the nearest station to Dharamshala will be important. 

With a proper travel planner, learn about the top Dharamshala trip packages, which can decrease your traveling costs by a mile. 

So, here’s your chance to immerse in the ethereal spirits of this beautiful destination. List the places to go and things to see in Dharamshala before Winter ends. Happy Vacation!
 

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