A jaw dropping city! With a backdrop of the stunning Dhauladhar ranges, Dharamshala is one of the most tranquil cities in North India. A perfect mix of culture and nature. When you’re in Dharamsala, you’ll literally be taken aback. With its cool climate, tea plantations and pine and deodar forests interspersed with bamboo trees, protected by snow-covered mountain peaks, Dharamshala is surely a visual delight.
Dharamshala is divided into two parts, Upper and Lower Dharamshala. Upper Dharamshala is what you know as Mcleodganj, Bhagsu, and Dharamkot; the lower Dharamshala is the Kotwali Bazar, Kacheri, Shyamnagar, Ramnagar, Chilgari, Khaniyara, and Dari etcetera etcetera… Dharamshala is home to the Cricket Stadium which hosts international matches like the IPL. Amidst its natural backdrop, it is one of the most quaint and attractive cricket stadiums in the world.
Mcleodganj is the holy residence of the exiled Tibetan monk Dalai Lama, and is often described as the ‘Little Lhasa of India’. With its quaint old monasteries and spectacular natural surroundings, the peaceful hill station boasts strong Buddhist influences. It is typical to see prayer flags flying, monasteries every few blocks and monks in saffron robes. Also, there are numerous shops selling Tibetan arts and crafts along the main street, as well as restaurants serving everything from momos to Thenthu, the traditional Tibetan dishes.
Both parts of the city have something unique to offer. It is truly a fantastic place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings as a tourist.
How To Reach Dharamshala?
Reach Dharamshala By Air:
The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport which is 12 km from Dharamshala. However, if you’re looking for the convenient airport connected by various airlines from different cities in India, it has to be Chandigarh or Amritsar.
Reach Dharamshala By Rail or Train:
Pathankot is the nearest railway station. A narrow gauge train runs from Pathankot to Kangra. Dharamsala is 17 km from here by road.
Reach Dharamshala By Road: Dharamsala is well connected to various cities in India by motorable roads and excellent highways. The city also benefits from excellent bus service provided by the state and by more luxurious private companies.
Best Time To Visit Dharamshala?
The best season to visit Dharamshala is between March to June and December to February. In terms of climate, Dharamshala is no different from any other hilly terrain in the Himalayan mountains. The winters are harsh, the summers are mild, and the monsoons are unpredictable. However, each season comes with unique and unparalleled beauty attached to it.
