Hostels are more than just somewhere to stay!

Life is full of rewards when we travel. Travelling allows people to visit new places, discover various cultures, and make new friends. This is not always an inexpensive option, though. That’s why finding quality hostels is so imperative. Hostels typically cost much less than hotels. Rooms and bathrooms are typically shared. However, don’t get tricked by the simplicity of the hostels, there are some truly amazing hostels out there. 

It is hypnotic to spend a night on a mountain under the stars. An escape to the mountains is complete with a refreshing breeze and scenic views of the mountains. Now that summer is here, wouldn’t it be better if you start your 2022 vacation in Dharamshala?  And if you’re looking to meet travellers from across the globe, we suggest that you stay at a hostel in Dharamshala, the summer capital of Himachal Pradesh. 

In Dharamshala, it’s not hard to find a hostel for solo travellers. However, you’ll find all the hostels in Upper Dharamshala i.e Mcleodganj, Bhagsu, and Dharamkot. Further up from Dharamshala, there are prettier places. Mcleodganj, a popular tourist spot near Dharamshala, lies just up the road. Continuing up the mountain is Dharamkot, popular backpacking, hiking, and trekking destination. Here are the most affordable yet comfy hostels in Dharamshala, where you can stay and enjoy your vacation with your buddies.

Top 12 Hostels in Dharamshala

1. Flugler 
2. Hobo Hostel
3. Backpackers Inn 
4. Hosteller 
5. Alt life
6. Zostel 
7. Shallom Backpackers
8. Flyaway 
9. The Bunker Hostels
10. Young Monk Hostel
11. Moustache Escapes
12. Hostel Triangle Folks

1. Flugler

You will find all the comforts of home in this luxury hostel with a Victorian decoration made of wood and rock. It is ideally situated on top of a hill surrounded by Deodar trees overlooking Dharamshala’s beautiful city. Plus the stunning view of the picturesque Dhauladhar range it has to offer is to die for! Being surrounded by nature is an invigorating experience in itself. There are mountain birds chirping, and the aroma of herbs fills the air, making Flugler a wonderful and sense-awakening place. 

Perks of Being Here- Flugler offers female dorms, private rooms, and mixed dorms, as well as a private cafe/restaurant that serves mouth-watering food that you can enjoy while sitting on the lush terrace and taking in the stunning views of the mountains. There is free Wi-Fi, bicycle parking, and all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.  

2. Hobo Hostel

For those who want a budget-friendly stay in Dharamshala, don’t look further, Hobo Hostel is the right choice to make. Hobo Hostel offers a comfortable and affordable stay in Dharamshala with free Wi-Fi, parking, and a private bathroom. The property is at an excellent location where peace and beauty go hand in hand. The place is less crowded, all you’ll see is the lush greenery and the beautiful golden hour in the evening. Getting to/from the airport is only 11 kilometres away by taxi. 

Perks of Being Here- In addition to dorm rooms and private rooms, the hostel also has female-only dorms available for those travelling as a female solo. Every room and dorm has a balcony. Aside from scenic views, you can also participate in activities like hiking and fishing for an additional fee. An added bonus is the hostel’s pet-friendly policy.  

3. Backpackers Inn

Backpackers Inn is an excellent place to stay in Dharamshala. With clean rooms, a vibrant interior, and great facilities, the hostel won’t disappoint you. You can take in the stunning view of the mountains while eating delicious Indian food at the rooftop restaurant.

Perks of Being Here- People of different cultures and places can interact in the common seating area. Among the amenities are free Wi-Fi, free parking, and free airport transfers.

4. Hosteller

You’ll meet lots of lively folks at the Hosteller. Certainly a backpacker’s paradise, this Dharamshala hostel is comfortable, safe, and clean. Each room has bunk beds. This funky hostel is incredibly popular with casual travellers and students alike. 

Perks of Being Here: Here you will find free WiFi, a fully-equipped open kitchen, common areas for hanging out, board games, and incredible personal service.

5. Alt Life

You can stay in Alt Life if you are travelling solo or in a group. You will enjoy a warm atmosphere and 24-hour facilities there. One of the reviews says, it is a narrow road leading downhill to the hostel, so it is advisable to bring haversacks instead of suitcases. Additionally, the rooms are cute and simple. Trust us you’ll have the best accommodation possible for a fraction of the cost. 

Perks of Being Here: Hostel rooms are well-kept and well-maintained. Cottages are incredible, with clean bed linens, spotless bathrooms, hot water from geysers, a beautiful view, and tables/chairs with Wifi. You can walk to all of the nicest restaurants and cafes. Rooms are cleaned on request by friendly staff. There is an additional charge for heaters, but isn’t that fine?

6. Zostel

With stunning mountain views and a cozy café, Zostel is tucked into a scenic, peaceful corner of Dharamkot. Zostel is about 3 km away from Mclow Square in Dharamkot. They have beautiful common rooms, elegant suites, and comfy dormitories. Dharamkot is also known for its cafes offering the finest dishes from around the world. You should definitely go on a search party for the best cafe. Once you find it, sit back and have the tastiest meal of your life. Additionally, the views are breathtaking!  

Perks of Being Here- Free WiFi, a fully stocked open kitchen, board games, and great personalized service are just a few of the perks of being here.  

7. Shallom Backpackers

Shalom Backpackers offers everything you need for a memorable expedition, from cozy accommodations to a library. You will walk into the hostel as strangers, but you’ll leave with a group of friends who share a common interest and passion. Isn’t that great??

Perks of Being Here- They have spacious rooms with lots of open space to chill out with fellow travellers. Here you will find a quiet reading nook where you can relax with a cup of coffee and delve into your favourite book. The hostel has well-equipped restaurants and a kitchen to cater to your taste buds, as well as a travel desk to assist with all your travel needs. With free Wi-Fi, laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and a promise of warm hospitality, you can stay connected wherever you are.

8. Flyaway

It’s a fun hostel with cozy rooms and breathtaking views of majestic hills & lush greenery at McLeodganj, just a few minutes from Bhagsunag waterfalls & the famous SHIVA CAFE. If that isn’t enough, it is also located opposite the place where you can find “Bhagsu cake“. As for side hustle, you can wander the narrow lanes of the Triund trek to see the sun rise and set over the majestic Dhauladhar range of mountains. Also, it is also close to Bhagsu’s main market, so you can go shopping for souvenirs. How about you? Are you rooting for this one?

Perks of Being Here- Six, four, and eight-bed mixed dorms, along with deluxe double private rooms with lockers, 24*7 reception, 24*7 security, board games, ultra-clean modern bathrooms, laundry services, beautiful cafe setting, and most importantly, free WiFi!!!

9. The Bunker Hostels

Nomads’ home! Located in Dharamkot, this small hostel is far from civilization and cities. It is here where you create unforgettable experiences and develop friendships that last far beyond the walls of our hostels. Here, laughter carries more weight than traffic and art and music flow like a never-ending river. We are not kidding, it’s true!
Additionally, it offers incredible views of McLeodganj and Dharamsala. As you reconnect with like-minded travellers at The Bunker, tell some stories around the bonfire. In summary, once you’re at The Bunker, you’ll never want to leave, so now is the time you book this funky hostel!

Perks of being here- Your experience of The Bunker is defined by its cozy common areas, beautiful open spaces, quiet nooks and crannies to relax in, and its proximity to nature. It’s the spacious theme-based rooms and dorms, the cozy café, the warm fuzzy cuddles from a bunch of dogs, and the mouthwatering food that’ll hook you like nothing else.

10. Young Monk Hostel

The hostel is situated at one of the highest points in Dharamkot, making it an ideal place to take in the view. Located only 10 minutes away from McLeodGanj market, it’s the ideal destination for travellers of all kinds. 

Perks of Being Here- There are eight dorm beds in this hostel, as well as two private rooms (which accommodate two people). High-speed internet access and a power backup are provided in this hostel. Located in the most impressive valley view cafe in Upper Dharamkot, the hostel offers the best Indian and Continental cuisine.

11. Moustache Escapes

Moustache McLeodganj is the perfect place to stay in McLeodganj with spectacular views. This youth hostel in Mcleodganj features excellent wireless internet, making it ideal for families with children. However, if that’s not your deal, you can visit the Bhagsu waterfall which is 1km from the Moustache hostel. Also, visit Dharamkund, located 2km away from Moustache McLeodganj. Or take a stroll around the local neighbourhood, visit the local market, and get souvenirs. At night enjoy the bonfire with fellow travellers!

Perks of Being Here- Mustache Mcledoganj’s stay includes a rooftop yoga space, a community kitchen, along with a café. Get a view of the stunning Dhauladhar Range of mountains while staying at one of the best hostels in Mcleodganj.

12. Hostel Triangle Folks

Triangle Folks isn’t just a hostel, it’s a place where people can find refuge and healing. It delivers everything it promises – a safe, comfortable home away from the scuttle of everyday life in the Upper Bhagsu region. The hostel is situated at the foot of lofty mountains near traditional Mud houses, so the location is an added advantage. The waterfall is just a short walk away as is the main market. 

Perks of Being Here- Hostel Triangle Folks provides adults-only accommodation with a restaurant and a terrace. The accommodation offers evening entertainment and free WiFi throughout the property. All guest rooms at the hostel come with a seating area.

Hostels offer a variety of benefits that are often overlooked. In the first place, hostels are a great way to meet other travellers from around the world. It’s a great experience to meet people from different cultures and make friends while staying in a hostel. And on top of that, you save money!

So, the next time you’re in Dharamshala on a budget, feel free to contact Insta Himachal. We’ll make sure that your stay will be hassle-free. And if you have never stayed in a hostel before, it will certainly be an experience. And please let us know how it went. B bye!!!