Did you know? Dharamshala, the winter capital of Himachal Pradesh is sectioned into two parts Lower Dharamshala and Upper Dharamshala. Now that you know, let’s know what they have to offer.
Lower Dharamshala is a Commercial and Administrative Centre. It has Markets, a court and the famous Kotwali Bazaar where you can find things of everyday use.
Upper Dharamshala consists of places like Mcleodganj which seats the Tibetan Government in exile and a Mini-Tibet in India. It is a suburb of the city and stands at an impressive 2,082 meters. You see the fluttering prayer flags, monasteries and monks dressed in bright saffron all over. Here, the main street is lined with shops selling Tibetan handicrafts, as well as restaurants serving a variety of Tibetan Cuisine, from Thupka to Momos.
These two parts of the city have two different vibes to offer like lower Dharamshala markets which sleep early by 8 to 9 in the evening and you hardly find anyone on the streets except a few vehicles whereas McLeod will give you a true metropolitan vibe with its nightlife.
In this blog, we will be dealing with Top 8 Places to visit in Dharamshala. This list will have popular as well as offbeat places. However, if you’re into peace and solace try finding a place with fewer crowds. The best thing you can do here.
Top 8 Places to Visit in Dharamshala
1. Mcleodganj
2. Bangotu
3. Khaniyara
4. Kharota
5. Tea Garden
6. Naddi
7. Bhagsunag Waterfall
8. Dharamkot
1. Mcleodganj
Named after Sir Donald Friell McLeod, Mcleodganj is situated in Upper Dharamshala. It was a favourite summer destination for officers serving in Kangra state during British rule. From magnificent monasteries, waterfalls, turquoise lakes and picturesque cafes against the backdrop of the majestic Dhauladhar Mountains, Mcleodganj really does have something for everyone. It is home to Tibetan massage parlours, crafts, tattoo studios, paintings and much more. Local wines are worth trying, they come in a variety of flavours such as Plum wine, Cider, Kiwi Wine to a few. Moreover, McleodGanj has beautiful monasteries and a church that one should never miss out on. In fact, there are bountiful yoga and meditation centres devoted to spiritual journeys. Undoubtedly one of the happening places in Dharamshala we bet will not disappoint you.
You Won’t Want to Miss in Mcleodganj-
St. John in the Wilderness Church
St. John in the Wilderness is an archaic church from the 1850s, ideally located in the majestic Deodar forest in the boonies. You can surely find Peace inside and outside. This church has a Christian Church Cemetery surrounding it. In 1905, a major earthquake hit the Kangra region when most of the buildings of Kangra, Dharamshala and Mcleodganj were destroyed and thousands of people were killed. However, this powerful structure of the church stood still.
The Dalai Lama Temple
The Dalai Lama Temple is also known as Tsuglakhang is a pilgrimage for Buddhists. The complex is one of the important places to see in Dharamshala. His Holiness the Dalai Lama visits this temple each year for teachings and blessings. It comprises of Dalai Lama’s dwelling and monastery. You are lucky enough if you visit the temple while the Dalai Lama is visiting, you can listen to him preach. Very close to the residence of the Dalai Lama, this temple is considered an important pilgrimage site. Additionally, this temple provides religious teachings to the monks.
2. Bangotu
Bangotu is a quiet and absolutely charming village located on a hill, away from the clamour of the city. Located at a distance of 7.6 Km from Kotwali Bazar (main market) you can reach here in 20-30 minutes by any vehicle. Being a remote village it offers fascinating views of the high mountains, the deep luxurious Kangra Valley and the lush Deodar Forests. On a clear day, you can also see the snow-capped peaks of the Dhauladhar Mountains, making it one of the most charismatic places in Dharamshala.
Moreover, you can stroll through the village, have breakfast in the local tapris, they’ll serve you Maggi or Bread Omelet with tea because hey!! You’re not in some fancy Hotel. Next, stop at the local houses, touch the clay walls of the kaccha houses, play with goats and cows and pose for a picture every two minutes because this village is incredibly cinematic, and most importantly, you‘ll love this place more as you trek through the village. If you’re a snow lover you must visit during winters when the whole village is blanketed with snow. You can also visit “Tille Wali Mata Mandir” which is a 30-minute hike from the village. In the evening when the sky turns red, it’s all magical. Undoubtedly it is.
3. Khaniyara
Khaniyara, a suburb of Dharamshala is located in the foothills of the Dhauladhar Mountains, in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. Going back to history. Khaniyara got its name due to its slate deposit mines. The Khaniyara Panchayat once was the richest Panchayat in Asia. The place is surrounded by scenic villages inhabited by semi-nomadic Gaddi herders who graze their goats high in Dhauladhar Mountains and its foothills. Farming in the terraced fields is the main economic activity of the locals here. It will give you fascinating insights into the culture and tradition of localities. As of now, more and more families are eagerly opening their homes to tourists who want to experience the simple and natural life of the village.
4. Kharota
Have you heard of places that are bound to fill your heart with a plethora of experiences? That is Kharota for you. It is located 10 km away from Dharamshala. The cold breeze sturdily hits you once you reach up there. Plus, the Greyish Mountains, somewhat green are worth seeing. Here you can have a secret affair with nature. Kharota is a major halt in Dharamshala that is hang around by nature lovers and adventure chasers at the same time.
5. Tea Garden
A popular tourist spot in Dharamshala, the tea gardens capture the milieu- simplicity and sustainability as you explore the spectacular beauty of the estate. You can pause to admire exotic birds, chat with the tea planters, understand their simple but difficult life, and relax while enjoying the delicious essence of fresh tea leaves. Unlike other states, the tea estates in Dharamshala do not spread over acres of land. It is one of the smallest tea growing areas in India. Nonetheless, it is known for its high-quality tea and a beautiful mountain trek that will bring you closer to nature. If time allows, join a tea session and buy your favourite organic tea leaves straight from the source.
6. Naddi
A magnificent place in the peaceful settings of Dharamshala. This beautiful village sits at an altitude of 7,152 feet above sea level and is a popular place for trekking experiences. Naddi is just 3 km away from McLeodGanj, which has the best views of the supercilious mountains and the valley. Those who have visited the place can’t resist praising the beauty of this hamlet. Cut off from the world and spend some days here beholding the wonders of nature. Or, if you’re feeling a little lazier, simply sit back and repeat the same. It is the most relaxing thing one can do here. From stunning valley views to spooky sunsets, this place is a complete pack of surprises. Even the pictures can’t do justice to the beauty of this village. Go see by yourself. You won’t regret we bet.
7. Bhagsunag Waterfall
Who doesn’t want to get clicked against the backdrop of cascading waterfall? But when the water is cold you might think twice before you take a dip. Bhagsunag waterfall can be easily reached by walking a distance of ~1 km from Bhagsunag Temple. This waterfall is surely a feast for one’s eyes. It originates from the almighty Dhauladhars. Usually, it is jam-packed with tourists as it is a place that no one wants to miss out on. The captivating beauty of this fall gets enhanced during the monsoon season when the waterfall drizzles down large volumes of water laterally with the showers of rain. After you end up clicking pictures, you can enjoy the trailside cozy cafés. You’ll surely love having Maggi and nature’s creation at the same time.
Just be careful in the monsoons. Do not go much close to the fall.
8. Dharamkot
A place for bohemians. Yes! That’s what it is. If you love walking in meadows, then you must consider visiting this quaint place near Mcleodganj. You can wander vainly along forest paths, listening to nature’s music. Mainly, it is a place for those who want to get away from the hustle of tourists in Mcleodganj and Bhagsu. The vibe of the place is so relaxing that you would want to listen to only to the whistling of deodars and birds and forget all the worries eating you. Additionally, it is the hub of cafes. Of these ‘Trek and Dine’ has achieved cult grade one might say. So make sure you visit this place for relaxing and filling in your tummy as well.
And that’s how it ends! In fact, there’s so much packed into Dharamshala’s beauty that visitors still find it difficult to decide where to visit next. But fear not! With our guide to the top 8 places to visit in Dharamshala, you’ll soon be exploring the splendid beauty of this unforgettable Hilly gem. To be honest, there are still a plethora of places to visit in Dharamshala (we can’t mention them all here) so if you ever plan to visit this dreamy city make sure you don’t miss out on the rest. Toodles!!!
