From quirky cafes to virgin waterfalls, from treks and trails to the camping spots, from rugged monasteries to the magnificent temples, the city has it all. Sounds enticing, doesn’t it? What if we tell you, you don’t need to go far to witness this (at least if you’re an Indian), as they are right here in Himachal’s Dharamshala.
And before you pack your bags and head to Dharamshala, don’t you wanna know what exciting things it has to offer unless you like it impromptu. However, the ones who always plan will always plan. ‘BILKUL RIKS NAHI LENE KA RE BABA’! So, here’s to you guys, a mixed bag of popular activities in Dharamshala.
DHARAMSHALA, often quiet and unassuming, is among the most beautiful hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. And do you know what the best thing to do here is to have Tibetan food in Mcleodganj, a suburb of Dharamshala, as they say, it’s the Little Lahasa of India. Trust us you’re going to love this place for many reasons!
So, all you ‘nature ke premi’, if you’re after some jaw-dropping, spellbinding nature’s marvels, there is nothing better than stopping at Dharamshala and getting involved in some exciting activities it has to offer. There are plenty of things to do in Dharamshala that’ll keep you entertained and enchanted.
So, here we go! Enjoy this list of things to do in Dharamshala that makes it a one of a kind travel experience.
Things to do in Dharamshala
1. Visit Monasteries and Discover Buddhist Heritage
2. Do Paragliding
3. Treat Your Taste Buds at the Chic Cafes
4. Pay Your Respects at War Memorial
5. Watch a Match at HPCA Stadium
6. Take a Walk in the Gorgeous Tea Gardens
7. Seek Blessings at Some of the Most Famous Temples
8. Do Exciting Treks
9. Camp Under the Stars
10. Shop your Heart Out
11. Ropeway
1. Visit Monasteries and discover Buddhist Heritage
When you enter a monastery, you will instantly experience a feeling of utter peace and tranquillity. And that’s for sure! There are many monasteries in Dharamshala including Namgyal Monastery, Tsuglagkhang Complex, Dalai Lama Temple, Nechung monastery, Gyuto monastery, and Tsechokling Gompa. These monasteries are home to Stupas, temples and statues of Lord Budhha. Having said that, they’re forever beautiful places to visit in order to relax and meditate. And the teachings one gets from the monasteries are for a lifetime. Some of these monasteries house a park, a residential area which is beautifully decorated with flowers and trees.
2. Do Paragliding
Paragliding is the ultimate bird-like feeling! Just a brief- Along with the pilot you’re supposed to be strapped into a harness, suspended from a wing-like structure, and then you both just need to run off a cliff! And then there are two flying high in the sky! Trust us it’s a fun activity and completely safe if you follow the rules and regulations as guided. Paragliding is an excellent way to see the majestic Dhauladhars covered in snow in the clear blue sky of Dharamshala. So, take a chill pill and go for it.
Below are Some highlights of Paragliding in Dharamshala-
1. Indru Nag is home to a mountain cliff from where you’ll take off and fly at a whopping altitude of 5200 ft.
2. A certified pilot & instructor will keep you safe on the adventurous flight.
3. Take in the views of Pong Dam, Lush green Tea Gardens, Dhauladhar & Shivalik Himalayan ranges.
4. Make a video of your paragliding experience to remember your thrilling experience.
3. Treat Your Taste Buds at the Chic Cafes
Whenever you visit a new place the first thing that comes into your mind is- what’s the famous food? As a Tibetan settlement since 1959, Dharamshala has a distinct culinary culture influenced by Tibetan dishes. The entire menu, from freshly steamed momos to soupy Thukpas, is worth trying in one go. It is one of the best things to do in Dharamshala. Now, keeping aside the Tibetan cuisine, do you know Dharamshala has the best Momos? If you ask around you’ll most probably land at Kirpal, Aanand or Maximus vale Dai. Confused?? These are the stall owners who sell the best momos in Dharamshala. Doubt us? Just ask around.
Satiate Your Hunger and Travel Pangs! Must-Visit Cafes in Dharamshala.
4. Pay respect at the War Memorial
Located at the entrance of Dharamshala War memorial is one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala. As one of the first memorials built in Dharamsala post-Independence, it honors those who died in service to our country. A monument that embodies the sacrifice and bravery of the brave, the memorial is set amid picturesque scenery. The monument contains the names of all soldiers and martyrs who died in the wars and peacekeeping operations in 1947-48, 1962, 1965, and 1971. Our beloved Media often forgets Military sacrifices, but structures like these are the true inspiration for one to remember and keep fighting the good fight. Do not miss this when you are in Dharamshala!
5. Watch a Match at HPCA Stadium
In India, cricket is comparable to a cult, with a fan base that knows no boundaries as to age, religion, caste, creed, or gender. Agree? This sport would be even more thrilling if played in a stadium at an altitude of 1457 meters surrounded by scenic mountains and high altitudes. The HPCA stadium is in Dharamsala and hosts most matches for the Ranji Trophy. Watch a game while you’re here and be enchanted by the breathtaking landscape and majestic mountains in the background.
6. Take a Walk in the Gorgeous Tea Gardens
Photo By – Ashwani Negi
Tea gardens in Dharamshala are to die for! You will not only be enlightened about the whole process of tea making, but you will also be enchanted by the breathtaking views. The plantations aren’t as big as those in Assam or the North East, but they’re large enough to keep one occupied for a couple of hours. Dharamshala’s magnificent greenery, along with the aroma of tea, should definitely be on your list of things to do in Dharamsala.
7. Seek Blessings at Some of the Most Famous Temples
Your Dharamshala trip is not complete without a visit to the temples of Dharamshala, surrounded by the enticing beauty of nature and the mesmerizing views of the towering Dhauladhar Range. This serene destination hosts several temples that are sure to immerse you in spirituality. There are a number of temples to visit in and around Dharamshala, including: Aghanjar Mahadev, Chamunda Devi, Kunal Pathri, Brajeshwari and Bhagsu Nag temple. These ancient temples of Dharamshala are visited by thousands of devotees all around the year. So make sure you too visit them to seek blessings from the almighty Gods!
8. Do Exciting Treks
Trekking is one of the top things to do in Dharamshala if you love hills. No matter if you’re an absolute beginner or an experienced trekker, Dharamshala is just as perfect for you. There are many famous treks in Dharamshala such as Triund, Kareri Lake, Lahesh caves, Snowline, and Indrahar Pass trek. So, according to your time schedule you can decide which trek suits you the best. Choose one and get an otherworldly experience!
9. Camp Under the Stars
It’s impossible not to have a great camping experience in and around Dharamshala, thanks to the scenic contours and the hilly terrain. You will be tempted to abandon your cemented walls. Dharamshala is a heaven for people with tents; or even without them (you can rent one). Forested hills atop the clouds will beckon you to pitch a tent for the night.. Having clear skies and fresh air makes camping more enjoyable. The best time to camp is either summer or spring.
Take a Trip Into Wilderness With These Camping Sites in Dharamshala.
10. Shop Your Heart Out
Shopping in Dharamshala is a delight. It is undeniably one of the best things to do in Dharamshala. Whether you’re looking for handicrafts, woolens or paintings, Dharamshala never fails to impress you! Besides walking into the showrooms, you can also walk the streets and shop. When wandering around the markets in Dharamshala, you’ll find jewelry made from different stones, woolens that are knitted right there in front of you, prayer flags in different colors, and handicrafts that speak volumes about Tibetan and Indian cultures.
11. Ropeway
New kid on the block! Dharamshala now has a skyway, isn’t that good news? You can now reach Mcleodganj in just 9 minutes. Get a bird’s eye view of Dharamshala underneath as you ride the cable. The ride will start from the Dharamshala bus station and drop you off at the Dalai Lama Temple in Mcleodganj. The cost of one-way travel in this ropeway is INR 300 per person, while the cost of two-way travel is INR 500 per person. Get on the wagon and enjoy the ride!
So, this was it! These activities in Dharamshala will make you feel thrilled from head to toe. And that’s for sure! Don’t delay and plan your trip to Dharamshala today!
How safe is Dharamshala?
Dharamshala is safest of all, don’t worry about anything, just enjoy the snow capped Dhauladhars and fresh air.
How many days should I stay in Dharamshala?
4 days are enough to enjoy the surreal beauty. You can cover a one day trek as well.
Which is better, Dharamshala or Shimla?
Dharamshala is more picturesque and beautiful. Photographers will love it here. While Shimla is also beautiful, it is very commercialized and congested.
Does Dharamshala have snow?
In Dharamshala, winters are cold but there is no snowfall. However, upper Dharamshala which is Mcleodganj, Naddi, and Dharamkot will not disappoint you.
