Dharamshala sits on the slopes of the Dhauladhar range in the Kangra valley. Upper Dharamshala – McLeodganj – is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile, which gives the town its unique mix of monasteries, momos and mountain views.
How to Reach
- Air: Gaggal (Kangra) airport, about 15 km from Dharamshala.
- Rail: Pathankot (about 85 km) on broad gauge; the slow, scenic Kangra Valley narrow-gauge railway also runs nearby.
- Road: Overnight Volvo buses from Delhi (about 10–12 hrs).
Things to Do
Tsuglagkhang Complex (Dalai Lama Temple)
The main temple and Tibet Museum. Walk the kora (circuit) around it in the early morning with prayer-wheel turning monks.
Bhagsunag Temple and Waterfall
A short walk from McLeodganj. Combine with cafés at Upper Bhagsu.
Triund Trek
A moderate 9 km trek (one way) from Gallu Devi temple to a grassy ridge facing the Dhauladhar. Many people camp overnight. Avoid it after heavy snow or in thunderstorms.
Naddi Viewpoint and Dal Lake
Sunset views of the Dhauladhar range.
HPCA Stadium
One of the world's most scenic cricket grounds.
Norbulingka Institute
Tibetan arts and crafts in beautiful Japanese-style gardens.
Kangra Fort and Masroor Temples
Ancient fort and rock-cut temples within an easy drive – best as a half-day trip. Our Kangra valley tours include both.
Food
Try thukpa, momos, tingmo and laphing. McLeodganj also has excellent bakeries and cafés.
Where to Stay
McLeodganj and Bhagsu for cafés and buzz; Dharamkot for quiet; lower Dharamshala for larger hotels; Palampur for tea-garden stays.
Best Time
March–June and September–November are ideal. Monsoon (July–August) is very wet – Dharamshala is one of India's rainiest hill towns. December–February is cold with occasional snow.
3-Day Plan
- Day 1: Arrive, Tsuglagkhang, McLeodganj market.
- Day 2: Triund trek or Bhagsu + Dharamkot + Naddi.
- Day 3: Norbulingka, HPCA stadium, Kangra Fort.
Tours
- Himachal Grand Honeymoon – Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala & Dalhousie, 9 Nights / 10 Days
- Dharamshala Mcleodganj Tour Package
- Dharamshala Trip With Kangra Valley
- Dalhousie Khajjiar Chamba Dharamshala Tour Package
- Himachal New Year Expedition – McLeodganj, Bir, Kasol & Manali, 7 Nights / 8 Days
Related reading: Bir Billing paragliding guide · Himachal honeymoon guide · Shimla Manali itinerary
Information on events and permits: Himachal Tourism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dharamshala and McLeodganj the same?
McLeodganj is Upper Dharamshala, about 9 km above the lower town.
How difficult is the Triund trek?
Moderate. Fit beginners can do it in 3–4 hours one way.
How many days are enough?
Two to three days for McLeodganj, Triund and Kangra.
Can I see the Dalai Lama?
Public teachings are occasionally announced on his official website; schedules vary.
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