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Dharamshala, literally translating to the rest house for pilgrims, is a charming holiday goal located in Himachal Pradesh. It is beckoned by the snow-capped Himalayas and hemmed in the beauteous foothills of Dhauladhar. A majority of people consider this place as an ideal holiday destination. Dharamshala is dotted with the numerous journey goals that include picturesque valleys, gardens, lakes, monasteries, temples, and much more.
And to add more fun and adventure, there are different opportunities to challenge your dauntless skills of trekking and skiing during the winter season. Now, you have gathered an overview about Dharamshala and how to chum around. So lets begin with the virtual expedition.
There are different churches located all over Himachal Pradesh but St. John in the wilderness is different from others. It is one of the Anglican churches located in Himachal Pradesh and is built in the neo-Gothic style. What makes it unique is its location amid the dense woods that have earned this church the title of St. John In The Wilderness. It is surrounded by oak trees that make its ambiance calm and serene. It has exquisite interiors where you can evoke the internal peace to calm your senses.
Onions, potatoes, and the cricket aficionados are found all over India. Not only this, there are certain cricket grounds that are situated at a great height and Dharamshala Cricket Stadium stands amid them. Beckoned by the murky and snow-clad Dhauladhar ranges, this cricket ground is a cricket aficionados delight. You can check out the beauty of this ground even if theres no cricket match scheduled. Were sure that youll enjoy the picturesque landscape.
We all love our country and have a high respect for all those who laid down their lives to save our motherland. To commemorate the ultimate sacrifice, there are different war memorials that exist in India. A well-known memorial known by the name of Dharamshala War Memorial is a peaceful location in Dharamshala. It was constructed during the British rule in India in the memory of brave warriors that fought for the freedom of India. Every year on all national holidays, this memorial is festooned beautifully.
If you have not heard about Gyuto Monastery yet then it is the right time now to learn about it. Gyuto Monastery is a well-known Tibetan monastery located in Dharamshala. It is situated amid the snow-capped peaks of the majestic Himalayas and with such a picturesque backdrop, this location has an ethereal ambiance. It is reckoned as the sole Buddhist monastery in India where Tantric Buddhism is practiced.
Surrounded by the murky peaks of the magnificent Himalayas, Jwalamukhi Devi Temple is a reverent Hindu shrine. It is devoted to Goddess Jwalamukhi, a manifestation of Goddess Durga. She is worshiped in the form of flames that emerge from interstices of rocks. Throughout the year and especially during Navratras, this temple is flooded by devotees. Make sure that your trip is set around Navratras to witness the beauty of this shrine.
Mother Nature has painted an astounding green painting in the form of valleys and tea gardens. Wait! Tea gardens! What is special about them? Well, to know about the specialty of the tea gardens you need to shift gears and reach this place. Located in the foothills of Dhauladhar, the tea gardens of Dharamshala are simply alluring. They are reckoned as the tea garden in the smallest region and were sure that youll take delight into spending a picnic here with your loved ones.
No other place than Namgyal Monastery is appropriate to learn about Buddhism from the turf. Namgyal Monastery came into being in the mid 16th century. Although its foundation stone was laid in Tibet, this alluring monastery was relocated to Dharamshala. Being a renowned Buddhist shrine, it also serves as the learning center of the Tantric Buddhism. Monks arrive here extensively to devote themselves entirely in the service of Buddhism.
Ask about the pristine name of Tsuglagkhang in Dharamshala and youll be enlightened by every 7th individual about it. Tsuglagkhang is the residence of His Holiness Dalai Lama. The monastery depicts the Tibetan architecture and has a soul-calming ambiance. An alluring idol of Buddha and Guru Rinpoche is placed inside this monastery. Excluding the residence of Dalai Lama, the premises of Tsuglagkhang are accessible for tourists.
With the backdrop of the murky Dhauladhar peaks, the Tibet Museum is another major attraction located in Dharamshala. The Tibet Museum is located inside the huge complex of Tsuglagkhang. It houses the amazing paintings, art forms, essays etc. that convey a lot about the Tibetan culture to its visitors. If you like to explore the Tibetan culture from the turf then do not miss to visit the Tibet Museum.
And this one is for the adventure buffs. If you are dauntless and have faith on your bus number 11 i.e. your legs then get ready. Dal Lake And Nadi is a popular travel goal located in Dharamshala. Trekking aficionados flock to this point for challenging their skills. It is located near the Dhauladhar valley and is surrounded by towering deodar trees. Due to such ambiance, its ambiance makes it a perfect picnic and recreational spot.
Visiting here will be like a dream come true. Set amidst the lush green surroundings, Bhagsu Falls are an enchanting waterfall located in Dharamshala. The white waters cascade from a height of 66 feet and form a sizable pool surrounded by huge boulders. During the monsoon season, the width of this waterfall doubles and makes it even compelling. People, especially couples, can be spotted chumming around at Bhagsu Falls.
Located closer to alluring Bhagsu Falls, there is a small Hindu temple located by the name of Bhagsu Nath Temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple was constructed during the reign of King Bhagsu who was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. Presently, the area around this temple has been developed and many cafeterias have been set up for tourists. On the occasion of Mahashivaratri, Bhagsu Nath Temple is festooned elegantly.
Counted as One Amongst Indias Oldest Forts. The ancient Kangra Fort is all about some delightful history mixed with some heritage. The origin of the fort dates back to the 4th century BC. Thanks to the fort being the largest in the Himalayan and the oldest in the country, it is a royal exemplar of architecture. Once home to the Katoch Dynasty-the royal Kanga family, the fort is a testament to all the historical happenings. Kangra happens to be one of the most popular Dharamshala tourist places that await your visit.
What not to miss: The mesmerizing view of the Banganga River followed by the Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum.
Opening Timings: 9 in the morning to 6 in the evening.
The Kangra Art Museum stands tall near the Dharamshala bus stand and is home to the Buddhist and the Tibetan culture objects, which dates back to several centuries. Courtesy to its great heritage value, the museum is seen to the Dharamshala sightseeing spots that were incepted back in 1990. The place is frequented by travelers who love marveling at the preserved ethos and traits of the Kangra valley in the form of figurines, utensils, weapons, fabrics, and paintings. The museum also has a section reserved for the modern sculptors and painters as well.
What not to miss?: The precious and rare collectibles like tribal jewelry, pottery, anthropology stuff, and coins.
Opening Timings: 10 in the morning to 1:30 in the afternoon. And from 2 in the afternoon to 5 in the evening. The museum remains closed every Monday and on public holidays.
The Naddi village is considered one of the most blissful and enchanting villages, that is tucked away at the hilltop and is far away from the hubbub of the city. The village is undoubtedly one of the must-visit tourist places near Dharamshala given the breathtaking views of the soaring hills and deep lavish Kangra valley followed by the opulent deodar forests it offers.
If you visit the village on a clear-sky day, you might be lucky enough to witness the novel-like snow-clad Dhauladhar range peaks which makes it one of the most charming places of Dharamshala.
What not to miss: The scenic view of the surrounding, which makes it an ideal hub for rejuvenation and de-stress. Stay the night to experience the best sunset in India.
Are you trek-lover? You might want to consider taking a trek to the famous Triund during your stay at Dharamshala. Triund is one of the most ideal places for all the trekkers out there, who can steal a sneak-peek into the royal Himalayas. Situated at 2828 meters altitude, Triund is a visual treat for nature-freaks, trekkers, and campers.
What not to miss: The rich Oak forest, Rhododendron, and Galu Temple.
Opening Timings: 7 in the morning to 7 in the evening.
The Afghanjar is one of the most popular Dharamshala temples that is situated 5 kilometers away from the Dharamshala and sits pretty at the Dhauladhar foothills. The temple is solely dedicated to the power- Shiva and is said to have been constructed in the 19th century.
Besides the awe-inspiring architecture, the prime facia of the temple is the waterfall which levels up the beauty and charm of the tranquil place. If you are planning for a peaceful visit, then this serene place is about to melt your heart.
What not to miss: The waterfall nearby.
Opening Timings: 5 in the morning to 9 in the night.
Kalachakra Temple sits within the Thekchen Choling Temple complex and is recognized as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dharamshala. Built-in 1992, the temple features the Wheel of Time murals besides being used for public center teaching by his holiness Dalai Lama.
It is the alluring architecture of the temple and the exhibits of rich Tibetan culture and the vast ethnicity which makes the temple a must-visit for all.
What not to miss: The enticing architecture especially on the walls and on the pillars of the temple, the Kalachakra image followed by the beautiful fresco decorations.
Opening Timings: 5 in the morning to 9 in the night.
If you are thinking about what to explore in Dharamshala, then pay a visit to one of the prettiest monasteries- Nechung Monastery. Offering the best divine experience, the monastery is seen to the residence of an oracle who was viewed as the ultimate monk guide residing there.
More so, the monastery also hosts a library that gives you glimpses into the Tibetan people and their religion.
What not to miss: The soul-stirring prayer in the morning.
Opening Timings: 9 in the morning to 5 in the evening. The monastery remains closed on Sundays.
Sightseeing in Dharamshala is simply not completed if you havent explored the great Hanuman ka Tibba. The highest till tucked away in the DHauladhar ranges, the place is situated at an altitude of 19,000 feet and is the perfect spot for all the adventure-enthusiasts, given how it hosts several thrilling activities like trekking, mountaineering, etc.
What not to miss: Witnessing the breathtaking sunset from the ranges.
Opening Timings: 6 in the morning to 8 in the night.
During your sightseeing tour of Dharamshala, a visit to the Chinmaya Tapovan is a must which recently made its way to the list of popular destinations in Dharamshala. Here you will come across the large statue of Lord Hanuman and a tranquil meditation complex beside a recreation center followed by a school.
What not to miss: The serene ambiance.
Opening Timings: 7 in the morning to 7 in the evening.
And now, our journey halts here. As we promised that well be showing some happening destinations in Dharamshala, we stood concrete-hard on our words. You read about the astounding monasteries, temples, a huge cricket stadium, a war memorial, waterfalls, and much more. Hopefully, it has evoked the spark in you to pack up your luggage and enjoy a small expedition to Dharamshala.
