Dharamshala, a magnificent hill station situated in Himachal Pradesh is one of the most beautiful and picturesque hill stations in India. Famous for the large Tibetan community involved in the activities of the Dalai Lama. It attracts thousands of tourists driven by the teachings of Buddhism and Spirituality.
Dharamshala is divided into two distinctive areas: The upper Dharamshala and the lower Dharamshala. The lower Dharamshala or ‘Kotwali bazaar’ is like any other small town in India, with schools, houses, hospitals, temples and commercial areas. Though there are few tea gardens and markets. The upper Dharamshala, also known as McLeod Ganj, is the centre of tourist attraction comprising the Tibetan community and other activities. This place is known be very peaceful and relaxing, especially because of the presence of the holy Dalai Lama.
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Dharamshala Mcleodganj
(Photo Courtesy: indiantourist-spots.blogspot.com)
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The marvellous view of tea gardens, mountains, snowy peaks and forests can leave a person astounded. March to October the best time to visit Dharamshala. Though, the monsoon season starts from July to September, but it adds even more to the beauty of the place.
Some of the famous sight-seeing places in Dharamshala are:
Kangra Art Museum, a versatile museum filled with artifacts, craft and art which include the royal robes, Shamianas, coins, carved doors, manuscripts, jail etc. War memorial which is built to honour all the war heroes of Himachal Pradesh is another important place. Dharamshala also has Kangra’s famous paintings and collectibles of pottery and other anthropological possessions. There also is Dal Lake, War Memorial, St. Johns Church and ChinmayaTapovan which serve as good tourist fascinations.
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| Dal Lake in Dauladhar Range of Himalaya near Dharamsala (Photo Courtesy: trevelation.wordpress.com) |
Triund hill is situated 7 km away from Dharamshala and is know the be the Jewel of Dharamshala and is a place that must be visited. There are other places like Marsur, Bhagsu waterfall, Naddi, Bhagsunag Temple etc. that are worth a visit too.
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| Sunrise at Triund Hill (Photo Courtesy: hillpost.in)
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Apart from sight-seeing, tourists also have an opportunity to enjoy trekking, rock climbing and water sports for the adventure lovers. Others can find peace fishing in the river Beas. Shopping in the local market for artifacts and souvenirs, filled with colours and local culture is also a good time investment.
Dharamshala also offers a variety of cuisines for the tourists from around the world to choose from. From South Indian and Punjabi food to Gujarati delicacies, anything can be found in the restaurants here. But the speciality here, of course, is the Tibetan food.
Gaggal Airport, 15 km away from McLeod Ganj, situated near Kangra connects Dharamshala to Delhi and other major cities. The Dharamshala flights from Delhi fly twice a day by SpiceJet and Air India. The nearest airport connectivity is otherwise to Chandigarh, which is 8 hours from Dharamshala.
