It is one of India’s most scenic and serene hill stations, surrounded by the Dhauladhar Range and dense coniferous forests. This city is located in Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh, at 1457 m. Dharamshala is the Dalai Lama’s residence and combines Tibetan and Kangra culture.
Dharamshala is a natural gem dotted with lakes, waterfalls, and other attractions. There are also monasteries, temples, old forts, and museums. The hill station is well connected to nearby towns and cities by air, road, and rail.
Air and rail travelers can fly into Kangra Airport (13 km) or Pathankot Junction (86 km). A good road network connects the hill station to nearby Shimla and Pathankot. So, you can take the state bus or a taxi to Dharamshala.
First on the list of 11 Stunning places of Dharmashala is:
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Dharamshala’s Triund
Triund Hill is a popular destination for trekkers and adventurers in Dharamshala. It is 2850 m above sea level and surrounded by hills. Triund Hill is a popular destination for those seeking a relaxing break from the city.
Triund Hill is known for its breathtaking views and amazing trekking trails. Ascending to the summit offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and pristine surroundings. Triund is also a great place to picnic. On a clear night, you can camp here and count the stars.
Next on the list of 11 Stunning places of Dharmashala is:
Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, also known as HPCA Stadium, is a must-see for cricket fans. The stadium is situated at 1457 m a.s.l. in the Dhauladhar Range. It is famous for being the world’s highest international cricket stadium.
That HPCA stadium is open to tourists is a plus. So you can visit even if no cricket matches are scheduled. The main stand’s Tibetan architecture and scenic location make this stadium a must-see Dharamshala tourist attraction.
Next on the list of 11 Stunning places of Dharmashala is:
Dharamshala’s St John in the Wilderness
St John in the Wilderness Church is one of Dharamshala’s most serene and popular tourist attractions. This 1852 Anglican church is dedicated to John the Baptist. It’s about 8 km from Dharamshala and on the way to McLeod Ganj.
The church is a favorite among architecture enthusiasts for its stunning neo-gothic style. Belgian stained-glass windows add to the holy place’s charm. With a unique structure with a peaceful vibe, this church is one of the most important in Himachal Pradesh.
Next on the list of 11 Stunning places of Dharmashala is:
Dharamshala War Memorial
War Memorial is a must-see in Dharamshala. It was built to honor the brave Kangra soldiers who died in the wars of 1947-48, 1962, 1965, and 1971, as well as UN peacekeeping operations. Three huge black marble walls bear the names of the martyred soldiers. It also has replicas of guns, tanks, and planes. The memorial is made even more beautiful by the surrounding forests and lush greenery.
Next on the list of 11 Stunning places of Dharmashala is:
Tibetan Works and Archives, Dharamshala
The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives was founded on June 11, 1970, by the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. It has over 80,000 Tibetan manuscripts, documents, and books. There are also over 10,000 photographs, 600 thangkas, Buddhist artifacts and statues, and much more.
The library attracts history buffs and those interested in Tibetan literature. The library is famous for having books, manuscripts, and archives brought from Tibet by the monks in 1959.
Next on the list of 11 Stunning places of Dharmashala is:
Bhagsunag Temple
The ancient Bhagsunag or Bhagsunath Temple is one of Dharamshala’s most famous temples. It is 3 km from McLeod Ganj and is popular with Hindus and Gorkhas. The temple also has a sacred pond and a swimming pool. Visitors to the shrine can also bathe in the holy pond, whose water is said to have magical healing powers. The temple’s divine aura and serene atmosphere make it one of Dharamshala’s top attractions. After visiting the temple, you can relax near the Bhagsunag Waterfalls.
Next on the list of 11 Stunning places of Dharmashala is:
Gyuto Monastery
Gyuto Monastery is one of Dharamshala’s most famous monasteries. It began in Tibet in 1474. The Tibetan monks re-established it in Dharamshala after the communist Chinese invasion in 1959. During this period, the Dalai Lama, Gyuto Tantric Monks, and refugees arrived in India. The monastery’s monks work to preserve and promote Tsongkhapa’s tantric teachings for human welfare.
This stunning monastery is set on a hilltop overlooking the Dhauladhar Range. It houses a stunning gold-plated Buddha statue that glows in the morning light. The monastery’s beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere make it a must-see in Dharamshala.
Next on the list of 11 Stunning places of Dharmashala is:
Kareri Dal Lake
Kareri Dal Lake is one of the most romantic places in Dharamshala, surrounded by lush deodar trees and rugged mountains. It is a popular destination for those seeking tranquility in nature away from the chaos.
Aside from relaxing by the lake, you can plan a picnic with your loved ones, go on boat rides, and pray at the small Shiva Temple on the banks. It is a popular stop for adventurers trekking up to Sunset Point.
Next on the list of 11 Stunning places of Dharmashala is:
Dharamkot Studio
Dharamkot Studio, 2 km from McLeod Ganj, is a must-see for pottery enthusiasts. Tourists and locals alike can learn this beautiful art from the studio’s trained instructors. You can also take courses here to learn more about pottery.
A utensil-making art, Dharamkot Studio is known for reviving black pottery. Despite being an undiscovered gem in Dharamshala, the studio is a must-see.
Next on the list of 11 Stunning places of Dharmashala is:
Fort Kangra, Dharamshala
The Katoch dynasty built Kangra Fort in the 4th century BC. It is also the largest fort in the Himalayas and a top Dharamshala tourist attraction. The fort lasted centuries despite many battles. However, a large earthquake struck the region in 1905, causing extensive damage. Despite its ruins, the royal residence of Kangra attracts history buffs and architecture lovers from far and wide.
The fort has a small museum, three temples: Ambika Devi, Lakshmi Narayan, and Shitlamata. Climb the watchtower for mesmerizing views of the verdant green surroundings and the nearby Manjhi and Banganga rivers.
Next on the list of 11 Stunning places of Dharmashala is:
Tsuglagkhang, Dharamshala
Tsuglagkhang Temple is one of the most beautiful and serene places to visit in Dharamshala. It is also known as the Dalai Lama Temple and is visited by monks, pilgrims, and tourists seeking peace.
In addition to Gautam Buddha, the temple has statues of Padmasambhava, Avalokiteshvara, and many Buddhist monks. The Lamas here chant mantras on beads and prayer wheels. A huge gold-plated prayer wheel in the temple’s center chants “Om Mani Padme Hum.” You can also visit the temple museum and rotate the prayer wheel.
Our list of 11 Stunning places of Dharmashala ends here.
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