Dharamshala – A name derived from two Hindi words – Dharam (Religion) and Shala (Class). Once a winter capital of the British era, it has been the state’s winter capital since years which attracts several tourists throughout the year. Located in Kangra Valley and Dauldhar Himalayan Range is a beautiful hill station which is divided into two levels – The lower level consists of local markets and libraries which makes up the Old Dharamshala town and the upper level which is 3 kms above the lower level consists of dense pine, cedar and Himalayan Oak forests popularly known as McLeod Ganj.
Dharamshala, was chosen by 14th Dalai Lama as their nest when they left tibet in the year 1959 to practise meditation and peace. You can witness beautiful Buddhist temples and monasteries along with a serene view of Himalayan range.
Are you a trekking enthusiast? Dharamshala is a place that provides a 10 kms one sided trek to Triund Hill from Macleod Ganj which offers a dense trail through the thick Oak Trees and Deodar Forest providing a stunning view of complete Kangra Valley. Here, you can enjoy the curves which lead you to the top of the peak where you can set up your camp and enjoy bon fire with your friends. The elevation height of this trek is 2,850 M.
Dal Lake is one of the best picnic spots situated at a distance of 4 Kms from McLeod Ganj. This place is covered by huge deodar trees and a very old Durveshwar Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. You can visit this place and enjoy the mesmerising beauty of the lake along with the cold breeze and the temple bells.
Being an adobe of Buddhism and various Dalai Lama, Dharamshala is a home of various monasteries among which Gyuto and Namgyal Monastery are the oldest and most important monasteries of this region. Gyuto Monastery was established by the first Dalai Lama in the year 1474 which is well-known for its tantric ritual arts and Buddhist philosophy. People following Buddhism come from all around the world to visit this place in order to learn the art and rituals of Buddhism. On the other hand, Namgyal Monastery is considered as one of the largest Tibetan temples located outside Tibet. This monastery is the residence of the great Dalai Malai and over 200 monks where you can come and learn lessons and meditate for your well being and peace.
Tibet House is situated in the lower level of Dharamshala, which is the old town which is the house of one of the most beautiful pieces of glasswork ceiling, various swords, metallic art works and many many articles which will take you to the old age of Buddhist culture and religion. Tibet museum is considered as one of the most beautiful museums in Northern India.
Bhagsu is one of the major tourist destinations in Dharamshala which is covered by lush green beds of vegetation and flowers providing a breathtaking view of the entire Dharamshala district. You can also visit Bhagsunag Temple located near to the waterfall dedicated to Lord Shiva.
