Dharamshala was ruled by the Katoch Dynasty from ancient times, till the British came and took it over with the Click here to Read More
intention of making it their summer capital. A devastating Earth Quake had razed the entire town of Dharamshala in 1905. The British abandoned their plans for Dharamshala and moved base to Shimla. After rebuilding, Dharamshala thrived as a Health Resort till 1950s. Since 1960 Dharamshala has been synonymous with Little Lhasa after His Holiness, The Dalai Lama established the Tibetan Government in Exile.
Places of Tourist Interest
Namgyal Monastery :The personal monastery of H.H.The Dalai Lama, Namgyal monastery is situated in upper Dharamsala. It housesClick here to Read More
huge stucco statues of the Buddha, Avalokitesvara and Padmasambhava. The monastery also consists of an institute for learning, where futures Lamas are provided with higher Tibet studies.
Gangchen Kyishong :The offices of the Tibetan government-in-exile and the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives are located here.
Monastery of Nechung Oracle :The monastery of Nechung Oracle is situated within the complex of GangchenKyishong. The official oracle of The Dalai Lama sits here.
Men-Tse-Khang :It is the centre for Tibetan Medicine, located very near to Nechung.
Norbulingka Institute :The beautiful monastery of Norbulingka boasts of a rich collection of art, paintings, handicrafts and thankas.
Bhagsunag Fall :
Known for its old temple, a fresh water spring, water falls and slate quarries. You can take a dip in the chilly water of fall.
St. John's Church :It has a monument dedicated to Lord Elgin, one of the viceroys of India, who died at Chauntra( Mandi district ) and was buried here in 1863 A.D. The Church has lovely spotted glass windows and there is a Christian cemetery around it. It is ideally situated in the majestic 'Deodar' forest.
Dharamkot :It is situated on the crest of a hill, this favourite picnic spot affords a panoramic view of the kangra valley and the Dhauladhar ranges.
War Memorial :Situated in Dharamshala town. The memorial is situated near the entry point to Dharamshala commemorates the memory of those who fought valiantly for the honour and defence of the mother land.
Kareri :Kareri lake is surrounded by green meadows, Oak and Pine trees, making it an idyllic place to visit. Dal Lake
Lies amidst hills and deodar tress and is 11 km. from Lower Dhramshala. It is a starting point for excursion and trekking and is located next to Tibetan children's village.
Jwalamukhi Temple :It is nearly two-hour excursion would take guest to the famous Jwalamukhi Temple, dedicated to the Goddess of Light. There is no idol to worship as such in the temple. Rather a constantly burning blue flame emanating from inside the rocks is worshipped.
Kangra Art Museum :Kangra Art Museum is treasure trove of the Kangra valleys arts, crafts and rich past, display artifacts that date back to the 5th Century. It includes a gallery of famous paintings and a representative collection of sculptures, pottery and anthropological items. Shamiyanas and local dresses used by local royalty, old carved doors, jail and pndals are also on display. Coins jewellery and manuscripts are included. A section houses the works of conteporary artists, sculptures and photographers.
Travelling In and Out
BY AIR :Gaggal airport (also known as Dharamsala airport) in Kangra valley is the nearest airport. The airport is 15 km away from Dharamsal. This airportClick here to Read More
connects domestic flights to Delhi. International travelers have to get connection through Delhi Airport, which is about 520 km away from Dharamsala. Delhi Airport is connected to all major cities in India and most of the foreign cities.
BY TRAIN :Nearest railway station is KangraMandir at a distance of 22 km from Dharamsala. All trains won’t stop here. The major rail junction is Pathankot and Chakki bank which is about 85 km away from Dharamsala. Pathakot&Chakki bank are well connected to all major cities in India.
BY BUS :Regular bus services are available in Dharamsala connecting the nearby cities. Direct private luxury buses are available from Delhi (520 km).