Dharamshala set against the magnificent backdrop of the towering Dhauladhar ranges. The mountains enfold the town from three sides and which rise up to more than 4000 meters. Dharamshala, which literally means The Holy Refuge was founded in 1885.

The town is divided into two distinct and widely separated sections, Upper and Lower Dharamsala, with different altitude.

Today, Dharamsala has become the synonymous to the Tibetan government in exile and the home of Tibetan leader Dalai Lama. Needless to say, a visit to Dharamshala would be considered irreverent without a peek into the various monasteries dotting the hillsides. Whenever Dalai Lama is in Dharamshala, people flock the palace to hear the prayers which he reads out. The best time to have glance of Dalai Lamas is the during month of March when he is around to during the time of Tibetan New Year.

Even after the dominance by the Tibetan people, the colonial lifestyle and British fervor is still intact and can be seen around the city. Dharamsala over looks the plains and is surrounded by dense pine trees and Deodar forests. A nearby snowline with numerous streams and cool healthy atmosphere makes the surroundings very attractive.

Dharamshala is a busy bazaar town and has established itself as the travellers base camp, who come to explore the nearby mountains. The Kotwali Bazaar provides the entire Colour and characteristic of a small town, which is mixed with the simple life style.

The colourful temple and Gompas, which reflect the culture of Tibet, adds attraction for the visitor. The Kangra museum gives an overview of the rich past of the region and on the other hand there are institutes that have been established to preserve the Tibetan art, cultures and traditions.

Kangra art gallery
The treasure of Kangra valley is housed in the Kangra art gallery, which displays artifacts that date back to 5th century. It includes a gallery of Kangra's famous miniature painting and a representative collection of sculptures, pottery and anthropological items.

The Kangra museum also has a good collection of elaborately embroidered costumes, woodcarvings and Jewellery of the tribal people. The Shamianas used by the local royalty, jali's, pandals and lintels are also included in the collection of coins and manuscripts.

War Memorial
At Panjpulla is the martyr's memorial of Subhash Bose and the Indian national Army personal who fought during World War II. These war memorial greet the tourist as they enter the city of Dharamshala.

Dal Lake
Surrounded by high and green Deodar trees is the lake, which fills a mountain bowl. Situated 11-kms away from the town, this lake is easily approachable by road and makes an enchanting and serene picnic spot.

St. John's Church
One of the most poignant memories of the British Raj is the church of St. John, situated in the wilderness. This charmingly dressed stone church is located just 8-km from Dharamsala on the way to McLeod Ganj. Under the shade of Doedar branches, a memorial has been made over the body of the British Viceroy, Lord Elgin who died at Dharamsala in 1863.

Shrine of Bhagsunath
Just 11-km from the town center of Dharamsala is the ancient temple of Bhagsunath. There are many fresh water springs close to the temple, which are considered sacred by the Hindus.

Dharmkot
Dharmkot is located on the crest of a hill lie this attractive picnic spot, which presents a panoramic view of the Kangra valley and Dauladhar ranges.

Norbulinka Institute
Norbulinka is just four kms from Dharamsala. It was established to preserve and teach the ancient Tibetan arts. Here one can watch the wooden carvings and the tangka paintings, golsithing and embroidery being done. Here women are taught the advanced levels of Buddhist philosophy.

Chinmaya Tapovan
Just 10-km from the town is the tranquil ashram complex set up by the great exponent of the Gita--Swami Chinmayananda. Situated on the banks of Bindu Saras, the ashram includes a 9m high image of Hanuman, a Ram temple, a meditation hall, a school and a health & recreation center.

Adventure Sports
There is no place like Dharamsala in terms the facility and the adventure sports, one can avail here. It is the most popular starting points for treks and rock climbing over the ridges of the Dhauladhar range. There are tailor-made treks in the Kangra valley around Dharamsala and adjoining places.

How To Get There

Air
Dharamsala can be approached by air from Delhi and the nearest Airport is at Gaggla, just 13-km away from the town.

Rail
Pathankot is 85-km and is the nearest railhead for Dharamsala. Trains from all over the country make a stop over at Pathankot and from here it is a three-hour journey to Dharamsala.

Road
From Manali too bus services are available to this place. One can drive from Delhi via Chandigarh , Kiratpur, Bilaspur and it's an 8-hours journey. From Delhi and Shimla , luxury buses ply to Dharamsala.