Dharamshala is one of the ace tourist spots in Himachal-Pradesh. Dharamshala offers the magnificent view of snow covered dhauladhar peaks. Dharamsala has a number of famous places around i.e.mcleodganj, dharamkot, triund etc. Dharamshala has always been the attraction for tourists from abroad. There is also a newly built world class cricket stadium in dharamsala. Dharamshala is also one of the fastest growing cities in himachal pradesh.
HOW TO REACH
By Air:-
Airlines flies to Gaggal airport at Dharamshala thrice a week from Delhi and Kulu.
By Rail:-
Pathankot (90kms) is the nearest railway station from Dharamsala. Another convenient railhead is Amritsar. Both the railway stations are linked to various important cities by a well laid-out rail network.
By Road:-
A good network of roads connects Dharamsala with many prominent cities and tourist destinations such as: Chandigarh (239kms), Amritsar (200kms), Delhi (514kms), Shimla (322kms), Dalhousie (55kms) etc. From Dharamsala one can also reach the Himalayan wilderness in the states of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir
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WHAT TO SEE
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.
St. John’s Church :-
The church is small in size and was built in 1852 in the Gothic style. Its tapering high windows, the front and back sides of its building all seem to be in perfect harmony with the deodar grove which is a home to lots of monkeys, baboons and birds. In 1905 earthquake, the bellfry of the church was completely destroyed. However, the rest of the building escaped damage. A new bell (built in 1915) was brought from England and installed outside in the compound of the church. The church witnessed a special event in 1992 when visitors from 39 countries participated in its service.
Mcleod Ganj :-
The arrival of the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, along with thousands of refugees to Dharamshala in 1959 made this place more lively. A number of Tibetan settlements with religious education and other rehabilitation centres have emerged all over Mcleodganj. Today, Mcleodganj is a major Buddhist centre of pilgrimage and learning.
War Memorial :-
The War Memorial is situated in Dharamshala town, near the entry point to Dharamshala commemorates. This was built in the memory of those who fought valiantly for the honour and defence of the mother land. The place is ideally located amid the pine forest. There is also a cafe just close to War Memorial serving fast food and beverages.
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.
Dharamkot:-
Dharamkot is a popular viewpoint located on the the crest of the Dharamkot hill, about 11 kms. from Dharamshala. This picnic spot offers a panoramic view of the Kangra velley, Pong Dam lake and surrounding Dhauladhar peaks. One can reach Dharamkot by a simple trek from Bhagsu. The scenery from Dharamkot is simply breathtaking and here you can also meet the Gaddi folks.
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SHOPPING:-
The main shopping area in Dharamshala is in McLeodganj, offering range of handicraft items including woollens, carpets, metal ware, Thangkas, and jewellery. The handicraft items sold in Dharamshala are created by the local artisans; these products reflect excellent craftsmanship and artistic calibre of the people.Â
FOOD:-
There are few good restaurants in the city and you can also try the restaurants at the luxury hotels.