Dharamshala sits on the slopes of the Dhauladhar range in the Kangra valley. Its upper town, McLeod Ganj, is the home of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile – which gives the area a unique mix of Himachali villages, Tibetan monasteries, prayer flags and mountain views.
- Upper town: McLeod Ganj (about 2,000 m); lower town: Dharamshala
- Nearest railway station: Pathankot; nearest airport: Gaggal (Kangra)
- Best time: March–June and September–December
- Our tour: Dharamshala – Dalhousie – Amritsar 5N/6D, from ₹13,500 per person
Top tourist places in Dharamshala
- Dalai Lama Temple Complex (Tsuglagkhang): the main temple, Namgyal Monastery and a museum on Tibetan history.
- Namgyal Monastery: watch monks debate in the courtyard.
- Naddi viewpoint: sweeping views of the Dhauladhar peaks, especially at sunset.
- HPCA Cricket Stadium: one of the most scenic cricket grounds in the world.
- Dharamshala Skyway: a ropeway connecting the lower town with McLeod Ganj.
- Bhagsu Nag temple and waterfall: a short walk from McLeod Ganj.
- St. John in the Wilderness: a 19th-century church in the deodar forest.
- Tibet Museum and Norbulingka Institute: for Tibetan art and culture.
Temples of the Kangra valley
Our tour includes a day for Jwala Devi (Jawalamukhi) – a Shakti Peetha where natural flames burn inside the temple – about 55–60 km from Dharamshala, and a visit to Chamunda Devi or Kangra (Brajeshwari) temple on the way to Dalhousie.
The 6-day Dharamshala – Dalhousie – Amritsar tour
- Day 1: pick-up at Pathankot, McLeod Ganj sightseeing.
- Day 2: Jwala Devi excursion.
- Day 3: drive to Dalhousie via Chamunda Devi / Kangra temple.
- Day 4: Chamba and Khajjiar – read our Khajjiar guide.
- Day 5: Amritsar – Wagah Border, Golden Temple and Jallianwala Bagh.
- Day 6: evening train from Amritsar.
Choose Standard (₹13,500) or Deluxe (₹16,500).
Best time to visit
- March to June: pleasant and green.
- July to August: heavy monsoon – Dharamshala is one of the wettest places in Himachal.
- September to December: clear skies and snow on the Dhauladhar.
- January and February: cold, occasional snow in McLeod Ganj.
Tips
- McLeod Ganj streets are narrow and steep – wear good walking shoes.
- Try Tibetan food: momos, thukpa and butter tea.
- Respect monastery etiquette – walk clockwise around prayer wheels and stupas.
Message us on WhatsApp to book.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to visit in Dharamshala?
The Dalai Lama Temple, Namgyal Monastery, Naddi viewpoint, HPCA Stadium, the Skyway, Bhagsu waterfall and St. John in the Wilderness church.
What is the difference between Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj?
McLeod Ganj is the upper town where the Dalai Lama lives. Lower Dharamshala is the administrative town below.
How do I reach Dharamshala from Kolkata?
Take a train to Pathankot and continue by road, or fly to Gaggal (Kangra) airport via Delhi.
What is the best time to visit Dharamshala?
March to June and September to December. July and August have very heavy rain.
What is Jwala Devi temple?
A Shakti Peetha near Jawalamukhi where natural flames burn inside the temple, about 55–60 km from Dharamshala.
How many days are needed for Dharamshala?
Two days for McLeod Ganj and Jwala Devi. Our 6-day tour adds Dalhousie, Khajjiar and Amritsar.
How much does your Dharamshala tour cost?
The Dharamshala – Dalhousie – Amritsar tour is ₹13,500 per person (Standard) or ₹16,500 (Deluxe).
How do I book?
Tap "Book on WhatsApp" on the package page or message +91 89102 77805.
