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Complete Dharamshala Travel Guide: Mcleod Ganj & Little Tibet

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Welcome to my Mcleod Ganj and Dharamsala travel guide! It’s been six weeks since my visit and it still seems surreal. Snowy peaks, swooping eagles and Tibetan temples? It’s just not how you picture India , is it? The weeks since have been full of busy cities, scalding desert and equally scalding temperatures. During the rest of my solo trip to India , nothing has been remotely comparable to this misty, mountainous region in the Himalayas.

MCLEOD GANJ ESSENTIALS India Lonely Planet Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting around: bus / train ( 12Go ) Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads)

Quick background

Dharamsala was a British hill station during the colonial era. Once the British left and it was abandoned, it became occupied by fleeing Tibetans including the Dalai Lama who is now based here. Today, they’re joined by tourists who flock to this popular area, particularly during the summer when apparently it’s packed out.

Dharamsala travel guide

Let’s clear up some confusion. Dharamsala (also spelt Dharamshala) is the name of the region but it’s also the small city at the heart of it. Mcleod Ganj is a town within the Dharamsala region and, in my opinion, the best place to stay. It’s a great place for budget travel in India because you can explore on foot and there are plenty of cheap guesthouses. There are other nearby towns to explore like Dharamkot which you can visit whether you’re based in Dharamsala or Mcleod Ganj. The area of Dharamsala is in the state of Himachal Pradesh, up in the north of India and surrounded by the Himalayas. Along with other towns like Shimla, Dalhousie and Manali, the region experiences freezing winters and pleasant summers. Away from the clamour of India’s cities, it’s one of the top destinations for solo female travellers in India .

Getting to & from Dharamsala

First in my Dharamshala travel guide, how to get here and away… From Amritsar: At the time of writing, two buses run daily between Amristar and Dharamsala, one departing Amristar at 12pm and one at 6.30pm. The windy journey through the mountains dropped me at Dharamsala bus station and I took a taxi up to Mcleod Ganj. Book tickets using 12go . From Dharamsala, I travelled to Rishikesh on a very unpleasant 13-hour night bus through the mountains. Without any trains up in these parts, it was basically the only option. You can also travel directly to and from Delhi . It’s 13 hours by bus, the same as from Rishikesh. Bottom line: Dharamsala isn’t very close to anywhere but it’s worth the journey. Once you’re in the region, you can travel by bus to Manali and Shimla, too.

When to visit Dharamsala

Well, how much do you like the cold?! Winter in Dharamsala is from November to March and temperatures drop below freezing. This is a stunning time to see the snowy mountains if you can handle it. High season is from March to September and this is also the best time for trekking. I visited in late February and it was still really cold. I was actually quite excited to leave for that reason, but it was amazing to see the Himalayas capped in snow . Only a few weeks after I left (March), I heard it started to get much warmer. For daily upcoming weather in Dharamsala , check out Holidify.

Where to stay in Mcleod Ganj

There are options for all budgets in Mcleod Ganj. No doubt there are some fancy ones to be perused on Booking.com but I can only tell you about the two I stayed in:

Ram Yoga House

This gorgeous guesthouse was the dream and perfectly placed to admire the mountains from my balcony. Double ensuite rooms start at 1,000 rupees a night, around £11. The homecooked restaurant food, which you can eat in the rooftop cafe or in your room, is just amazing! The guesthouse a little hard to find so get your taxi driver to call them en route. Book Ram Yoga House here .

Yogis will love Ram due to the daily classes held in the rooftop studio overlooking the mountains. These cost 400 rupees and are led by the in-house teacher. Super idyllic.

Note – Ram Yoga House is really popular and often books up a few weeks in advance. Reserve ahead as it’s totally worth it!

Backpackers Inn

I wanted to stay longer in Mcleod Ganj but Ram Yoga House was full so I headed to Backpackers Inn which is a bargain at 300 rupees a night for the dorm. There are also private rooms from 1,000 rupees. Honestly, while I do recommend this hostel, only go if you are a budget backpacker. The rooms were definitely basic, there was never any loo roll, and the check-in/out process was slow. However, the views over the valley and mountains from the lovely outdoor terrace more than made up for it. The owner, Ganesh, is so lovely and basically waited on me when I was sick. It’s a good place to meet people, plus the location in the centre of town is perfect. The other hostels in Mcleod Ganj including Zostel are quite far away up in Dharamkot. Book Backpackers Inn here .

Things to do in Mcleod Ganj

There aren’t hundreds of things to do in Mcleod Ganj so it’s a great place to relax and recover in the middle of a busy India trip. Hiking and cafe-hopping are both popular so I’ll dedicate a section further down to the best food in Mcleod Ganj (something I’m a bit of an expert on). These are some of the best things to do in Mcleod Ganj:

The Dalai Lama Temple

Also known as the Tsuglagkhang Complex , this little religious site in Mcleod Ganj is worth a visit. It won’t be the most incredible temple you see in India but it’s certainly different; nothing like the Hindu and Sikh temples you find elsewhere. The Dalai Lama set up this temple when he fled Tibet and still visits to give talks. As well as an important pilgrimage site for many, it’s free for tourists to visit. Spin prayer wheels, listen to Tibetan gongs and soak up the mountain views. It’s a peaceful place minus the monkeys that make a racket jumping on the roof. No cameras are allowed inside the main temple but it’s gorgeous with really colourful, unusual artwork on the walls.

See if the Dalia Lama is holding talks

As I mentioned, the temple is still the practising headquarters of the Dalai Lama so you should see if your visit lines up with one of his teachings. I had one booked and missed it due to being sick but I luckily made it to his official ceremony the next day. This is where people come to give offerings and pay their respects while free food and drink are handed out to guests. The teachings are more interesting than the ceremony, however, and get translated by FM radio into a few different languages (obviously you won’t be able to understand the Dalai Lama unless you’re fluent in Tibetan!). Check the dates on the Dalai Lama website .

Bhagsu Falls

For a mini hike in Mcleod Ganj , take a walk over to Bhagsu Falls which is up in the Bhagsu Nag area of town. This takes about 40 minutes to walk to from Mcleod Ganj and you can stop off for coffee and mountain scenery at Open Heart Cafe , a good rest point with lovely views. Bhagsu Falls isn’t the biggest or most amazing waterfall ever, but it’s a nice thing to do in Mcleod Ganj for a dose of fresh mountain air. I befriended some goats, monkeys and selfie-loving locals on the way.

The Tibet Museum

If you don’t know, Tibet was once its own thriving country until China invaded in 1949. Not only do they now occupy the area and call it China, but they were also responsible for the deaths of 1.2 million Tibetans through executions and battle. While some Tibetans escaped to Nepal and India, those who remain face a cultural cleanse: they’re forced to speak Mandarin and learn from Chinese textbooks. Their religion, culture and cuisine are being eradicated and it seems no one wants to help, probably because of the daunting prospect of getting on China’s bad side. Visiting the Tibet Museum is the most important thing to do in Mcleod Ganj. It only takes an hour to walk around and read everything, plus entrance is free. Not only will you understand more about Dharamsala, but you’ll go away able to spread the word about what’s happening in Tibet.

Triund (and other treks)

If you visit Dharamsala in high season and feel energetic, you can experience more of the countryside. The Triund trek is the most popular, taking 3-4 hours and covering 9kms. You could obviously do this independently as a day trip but it might also be fun to do as an overnight camping trip. I saw this offered in Mcleod Ganj by lots of tourism offices.

Book your Triund trek on TripAdvisor

Meditation at Tushita

A peaceful spot in the mountains, Tushita Meditation Centre offers all sorts of retreats, as well as Buddhism and meditation courses. I was interested in the guided meditation drop-in session which runs daily at 9am (apart from Sundays). I was gutted it was closed during my visit as I had been keen to try meditation in the Himalayas. I’d recommend giving the centre a call on 89881 60988 in advance as the website doesn’t always seem to be updated. It’s a 25-minute walk uphill so you wouldn’t want to be turned away.

Bhagsu Naag Temple

If you go to Bhagsu Falls, stop at this temple site on the way. It’s dedicated to Lord Shiva and Nag, the snake god. There’s a swimming pool at the bottom where locals come to wash and pray. Not a place for you to have a dip, sorry!

Tibet World

I didn’t do this myself but I heard people talking about volunteering at Tibet World. It would be great to learn more about Tibet and (I imagine) a rewarding cause to get involved with. It seems you can bring any skills you want, even copywriting, web design or language teaching. Check out the Tibet World website.

Dharamsala Cricket Stadium

Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium is often voted the most beautiful cricket stadium in the world thanks to its mountain backdrop. I could spy it from my balcony at Ram Yoga House so didn’t bother taking a taxi all the way to Dharamsala. The photos on the Insta tag do look pretty immense, though!

Best food and cafes in Mcleod Ganj

One of the best things to do in Mcleod Ganj is eat! Well, maybe cafe-hop is what I mean. While you can eat loads of tasty Indian food in Mcleod Ganj, you can also get your fill of anything Western and indulgent if you’re in need of a break from curry . It’s also the ideal place to try Tibetan food, so save space for moreish momos and warming noodle soups. Next in my Dharamshala travel guide, the best places to eat and drink in Mcleod Ganj…

Illiterati Cafe

Hands-down the prettiest cafe in Mcleod Ganj, this bookshop and restaurant is every Instagrammers dream. The food is all Western but it’s very well done. If you’re not bothered about ordering food you could at home (though who doesn’t love pancakes?), you could just come for coffee and gaze at the views. There are so many books which you can sit and read so it would be the perfect place for a ‘me’ day.

Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen

Usually Italian food in Asia isn’t amazing but this was very good! The list of ravioli and gnocchi dishes goes on and on, plus there’s a woodfire oven for pizzas. Blackcurrant cheesecake and banoffee pie are on the menu for dessert. Plus, how stunning are these views?

Tibet Kitchen

For Tibetan food in Mcleod Ganj you have no shortage of options but this is renowned as the best. The Tibetan community eat here which means more to me than any TripAdvisor review! Tibet Kitchen is a modest restaurant with a focus on hearty food at reasonable prices. I had the cheese and veg momos which were absolutely divine and a steaming bowl of thukpa noodle soup. Honestly, I didn’t find this overly flavoursome but maybe I’ve been spoiled by too much amazing pho in Vietnam.

Crepe Pancake Hut

The first cafe in Mcleod Ganj I visited was Crepe Pancake Hut . Looking out over the mountains with a Nutella and banana pancake and a honey lemon ginger tea was bliss! I soon found out every other cafe in Mcleod Ganj had comparable views and food but still, this is a lovely spot and never too busy.

Moonpeak Espresso

For the best coffee in Mcleod Ganj, come down to this cosy cafe. I spent a few afternoons working at Moonpeak Espresso as the Wi-Fi was decent. They serve tasty Italian sandwiches and Indian favourites like Thali and curry.

Woeser Bakery

Those with a sweet tooth need to head to Woeser pronto. Aside from the gooey chocolate cake, the best thing about this cafe in Mcleod Ganj is that they make the Dalai Lama’s birthday cake each year. Last year it weighed 33 stone and you can see photos of it on the wall! I want it.

Lung Ta Japanese Restaurant

Since I’ve now told you about pasta, Tibetan food and cake, you’re probably not surprised that there’s Japanese food in multicultural little Mcleod Ganj. This vegetarian restaurant is run by Japanese owners so you can bet it’s authentic. Sushi is served on Tuesdays and Fridays which was initially a disappointment since I visited on a Monday, but I couldn’t complain when I paid only 170 rupees for okonomiyaki and miso soup. At Lung Ta, there are endless bookshelves to browse and an outdoor terrace. It would be a lovely place to spend an afternoon, post-hiking!

Thanks for reading my Dharamshala travel guide!

Check out my other India blogs:

• How much I spent in India
• What to pack for female India travel
• Travel in Rajasthan itinerary
• Solo travel destinations in India
• Tips and advice for travelling alone in India
• The ultimate Jaipur Instagram guide
• What to do in Pushkar
• 3 days in Jaipur: the perfect itinerary
• The best places to eat in Pushkar
• Is Pushkar worth going to?
• Rishikesh travel guide: yoga, nature and the Beatles!
• Where to find the best coffee in Rishikesh
• A guide to visiting Auroville from Pondicherry
• Solo female travel in India: my highlights + lowlights
• Amritsar things to do & travel guide
• Pondicherry travel guide
• Travel tips for Holi festival

See you next time for more adventures,

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

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VISITING INDIA?  These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – it’s easy to get between cities by flight. I use Skyscanner and search by whole month to find the best value dates. Buses – buses are comfy and efficient. Use 12Go to book . Trains – these are a good option for long journeys because you have a bed rather than a seat. Use 12Go to book . For hotels , I use Booking.com – they also have self-catering apartments. You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I also check Viator and Klook in case they have a better price. For food tours with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . Pack the latest copy of India Lonely Planet . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

1 thoughts on “ Complete Dharamshala Travel Guide: Mcleod Ganj & Little Tibet ”

There’s so much more I’d still like to explore in India. The north of the country is definitely part of my wishlist! 🙂

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A complete itinerary for your 3 days in Dharamshala

• Dharamshala is a haven for Tibetan culture and spirituality, with sites like the Dalai Lama Temple Complex and the Norbulingka Institute offering immersive experiences.
• Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Dharamshala boasts stunning natural landscapes, including waterfalls, lush forests, and panoramic viewpoints like Naddi View Point.
• The town also provides opportunities to explore its rich history through attractions like Kangra Fort and associated museums. Dharamshala is an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of culture, nature, and history.

3-Day Itinerary for Dharamshala:

Day 1: arrival and mcleodganj exploration, day 2: bhagsu nag, mcleodganj, and norbulingka, day 3: kangra fort, tibet museum, and sunset at naddi, dharamshala as a travel destination:.

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Dharamshala: Experience Tibetan Culture in India

• Asia , India
• Updated: January 24, 2024

Dharamshala is a unique and picturesque hill town nestled in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. Aside from its stunning natural beauty , it is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, in large due to its close association with Tibetan culture and traditions.

The town is divided into two distinct parts – Upper and Lower Dharamshala. Upper Dharamshala, also known as McLeodganj, is the more famous of the two and serves as the residence of the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. This has earned Dharamshala the moniker ‘Little Lhasa’ due to its significant Tibetan population and vibrant culture. 

Curious, and wanting to know more about this ‘Little Lhasa’, I recently decided to go to learn more about the events and changes that have unfolded here since the Dalai Lama’s arrival in 1960. 

I discovered many things, but most importantly, Dharamshala stands as a beacon of acceptance and resilience. A place where faiths intertwine, and a place that provides a safe space for those in seek of refuge.

Dharamshala is a reminder of India’s many colourful layers and cultures wrapped up in one place. 

A brief history of Dharamshala

The history of Dharamsala begins with the rule of the Katoch dynasty that traces its roots to ancient India. The Katoch dynasty is one of the oldest surviving dynasties in the world.

The Katoch dynasty is believed to have originated in the foothills of the Himalayas in the region of Kangra, which is now part of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, along with Dharamshala and other cities and towns.

The Kangra fort, just 20 km kilometres from Dharamsala, is one of the most impressive ancient structures remaining today from that period. It was built by the Katoch emperors to safeguard the interests and surrounding land that also included Dharamshala for nearly two millennia before the British annexed it in the mid-nineteenth century.

British arrival 

In the 19th century, the British established a military station in Dharamshala due to its strategic location and pleasant climate. Dharamsala was chosen as the district capital in March 1855 and the town served as a retreat for British officers during the summer months.

In 1905, a major earthquake hit Dharamshala and Kangra, killing nearly 20,000 people and reducing 100,000 dwellings to rubble. After this disaster, the British dropped their plans of making Dharamshala the Summer Capital of India and moved it to Shimla instead. Thankfully, the Gurkhas stepped in to help rebuilt the towns. 

1959 Tibetan Uprising and Dalai Lama’s Arrival

The modern history of Dharamshala is closely tied to the Tibetan diaspora. Following the 1959 Tibetan Uprising against Chinese rule, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, along with a significant number of Tibetan refugees, sought asylum in India. The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru , welcomed the Tibetan spiritual leader and his followers. 

The arrival of the Dalai Lama put Dharamshala on the international map, and today thousands of visitors, and devotees of Buddhism arrive in Dharamshala to practise their faith, and enjoy the sense of tranquility and peace that has now become ubiquitous with the town.

Below are several Tibetan attractions in McLeodganj (Upper Dharamshala), including temples,  museums, and monuments, that have come to not only influence but also redefine the city.

Prayer wheels

Gleaming gold prayer wheels of all sizes whirl throughout McLeodganj. The cylindrical wheels are decorated both externally and internally with Sanskrit mantras. Created partially for the benefit of the illiterate, it is believed that spinning a prayer wheel has the same meritorious effect as orally reciting a sacred text.

Visitors to the town, and devotees of Buddhism turn the prayer wheel clockwise, following the direction of the sun. The practice of turning a prayer wheel is believed to bring numerous benefits, including purifying negative karma, accumulating merit, and promoting spiritual well-being.

You will find prayer wheels alongside the Buddhist temples, monasteries, and stupas. If you spot them, you now know what they’re for, if you didn’t already. Be sure to give them a spin!

Kalachakra Temple

Kalachakra Temple stands out in vibrant colours of green, red, and gold tiers against the back drop of McLeodganj’s narrow market streets.

Along both sides of the temple, as well as the back, you will find a row of prayer wheels. It is customary to turn them all before entering the temple. Upon entering, you will be greeted with a large gold stupa decorated with flowers, several small prayer rooms, and on the top floor you are blessed with beautiful views across the whole city, extending to the mountains in the distance.

I was lucky to catch the view during golden hour on my first evening in the city. I still remember the feeling of serenity as the whole atmosphere was cradled in a warm loving glow.

Dalai Lama Temple Complex

Home of the Dalai Lama, this is a must-visit site in Mcleandganj.

Although he travels a lot, there’s also a chance that you might see him at one of the morning ceremonies. You can view the Dalai Lama’s schedule here . Sadly he wasn’t in town when I was there, but hey, there’s always next time.

However, everyday, twice a day I think, practising monks partake in debating which is a unique and integral part of Tibetan Buddhist monastic education. Never before had I see monks so animated – and how do I put this – so noisy! 

The primary objective of the debates is to sharpen the intellectual acumen of the monks and deepen their understanding of Buddhist philosophy. It serves as a crucial part of their monastic education, allowing them to explore and contemplate the profound teachings of Buddhism.

One distinctive feature of these debates is the use of hand clapping and gestures. The challenger often uses forceful hand claps to punctuate questions, while the defender responds with specific gestures, such as slapping the hands together, to signify the acknowledgment of a correct point.

As an observer, it’s truly fascinating to see this tradition taking place, so I really recommend timing your visit to see these debates taking place.

Norbulingka Institute

Venture over to the Norbulinka Institute, dedicated to the Preservation of Tibetan culture, it’s a haven where traditional Tibetan arts come to life.

Amidst blooming gardens, guests have the opportunity to witness the skill of thangka painters, weavers, and woodcarvers crafting tales of yore. 

There are 1173 small Buddhas painted on the walls, and a short guided tour (free) explains the different forms of Buddha and much more. Don’t miss the doll museum, consisting of 160 costumed dolls. Started in 1983, The Losel Doll project aims to preserve Tibetan clothing and acts as a fundraiser for the Norbulingka Institute.

Tibet Museum

Newly opened in 2022, the Tibet Museum is perhaps the best place to go to really understand the plight of Tibetan people. The history is extremely well documented with photographs, objects, elaborate descriptions and installations to draw focus on raising awareness about Tibetan history and the ongoing issues faced by Tibetans.

The museum is separated in two distinct sections. The first section provides the historical and geographical history of Tibet, covering the religion, royalty, culture and traditions. The other part, across the hallway, “I am Tibetan”, focuses on the diaspora and modern interpretations.

It’s a very challenging and moving museum, but you learn a lot. As a result, I recommend visiting this museum before going to many of the other Tibetan institutions as it really helps put things into context.

Colourful prayer flags

The town and surrounding area is dominated by colourful prayer flags that erupt across the city like silent fireworks. Streaming down from rooftops and tree branches, these cloths of blue, white, red, green, and yellow are certainly a treat for the eye.

But the flags serve a higher purpose than beauty. Covered in mantras, it is believed that as the flags flutter peacefully in the breeze, the wind will spread the compassion of these prayers into the air and all around us so we become blessed by their mantras.

Admiring prayer flags – where bold bright cloth is strung alongside faded tattered old flags – is bearing witness to a grander philosophy: the ongoing cycle of life, and how we all become part of the universe.

Where to stay in McLeodganj

I recommend staying somewhere in the centre of town. This way you’ll also have a wealth of cultural offerings on your doorstep, not to mention some great places to eat after a day of exploring.

One of the best places in town is  Norbu House . It is within very close proximity to the Dalai Lama Temple and each room has a balcony with beautiful views.

Are you planning a trip to Dharamshala?

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The delights of Dharamsala: discover India’s “Little Tibet”

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written by Nick Edwards

updated 09.07.2019

Ever since the Dalai Lama and his entourage escaped the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959 and were granted a new home in the district of Dharamsala , in India’s Himachal Pradesh , the area has been a magnet for travellers and truth-seekers alike.

What captivates travellers here?

When should i go, where can i do some soul searching, i hear it’s also a great place to wind down.

In fact, rather than the mundane, workaday lower town of Dharamsala itself, it is actually the delightful British hill station of McLeod Ganj above it, around ten kilometres by twisting road and all of 1000m higher in altitude, that has become the big draw as India's very own "Little Tibet".

Many people, including celebrities such as Richard Gere and Uma Thurman, come to India specifically to soak up its Buddhist traditions, yet many more casual travellers end up staying here a lot longer than they originally intended, drawn in by its alluring atmosphere.

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Set in the lower reaches of the mighty Himalaya, McLeod Ganj is surrounded by peaceful pine-forested ridges and offers sweeping views down towards Dharamsala from many of its appealing guesthouses and rooftop restaurants.

However, you only truly get to appreciate the magnificence of your surroundings by taking one of the many possible hikes in the surrounding area. Apart from the simple direct shortcut down to Dharamsala, more appealing walks take you through the woods to the nearby villages of Bhagsu and Dharamkot, the former famous for its ancient Shiva temple and a small waterfall. This becomes especially lively during the major yatra (pilgrimage) between late July and the end of August.

Slightly further afield is diminutive but usually peaceful Dal Lake, not to be confused with its more famous namesake in Kashmir . Those with stronger legs and lungs can easily arrange longer treks in the majestic Dhauladhar Range to the north, perhaps going all the way to the atmospheric Hindu temple towns of Chamba and Bharmour via the 4350m-high Indrahar Pass. Numerous travel agencies around town can help you plan one of these more demanding adventures, and also provide guides and equipment to ease your passage.

Triund, Dhauladhar © Anshul Dabla/Shutterstock

Dharamsala has the reputation as the second wettest place in India so choose your time wisely. The autumn months, before the mercury drops but while the days are dry and sunny, are in many ways the best time to visit, although people do come year round. The busiest time is in the late spring and early summer, when hordes escape the pre-monsoon heat on the plains, while the winter is extremely cold and late summer can be very rainy.

Unsurprisingly, as the seat of one of the world's greatest living spiritual leaders, McLeod Ganj is well established as a major centre for meditation, yoga and other esoteric retreats. Both Buddhist and Hindu traditions are amply represented, so you can choose between a variety of courses of differing lengths, in such disciplines as Hindu Vipassana or Tibetan Buddhist meditation.

If you have limited time or just want to dip your toes in these waters, several centres such as Tibet World offer drop-in sessions lasting as little as one hour.

The significance of the religious centres is far more important than the magnificence of any particular structures, although there are some places of worship that are well worth a visit, even the squat St John in the Wilderness church.

The most obvious place to start, however, is the red and yellow Buddhist temple that stands just behind the tiny main square and acts as the fulcrum for the two tightly parallel bazaar streets that run down from it. It is traditional to turn the many prayer wheels that surround it, always in a clockwise direction.

The other main places to see are the Tsug Lakhang temple and Namgyal monastery, both close to the Dalai Lama's residence.

The residence is not open to the public and private audiences with His Holiness are exceptionally rare and require much advance planning. But it is worth checking out whether he is giving a public address while you are in town.

McLeod Ganj is not only about exercising your legs or cleansing your chakras either. The town is an extremely laidback place just to unwind, meet other travellers, eat well and engage in some shopping therapy.

Among the authentic souvenirs you can pick up here are beautifully painted or embroidered thangkas , the vivid wall hangings of the Buddha that you see in all the monasteries. It is also possible to witness these works of art being created.

The myriad stalls that line the main bazaar area are full or ornaments, jewellery and other tempting trinkets, while several shops stock an impressive range of perfumes and oils of all descriptions.

© oceanfishing/Shutterstock

You can also sample some of the best food available in the Indian Himalaya here. Don't miss the chance to try traditional Tibetan cuisine, such as tasty momos (steamed or fried dumplings) or steaming bowls of thukpa (a hearty noodle soup). Both these delights are available in veg, chicken, mutton or, unusually for India, pork versions.

Obviously, the usual North Indian and occasional South Indian dishes are freely available, and the preponderance of western travellers has led to many places offering international cuisine, Israeli favourites and some rare finds such as Bhutanese cuisine, with its rich cheesy datse sauces.

The cafés and restaurants are certainly sociable spots, although you should not come here expecting much in the way of nightlife. Only a couple of places serve alcohol and most shut their doors between 10pm and 11pm. Still, a rave scene would hardly fit the gently uplifting nature of this special destination.

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Dharamshala – A Complete Travel Guide & Itinerary

Dharamshala, located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is famous for being the seat of Tibet’s government in exile. This outstandingly beautiful Himalayan town has had the pleasure and honor of being the residence of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama; the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people. Known as mini-Tibet, Dharamshala attracts people from all over the world. They flock here not only for a glimpse of His Holiness but also to bask in the clean crisp mountain air and abundant natural glory.

Dharamshala is the winter capital of Himachal Pradesh. It is perhaps the best place in India to learn about Tibetan culture and the Buddhist religion. It was initially a small town but its profile changed dramatically in the 1960s when the Dalai Lama settled here. Dharamshala is also famous for its endless tea gardens which produce some of the most in-demand varieties of tea worldwide – black tea, oolong tea, green tea, white tea, and the iconic Kangra tea.

Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Mcleodganj

It is situated on the upper hilly stretch of land of Kangra Valley and just against the picturesque scene of Dhauladhar ranges. Being a Tibetan hub, Dharamshala is considered to be one of the best places to learn and explore Buddhism and Tibetan Culture.

Below is an index of the information that I have covered later in the article. The headings in the box are all clickable links. So if you want to jump directly to a certain part of the article, you may do so by clicking on the header inside the box.

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How to reach Dharamshala

Where is dharamshala located.

Dharamshala is located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It extends luxuriously in the upper hilly areas of the Kangra Valley. In fact, the town lifts into the upper mountains – the lower stretch is what is known as Dharamshala, while the upper stretch is called McLeodganj. The Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas forms a cupola around the town, adding to its serene natural beauty.

How to reach Dharamshala by Road

Dharamshala is well connected to both other towns within Himachal Pradesh as well as nearby states. In fact, a drive from New Delhi takes around 9 hours considering time for halts en route. Many private bus operators offer daily travel options to New Delhi as well as other cities and towns. You can choose from non AC, AC, Volvo or sleeper buses. Alternatively, you can opt for taxi service on these routes. If you are driving by yourself, make sure you are confident about tackling the mountain roads, which are steep and full of hairpin bends.

Tickets for HRTC Buses can be booked online at the link below.

Himachal Roadways Bus Booking

For private companies, you can either buy one via the travel agency itself or online sites like RedBus.

How to reach Dharamshala by Flight

The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, 15 kilometers away from Dharamshala. This airport operates commercial flights, private chartered flights and provides helicopter landing pads. A private taxi from Gaggal to McLeodganj will cost Rs. 800-900 in peak season.

How to reach Dharamshala by Train

Pathankot Railway Station is an overnight journey from New Delhi. From there, you can opt for the Kangra Valley Railway, a scenic six-hour journey. From Kangra, you can book a private taxi or share a cab to reach McLeodganj.

Local Transport in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj

Private taxis: These typically charge Rs. 2500 per person for the Pathankot-McLeodganj journey and Rs. 800-900 for the McLeodganj-Dharamshala journey. A share taxi would reduce the cost to Rs. 300-600 per person.

Self-driving: Of course, if you were traveling by your own vehicle, either a car or motorcycle, then things will get lots easier for you to move around.

Private Car: For a full day of sightseeing, it is wise to book a private car. The cost will be approximately Rs. 1800. At the day end, they will drop you where you wish.

Walk: Dharamshala is best explored on foot. Take your time and enjoy the picturesque beauty of this hill station on long walks.

There are also several motorcycle rental agencies available as well. A lot of people hire automatic bikes like Activa to move around in the town. Usual charge is Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1500 per day for Enfield and Rs. 800 for scooters.

Auto Rickshaws are available in the town and are probably the most commonly used way of commute from one place to another.

Travel possibilities during different Seasons

During peak tourist seasons, all forms of transport will be highly expensive. To get to Dharamshala you must plan at least 2-3 months in advance and pre-book travel tickets. Otherwise, not only will you find prices sky-high, you may not be able to book a ticket at all. During monsoon, prices drop, but travelling through the mountain roads is tricky as landslides are frequent and devastating.

Also Read: Best time to Visit Mcleodganj and Dharamshala

Sightseeing in Dharamshala & Things to Do

Below is a list of places to visit in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj.

Tsuglagkhang Complex

Namgyal monastery, kareri dal lake, bhagsunag temple.

• Bhagsunag Waterfalls

Gyuto Monastery

Kangra fort, kangra art museum, masroor rock cut temple, naddi village, st. john in the wilderness church, dharamshala cricket stadium, jwalamukhi devi temple, tea gardens, mani lhakhang stupa, what to see in dharamshala.

Below is a little more information of the places I listed above including their history, location and how can you plan to visit there.

This complex is the epicenter of Tibetan Buddhism in Dharamshala. An enormous, indescribably beautiful sculpture of Lord Buddha awes visitors. The temple is located on the eponymous Temple Road and was constructed in 1959 when the Dalai Lama visited India for the first time. Today, it is the residence of His Holiness. The temple complex comprises a monastery, bookstore, library, café, and a museum. Visitors and worshippers throng to Tsuglagkhang for a glimpse of the Dalai Lama, as well as his sermons along with Tibetan dance and music performances.

Namgyal Monastery has the distinction of being the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the world, outside of Tibet. More than 200 monks reside here, spending their days in prayer, meditation, discourses, and learning. Not only is it huge, but it is also tremendously vibrant, with its bright, striking colors, intricate depictions of Tibetan mythology and of course the ubiquitous prayer wheels.

The Kareri Dal Lake is a brilliantly beautiful body of pristine water, stretching over nearly an entire square kilometer. In was named in honor of its northern cousin, the Dal Lake in Srinagar. Located in a valley surrounded by majestic Deodar trees and even more the spellbinding Himalayas, it is a top tourist spot in Dharamshala.

This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most ancient surviving temples in the entire Himalayan region. It attracts worshippers by their thousands every year. Located amidst the lush hills, visitors have to climb up winding mountain paths to reach this temple. Take a refreshing dip in the nearby freshwater pool. If you are lucky enough to visit during March, don’t miss the Shivaratri celebrations here!

Also Read: Triund Trek – How to Plan your Adventure

Bhagsunag Waterfall

Bhagsu Falls is located a few kilometers above the temple itself. The milky white cascade of fresh water from the slopes is a sight to see! Nearly 20 meters in height, its beauty reaches an apex during the monsoon.

This is the residence of the head of the Kagyu Tibetan Buddhism, known as Karmapa. It is a prime center of learning and research for Buddhist philosophy, Tantra meditation, and Tantric rituals. It was constructed in memory of the soldiers who fought and died in the Tibetan Freedom War. The complex is built in the classic Tibetan style of architecture. With its sculpture of the Sakyamuni Buddha and the backdrop of the majestic Dhauladhar range, it is one of the most mesmerizing attractions in Dharamshala.

The Kangra Fort dates back to nearly 1500 years. For centuries, this ancient structure was the abode and center of rule for the Kangra-Katoch royal dynasty. It is by far the largest Himalayan fort. Don’t miss the many ancient temples inside the premises. Down below, the Banganga and Manjhi rivers flow past serenely. Also of note is the Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum which illustrates the noble history of this place.

This is an absolute visit for any history buff. This magnificent museum preserves relics of Kangra Valley’s ancient as well as recent history. On display are paintings, fabrics, weapons, statues, temple figurines, utensils, rare coins, pottery, anthropological finds, tribal ornaments, and sculptures. It has one of the finest collections of Tibetan and Buddhist artifacts as well.

As its name indicates, these temples have been hewn into the rock. Built in the Indo Aryan style of architecture, these 15 monoliths date back nearly a thousand years. They depict tales from Hindu mythology, most notable scenes from the Ramayana. The intricate, painstakingly crafted sculptures are lovingly detailed. They remain the few examples of this style today.

Naddi is located far above Dharamshala, and consequently far from the madding crowd. This remote village offers panoramic views of the surrounding snowy Dhauladhar Himalayas and the lush Kangra Valley below. With striking Deodar forests, this village is a great spot for mental rejuvenation.

Also Read: Monasteries in Mcleodganj and Dharamshala

En route to McLeodganj is this neo-gothic church, with splendid Belgian stained glass windows. Built in the 1850s, this church is one of the most peaceful spots around Dharamshala.

One of the highest cricket stadiums in the world, this cricket stadiums attracts diehard fans from all over India. Imagine playing cricket in the cradle of the mountains!

This unique temple has existed since the time of the Mahabharata. Its current form was built by Raja Bhumi Chand Katoch. Located about 60 kilometers from Dharamshala, this temple has no deity inside. That’s right, no idol, sculpture or painting inhabits the temple. Rather, the flames which arise from the fissures on the temple floor are worshipped as the Goddess of fire and power. It is one of the Shakti Peeths and attracts thousands of worshippers every year.

En route to McLeodganj are some incredible tea gardens. While not as expansive as their North East Indian counterparts, they nonetheless have a unique charm. A stroll through these tea gardens is a charming affair.

Five kilometers from Dharamshala, this stupa is a relatively recent addition, having been built in 2001. It was constructed by the Dalai Lama and was built to survive natural calamities. It houses a gold statue of the Buddha in the lotus position, along with lots and lots of prayer wheels. The best time to visit is in the evenings when the monks sing ancient hymns and offer prayers.

What to do in Dharamshala

Below is a list of tourist activities in Dharamshala that you can indulge yourself in. I am only listing below things that you can do in Dharamshala apart from visiting all of the above mentioned places.

Paragliding

• Where: Several places around Dharamshala and McLeodganj
• When: Summer
• Cost: Depending on the duration of the flight, anywhere between Rs. 2000-8000 per person

Triund Trek

• Where: Begin from Galu or alternatively from Bhagsu Nag
• Cost: Begins from Rs. 3000 per person, depends on the number of days and nights in trek itinerary
• Where: Between Dharamshala and McLeodganj
• Cost: Begins from Rs. 12,000 per person

Kareri Lake Trek

• Where: Take a bus from Dharamshala to Ghera to begin the trek
• Cost: Begins form Rs. 6000 per person

Also Read: Places to visit in Mcleodganj and Things to Do

Weather of Dharamshala & When to Go

Climate and weather of dharamshala.

Dharamshala retains a cool and pleasant climate throughout the year with misty mornings and evenings, bright sunny days and clear skies. Owing to its elevation, it is considerably cooler than the surrounding plains. Even in the spring, when Dharamshala attracts thousands of people who flock here for the Dalai Lama’s teachings, the climate is downright chilly. The monsoon months, however, tend to be incredibly wet and humid. The skies remain cloudy and it may rain for days on end.

Winters in Dharamshala start in the month of November and last till early March; and are extremely cold. In the upper reaches of Dharamshala, near the areas of Mcleodganj, the night temperature can get close to 0 in these months. Spring arrives in the month of April and the weather remains to be on the pleasant side until June. July and August is the peak monsoon time and Dhauldhars happens to be one of the wettest Himalayan regions so until early September, it can rain anytime and anywhere. October is the month of autumn and this is when the valleys all around turn golden. By the end of October, winter starts to settle again. The weather continues to get colder throughout November and it starts to snow in the upper areas by Mid December.

Temperature of Dharamshala

Here is the month wise average temperature break up:

Dharamshala in January : 6 to 14 degree Celsius; heavy woolen and warm clothes needed for visiting in this month

Dharamshala in February : 8 to16 degree Celsius; heavy woolen and warm clothes needed for visiting in this month

Dharamshala in March : 12 to 21 degree Celsius; snow begins to melt and the weather turns warmer

Dharamshala in April : 16 to 26 degree Celsius; pleasant weather

Dharamshala in May : 20 to 30 degree Celsius; pleasant weather, plenty of cottons with a jacket is all that you need for visiting in this month

Dharamshala in June : 22 to 31 degree Celsius; pleasant weather, plenty of cottons with a jacket is all that you need for visiting in this month

Dharamshala in July : 21 to 27 degree Celsius; monsoon season, waterproof everything and carry umbrellas and raincoats

Dharamshala in August : 20 to 26 degree Celsius; monsoon season, waterproof everything and carry umbrellas and raincoats

Dharamshala in September : 19 to 26 degree Celsius; this is the best time to visit Dharamshala with lush vistas all around

Dharamshala in October : 15 to 25 degree Celsius; winter starts to settle in towards the end of the month

Dharamshala in November : 7 to 17 degree Celsius; extremely cold weather so heavy woolen and warm clothes will be needed

Dharamshala in December : 7 to 18 degree Celsius; extremely cold weather so heavy woolen and warm clothes will be needed

Also Read: Delhi to Mcleodganj – A Life Altering Journey

Best time to visit Dharamshala

As a premier hill station, Dharamshala enjoys pleasant temperature and weather year round. In winter months there is abundant snowfall in the upper reaches, so temperatures take a nosedive. With the right clothing and equipment, you can explore Dharamshala anytime you wish!

Dharamshala in Spring-Summer (March through mid-July): This is the best time to visit Dharamshala. All the tourist hotspots, sightseeing places, and adventure activities are open for business. The temperature ranges from 22 degree Celsius to 35 degree Celsius.

Dharamshala in Monsoon (mid-July through mid-September): The offseason, and prone to landslides. If you like solitude, this is the time to visit. Also brilliant for a romantic getaway. Be aware that most activities, scenic spots, and adventure sports will be closed during this time.

Dharamshala in Winters (October through February): Fresh snowfall and sub-zero temperatures. Incredible time for honeymooners. Great for winter sports.

To sum up, here are the best times to visit Dharamshala:

• With family: March, April, May, and June
• In winter: January and February
• For photography: April, July, August, September, and October
• On Budget: July, and August
• For honeymoon: January, February, and March
• For Snow: January and February
• To see Snowfall: January

Also Read: Sightseeing in Mcleodganj – A Natural & Cultural Paradise

Eating & Shopping in Dharamshala

What to eat in dharamshala.

Dharamshala cuisine has an eclectic character. You will find dishes of Pahari, Nepali, Gurkha, Tibetan and English cuisines. No matter the origin, the food is usually simple, homely, nutritious and inexpensive. Much of the food is grown and consumed locally. In fact, if you ask for local dishes, it is likely that the rice, wheat, vegetables or fruits are freshly harvested from some local garden. The organic produce tastes more flavourful than anything you would find in a city grocery. Food imports are mostly made to satisfy tourist tastes.

Here are some typical dishes you will find here:

This dumpling and vegetable soup is an iconic Tibetan dish. The bow-shaped dumplings are cooked in a soup consisting of carrots, potatoes, and spinach. Simply delicious and very filling!

This is a wildly popular soup based dish whose recipe has remained unaltered for centuries. Wheat flour and water are kneaded together to form thumb-sized pieces, which are then added to a stew comprising root vegetables such as turnips and carrots along with the meat. It is not uncommon to find momos added in as well.

This staple food is the secret to surviving Tibet’s extreme altitude. A traditional recipe, Roasted flours of peas, barley, wheat, buckwheat, and black beans are kneaded into the dough. This dough is then kneaded in a tiny bit of oil and eaten with sugar, buttermilk or freshly harvested vegetables.

This is a perfect accompaniment to the Butter Tea, soups and broths. A pan-shaped, whole wheat bread, baked to perfection with a thick crust, it is incredibly filling. Dip into a brew or slap on Apricot jam, the options are endless!

No die-hard foodie can think of momos without salivating, and we are no exception! Of Tibetan origin, momos are today served in every corner of India and have a dedicated fan following. The dough is stuffed with minced meats, cheese, and vegetables and then steamed till cooked. They are then served with chutneys, chilli sauce or ketchup. Momos may also be served in a soup. Incredibly, this simple dish is so versatile that the combinations of stuffings are endless. Also, every stall and restaurant has its own secret momo recipe. This unique, flavourful dish has rightly earned its place in the Food Hall of Fame.

A Thukpa variant, this soup noodle dish goes easy on the spices. Of Tibetan origin, the gravy consists of mutton, chicken, tomatoes, onions, spinach, potatoes, radish, garlic, ginger and cilantro. The noodles are of the pull-out variety and mixed with wheat dough chunks.

Also Read: Mcleodganj to Triund Trek – A Day of Adventure & Fun

The answer is Mokthuk, a nutritious, filling version of the Thukpa. This delicious dish combines noodles, various vegetables, chicken and mutton, along with momos dunked in the gravy, topped off with spices. Perfect for the cold weather and your taste buds!

A Tibetan noodle soup, this is popular comfort food to warm you up, inside and out. In fact, the “Thuk” in the name means heart in Tibetan, since this spicy, hot dish is heartwarming. Into chicken, mutton or beef soup are added noodles, tomatoes, onions, garlic and seasonal vegetables and served with spicy chutney.

Some other items you can try here are:

• Chicken curry – Mildly seasoned and served on the bone
• Maggie – Cooked with vegetables, each shop and stall offers its own version
• Egg dishes – Hot omelettes and eggrolls on chilly evenings, how can you resist?
• Bhutta – Fresh sweet corn is boiled or roasted

Where to eat in Dharamshala

Dharamshala offers innumerable options to eat out – large restaurants in the Tibetan area, tiny hole in the wall shops, street stalls, roadside dhabas and Maggie points. You can eat a different dish every day at every meal! However, if you have the opportunity to befriend a local, try authentic homemade Pahari fare. Beats the market offerings any day!

What to Buy in Dharamshala

Don’t leave Dharamshala without shopping to your heart’s content. Here are the Dharamshala’s most famous shopping choices:

• Handcrafted woolens: Dresses, caps, pullovers, socks, scarves, shawls and mufflers. Special shout-out to Pashmina goodies
• Brass and wooden knickknacks: Statues, walking sticks, boxes of various sizes and home decor pieces
• Accessories: In the Tibetan section, you can find some very trendy, quirky and unique footwear, bags, purses, and jewelry
• Souvenirs: Lampshades, prayer wheels, prayer flags, books and porcelain, singing bowls, Buddha statues, handmade diaries, rugs, carpets, and paintings
• Tea: Tibetan tea, Green tea and Kangra tea
• Books: On Tibetan Buddhism, mythology, spirituality and Tibetan History. Also, teachings of the Dalai Lama

Also Read: Mcleodganj to Delhi – The Return Journey Home

Where to Buy in Dharamshala

Kotwali bazaar.

This area has not only a bustling market, but also cafes, restaurants, banks, and administrative offices. It is located about half a kilometer from Dharamkot.

Timings – 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Come here for – Everything from everyday items to traditional woolen garments (shawls and cardigans) to textiles to handicrafts to wooden carvings and sculptures and souvenir items.

Jogibara Road

This is a great place to collect the perfect knickknack for your home or to take as souvenirs for loved ones back home. The sheer variety of bric-a-brac on display takes your breath away!

Come here for – Colorful and patterned scarves, mittens, shawls, sweaters, jackets, gloves, and caps all handcrafted and made of pure wool. Also Tibetan wall hangings, carvings, wooden sculptures, prayer flags, and other Buddhist paraphernalia.

McLeodganj Market

This market sits cheek by jowl with Jogibara Road. It is home to the oldest shop in the entire region – Nowrojee and Son (continually in business since 1860!)

Timings – 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Come here for – Thangka paintings, wooden carvings, tapestries, Tibetan carpets and handicrafts

Also Read: 11 Best Honeymoon Destinations in Himachal Pradesh

Accommodation & Other Facilities in Dharamshala

Hotels in dharamshala.

Dharamshala is a much in demand tourist hotspot, and you will find hotels of all sizes, amenities and price ranges in this town. Again, it is wiser to pre-book accommodations to get a good deal. Here’s a tip – the state tourism body Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) operates a chain of hotels throughout the region. They are located at prime spots, sometimes a stone’s throw away from the best attractions. They are also clean and spacious with courteous and helpful staff.

Petrol Pumps / Mechanics in Dharamshala

Petrol Pumps and Mechanics in and around Dharamshala are in abundance. You will continue to come across gas stations throughout the route. Finding a good mechanics in upper areas like Dharamkot could be challenging however so if your vehicle broke down there, you may have to bring it down to Dharamshala. The good news, however, is that since it is all downhill, you can just roll it down all the way.

Here are some petrol pumps and repair stops in and around Dharamshala:

Mann Filling Station

Contact – +91 1892 226093, 98160 45608

Pyaare Lal & Sons Petrol Pump

Contact – +91 1892 224818, 98167 49553

Ms. Dev Bhoomi Filling Station

Contact – +91 94598 51780, 70180 50962

Mobile network and Data Connectivity in Dharamshala

All major mobile networks in India offer connectivity within and near Dharamshala. However, the farther you venture into remote areas, the lesser the chances of mobile connectivity, except BSNL network. Triund is the area where you will definitely go off the network. I was carrying a BSNL and Airtel cellphone and it was only at a couple of spots and times on the trail when I was able to get a signal.

Also, always carry a dumb-phone that you can use in case of emergencies. Dumb-phone charge lasts for weeks and they are hardy in chilly weather. Any smartphone you carry should be kept close to the skin. Extreme cold can cause a smartphone battery to zonk out.

Some free wi-fi spots in Dharamshala are HPPWD Division, Café Budan and Pink House 1.

Electricity in Dharamshala

Electricity is available at all the hotels, guest houses and throughout the town; though the region does face some power-cut issues. You should carry a high power torch and extra batteries if you plan on traveling to remote areas.

Also Read: Best time to visit Manali – When to go to Manali

Banks and ATMs in Dharamshala

All the commercial banks of India have branches and ATMs in various parts of Dharamshala. Here are the major banks and their locations:

• Bank of India – Sudher
• ICICI Bank – Complex, near the Municipality Office
• State Bank of India – Kotwali Bazaar Road, Sudher
• Canara Bank – Sudher
• HDFC Bank – Center Point
• Yes Bank – Hotel Sansar, Civil Line opposite Centre Point
• Axis Bank – Civil Station
• Punjab National Bank – Kotwali Bazaar Road
• Allahabad Bank – McLeodganj

The Indian National Rupee (INR) is accepted everywhere. If you need to exchange foreign currency, you will fund a number of money changers on Mall Road and in Bara Bazaar. It is essential that you carry adequate INR because no other currency is accepted.

Also Read: Best time to visit Shimla – When to go to Shimla

Health & Safety

Hospitals in dharamshala.

There are several clinics, hospitals, and dispensaries available in Dharamshala; and you will have no problem finding one even during the night. Below are the names and numbers of a few best-known hospitals in the area.

Is Dharamshala Safe to Visit

It is very safe to be in Dharamshala throughout the year. However, visitors are advised to stay cautious during monsoon season. The only thing visitors have to consider is to stay indoors as it may rain continuously during the rainy season.

The standard rules of safety like being alert with strangers and not to hang out in strange places will apply to everyone. If you are traveling alone then it is advisable to stay in a hotel in Dharamshala or Mcleodganj itself and not in a remote area. Safety lies in your own hands and will depend on the choices you make and the actions you take. Do not take any unnecessary risks, stay safe, behave responsibly and you will be OK.

Travel with family

Dharamshala is a child-friendly place and there are plenty of attractions to keep the young ones occupied and happy. However, since they will be unfamiliar with the terrain, it is important to keep an eye on them at all times, especially in the wilderness areas like forests, viewpoints, and picnic spots.

Travel with partner

Dharamshala is perfect for a romantic getaway, whether for a week or even just a weekend!

Also Read: Thanedar, Himachal – How to Plan your Trip & Explore

Things to Carry for a Trip to Dharamshala

Clothes to pack for dharamshala trip.

Carry warm clothes no matter what time of year you are traveling. Also, dress in layers so that you can put on or take off a layer when the temperature changes suddenly. In winter especially, thermal wear and heavy jackets are a must. Carry extra pairs of clean socks at all times. All mountain areas can experience sudden or continuous downpours at all times of the year, so carry an umbrella, poncho or windcheater. Dharamshala is best explored on foot, so sturdy, all terrain, all weather shoes are a basic requirement. Remember, respect the sentiments of the local people and do not wear clothes which are revealing, especially when visiting a holy place such as a Monastery.

Documents Needed

Carry both the original and a few copies of your Identification proof and Address proofs along with the original documentation. Passport and Aadhar Card are the accepted ones. Also, carry several passport size photographs. It is also advised to carry a list of emergency contact numbers on your person at all times.

Hygiene and personal care

A basic first aid kit should be carried on a priority basis which includes not just bandages and gauze but also medication for fever, diarrhoea, indigestion, cold etc. If you take prescription drugs, carry the adequate dosage of the same to cover the duration of your trip. Many areas are very sparsely populated such that finding a medical store or a doctor is a miracle. If you plan to visit high altitude areas carry a small oxygen cylinder and medicine for altitude sickness. Carry your own toilet paper and tissues. Also, for women, carry sanitary products.

Electronics

Carry at least two fully charged power banks at all times for your mobile phone or laptop along with extra batteries for torches. Photography enthusiasts should carry extra memory cards.

Food and medicines

Carry all the toiletries you usually require since you might not find them in the local markets. Hand sanitizer, mosquito repellent cream, and detergent soap sachets are essential. Carry a sunscreen of at least 30+ SPF and a good pair of sunglasses. Carry extra garbage bags to store laundry. Most of the trip will be covered by road and it can take more time than estimated to reach the destination. Also, for vegetarians, in particular, some areas may not offer much in the way of food. So, carry dry fruits and snacks for emergency food requirement.

ATMs are few and far between outside Dharamshala, and the ones which exist may not have adequate cash at all times. So, it is wise to carry a decent sum of cash. Don’t rely on payment through card as most hotels and nearly all shopkeepers only accept cash. Distribute cash through all your belongings for safety.

Do not forget:

• Pair of warm, waterproof gloves
• Sunblock lotion with highest SPF that you can find (if visiting in Summer)
• Toilet paper
• Prescribed medicines if you are on medication
• Head Phones/Earphones
• Chargers for your electronic items
• Umbrella or a Rain Poncho (if visiting during monsoon)
• Snow boots if visiting in winter
• Comfortable pants if planning to go on a trek as a pair of jeans is not advisable for this purpose

Also Read: Jalori Pass – How to Plan your Trip & What to See

Itinerary for Dharamshala Trip

Sample itinerary for dharamshala and mcleodganj.

Covers: Dal Lake, Dalai Lama Temple Complex, War Memorial, McLeodganj and Palampur

Day 1: Drive up from New Delhi, begin preferably very early in the morning. Reach Dharamshala in about 9 hours and check in to the hotel. Relax for a bit. Alternatively, arrive at Pathankot Railway Station and drive up.

Day 2: Sightseeing around Dharamshala – Dal Lake, Dalai Lama Temple Complex and the War Memorial. In the evening, go shopping at the Tibetan markets.

Day 3: Sightseeing in McLeodganj – Visit Bhagsu Nag Temple and waterfall, St. John’s Church in the wilderness and Lord Shiva’s Temple. Take in the sunset at Talho Sunset Point. You can also trek up to Naddi Village in the Kangra Valley.

Day 4: Day trip to Palampur – Chamunda Devi Temple, Gopalpur Zoo; and Palampur Tea Gardens.

Day 5: Breakfast followed by departure to New Delhi

Also Read: Tirthan Valley – A Complete Travel Guide & Itinerary

Other Tips for Dharamshala Trip

Sightseeing in and around Dharamshala does not require any permits.

Nearby Town(s) – McLeodganj, Kangra, Dalhousie, Palampur, Bharmour, Kugti

Dharamshala Altitude: About 4700 feet above sea level

Languages Spoken in Dharamshala : The non-Tibetan locals speak “Kangri/Pahari” which at its core is a distinct variation of Hindi that has evolved over centuries of isolation. The Tibetans speak their native Tibetan. However, almost everyone communicates readily in Hindi. Most people even have a basic understanding of English, courtesy of British Era influence.

• It is highly inappropriate to touch a person of the opposite sex, even in conversation, even in a friendly manner, especially if you have just met
• If you visit places of worship, then look around carefully. If others are removing their shoes or covering their heads, do the same
• In monasteries and Buddhist temples always be silent

Emergency numbers

• Police – 100
• McLeodganj police post – 01892-224883
• Dharamshala police station – 01892-224883
• Fire – 101
• Ambulance/Medical – 102
• Women’s helpline – 1091
• Child helpline – 1098
• Disaster management control room – 0177-2812344
• Kangra (Gaggal) Airport – 0189 223 2374
• Pathankot Railway Station – 0186-2251594

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Prashar Lake, Himachal

People, Culture & Festivals of Dharamshala

People of dharamshala.

The Kangra Valley has been inhabited as far back as 20,000 years in the past. The original native Hindu inhabitants were hunter-gatherers, shepherds and herdsmen, who wandered around these holy, picturesque mountains and valleys with their flocks. These tribes still exist today, and heir way of life has remained virtually unchanged.

With the passing of the centuries, the arrival of other settlers, most notably the Brahmins and Rajputs from the plains, Gurkhas from Nepal, the British and of course the Tibetans has contributed to a unique, melting pot of culture, tradition and peaceful coexistence.

Festivals Celebrated in Dharamshala

Below is of festivals celebrated in Dharamshala with happiness and fanfare:

• January: Haldi – Celebrates the beginning of winter’s end. Expect bonfires and folk music and much dancing
• February: Basant Panchami and Samvastar Pareva – Saraswati Puja
• March: Losar – Tibetan New Year
• October: Sharadotsav and Dussehra – This is the year’s busiest and most spectacular festivals and draws both domestic and foreign tourists. Lasting for nine days, these festivals involve pujas, melas, processions and street food galore!
• December: International Himalayan Festival – Three days of performances and celebrations in Honor of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama.

Also Read: Kinnaur in Winter – How to Plan your Journey ?

History, Mythology & Legends

History of dharamshala.

The entire region has roots back to the time of the Mahabharata. The Kangra valley has been inhabited since ancient times. In fact, one single royal dynasty, the Katochs ruled it for nearly 2000 years. They fell under the control of the Sikh Empire and then the British Empire. Surprisingly, the Katoch rulers still exist today and are highly influential in the area. The original Hindu inhabitants are mostly shepherds and huntsmen.

Dharamshala is the place where the legends of the Gurkhas – the bravest of the brave. The first Gurkha regiment was established here in 1860. As they made their name fighting wars for the British Empire, more and more Gurkha platoons were established. Eventually, distinct settlements arose which are still in existence today. Many places in and around Dharamshala are named for Gurkhas, their villages or their military encampments.

Kunal Pathri

It is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths of India. Legend has it that Devi Parvati’s head fell to the earth here as it was being carried around by Lord Shiva. Inside the ancient temple, a trickle of water drips down from the ceiling, which the priests collect in a saucer. No one can explain where this water originates from!

Also Read: Kinnaur Valley – A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Indrunath Temple

This ancient temple is located near the take-off point for paragliders. Nearby is a sparkling stream. The waters of this stream were essential for cultivation in the nearby villages. In the past, however, this stream would dry up during the summer months. The villagers believed a sacrifice to the Gods would keep the stream from drying up. A village headman then reportedly chucked his wife in the water, and since then, there hasn’t been a dry day!

Aghanjar Mahadev Temple

This is a centuries-old temple. Legend has it that the Shiv Ling inside was not brought here, rather, it manifested itself. Also of note is a fire that has been burning continuously for half a millennia. No one knows who began this practice, but the locals ensure that the fire is never allowed to die.

Baijnath Temple

This hugely significant temple has an interesting back story. It is said that Raavan prayed to Lord Shiva, asking him to reside in Lanka forever. Lord Shiva didn’t want to leave his beloved mountains, and so he handed Raavan a stone statue of himself, with a catch – Raavan would have to carry it Lanka by himself and that he should never put it on the ground. All too soon, Raavan wanted to attend a call of nature. He requested Lord Ganesh to hold on to the statue. However, the mischievous Lord Ganesh swiftly placed the statue on the ground! This spot is where the Baijnath Temple stands today.

Also Read: Shimla Manali Dharamshala Dalhousie Trip Itinerary

Why to visit Dharamshala

To sum up, Dharamshala is your destination if:

• You want to visit the prime centre of Tibetan Buddhism in the world; second only to Tibet itself
• You want to relax in a soothing, calm; and above all, cool temperature
• You want peace and quiet from din and drama of city life; and want to spend some time away in peace.
• You want to explore the upper Indian Himalayas
• Last but not least, you want to catch a glimpse of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama!

I hope the information above on planning a trip to Dharamshala was of help. If you have any questions; or need any other details; please feel free to ask in the comments section below; or at our Community Forum ; and I will be glad to answer.

Shivani Vedantam

India - of chaos and method, colors and starkness, heaven and hell. Me? Forever fascinated.

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Hi ,I do not know if this is for Shivani Vedantam or Varghis Khan, but very exciting information.We are Senior citizens in Chicago,USA and would like to start traveling soon,and see and meet Hi Highness Dalai Lama would be the first choice.Please keep me on your mailing list.

Nice Article. Thanks for the amazing information.

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How to Experience the Tibetan Culture and Heritage in Dharamshala

• Post author: TOL Admin
• Post published: October 25, 2023
• Post category: Cuisine / Culture / Food / Local Travel / Outdoors / Travel Guide

Dharamshala, nestled in the picturesque hills of Himachal Pradesh, India, is not just a scenic haven but also a melting pot of cultures. Among its myriad charms, the town stands as a vibrant symbol of Tibetan culture and heritage, thanks to the settlement of Tibetan refugees since 1959. If you’re planning a visit to this enchanting town and wish to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Tibetan traditions, here’s your guide on how to experience the Tibetan culture and heritage in Dharamshala

Visit the Tsuglagkhang Complex

At the heart of Dharamshala lies the Tsuglagkhang Complex, a spiritual nucleus housing the residence of the Dalai Lama and the main Tibetan Buddhist temple. The complex invites you to witness the serenity of Tibetan Buddhism through magnificent Buddha statues, colorful thangkas, and the soul-soothing chants of monks. Don’t miss the Tibet Museum, where history comes alive through photographs, documents, and artifacts narrating the tale of Tibetan struggle and resilience.

Explore the Norbulingka Institute

For a deeper dive into Tibetan arts and crafts, the Norbulingka Institute is a must-visit. Here, artisans diligently work on creating exquisite thangkas, statues, wood carvings, and textiles. The institute’s workshops, exhibitions, and events provide an interactive experience, allowing you to understand Tibetan culture and history. Don’t forget to stroll through the beautiful garden, relax in the library, and savor the peaceful ambiance.

Enjoy the Tibetan Cuisine

Tantalize your taste buds with authentic Tibetan cuisine available in the many eateries dotting Dharamshala. Delight in the flavors of momos, thukpa, tingmo, and butter tea. Be adventurous and try local specialties like sidu, madra, and bhaturu. Each dish is a culinary journey that offers a glimpse into the rich gastronomic heritage of Tibet.

Shop for Tibetan Souvenirs

Dharamshala’s markets are treasure troves of Tibetan souvenirs. Prayer flags, wheels, singing bowls, malas, jewelry, carpets, masks, and incense – these items carry the essence of Tibetan spirituality and make for meaningful keepsakes. By purchasing these goods, you not only take home a piece of Tibet but also support local artisans and craftsmen.

Experience the Tibetan Festivals

Dharamshala comes alive during Tibetan festivals. From the vibrant celebrations of Losar and Saga Dawa to the solemn observance of Lhabab Duchen, immerse yourself in the festivities. These events, marked by prayers, dances, music, and delicious food, provide a unique opportunity to witness the deep-rooted traditions and the unwavering faith of the Tibetan people.

Dharamshala, with its breathtaking natural beauty and cultural richness, offers a transformative travel experience. As you explore the town and engage with its Tibetan heritage, you’ll find yourself not just as a spectator but as a participant in a legacy that spans generations. Nestled amidst this cultural tapestry, finding the perfect resort in Dharamshala enhances your experience, providing a comfortable sanctuary after your adventures. So, pack your bags, open your heart, and get ready to embark on a soul-enriching journey into the heart of Tibetan culture and heritage in Dharamshala, all while enjoying the warmth and luxury of a splendid resort.

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Travel Guide to Dharamsala

Table of Contents

Things to see and do in Dharamsala for nature lovers and spiritual seekers

Our travel guide to Dharamsala will help you discover this unique hill station in Himachal Pradesh, located among the Himalayan mountains in north India. Dharamasala — which includes the adjacent town of McLeod Ganj — is a place that has long attracted spiritual seekers, Buddhists, hippies, Yoga practitioners, adventure travellers, curious tourists, and those who just love scenic views and the great outdoors.

There’s a lot to see and do in Dharamsala, and lots of places that cater to domestic tourists and international visitors, such as dozens of modest guest houses, resorts, cafes, and small restaurants. Along with momos – the tasty dumplings that are a mainstay of Tibetan cuisine – you can find Japanese restaurants, pizza parlours, and the ubiquitous German bakery. There are also a lot of courses available in everything from classical Indian music to meditation, and from Yoga to pottery.

Dharamsala is in the Dhauladhar mountain range, which forms part of Kangra valley. It’s famous for its scenic landscapes and picturesque locations. The town spreads out along a slope, and ranges from an altitude of 1,250 in lower Dharamsala to 1,550 metres in upper Dharamsala (also known as McLeod Ganj).

Due to the presence of the Dalai Lama, Dharamsala is a popular pilgrimage destination for Tibetan refugees, Tibetan Buddhists, and many others who are drawn to this bright light. A darker element is also attracted to the town, so the usual cautions about being alert to conmen, beggars, and those who prey on gullible tourists are in order.

In the Dharamsala region, you can immerse in Tibetan Buddhist culture by visiting monasteries, volunteering, taking teachings, and touring the various institutes, museums, and centres set up by the Tibetan government-in-exile. You can also enjoy the immense scenic beauty of the Himalayas.

Read more on Breathedreamgo

• Buddhism in the Himalaya

Volunteering in Dharamsala

• Himalayan village adventure
• Top 10 reasons to visit the Himalayas

HH Dalai Lama’s exile in India

In March 1959, a young, bespectacled monk secretly escaped from his home among the snow-capped Himalayas, a place known as the rooftop of the world. He disguised himself as a soldier and, along with a retinue of supporters, travelled through the harsh terrain towards freedom and safety. For two weeks, the world wondered and waited, not knowing whether he was dead or alive.

Then, on March 31, he reached Arunachal Pradesh in Northeast India, and his followers rejoiced. Rumours spread that he was hidden and kept safe by mists and low clouds, conjured up by the prayers of holy men.

The young monk was of course the Dalai Lama , and his escape from Chinese-occupied Tibet is now known around the world as one of the most dramatic and harrowing incidents of the 20 th century.

India welcomed the Buddhist monk and leader of the Tibetan people, and his supporters, as refugees. The following month, India’s prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru granted the Tibetan exiles a home among the lower Himalayas of North India, in Dharamasala, Himachal Pradesh. They have been there ever since.

Today, the Dalai Lama, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, is a household name, and a Buddhist teacher who travels the world non-stop spreading a message of love and compassion. His home is still in Dharamsala, the centre of the Tibet government-in-exile.

A sprawling town has developed around the Dalai Lama to support the Tibetan refugee population and the Tibetan government-in-exile. Some of the notable landmarks include:

• Namgyal, the home monastery-in-exile of the Dalai Lama,
• Nechung Monastery, the seat of the State Oracle,
• the Tibetan Medicine and Astrology Center,
• the Tibetan government’s parliament-in-exile,
• the State Library and Archives, and its adjoining Museum of Tibetan Art,
• the Tibetan Children’s Village, which houses 2,000 students, and
• Norbulingka Institute, which works to preserve the arts and traditions of the Tibetan cultural world.

Many visitors to Dharamsala get an audience with his Holiness. He also holds teachings in Dharamsala every year. People come from all over the world to attend.

When the Dalai Lama gives public teachings in McLeod Ganj / Dharamsala, they are held at his main temple at Namgyal Monastery, Temple Road, next to his residence. Visit  his website for his schedule  and for  practical advice for attending the teachings in India .

Many visitors to Dharamsala volunteer their time to work with the Tibetan community. When I was there in 2006, I volunteered with a program called Art Refuge on the roof of the Tibetan Reception Centre. The program was run by Ama Adhe, a hero to the Tibetan people. She was imprisoned for 27 years by the Chinese for aiding resistance fighters. After her release, she travelled to Dharamsala to support the Dalai Lama, wrote a book called The Voice That Remembers , and ran the Art Refuge program to help Tibetan refugee children adjust to life in India before they start school at the Tibetan Children’s Village.

There are many opportunities for volunteering in Dharamsala, from teaching English to working at animal shelters. You can find out about volunteer opportunities at these places, among others, but please research carefully before making a commitment:

• Dharamsala Animal Rescue
• Dharmalaya Institute
• GoAbroad volunteering programs
• Workaway — animal rescue

Trekking in Dharamsala

There are several treks you can take directly from Dharamsala itself, and the city is a good jumping-off point for expeditions into Himachal Pradesh. Within walking distance of the city are trails to Dharamkot and the Bhagsunag Waterfall. Meditation and yoga retreats, including the Dhamma Sikara Vipassana Centre, cafes, resorts, and guest houses abound in this area.

The state of Himachal Pradesh is known for deep, fertile valleys that cut through soaring Himalayan peaks. Here, trails wend through forests thick with deodar, oak, rhododendron, and pine trees, and across alpine pastures and streams. Deer and wild goats wander freely.

The state is an ideal destination for nature lovers as its home to 12 main national parks and animal sanctuaries, including The Great Himalayan National Park, which was established to protect endangered fauna and flora. There are 1,200 species of birds and 359 animal species in Himachal Pradesh – including leopards, ghoral, snow leopard, and musk deer, the state animal.

Yoga and meditation in Dharamsala

No guide to Dharamsala would be complete without mentioning the many courses available in meditation. You can read about Vipassana meditation in India here , which is available at a Vipassana meditation centre called Dhamma Sikhara just outside of Dharamsala in Dharamkot village.

Tushita Meditation Centre is a centre for the study and practice of Buddhism from the Tibetan Mahayana tradition. They have a wide range of courses and retreats.

There are many Yoga ashrams, meditation centres, spas and other wellness opportunities in Dharamsala — far too many to list! You can discover some in this article .

So, whether your interest is cultural, spiritual, or natural, Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh is sure to make a lasting impression. In fact, many visitors to India cite it is as their favourite destination. It was certainly a hit with the Dalai Lama – he is known for being the “longest guest of the Indian government.”

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Professional travel writer Mariellen Ward is the founder of award-winning Breathedreamgo. Mariellen has a BA in Journalism and has been travel writing and blogging since 2005. She has won many awards, including a National Tourism Award from Incredible India Tourism, and writes for some of the world’s leading publications including BBC Travel and NatGeo Traveller India.

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Dharamsala (also spelled Dharamshala) is known as the home of the Dalai Lama, though in fact the Tibetan spiritual leader is based about two miles up the hill in McLeod Ganj, and that's where most visitors are heading. Dharamsala proper is a market town mostly useful for bus connections.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tsuglagkhang Complex

Mcleod Ganj

McLeod's main focus for visiting pilgrims, monks and most tourists is the Tsuglagkhang complex, a custard-coloured concrete monastic village that's home…

Norbulingka Institute

Soothingly set amid bamboo, trees and flowing water, the delightful Norbulingka Institute, 6km southeast of Dharamsala, was established in 1988 to teach…

Tibet Museum

This must-see, two-storey museum sets out to remind visitors of Tibet's history as an independent nation, mourning the Chinese occupation (since 1949) and…

Men-Tsee-Khang

Men-Tsee-Khang is an organisation established to preserve the traditional arts of Tibetan medicine and astrology. The Gangchen Kyishong branch includes a…

Library of Tibetan Works & Archives

Inside the government-in-exile compound, nearly 2km downhill from the Tsuglagkhang complex, the Library of Tibetan Works & Archives began life as a…

Gyuto Tantric Gompa

Standing in for the 1474 Tibet original, this large monastic complex forms an attractive scene backed by mountainscape at Sidhbari village (7km from…

Men-Tsee-Khang Museum

Three floors of displays explain the sophisticated sciences of Tibetan astrology and medicine.

Kalachakra Temple

Visiting the Tsuglagkhang clockwise, as is required by Buddhist convention, you pass a prostrating area then a door leads into the westernmost building,…

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Dharamsala and beyond

The Only Itinerary You Need to Witness the Magic of Dharamshala

Dharamshala

Located in Kangra Valley, Dharamshala is a town that is the seat of rich Buddhist and Tibetan culture. A town unlike any other in the plains, Dharamshala provides impressive, imposing views of the mighty snow-clad Dhauladhar ranges and is a must-visit. Here’s how you can spend 4 days in this magical town and came back more rejuvenated than ever before.

Norbulingka institute

Image credit: Sauniabee

Start your day with a trip to Norbulingka Institute, which is a centre created for the preservation of Tibetan art and culture. Norbulingka is a 20 minute drive away from Dharamshala and is a haven enveloped in the middle of the city. Norbulingka seems like another world all together. From its decorated gates to a beautifully manicured landscape, the institute is rife with Tibetan art, colourful prayer flags and chortens. Here, you can free guided tour that will take you me to a wood-carving workshop, weaving workshop and the Thangka painting workshop. The temple within the institute is very peaceful and can instantly transport you into a meditative mode. Visitors can stay at their Norling Guest House at the cost of ₹3000 and dine at their restaurant or opt for their buffet lunch.

Gyuto Monastery

Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

You can then head to Gyuto Monastery which is a 10 minute drive from Norbulingka Institute. This is a massive monastery to which the Dhauladhar ranges form an enchanting backdrop. The monks here are said to practice tantric Buddhism. The temple within the monastery’s complex is renowned for its massive Buddha statue which is visited by believers from around the world.

After a lunch and taking short nap, prepare yourself for round 2 of sightseeing!

Kangra Fort

Hail a cab to the majestic Kangra Fort, located 24km away from Dharamshala. This is the oldest fort in India, and was once, also the largest before its eight-storied structure was destroyed by a massive earthquake. You must take the audio-guide at the entrance and walk around the fort, listening to stories of various battles and conquests that were fought here. The fort was besieged 54 times, starting from Md. Gaznavi, then Alexander the Great, Jahangir and finally the British. The fort is also known for Maa Ambika Temple which is believed to be the oldest temple in India.

Australian valley

Image credit: Saumiabee

Once you're at the top of the fort, keep a look out for an unbelievably beautiful valley called Australian Valley that you can see from here. The drive to Australian valley is delightful, the river on one side, and lush green grasslands on the other.

Must Read: dharamshala stadium

Blossoms Village Resort

To unwind after a tiring day, you can head to Blossoms Village Resort that has the only 24x7 rooftop bar and restaurant in all of Dharamshala. On most weekends, there are soulful music performances here, so keep a look out if you're there during the weekend. Enjoy a hearty meal at Blossoms and do make use of their well stocked bar for a good time!

McLeod Ganj

His Holiness Dalai Lama Main Temple

Next morning, head to McLeod Ganj, a tourist town that is renowned for being the seat of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The Dalai Lama temple located in the heart of Mcleodganj should be your first pit-stop in the town. The temple is an auspicious and significant one; a visit here will instantly make you realise the grace that His Holiness and the numerous monks living in Mcleodganj exude. There's no denying that there's positive vibe that engulfs this small town.

Kalachakra temple

Next, you can head out shopping for mementos, Tibetan cutlery, Korean noodles and semi-precious jewellery at the temple road market. Also visit the Kalachakra Temple located in the middle of the market. and then head for lunch.

Tibet Kitchen

Visit Tibet Kitchen, a restaurant located at the main square that serves delicious Tibetan and Indian food. Gorge over several plates of momos and thukpa, a meal that will make you keep coming back to this restaurant.

Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts

From here, head to the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts where you can interact with Tibetan refugees and learn about the destruction that their cultural heritage has suffered at the hands of the Chinese. Also visit the museum that chronicled Tibetan life before the Chinese invasion. This is a must visit for everyone who wants to know more about Tibetan history.

Visit Woeser bakery, a tiny cafe in the main market for the best coffee you may have ever had and then to Illiterati Cafe for dinner.

Plan on staying the night in Mcleodganj, check out Hotel Bhagsu, a room here will cost you approximately ₹1600 per night. There are numerous hostels, women's hostels and guest houses too that you can book once you're there.

Triund Trek

Head out early morning for a day trek to Triund. After reaching Galu Temple by car, you begin a 3 hour trek. Traversing through Triund's rocky terrain that offers majestic views of Dharamshala, you won't even realise how much you've walked. A tedious 2 hour walk later, you'll finally reach the top. The surprise element of Triund is quite high thanks to the majestic view it offers. Just as you are recovering from the last tough patch of the trek, you're presented with an imposing view of Dhauladhar Ranges staring at you will all their magnanimity. Spend a few hours at the top and immerse yourself in Triund's beauty. Head down by 3pm.

Sunset Cafe

As you reach the base of Triund hill, you can head to Sunset cafe, a tiny and quaint cafe located in the middle of a forest. From this spot you can enjoy a spectacular sunset and watch the colourful drama that Dharamshala skies are known for. Enjoy a glass of freshly prepared juice here.

Morgan's place

Once you're back, you can head to Morgan's Place for delicious Pizza in Dharamkot, and then head back to Dharamshala.

** Alternatively, you can even camp overnight at Triund and then head back to Dharamshala the next day.

Masroor Rock Cut Temple

In the morning, head to Masroor Temple or Rock-Cut Temples at Masroor that date back to the 8th century. Located by River Beas, this temple is dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, Devi and Saura traditions within Hinduism. Even if you're not enthusiastic about idol worship, the temple is extremely picturesque and an architectural delight so it's a must visit for all. Masroor Temple is located 44km away from Dharamshala and it will take about 1.5 hours to reach.

For lunch, hail a cab up to Naddi where you can enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants here. Since this is your last day at Dharamshala, there's no better place than Naddi to absorb all of Dharamshala's beauty. Take a walk around the village and then hike down to the pristine waterfall located beneath Naddi.

By 6pm, head up to Mcleodganj and hail a bus/flight back home.

Best time to travel:

Apart from monsoon, any other time of the year is excellent to visit Dharamshala. During April, there’s a nip in the air and the entire mountain blooms red with rhodendron. Summer is sunny with light showers most evenings. During winter, clear blue skies bless the town and reveal a blanket of stars in the night.

Where to stay:

Prakriti aalay.

Image credit: Booking.com

Waking up to sounds of a gushing river and snow-clad ranges is the best experience of staying at this resort. The rooms have a rustic setting and you are sure to enjoy your meals with a view. Equipped with all amenities, this is a great place to stay at.

Getting there and around:

Air: The closest airport to Dharamshala is Kangra Airport in Gaggal located 15km away from Dharamshala. This airport is a very small one, with Spice Jet and Air India servicing between Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi and Kangra Airport everyday.

Road: The journey from New Delhi to Dharamshala takes about 10 hours. Take the route: Delhi– Murthal– Sonipat–Panipat– Karnal– Ambala–Anandpur Sahib–Nangal–Una– Kangra– Dharamshala.

Train: Closest station to Dharamshala is Pathankot. Located 82km away, it takes 2.5 hours to journey between the two.

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Tibet Museum

Northern India welcomed Tibetan exiles many years ago. Because of their permanent exile status, this peaceful community has built a life in and around the town of Dharamsala. Today, you can visit the Tibet Museum at Gangchen Kyishong, which is near the Library of Tibetan Works and Archive. Learn all about the Tibetan people as you enter this breathtaking exhibition.

Exploring the Updated Museum

The permanent exhibition details the Tibetan culture from its beginnings to future endeavors. By using photographs, testimonials and historic objects, the museum focuses on Tibet's cultural and political ideologies. In short, the exhibition introduces visitors to Tibet and His Holiness The Dalai Lama.

Truthfully, the personal tales described by real Tibetans are museum highlights. Because these accounts are from real people, the Tibetan struggle comes into focus for many visitors. From a dramatic exile to a fight for cultural preservation, the Tibetan people have an important story to tell the world.

Discovering New Exhibitions

Remarkably, the Tibet Museum has space for temporary exhibitions. For 3 to 4 months, each exhibition has its own space to detail another facet of Tibetan life. These exhibitions might originate from Tibetans or other qualified people, such as scholars.

Each exhibition has its distinct theme, such as a scientific look at Tibet's maps over the centuries or a detailed account of Tibetan currency. Ultimately, every aspect of Tibetan life can be examined for its purpose among the people and how the culture fits into the modern world today. The Dalai Lama is quite often a subject of these exhibitions, too.

Uncovering the Traveling Exhibition

Learning about Tibet is possible outside of the museum. Today, this organization has photographic panels that are easily transported to other locations. For example, museum curators set up the panels at a nearby lecture or public gathering. Through these visual aids, everyone can understand the history, purpose and future pathways of the Tibetan people.

Quite often, these traveling exhibitions encourage visitors to see the Tibet Museum. Each year, more people learn about the exile and its impact on an entire culture. In the end, educating the world about Tibet can only help its people.

Learning about the Tibetan Exile Through Lectures

The Tibet Museum is also home to a state-of-the-art auditorium where bimonthly lectures occur. Undoubtedly, attending a lecture is a highlight for visitors. These speakers are scholars, researchers and other professionals who have great insight about Tibet and its position in the global community.

Every lecture focuses on a distinct facet of Tibetan life, culture, history or politics. Through social media, visitors can see the upcoming presentations so that they can participate in the lectures. Certainly, this outreach benefits the cause and the visitors who are intrigued by the Tibetan culture.

Trying a Virtual Tour

The museum's updated website gives visitors a chance to virtually walk through the property. So, even if you cannot physically visit, this virtual tour is a simple tool to help you learn about Tibet. Click through the various rooms, tap on the information buttons and read about the people and culture. Indeed, the museum includes many videos, photos and personal stories to make the information come alive.

If you visited the museum in person, taking a virtual tour when you arrive home can remind you of some overlooked details. Taking a closer look at traditional Tibetan clothing, for instance, might be easier online. Also, reading some of the exhibition's wall summaries may refresh your memory.

Visiting the Property

Visit the Tibet Museum any day of the week. They're open between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. However, the museum is closed on many Saturdays and Mondays. Ideally, check their website for updated hours especially when Tibetan festivals are scheduled.

Prepare for the visit by reading about the Tibetan people, too. With a rough idea about the culture, the museum can engage your mind even further. Overall, you might spend several hours strolling through the museum and enjoying the exhibitions. Videos and photos are the dominant features throughout the museum.

Every artifact and photograph paints a picture of Tibet's past and preserves it for future generations. By visiting the museum, you can contribute to this community's cause. In the end, exiled Tibetans can remain strong as they build their lives focused on peace and prosperity.

Planning a Trip to Himachal Pradesh?

Dharamshala tour packages.

Delhi Dharamshala Volvo Tour Package

• Delhi - Dharamshala Volvo Bus Tickets
• Accommodations at a 4-star Property
• Full-day Sightseeing
• Daily Breakfast & Dinner

Honeymoon in Dharamshala

• Full Tour by Car
• Candlelight Dinner
• Flowerbed Decoration

Triund Trek & Camping

• Trek to Triund Hill
• Camping in Triund
• Accommodations at a 4-star Property in Mcleodganj

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Joyful Trip to Dharamshala & Manali

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Dharamsala in Himalayas

Dharamsala Travel Itineraries

Heritage & Culture

Nature & Landscapes

Relaxation & Spas

Namgyal Monastery

Dalai Lama's Residence

Tibetan Culture

Shiva Cave Temple

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Places to Stay

Glenmoor Cottages

The Glenmoor Cottages are located in Upper Dharamshala, in the very scenic Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh.

The Grace Hotel

The Grace Hotel was built in traditional hill architecture. This 200 year old country manor is a statement of elegance and courtliness set against a backdrop of the richly forested Dhauladhar range.

Udechee Huts

Udechee Huts is a simple and well-kept hotel, tucked away amid towering pine and oak trees at the foothills of snowy peaks of the Dhauladhar range, just minutes away from McLeod Ganj.

Other Interesting Places

The beautiful Pangon Lake, which sits high up in the Himalayas at a stunning altitude of 4350 meters, is quite popular with tourists from all over the world!

Pangong Lake

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Dehradun: Erstwhile colonial influence: Once a British settlement, this dream destination in the Doon Valley nestled in the mountain ranges of the Himalayas in Uttaranchal, is on the threshold of a world full of adventure, spiritualism and tranquility and makes the perfect entry point for enthusiastic trekkers and mountaineers.

Haridwar is a significant pilgrimage destination and is considered by Hindu worshippers as the Gateway of the Gods.

Kalka (derived from the name of the Goddess Kali) is a small town in Haryana’s Panchkula District, located in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas and is an ideal gateway to the beautiful state of Himachal.

Ladakh: The land of endless discoveries! Bound by two of the world’s mightiest mountain ranges, Ladakh is gifted with high mountains, lakes and beautiful ancient Buddhist monasteries.

Leh, also dubbed Little Tibet, is a mesmerizing land of contrasts, with its stark and scenic beauty.

Manali: The Switzerland of India! Surrounded by swirling mists and towering peaks at arms length, Manali’s asset is its proximity to the snowline.

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Getting the taste of tibetan way of life: a travel guide to dharamshala.

April 20th, 2018 by Lipika Sharma

Dharamshala, nestled in the Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh, is home to serenity like very few other places in India are. Visit this town if you want to get an insight into Tibetan culture..

Green meadows, towering deodar trees, and colorful monasteries form the landscape of this hill town. Visit this destination to regain your peace of mind and capture some picturesque views.

Want to rejuvenate your senses in Dharamshala this year? Our Dharamshala Tour Packages let you enjoy some of the most amazing time in this serene landscape. Browse through our wide range of tour packages, and let this vacation be a blissful journey for your soul.

Best Time to Visit Dharamshala

March to Mid-July is the best time to visit Dharamshala, to beat the summer heat. Monsoons in Mid-July to Mid-September might cause roadblocks and landslides. October onwards, dropping temperatures make the weather chilly and by the time it is December, the town is freezing with snow-clad peaks that are a grand view. The weather remains cold till the month of February, post which the temperatures return to normalcy.

Places to Visit Dharamshala

(i) The Tsuglagkhang Complex , the official abode of the 14th Dalai Lama, houses Buddhist shrines, stupas, a museum and a cafe.

(ii) Namgyal Monastery is the cultural centre of the Tibetan population in Dharamsala. This place is ideal for some meditation and observing Tibetan lifestyle.

(iii) Travel a short distance of 46 kilometres from Dharamshala to reach Masrur . This site is famous for its rock-cut temples that date back to the 8th century AD.

(iv) Make a trip to the quaint town of McLeod Ganj for its splendid views of “Hanuman Ka Tibba” – the highest peak of the Dhauladhar Ranges, and other attractions like Bhagsu Falls.

(v) Watch red-robed monks in meditation and taking lessons in Buddhism philosophy at the Gyuto Monastery . The air of spirituality around this place creates a perfect environment for some self-introspection.

(vi) Kangra Fort has several narrow halls, watchtowers and temples that date back to the 9th century AD. This place along with the Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum will make for an interesting stop on your itinerary.

(vii) Go boating at the Dal Lake in Dharamshala. Bordered by hills and deodar trees, it marks a starting point for many treks and excursions. The religiously inclined can visit the small Shiva Temple situated on the banks of this lake.

Related Search: The Best Places to Visit in Dharamshala for a Refreshing Experience

Where to Eat in Dharamshala

(i) Tibet Kitchen offers a wide variety of dishes typical to the country – steamed vegetable dumplings, called momos; soupy noodles called thukpa; and golden fried baby corn.

(ii) Go to Crepe Pancake Hut for a slow start to the day with a chocolate pancake, scrambled eggs or ginger cake.

(iii) Namgyal Café is perfect to lounge on the sunny terrace on cold days with delicious vegetarian pizzas for your growling belly.

(iv) Illiterati is ideal for a lazy brunch with European options ranging from tomato soup to pizza, lasagna and fresh salads. The teas and coffees are also excellent here.

Where to Shop in Dharamshala

(i) Purchase Tibetan hats, Chubas (sheepskin coats), woollen shawls, prayer wheels and prayer flags from the street shops at Kotwali Bazaar .

(ii) Buy Mandala paintings and traditional Tibetan dresses from the Jogiwara Road .

(iii) Pick up Tibetan trinkets, other conventional pieces of jewellery and Handmade Tibetan Crafts along the Temple Road .

(iii) Central Square has many stores selling wooden carvings, Thangka tapestry paintings and handicrafts.

Tucked away in the Himalayas, Dharamshala makes for a great weekend destination. With many monasteries to explore, a stunning lake, spectacular hills and the Kangra valley, a trip to this hill station always proves to be a fulfilling one.

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Dharamsala Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Dharamsala ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• Located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamsala is a small city of ~53,000 people.
• Home of the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama .
• The center of exiled Tibetans in India, Dharamsala and contains the headquarters of the Central Tibetan Administration .
• Also spelled: Dharamshala.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  Indian Rupee  (INR)
• Spoken languages: Tibetan, Punjabi, Hindi, and English.
• Best time to visit: from March to October. Perhaps the most interesting time to visit is when the Dalai Lama delivers his teachings (usually in June). Cold winters.
• Arriving via airport: The best way to reach Dharamsala is to fly to Delhi and take an overnight bus to McleodGanj from the Majnu Ka Tilla bus stand in New Delhi. The AC Sleeper Volvo will cost around Rs. 900 and take approximately 12 hours to arrive. The nearest airport from Dharamsala is Gaggal DHM (Kangra Airport), is 20 km away from McLeodGanj.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best Dharamshala hostel for solo travelers: Hostel Triangle Folks Mcleodganj . A small, cozy place with welcoming owners (and delicious meals). Clean and well-kept. Beautiful views of the valley, with regular evening bonfires to relax and meet others.
• McLeodGanj offers a wide range of accommodations, most of which are located near the bus station .
• For those who want to find a quieter stay, look for accommodations in  Bhagsu or Dharamkot  (small towns within walking distance).
• Jogiwara   Road has plenty of budget options – with some great views!

GETTING AROUND

• McLeodGanj can be easily navigated on foot . The nearby points (e.g. Bhagsu and Dharamkot Village ) are within walking distance. Dharamkot is a short but steep hike of approximately 3 km from McLeodGanj Bus station.
• Chartered Auto Rickshaws are available from the bus station at McLeodGanj. They charge around Rs. 60-Rs.100 to the nearby points.
• Taxis can be booked by calling +91 1892 221034 – the Bhagsu Taxi Operators Union. Taxis can be booked for the local tours. While rates may change from time to time, they are approved by the Regional Transport Authority and are reasonable.

DHARAMSALA NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 18 , last call is 12:00 AM (midnight) .
• Great venues for solo travelers in Dharamshala: Labooze Cafe Bar Lounge, Mcllo Beer Bar and Restaurant (some say it’s overrated, but one of the legendary spots in town).

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• The Naam Art Gallery is a permanent exhibition of acrylic paintings by Elizabeth Buschmann, and oil paintings by Alfred W. Hallett.
• Tsuglagkhang Complex – located on the Temple Road (in front of the Dalai Lama’s residence), this is the largest temple outside of Tibet. Contains a large meditation hall and beautiful murals. Also, check out the Tibet Museum (just opposite the complex).
• The Tibetan Library , a small but interesting museum containing precious Tibetan literature.
• Bhagsu town can be easily navigated by foot from McLeodGanj. The area contains some beautiful ancient temples and waterfalls . Look for the  Bhagsunag Fall .  
• Dharamkot Village – a 3 km hike   from the McLeodGanj bus station, this is a quiet village located within a coniferous forest. Here you will find the  Dhamma Vipassana and Tushita Meditation  centers. Tushita offers a 10-day Introductory course on Buddhism from March till October (Tushita is closed from November to February).

INTERESTING WALKS

• Walk around the Kotwali bazaar – the main shopping area.
• Head to Bhagsu  – a 3 km walk from Dharamsala, followed by a 1 km hike up to the waterfall.
• Walk along the mountain paths to Dharamkot Village for a quiet and peaceful forest retreat.
• Triund Trek – if you are into trekking, climb the hill beyond Dharamkot to Triund for a beautiful view the Himalayan peaks. The summit is 2,875 meters up, and is a fairly long hike. There are overnight accommodations available at Triund.

LOCAL WISDOM

• Hindi is the national language of the country, and knowing some basic phrases will help greatly in interactions with locals. You may get lucky – English is also used extensively by the local Tibetans.
• Great restaurants in Dharamsala: Tibet Kitchen, The Clay Oven, Crepe Pancake, Jimmys Italian Kitchen.
• Great cafes : Common Grounds Cafe, Four Season Cafe, Takhyil Peace Cafe, and Cafe 129.
• Where to find good cheap eats : just about anywhere, as most cafes and restaurants in Dharamsala offer quality meals at a reasonable price. Check out Lung Ta Japanese Restaurant (on Jogibara Road), which offers elaborate vegetarian meals at very reasonable prices.
• Dangerous areas : consisting of small villages with friendly and accepting locals, Dharmasala is very different from the (often chaotic) other Indian cities. Locals are very used to Western tourists. In any case, avoid wandering around the Dharamkot or Bhagsu area late at night as most of the mountains do not have any street lights on during the late hours.

Recommended trip duration:  2-3 days

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• 1.1 Climate
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.3 By train
• 2.4 By taxi
• 3.1 Orientation
• 3.2 By taxi or rickshaw
• 3.3 By cable car
• 5.1 Trekking and walking
• 5.2 Meeting the Dalai Lama
• 6.1 Yoga, meditation and healing
• 6.2 Cooking classes
• 7.1 Volunteer
• 9.3.1 Budget
• 9.3.2 Mid-range
• 9.4.1 Budget
• 9.4.2 Mid-range
• 9.4.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Coffee
• 10.2 Alcohol
• 11.1 Budget
• 11.2 Mid-range
• 11.3 Splurge
• 12 Stay safe

Dharamsala (Hindi: धर्मशाला, pronounced [d̪ʱərəmˈɕaːlaː] or [d̪ʱərmˈɕaːlaː]; Tibetan: དྷ་རམ་ས་ལ་), is a hill station in Himachal Pradesh , famed for its large Tibetan community centred on the activities of the Dalai Lama.

Understand [ edit ]

The Tibetan Buddhist roots of Dharamsala stretch back to the 8th century, although most of the local population long since reverted to (and remains) Hindu . "Dharamsala" literally means an "inn attached to a temple", and it was so until the district headquarters in Kangra became too crowded and the British moved 2 of their regiments in the late 1840s to what is now Dharamsala. Over the years, this grew to be district headquarters of Kangra, and the location is now known as the Police Lines.

Dharamsala was mooted to be the summer capital of India. But this was not to be, as much of the town was destroyed in the 7.8 magnitude earthquake of 4 April 1905. The disaster killed over 10,000 people in this sparsely populated area.

After falling into obscurity in the early days of Indian independence, Dharamsala regained some social standing in 1959 with the arrival of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government in Exile [dead link] . It is a very popular hang-out for foreigners and students of Buddhism. Indeed, it is now perhaps a little too popular and many would say the town, and especially McLeod Ganj, is little more than a backpacker ghetto. Don't come here expecting calm and tranquillity.

Climate [ edit ]

Lower Dharamsala is at an altitude of 1,400 m, while McLeod Ganj is at around 1,750 m, making them considerably cooler than the plains below. Temperatures in January can dip below freezing, while June can go up to 38°C. The monsoon from July to September is very wet. Even in March, when the Dalai Lama holds his teachings and the weather down in Delhi is balmy, you will still need a heavy winter coat. These can be purchased at reasonable prices in the town.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Kangra Airport ( DHM  IATA ) is at Gaggal near Kangra , a distance of 15 km from McLeod Ganj by road on MDR44 and NH 154.

By bus [ edit ]

• 32.2182 76.31726 1 Dharamshala ISBT Bus Stand . Most people arrive in Lower Dharamsala by bus. It has good connections with other parts of North India, although the journeys are often slow due to the narrow winding roads in the hills. Tickets for Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC, a state government body) can be booked online. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.219334 76.316161 2 Dharamsala Private Volvo Stop . ( updated Aug 2023 )

It was the case that some public HRTC buses to Delhi and Pathankot go all the way to the main square of McLeod Ganj, where you could also book advance tickets for the return trip, but this seems no longer to be the case.

Privately operated buses travel from Manali , Dehradun and Delhi . Overnight buses travel from Delhi with many leaving from the Tibetan colony of Majnu ka Tilla. These services take upwards of 13 hr and cost ₹450–1,000 for a Volvo.

Specific nearby destinations:

• From Pathankot – Unreserved HRTC buses from Pathankot cost ₹200 (Jul 2023) and take 3–4 hr to Dharamsala. Buses depart frequently throughout the day, 4PM last.
• From Amritsar – There are direct private buses leaving in the afternoon for ₹800 that are advertised as taking 5 hr. There are no direct public buses between Amritsar and Dharamsala. However, you could take the 9AM train to Pathankot first for ₹55 and then transfer to the HRTC bus.
• From Chandigarh – Even though just 236 km it's a gruelling 8–9 hr trip in an ordinary bus.

By train [ edit ]

The nearest mainline train station is at Pathankot and the neighbouring small station of Chakki Bank, a comfortable overnight journey from Delhi.

Train fans can continue from Pathankot on the slow and rickety but pretty narrow-gauge Kangra Valley Railway to Kangra , a journey of 4 hr. In Kangra walk or take a rickshaw to the bus stop from where buses to Dharamsala go. The train actually continues further to Jogindernagar from Kangra.

By taxi [ edit ]

A taxi from Pathankot to McLeod Ganj, 88 km and takes about 3 hours, and the official fare from Pathankot is ₹2,200 (one way). This is May 2019 rate for a small car such as an Alto/Indica.

Taxis from Delhi are often available leaving from Majnu Ki Tila Tibetan settlement in North Delhi on the ring road. Many people take a taxi to Delhi which takes about 10 hours and pay the return fare simply because they don't want to deal with the hassle and pain of taking a bus. These taxis need to return to Dharamshala, and many times will sell seats in their car for the same price as a bus ticket. To find these taxis, go to the Majnu Ki Tila Tibetan Settlement Bus Stand and look for taxis which have Himachal Pradesh licence plates. You can negotiate with a driver. Often the taxis will leave in the evening and you will arrive in Dharamshala early the next morning.

Get around [ edit ]

Orientation [ edit ]

Dharamsala is divided into several distinct areas that are separated by a 15 min or 12 km bus or jeep ride at most:

• 32.21778 76.31855 1 Lower Dharamsala – Consists of most of the government offices, Schools, the local hospital, and commercial areas. It also has a few tea gardens. One in the area of Chilgari and another just beyond Dari. It is a typical small Indian town that, other than for the bus station, is of little interest to tourists. One can enjoy the view while driving through.
• 32.23799 76.32397 2 McLeod Ganj – Known less commonly as Upper Dharamsala is named after David McLeod, who was once the British Lieutenant-Governor of Punjab, and the word Ganj , which is a common Persian word meaning "neighbourhood". At an altitude of 2,082 m and 5 km on foot from Lower Dharamsala, it is famous for Tibetan culture, natural beauty, mixed tradition, ancient temples, churches and monasteries. As of 2021, it is the home of famous 14th Tibetan Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso after his exile from Tibet , and thus home and centre to the Tibetan community.
• 32.24448 76.333 3 Bhagsu – Sometimes also called Little Tel Aviv , it is 2 km northeast of McLeod and has become a highly commercialised hotspot for many backpackers from Israel—Hewbrew is a common sight here.
• 32.24856 76.32828 4 Dharamkot – A 10-min climb above Bhagsu with a number of guesthouses. It is less busy than Bhagsu and offers many fancy restaurants and Yoga and meditation centers. There is a nice shopping and dinning promenade aka footway making half a circle around the hill.
• 32.25127 76.32914 5 Haini – Another 10 min climbing straight north and you will reach the last of the tourist centers of Dharamsala, sometimes called Upper Dharamkot . There are several good to great hostels with some of the best views in Dharamsala. This place seem to be popular with Russian speaking backpackers, even though many other tourists pass through here on their way to the Galu waterfall .

Villages near McLeod Ganj include Forsyth Ganj , in between Lower and Upper Dharamsala. And for a more quiet and basic experience, try Naddi (3 km, and a great viewpoint) or Talnu (11 km).

All these places are small enough to be navigated on foot—McLeod, Bhagsu, Dharamkot and Haini are closest to each other (max. 20 min on foot), while Lower Dharamsala is further away.

By taxi or rickshaw [ edit ]

Between McLeod Ganj and Dharamsala shared taxis run roughly hourly and cost ₹20. Chartered auto-rickshaws charge around ₹250. Trips from McLeod Ganj to nearby points (e.g. Bhagsu) cost ₹50–150. There are separate counters for auto-rickshaws and taxis near the center square. Walk to them and rent vehicles and avoid people who walk up to you and offer to take you to places.

• 32.23938 76.32363 3 Auto-rickshaw counter . ₹50–250 . ( updated May 2019 )
• 32.23933 76.32386 4 Taxi cab counter . ( updated May 2019 )

By cable car [ edit ]

• 32.21987 76.317 5 Dharamsala Skyway (lower station) , ☏ +91 1892 223302 . There is now also a cable car between Lower Dharamsala and McLoad Ganj. ₹450/675 one-way/return . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.23446 76.32441 6 Dharamsala Skyway (upper station) . ( updated Aug 2023 )

See [ edit ]

• 32.2 76.31002 2 Kunal Pathari ( around 3 km from the Dharamsala. ). People come to this temple every day to pray to the Goddess.  

• 32.25339 76.30281 4 Naddi View Point , Naddi ( around 10 km from Dharamsala. ). This is an ideal place for a complete scenic view of snow covered Dhauladhar range. There are manned telescopes (₹10–20) with which you can see the Triund campsite and Guna Devi Mandir. The hike from Dharamkot or Haini is the easiest, because the trail stays pretty much on the same altitude. But Naddi is of course also easily reached by taxi or rickshaw. ( updated May 2019 )
• 32.21968 76.32093 5 Peak Art Gallery , Temple Rd, McLeod Ganj ( 1/2 way down Temple Rd, below Cafe Nirvana ). 10AM-7PM .  
• 32.19716 76.37096 6 Rakkar . A picturesque hamlet on the outskirts of Lower Dharamsala, perched on the foothills of the snow capped Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Historically inhabited by shepherds of the Gaddi community, the hamlet is slowly attracting visitors who are interested in getting away from the busy tourist hub of McLeod Ganj in favour of having a closer interaction with the locals villagers in a pristine village environment.  

• 32.24263 76.31829 7 St. John Cathedral in the Wilderness ( around 5 km from Dharamsala ). It's a nice picturesque cathedral in the middle of greenery. 1 km from McLeod Ganj. Auto-rickshaw costs ₹70 as of May 2019. There is no auto stand near the cathedral, so it's a bit tough to get an auto back. If possible, ask the auto driver to wait and then take the same auto to other spots. Free . ( updated May 2019 )
• 32.22643 76.32523 8 Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts ( TIPA ). Stage performances of traditional Tibetan dance, music, and theatre. The shows are not only infrequently performed.  
• 32.22637 76.32533 9 Tibetan Library ( Library of Tibetan Works and Archives ), Gangchen Kyishong , ☏ +91 9218422467 , +91 9882255047 (reception) , [email protected] . Near the Tibetan government in exile, with a small but interesting museum. ( updated Sep 2017 )
• 32.23248 76.32431 11 Tsuglagkhang Complex , Temple Rd, McLeod Ganj . This is the largest Tibetan temple outside Tibet, and it has a large meditation hall containing some beautiful statues and thangkas, as well as a Kalachakra temple with beautiful murals. It is the monastery of the Dalai Lama, and is just in front of his residence. It also contains the largest Tibetan prayer wheel of about 2 m height—spin it!  

Do [ edit ]

• Roam around . McLeod Ganj is a beautiful place to roam around on foot. Hotels made on the slope of Dhauladhar range, market decorated with colourful Tibetan flags, hand made goods and stalls of tasty food makes it more beautiful. But also Dharamkot offers many small cafés and place to take a rest and watch the world go by. ( updated Aug 2023 )

Trekking and walking [ edit ]

• 32.24752 76.33838 2 Bhagsu Waterfall ( 3 km from Dharamsala ). Has many waterfalls, an ancient temple, numerous slate quarries and a fresh water spring. An easy walk down Bhagsu Rd through the village of the same name, then 1 km up to the waterfall itself. The trail up to the waterfall is stone most of the way and has fencing along steep sections. There are several vendors selling snacks and drinks at the base of the falls. Be careful if you decide to take a bath in the upper pools of the waterfall, as there may be shards of glass in the water, possibly thrown there by the villagers to prevent "indecent" behaviour by westerners at night. You can also start your walk in Upper Bhagsu, where a second trail remains pretty much at the same altitude towards the waterfall. When you reach the waterfall, a little further up there is Shiva Café, which has a nice little private pool filled with refreshing mountain water and a comfortable picnic area.  
• 32.268306 76.329428 3 Galu Waterfall . Also a nice hike, but first you will have to climb 300 m altitude from Bhagsu to the saddle behind Haini. From there the climbs and decents are not that extreme anymore and along the way there a 3–4 cafés and restaurants. There is a small water fall at the end with cascades and swimming holes. ( updated Aug 2023 )

• 32.25958 76.35649 4 Triund . If you are in for a brisk walk, climb the hill beyond Dharamkot to Triund ridge. It is one of the most popular treks to go over a weekend trip from Chandigarh and Delhi, and perhaps the easiest Himalayan trekTl, 6 km and 3 hr (one-way) from Bhagsu or Dharamkot, which are at 1,800–1,900 m. It goes through jungle and is quite a climb, and thousands of trekkers visit come on this trek every year. Triund provides beautiful views of the first peaks of the Himalayas and a wide view over the plains. In December and January this region turns white after snowfall which makes it more attractive for trekkers. As it is at 2,875 m altitude, make sure to wear good shoes, carry water, some food and an extra vest or coat. At the top, even in summer, the weather can change from hot and sunny to cold and cloudy very quickly. Every year some tourists get themselves into serious trouble this way, wearing only sandals and a T-shirt. It seems that the western track is better maintained, so try that one if you are in Dharamkot anyway. If you want to warm up before the Triund trek, try the trek to Guna temple. If you plan to stay overnight at Triund, there is a Forest Rest house (₹500–1000 per night). Take a double bedsheet, but be aware there is no running water or electricity. A torch is a must. If the Forest Rest house is full, then you can hire tents. You can also stay at Snowline tent camp, which is a bit higher up. Ask the staff at Sunset Café for details, they have their contacts. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Laka Glacier Trek . It's always exciting to reach a glacier, but in most of the cases reaching the glacier is a tough task. Laka Glacier is found at the lowest level in Asia. Trails of Laka Glacier treks pass through Triund top, so most of the time this trek is also known as Triund Laka Glacier trek. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.29778 76.38134 5 Indrahar pass . Further up from Triund, this is alpine hiking and you will probably need to book a tour to do it. It passes through the snowbound Dhauladhar Range in the Kangra valley, and ends at Lamu.  
• 32.26504 76.43062 6 Toral Pass ( 4,575 m ). It begins from Tang Narwana (1,150 m) that is nearly 10 km from Dharamshala. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.32556 76.27361 7 Kareri Lake Trek . Tucked between the greenery all around this glacier lake is the most attractive place for nature lovers. ( updated Aug 2023 )

Meeting the Dalai Lama [ edit ]

Meeting (or at least getting to see) the Dalai Lama is the dream of a lifetime for many people, an intensive spiritual experience for Buddhists and a memorable moment for people of other faiths. It's also very difficult to achieve, so don't plan on it. It requires a good deal of luck.

If you want to give it your best shot, the first thing to do is make sure that His Holiness is in town when you visit. He travels frequently. His website lists his yearly itinerary and an email to the office will confirm his travel dates. While he does give scheduled public teachings, these are crowded. There are some that are only scheduled a few days in advance, so keep your eyes and ears open in Dharamsala. The ultimate goal is a private audience. His website says he is no longer giving them. This isn't entirely true, but you have to have a very good reason or an "in." Go to the office of his secretary.

The Dalai Lama's administrative office is in the Tsuglagkhang Complex. When you face his house, which has a gate with Indian guards in front of it, it's the last door on your right, at the end of the complex. This office is open all day, six days a week. The man behind the desk will tell you to apply online and give you the website address. Go to an internet cafe and do it if you haven't already done it and been rejected months in advance so that you can say that you have, but it probably won't get you anywhere. If the receptionist is there alone, then His Holiness is not giving private audiences. If a bunch of people are there holding slips of paper with their personal information and their passports, he's giving private audiences, they usually occur around noon. There is heavy security and you need a reason. Chat with everyone.

Some people get in as a group, like a documentary crew or a family whose father is a politician. Talk to everyone in Dharamsala about His Holiness , and you're bound to run into someone who is on his staff or knows someone on his staff. At the office, drop the name of every person you met. If you are visibly ill, you may get an audience based on that. Granted, this "audience" will probably last the time it takes for him to bless you, which is about 10 seconds, and an additional ₹5 to pose for a photo. A photographer is provided and you are not allowed to bring your own camera.

To meet the Dalai Lama is something most Tibetans worldwide only dream of so count your blessings if you receive an audience. Bring a khata (white scarf), they can be purchased for a few rupees, but since you'll probably be treasuring that khata, you might want to shell out ₹20 for a nicer one. If he poses for a picture with you the security office will tell you to return with a blank CD and they will burn the picture onto a CD. Blank CDs can be purchased from shops on Temple Rd for about ₹50. Remember to show appreciation for anyone whose name you might have dropped to get in. Donate to their monastery, eat at their restaurant or whatever you feel is appropriate. This isn't expected but it's a nice thing to do.

Every year in February–March for ten days or so, and occasionally at other times, the Dalai Lama holds public lectures. Registration at the Tibetan Branch Security Office (near Hotel Tibet) is necessary, preferably 3–4 days beforehand although shorter notice may be possible. Bring a cushion to sit on, an FM radio with headphones to listen to the simultaneous translation from Tibetan to English, a cup for tea and a sunhat/umbrella, but as little else as possible since security is tight. The last day of teaching concludes with public prayers, for which no security pass is needed. Donations are welcome.

• 32.187282 76.368571 8 17th Karmapa ( Dalai Lama's alternative residence ). A temporary residence is at the Gyuto Tantric University in the town of Sidhbari near McLeod Ganj.  

Learn [ edit ]

Courses available include yoga, meditation, reiki, Tibetan and Indian cooking classes, Tibetan language classes and Thai massage. Many courses include vegetarian meals, and are offered at meditation centres.

Yoga, meditation and healing [ edit ]

Vipassana and Tushita (see below) seem to be the two most authentic and original names in the region.

• Asho Institute , Bhagsu Village . Courses in ayurvedic nutrition and tai-chi.  
• Amit Reiki & Meditation Centre , Jogiwara Rd, McLeod Ganj ( below Yongling School ), ☏ +91 94 18909046 .  
• Buddha Hall-Reiki with Usha' ( opposite the German Bakery ). Courses in reiki (I,II,III and master) as well as tarot and crystal healing from Buddha hall in Bagsu. Flexible and compassionate teacher.  
• Guerrilla Yoga ( go down the stairs at Yongling School; it's the big green building ). 5 day yoga courses of several varieties. Private instruction is available. Friendly staff. Also has local art for sale.  
• Kailash School of Yoga & Holistic Healing ( 100 m from the main square; walk down the stairs from the Green Shop ). Ashtanga Vinyasa and tribal hatha yoga classes are available daily on a drop-in basis. Treatments and sessions in reiki, ayurvedic massage, meditation and 'sound healing' are available but have to be arranged at least 1 day in advance. Short and long-term courses.  
• Kundalini Yoga , Thardoeling, Near HH Dalai Lama temple, Mcleod Ganj , ☏ +91 98 1685 1691 , [email protected] . Yoga classes.  
• Tibetan Buddhism and language , ☏ +91 98 0539 1799 , [email protected] . M-Sa 9AM-noon, 2–4PM . Courses include Tibetan Buddhism, Tibetan language, Hindi language.  
• Tushita Meditation Centre . 10-day Introduction to Buddhism/meditation courses, 5-day meditation courses, and more (mostly residential). Silence is held most of the day but there are also discussion groups after philosophy lessons. It's near Dharamkot, Tushita practices the Tibetan mahayana tradition. Register online or at Tushita. Prices are inclusive of all lodging, lessons and 3 meals a day of tasty vegetarian food. Set cost per day is around ₹500 including food & lodging, can provide a gradual introduction to those new to Buddhism. 10-day course starts at ₹4,800 .  
• Vipassana ( ☸ ) ( near Dharamkot ). A 10–day meditation course. You need to register in advance at their web-site, but courses are usually pre-booked for months here. In case you have a keen interest in the course and didn't get a place in Dharamsala, they are also offered in many other locations around India—check the website. The course will teach you the Vipassana technique. You have to be completely silent, and you are provided 2 meals and very light dinner. The course is free, but you can leave a donation if you please. The course is a fairly intense form of meditation retreat (14-hr days) in the Theravada tradition. Previous meditation experience is not required as you will be asked to set aside your current practices while learning the Vipassana technique. Some would recommend that beginners attend a course such as that offered by Tushita which is a mix of meditation, philosophy and discussions.  
• Kailash Tribal School of Yoga ( Yogi Cottage ), Bhagsu Rd ( McLeod Ganj ). Yoga alliance approved ₹200–500 yoga teacher training programs, Reiki lessons for individuals or groups.  
• Z-Meditation . 15 day silent meditation retreat in lower Dharamsala. Deep deconditioning inquiry, radiant mantras, creative meditations, assignments for disentangling your own life, and also 2 hr of daily yoga, three vegetarian meals and a refreshment break. The entire retreat is undertaken in silence. Courses are US$600–1,200 depending on accommodation arrangements.  

Cooking classes [ edit ]

• Llhamo's Kitchen . Learn how to cook traditional Tibetan food with different courses every day including soups, momos and Tibetan bread. Run by a delightful Tibetan man called Llhamo. Takes place in Llhamo's single room house in the centre of town.  
• Mr Sangye's Kitchen , Jogiwara Rd, McLeod Ganj ( further down from the post office and the pool hall ), ☏ +91 98 1616 4540 , [email protected] . Learn how to cook traditional Tibetan food, different courses every day, ranging from soups, momos and Tibetan bread.  
• Trimurti Cooking Class . Choose any three from a wide variety of Indian dishes, and Rajni will show you how to make it all in her small, pleasant kitchen. Rajni began teaching classes and doing laundry to support herself after her husband was left paralysed by a tragic fall. Ask for her above the Himalayan Adventures store in upper Bhagsu, near the steps to Dharamkot.  

Work [ edit ]

Volunteer [ edit ].

There are some opportunities to volunteer. For longer term options such as 1 month or more ask at the LHA office in the middle of the town. Staff there are very friendly and always welcoming if people wish to teach, tutor or get involved in conversational classes.

• Lha Social Work – Lha is one of the largest charitable social work organizations in Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj and aims to provide vital resources and services for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Volunteers are needed for English, French and Chinese classes, IT classes, vocational training, health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen and many other programmes and activities.
• Rogpa Cafe (Jogiwara Rd) – They are always looking for volunteers to work in the cafe or to look after children at the Day Care centre. This is a 2 week commitment. All proceeds go to the Rogpa Day Care centre that provides free services for local children.
• Tesi Environmental Awareness Movement – If you are an environmental expert, then contact this non-profit Tibetan group.

You may also approach Tibetans in social circles to help them improve their English whilst getting to know each other's culture and personal story. Be mindful of accepting requests for private tutorage from monks on the streets. After a few days they may subject you to demands for sponsorship , however stories of this are rare. It may be best to go through a credible and well established organisation if you want to provide assistance in this way.

In general most monks and lay people are incredibly grateful to have you help them with their English and it is a great way to get to know Tibetan people on a more personal level. The easiest way to help out is to drop into LHA on Temple Rd, or LIT on Jogiwara Rd and sign up for tutoring. A commitment of one month is preferred.

Buy [ edit ]

Many Tibetan things can be bought in Dharamsala such as jewellery and trinkets, woollen shawls, prayer flags, prayer wheels, carpets, thangka and mandala paintings.

• Tibetan Singing Bowl . Easy to play and used for sound healing , music therapy or just for relaxation.  

Eat [ edit ]

What [ edit ].

The momos sold by numerous Tibetan street vendors usually sell at ₹10 for 4 pieces. These are safe to eat and acceptable to the Western palate even if they cannot be expected to match the level of culinary delicacy of those offered by some of the best establishments listed below.

Dharamsala is a good place to try Tibetan food and beverages :

• Momos – dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, steamed or fried
• Thukpa – a hearty noodle soup with veggies or meat
• Thenthuk – thukpa with handmade flat rectangular shaped noodles
• Pocha – a salty tea churned with butter, a Tibetan staple, more commonly known as Tibetan Butter Tea

Where [ edit ]

McLeod Ganj is a great place for eating, and the town has an abundance of restaurants, especially in the mid to upper range that cater to foreign tourists.

Also, Bhagsu and Dharamkot offer great local, fusion and foreign food places—hummus and falafel are not uncommon.

Prices in Dharamsala generally tend to be at least 50% sometimes 100% higher than in other (non-touristy) parts of India. Furthermore, non-Indian food often carries a steep surcharge.

McLeod Ganj [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ].

• 32.239294 76.32419 1 Common Ground Café , Tushita Rd ( 100 m uphill from main square or chowk of McLeod Ganj ), ☏ +91 9816273240 , +91 1892220264 . A non-profit café set up as a meeting place between Chinese and Tibetans that holds many discussions and shows promoting harmony and understanding between the two cultures. Taiwanese and fusion food served in a place to sit and relax with your shoes off on the raised seating area.  
• 32.239019 76.325268 2 JJI Exile Brothers Mom's Kitchen , Bhagsu Rd ( a short walk from McLeod Ganj's central square or chowk, on the right-hand side, between Peace Coffee House and Kunga Guesthouse ). 8:30AM–10PM . A cozy little hole-in-the-wall place with 5 tables, a counter and a dog. Owned by three Tibetan musician brothers "JJI Exile Brothers" who give live performances on the premises on Sundays at 7:30PM. Decent Tibetan food, with 5 versions of thukpa and thenthuk each (₹50–80), brown-flour momos (₹50–70, including the rare spinach variety), and several less-well-known Tibetan specialties (such as tingmo (steamed bread) with vegetables, ₹60–70); also vegetable and fruit salads (₹40–60). Desserts include vegan chocolate cake and rum cake with nuts, and several varieties of pancakes (₹40–60), styles of porridge, and fresh juices (₹40–50). Portions tend to be smallish. A bookshelf with some reading materials.  
• 32.2388 76.324028 3 McLLeo Momos , Tipa Rd ( just above the main square or chowk of McLeod Ganj, the first house, or rather shack, on the right ). 7:30AM–9:30PM (summer); 8AM-9:30PM (winter) . A bare-bones somewhat dingy but gourmet café prized for its momos. Creative spinoffs on traditional dishes that are not easily to be found even in much bigger establishments. A 12-page bilingual menu in English and Japanese has 9 varieties of them in the vegetarian category (₹50–70 for a plate of 10–12 pieces) and 5 varieties in the non-veg category (₹60–80 for a plate of 3–12 pieces). Tibetan dishes have nine elaborations of the thukpa . Western and Tibetan breakfast includes pancakes, omelettes and muesli dishes. Chinese staples include 7 varieties of chow mein . Tibetan bread comes in giant size. ₹25–80 .  
• 32.23884 76.325 4 Nick's Italian Kitchen , Kunga Guesthouse, Bhagsu Rd ( 5 min walk from McLeod Ganj's main square or chowk ). 6AM–9PM . Decent Western fare of lesser quality with some Tibetan dishes. The numerical menu has 194 items. An airy well-lit room and a terrace in the back offers views over the McLeod Ganj Valley and Kangra Valley beyond, similar to those visible from the terraces of the neighbouring Green Restaurant and Peace Coffee House. A limited library of books and a popular noticeboard. The place becomes noisy when crowded. ₹30–150 .  
• 32.236768 76.325056 5 Takhyil Peace Café , Takhyil Guesthouse, Jogiwara Rd ( 10 min walk from the main square or chowk of McLeod Ganj; on the right-hand side of the section of the street populated by vegetable-mongers, and a couple of stairs above the street level ). A down-to-earth (in every sense) and somewhat drab breakfast place, offering egg dishes (₹20–45), porridge (with mixed fruit, ₹65), toast, sandwiches (tofu sandwich, ₹45), several types of bread (₹5–25; extra for peanut butter, jam or honey), and pancakes (₹40–70; mixed-fruit chocolate pancake, ₹70). Tibetan dishes such as thukpa (₹40–70) of uncertain quality and momos (steamed, ₹40–50; fried momos ₹10 extra). Good lassi in several varieties (including unusual ones such as "apple lassi"; ₹20–35).  
• 32.2351 76.3277 6 Rewa Cafe , Jogiwara Rd ( down the hill, 5 min past the Post office ). Good Tibetan food. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.238464 76.3239 7 Shangri La Restaurant , Jogiwara Rd ( near the bus stop ). A good little cafe run by monks and with proceeds going to Gyudmed Monastery. Try the Shangri La Sandwich for breakfast. Meals for dinner also good quality and well priced. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.236855 76.325378 8 Woeser Bakery , Jogiwara Rd ( below Black Magic, on Jogiwara road, 100 m downhill from the main square ). 10:30AM-7PM . Excellent pastries baked daily with quality ingredients. The owner and baker, Sangmo, is a young Tibetan always up for a chat with her customers. Serves walnut tart, chocolate chilli lollipops, cappuccino, vegan cakes (also gluten-free options), coffee made from fresh beans. Fifteen kinds of hot teas, hot chocolate, Indian chai, milkshakes and other cold drinks, and a small library with a good collection of books. ₹50–150 .  

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 32.2391 76.3254 9 Jimmy's Italian Kitchen , Jogiwara Rd ( a few steps from McLeod Ganj's main square or chowk, on the left-hand side, just past the Buddhist chorten and on the opposite side to it, one storey above street level ). Nice decor with old, and not-so-old, film posters, unprofessional staff apparently left unsupervised by the owners. Food better than that offered at the other Italian-style places in town, with great salads and acceptable pastas ( napolitana , arrabbiata , quattro formaggi , puttanesca ) and pizzas. ₹100–130 .  
• 32.23884 76.324879 10 Lhamo's Croissant , Bhagsu Road , ☏ +91 98823 71507 , [email protected] . A simple yet stylish cafe, and probably the most underrated place in McLeod. Breakfasts, sandwiches, soups, salads and deserts, coffees and teas. A good selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. The bread is baked fresh each morning by Lhamo. The second floor has comfortable Japanese style seating on cushions and Tibetan carpets. Fantastic views from the roof top.  
• 32.23576 76.326539 11 Lung-Ta , Jogiwara Rd ( near the southern end of town ). M-Sa noon-11PM, closed Sundays . Excellent Japanese food, pay attention to the daily specials. There is also a small clothing store which sells high-end Tibetan inspired fashions. Non-profit with proceeds going towards assisting former political prisoners and documenting human rights violations. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.235 76.32493 12 Pema Thang's Guest House , Bhagsu Rd ( opposite Bhagsu Hotel ). Daily 11AM-10PM . Continental and local styled vegetarian food. Try the fried banana with nuts and the pepperoni pizza. They also serve great thenthuk . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Haina [ edit ]

• 32.25083 76.33036 13 Friends Corner Café . Various inexpensive dishes in a shed protected from the rain. Frequented regularly and great variety. Dal ₹90, Boondi Raita ₹90 . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.251157 76.329229 14 Heena Café . Not particular fancy, but cheapest choice around. Run by two brothers, they have large terrace where you can enjoy watching people walking by to the Galu Waterfall. Chai ₹20, Parantha ₹50 . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.25082 76.329 15 Tin Tin Café . Another budget option, with great chowmein. They have a tiny shed at the point of the marker, but seem to have a small café with nice seats 100 m further up. Egg Chowmein ₹170 . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 32.250735 76.33012 16 Young Monk Café . A hostel with an extensive kitchen and great views. Chai ₹50 . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 32.25133 76.329058 17 Kali Yuga BBQ . Some Russian speaking folks are running this restaurant specialising in various meat dishes. It is still cheap compared to Western standards, but most Indians wouldn't be ablt to afford dining here. ₹500 and above . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

Refill your waterbottle with filtered-water at one of the many water-filtering stations: LHA at Temple Rd, Environmental Education Centre at Bhasgu Rd and Dogga-Centre at Jogiwara Rd. Some restaurants, including Nick's and Green Hotel also offer filtered water refills for a charge (₹5, but Green Hotel asks for ₹10).

Coffee [ edit ]

Many of the above listed restaurants and bakeries are also great for having a coffee or tea and enjoying the view—check there .

• 32.2359 76.32396 1 Moonpeak Espresso , Temple Rd, McLeod Ganj ( 10 min walk from McLeod Ganj's main square of chowk ). 7AM-8PM . Coffee for ₹40–70, while it is possible to find better coffee in McLeod Ganj this is nevertheless a very pleasant café to visit. All-Tibetan staff and Indian owners. Good, if smallish, sandwiches and several breakfast items. Teas, including herbal; ₹50–60). One of the few places in McLeod Ganj with free and functional Wi-Fi. A notice printed within the menu uncharacteristically enjoins the patron to "please order a few things" if "you are going to sit on the net for a while". ₹50–120 .  

Alcohol [ edit ]

• X cite , Main square, McLeod Ganj ( Main Square ). Might have been popular years ago, but the good times seem over. Has the only dance floor/night club in the area. Indian and western tunes are played until 1AM.  

Sleep [ edit ]

McLeod Ganj has a wide selection of accommodation, but its main streets (esp. Bhagsu Rd) suffer from the usual Indian curse of beeping cars, motorbikes and rickshaws. It is easy to find something suitable—just walk around and ask for a good price. Always let you show at least two different rooms before you decide. Two hostels worth mentioning in McLeod Ganj are 32.235404 76.327616 1 Mitra 2 and 32.235016 76.325972 2 Hosteller —walk-ins seem to be advantageous.

A higher concentration of hostels (and backpackers) can be found in Bhagsu and Haini, besides the usual homestays, hotel, etc.. Hostels worth mentioning here are 32.2523 76.329049 3 Mitra and 32.250696 76.330169 4 Young Monk —walk-ins seem to be advantageous.

For long-term stays, head down the Yongling stairs on Jogiwara Road; there are about a dozen cheap good places, with great views.

• 32.20299 76.3319 5 Colonel's Cozy Corner , McLeod Ganj ( near Dari ), ☏ +91 94 1872 4897 , +91 98 1677 0899 (bookings) , [email protected] . Belongs to a helpful retired army officer and his wife. A secure place with no one to disturb you. 3 rooms. Home-like atmosphere, clean linen and safe water. A local 'Dham' (lunch) is available. ₹600–800, negotiable upon period of stay .  
• 32.236416 76.323891 6 Lord Krishna Boutique Stay , Temple Rd, McLeod Ganj , ☏ +91 18 9222 1588 . Clean rooms, tea, coffee and atmosphere. Rents bikes.  
• 32.234716 76.329159 7 River View Apartments , Jogiwara, Heru Village , ☏ +91 98 1620 6406 , +91 98 1629 2228 . All rooms with balcony and kitchen. Great ratings.  
• 32.23975 76.3247 8 Shree Guest House , McLeod Ganj ( 200 m up towards Swarag Ashram Road/Tushita Road from the main square ), ☏ +91 9418920003 , +91 8894060505 . Run by a very nice and decent family in a quieter part of the town. Double and single rooms on very decent rates. Surrounded by the Deodar/Pine forest.  
• 32.2384 76.3239 9 Snow Lion Guest House , McLeod Ganj . Good budget place in the centre of town. ₹175 for tiny double room with communal bathroom .  
• 32.236474 76.32603 10 Tara bed & breakfast , Jogiwara Rd, McLeod Ganj ( Beside Pink House, next to Yongling School. You have to climb down moderate bit of steps to reach this place, and also climb up if you want to go anywhere. ). Check-out: noon . Run by a nice and caring host, Tsepal. A cozy place with clean beds and washroom. Has a balcony with nice view of the snow-capped mountains. There is a caretaker who cooks breakfast and is generally around. But don't expect someone to be available 24/7. You will have bed, washroom, running hot water. ₹800–1,000 . ( updated May 2019 )
• 32.221383 76.335543 11 jüSTa Birding Resort & Spa , Indrunag Near Paragliding Point Tahu, Chohla , ☏ +91 9816-343-255 , +91-9816-377-709 , toll-free: +91-9590-777-000 , [email protected] . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . ( updated Nov 2023 )
• 32.23526 76.32788 12 Auspicious Him View Hotel , Jogiwara Rd, McLeod Ganj ( below Ladies Venture Hotel ), ☏ +91 94 1823 6603 . View of the snow-capped Dhauladhar range from a private balcony. Clean rooms with attached bathrooms. Each room is named after one of the eight auspicious signs of Buddhism and decorated accordingly.  
• 32.235 76.32488 13 Pema Thang's Guest House ( opp Bhagsu Hotel ), McLeod Ganj , ☏ +91 18 9222 1871 . Tibetan-run older guesthouse, tucked on a quiet side street with great views over the Kangra Valley. Rooms are starting to show their age, but they are scrupulously clean and comfy and feature a TV and 24-hr hot water. Kitchenette facilities available for longer stays. Double rooms ₹770–1,100, gas heater (necessary in winter) ₹200/day extra .  
• 32.246 76.32227 14 Glenmoor Cottages , Mall Rd, McLeod Ganj ( approximately 1 km from McLeod Ganj on the road leading to the Dal Lake /TCV ), ☏ +91 18 9222 1010 . Sited in a mixed forest of cedar, oak and rhododendron, overlooking the Kangra valley. Ideal for a quite and peaceful holiday. Known to be frequented by a number of celebrities and dignitaries.  

Stay safe [ edit ]

The place is safe, though it is advisable to take precautions. Stay vigilant at all times and be very cautious if staying out after 9PM.

Go next [ edit ]

• Amritsar – The holy Sikh city of and its Golden Temple is a 6-hr bus journey away. Buses leave at 5AM from the lower bus station, or go through Pathankot first with many connections per day, and a train from there.
• Bir – A village with a Tibetan and Indian population, known for its Buddhist monasteries and paragliding centre, developing as an adventure hub with the second highest paragliding spot of the world, Bir-Billing.
• Dalhousie – A small hill station close to Pathankot .
• Manali – The next hub for journeys deeper into the mountains.
• Palampur – A beautiful valley famous for its tea gardens, agricultural university, temples.
• Sidhbari – Outside lower Dharamshala is an ideal getaway from the tourist traffic and to experience life in a typical farming village in the valley.

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Things to do in Dharamshala – A complete travel guide

One of the most popular destinations in India, especially in the northern part of the country is Dharamshala. Known for its pleasant weather and Tibetan culture, the small town has gained much attention and become a popular choice among tourists. If you are thinking about a vacation in the mountains, this guide is for you! We will look at all the things you need to know before planning your trip to Dharamshala . If you are already in Dharamshala, you can book a taxi in Dharamshala and explore the best of the town with a local driver

Table of Content

Things to do by booking a savaari taxi in dharamshala, shopping in dharamshala.

• Nightlife in Dharamshala
• Places to visit in Dharamshala
• Places to visit near Dharamshala

Savaari Customers verified places to eat in Dharamshala

• Best time to visit Dharamshala

Places to stay in Dharamshala

Hotels and hostels in dharamshala.

• The highest road trip taken from Dharamshala by Savaari customers

About Dharamshala

Dharamshala is a scenic town in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas and is known for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere. The town is famous for being the residence of the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, and is often referred to as the “Little Lhasa.” Dharamshala is a popular destination for travellers seeking peace and tranquillity amidst breathtaking scenery.

History of Dharamshala 

Dharamshala has a rich history dating back to the 8th century when it was known as Bhagsu. The town served as a popular summer retreat for British officials during the colonial era. In 1959, the Dalai Lama fled to India and settled in the town, making it the centre of the Tibetan government in exile. Today, the town is known worldwide for its connection to the Tibetan struggle for independence and attracts visitors from all over the globe.

Facts about Dharamshala

Despite being a popular destination, there are some things that people might not know about the town. Did you know? Dharamshala was initially a small village before the arrival of the British in the mid-19th century. Read on to know more

• The town is located in the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas and is situated at an altitude of 1,475 meters above sea level.
• Dharamshala is home to several indigenous tribes, including the Gaddis, who are known for their distinct culture and customs.
• The famous cricket stadium in Dharamshala is one of the highest cricket stadiums in the world, located at an altitude of 1,457 meters above sea level.
• Dharamshala has a thriving local art scene, with numerous galleries and exhibitions showcasing traditional and contemporary works.
• The town is surrounded by several scenic hiking trails and is a popular base camp for trekkers heading into the Dhauladhar mountains.
• Dharamshala is known for its distinct cuisine, including Tibetan momos, thukpa, and traditional Himachali dishes.
• The town has several monasteries and meditation centres, making it a popular destination for spiritual seekers and yoga enthusiasts.

The beautiful destination has much to offer to its visitors. Right from cultural experiences, to scenic views, adventure sports and street food, the town has it all. But wouldn’t it just be amazing if you had a local driver who would show you all the hidden gems and local-favourite spots? You can also book a Savaari taxi from Delhi to Dharamshala and explore the town. Here are a few things to do in Dharamshala . 

• Visit the Dalai Lama Temple Complex and attend a prayer ceremony.
• Explore the scenic hiking trails in the Dhauladhar range, including Triund and Indrahar Pass.
• Visit the Bhagsunath Temple and Bhagsu Waterfall.
• Explore the local art scene by visiting galleries and exhibitions showcasing traditional and contemporary works.
• Learn about the region’s history and culture by visiting the Kangra Fort and Museum.
• Attend a cricket match at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium.
• Take a cooking class and learn to make traditional Himachali or Tibetan dishes.
• Attend a meditation or yoga retreat at one of the town’s many centres.
• Visit the tea gardens and learn about the production process.
• Take a day trip to the nearby town of McLeod Ganj, which is known for its vibrant Tibetan culture and cuisine.

Dharamshala offers a range of shopping options, from local handicrafts to Tibetan souvenirs. Tourists can explore traditional Tibetan handicrafts and woven scarfs, woollen clothes and much more. Hemp-made bags and pouches are also quite famous in the area. Here are a few famous local s hopping destinations in Dharamshala . 

• Kotwali Bazaar and McLeod Ganj are popular shopping areas with numerous stalls selling traditional Himachali and Tibetan goods.
• The town is famous for its Tibetan carpets, thangkas (traditional Tibetan paintings), and singing bowls.
• You can also find local handmade shawls, scarves, and woollen clothes made from Pashmina and Angora wool.
• The region is also known for its tea, and you can purchase different varieties of tea from local tea shops.
• Bargaining is a common practice in the town, so be prepared to haggle for a good deal.

Nightlife in Dharamshala 

Dharamshala is not known for its nightlife, and most establishments close by 10 PM due to local regulations. However, there are a few options for those looking for some entertainment after dark. Some of the bars and cafes in McLeod Ganj offer live music performances, and some have outdoor seating areas with beautiful views of the town. Some of the popular options for night owls include Shiva Cafe, Illiterati Cafe, and the Tibetan Mandala Cafe. 

Places to visit in Dharamshala 

Dharamshala is known for its monasteries, food, Tibetan culture and natural beauty. Here are a few places that you can visit while in Dharamshala . 

Dalai Lama Temple Complex

The Dalai Lama Temple Complex is the heart of Dharamshala’s Tibetan community and the residence of the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. Visitors can attend prayer ceremonies and explore the temple’s intricate artwork and architecture. The complex also includes a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Tibetan people. 

• Entry Fees Rs. 5
• Working hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Closed on: Monday

Triund is a scenic hiking trail located at an altitude of 2,850 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar range. The trek takes approximately four to five hours to complete and is suitable for beginner to intermediate-level hikers. Tourists can camp overnight in Triund and enjoy stargazing in the clear night sky. 

• Entry Fees none
• Working hours: Open all-day

Bhagsunath Temple and Waterfall

The Bhagsunath Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the quaint village of Bhagsu. The temple is known for its intricate stone carvings and peaceful atmosphere. Bhagsunath also has a nearby waterfall by the name of Bhagsu Waterfall. It is a short hike from the temple and is a well-known picnic spot. It is also a great place to cool off during hot summer days.

• Working hours: 7:00 am to 9:00 pm

Kangra Fort and Museum

The Kangra Fort is an ancient fortification that dates back to the 4th century BC and is located in the town of Kangra, approximately 20 km from the town. The fort complex includes several temples, palaces, and museums that showcase the region’s rich history and culture. The museum includes artefacts and exhibits related to the Kangra Valley’s art, history, and archaeology.

Entry Fee:150 per person for Indians and Rs.300 per person for foreigners (Fee includes audio guide)

• Working hours: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium

The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium is a world-renowned cricket stadium located in Dharamshala and is one of the highest cricket stadiums in the world. The stadium offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular destination for cricket enthusiasts. It is one of the best places for cricket enthusiasts to visit. Visitors can attend cricket matches and explore the stadium’s facilities, including the museum that showcases the history of cricket in the region.

• Entry Fees Rs. 30
• Working hours: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm

McLeod Ganj

McLeod Ganj is a vibrant town located approximately 10 km from the town and is famous for its Tibetan culture and cuisine. The town is home to several monasteries, including the Namgyal Monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery outside of Tibet. It is a famous town and one of the main tourist attractions. McLeod Ganj is famous for its narrow streets, local markets, and traditional Tibetan dishes like momos and thukpa.

• Working hours: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm

Tea Gardens

The tea gardens in Dharamshala offer a unique opportunity to learn about the production process of tea and taste different varieties. Visitors can take a guided tour of the tea gardens and learn about the history and culture of tea in the region. The tea gardens also offer scenic views of the surrounding mountains and are a great place for nature lovers and photographers.

• Entry Fees Rs. 20

Places to visit near Dharamshala 

Dharamshala has a lot to offer to its tourists. One such thing is road trips from Dharamshala . The town is surrounded by beautiful locations just a convenient ride away.  

• Palampur: A picturesque town is known for its tea gardens and colonial architecture. The town is a short 33 Km away from Dharamshala . 
• Bir Billing: A popular destination for adventure sports like paragliding and trekking. Located only 63km away from Dharamshala, the Bir Billing road trip is a must. 
• Chamunda Devi Temple: A sacred Hindu temple located on the banks of the Ban Ganga River.
• Masroor Rock Cut Temple: A unique archaeological site featuring ancient Hindu rock-cut temples.
• Dal Lake: A serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and scenic mountains, perfect for a picnic or a boat ride.
• Naddi Village: A peaceful village located on a hilltop that offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar mountain range.
• Dharamkot: Dharamkot is also located just 30 mins from the town and is a beautiful place to tick off while in Himachal. 

Considering that the roads in high altitudes are twisted and risky, it is a good idea to hire a locally driven car. Local drivers in the town are very welcoming and know the most offbeat locations and food joints. If you are someone who loves to explore the local culture, hiring a car is a good idea. 

Dharamshala is a beautiful hill station in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, famous for its stunning natural beauty, Buddhist monasteries, and vibrant culture. The town is also known for its delicious food, with a wide variety of dishes available that cater to all tastes and preferences.

If you’re planning a trip to Dharamshala , here are some of the Savaari customer-recommended places to eat in the town that you should check out:

• The Other Cafe, Dharamshala- This cosy and quirky cafe is one of the most popular eateries in Dharamshala. The menu offers a range of dishes from around the world, with a focus on healthy and organic ingredients. The cafe is also known for its selection of books and events, making it a great place to relax and unwind.
• Lung Ta Japanese Restaurant, McLeod Ganj – This restaurant is a must-visit for lovers of Japanese food. The menu features a range of authentic Japanese dishes, from sushi and sashimi to tempura and udon noodles. The restaurant also has a beautiful outdoor seating area that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Nick’s Italian Kitchen, McLeod Ganj – This Italian restaurant is known for its delicious pizzas, pasta, and salads. The restaurant has a cosy and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a leisurely meal with friends and family.
• Tibet Kitchen, McLeod Ganj – As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in Tibetan cuisine. The menu features a range of traditional dishes such as momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and tingmo (steamed bread). The restaurant also has a beautiful outdoor seating area that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen, McLeod Ganj – Another great Italian restaurant in Dharamshala, Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen is known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta dishes. The restaurant has a cosy and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a leisurely meal with friends and family.
• Shiva Cafe, Near Bhagsunag Waterfall Dharamshala – This popular cafe is located in the picturesque village of Bhagsu, just a short distance from the town. The menu features a range of dishes from around the world, with a focus on healthy and organic ingredients. The cafe has gained a reputation for offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the nearby waterfall.

Dharamshala offers a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, Japanese, or Tibetan cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful hill station. So, be sure to check out some of these fantastic restaurants on your next visit.

Planning a trip to Dharamshala 

Planning a trip to Dharamshala requires some research and preparation. You will need to decide on the best time to visit, arrange transportation, and find suitable accommodation. Additionally, you should consider the various activities and attractions in the area, such as visiting Buddhist monasteries, hiking in the nearby mountains, and sampling the local cuisine.

How to reach Dharamshala 

Reaching Dharamshala is fairly easy, as it is well-connected to major cities in the country by air, rail, and road. Here are some of the best ways to reach the town:

The nearest railway station to Dharamshala is Pathankot, which is located about 85 km away. From Pathankot, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the town. Another option is to take a narrow gauge train from Pathankot to Kangra, which is about 18 km from Dharamshala.

The nearest airport to Dharamshala is Gaggal Airport, also known as Kangra Airport, which is located about 15 km from the town. Several airlines operate regular flights to and from Gaggal Airport, including Air India, SpiceJet, and Alliance Air. Book an airport taxi from Gaggal Airport or from Chandigarh Airport to Dharamshala to comfortably travel to your accommodation in the city.

Dharamshala is well-connected to major cities in North India by road and one of the most comfortable and convenient ways to reach is by a cab. The town is located about 475 km from Delhi, and it takes around 10 hours to reach by road. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Chandigarh or other nearby cities like Chandigarh and Amritsar to reach Dharamshala.  Several private and state-run bus services operate regular buses to and from Dharamshala.

Overall, reaching Dharamshala is fairly easy, and you can choose the mode of transport that suits you best based on your budget, time, and convenience. Whether you’re travelling by train, flight, or road, you’ll be able to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region and experience the vibrant local culture of this beautiful hill station.

Best time to visit Dharamshala 

Being a mountainous region, the town is blessed with pleasant weather throughout the year. In summer, (March to June) the temperature ranges from 22°C to 35°C. It is an ideal time to plan a trip for trekking, hiking and camping in the mountains. However, if you want to experience the snow, then winter (October to February) would be an ideal time. The temperature during the months ranges between -1°C to 15°C and is an ideal time to go skiing or explore local monasteries. 

Dharamshala is a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh that attracts a large number of tourists every year. The town offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best hotels and hostels in Dharamshala :

Overall, Dharamshala has it all, captivating mountain views, delicious food, beautiful monasteries, adventure sports and much more. The locals are humble and always ready to help but getting around the town can be difficult. However , you can download the Savaari app and hire a taxi for a smooth and pleasant travel experience . Dharamshala is also surrounded by small towns that are just perfect for a road trip. Here are some Savaari customer-recommended road trips from Dharamshala . 

The highest road trip taken from Dharamshala by Savaari customers 

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, a trip to the town is incomplete without a road trip to nearby small towns. Driving through valleys, and watching huge mountains pass by is an experience you shouldn’t miss when in the north. 

Most of these towns are only a few hours away from Dharamshala and can be reached by renting a taxi in the town. So pack up your bags and get ready for an exciting road trip! 

Useful links

• You can now travel to McLeodganj from Dharamshala in 5 minutes. How? Just take the ropeway

Last Updated on April 19, 2024 by Shabari Shankar

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Vibrant Women Travel

Retreats and Tours for Women

24 – 31 March 2022

This retreat is for women with an interest in   buddhist philosophy,.

Tibetan Culture and in living a Meaningful Life

Imagine a week in the foothills of the Himalayas, in the home of His Holiness The 14th Dalai Lama, surrounded by beautiful nature, eating delicious vegetarian Indian food, engaging in workshops and classes about Buddhism, practicing yoga and meditation, swimming, hiking, shopping, relaxing, dreaming, being, just imagine ……..

There’s something so liberating about stepping outside of your life for a moment

 waking up in a new land, excited for the adventure

 learning a new philosophy, being intellectually and spiritually stimulated

 building new connections with yourself and others

being fully present to a new culture

 breathing deeply into your heart centre and allowing space and light to enter

 moving your body in gentle, restorative and healing ways

 taking quiet time to reflect

 capturing memories and life lessons that last a lifetime

 Being new but still being you

RETREAT HIGHLIGHTS

Explore the foothills Himalayas (optional ½ day hiking) people who don’t want to do that can explore the local village where we are staying, enjoy the coffee shops and beautiful gardens and surrounding.

Explore Tibetan Culture and in particular Thangka Art, Spirituality, Politics and Architecture

Visit colourful local markets (this is the place to buy your singing bowl!)

Meet Jetsumna Tenzin Palmo and visit her nunnery which is in a truly stunning location (Author of “Cave in the Snow”)

Visit the Dalai Lamas Temple, a local nunnery where we can have ghee lamp lit on our behalf and our charity for this trip Jagori which focuses on gender equality and Womens rights

Visit the artisan village of Andretta known for pottery, purchase a lovely ceramic souvenir to take home

Tea Tasting at Wah Tea Estate in Palampur

Three workshops providing an Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism with an English speaking university educated Nun Emma Billsberry (Lozang Drolma)

Three workshops with Tammie Day (Founder of Vibrant Women) on how to incorporate Buddhism into western daily life

Spend time with our local guide who will share his passion for everything Dharamshala, from his home town Naddi and hiking, to the best coffee shop in McLeod Ganj

Optional daily yoga and or meditation classes

Experience the peace and serenity and beauty of the Dhauladhar range (lit. The White Range) which are part of a lesser Himalayan chain of mountains.

Stay in rustic and authentic Tibetan and Indian accommodations, clean and comfortable with artistic touches

  THE WORKSHOPS

INTRODUCTION TO TIBETAN BUDDHISM 

This Introduction to Buddhism retreat, is equally appropriate for beginners and those with some background knowledge however please let us know if you are a very experienced practitioner as we want to ensure your expectations are met and or exceeded. Although this retreat is a great reminder of Buddhist fundamentals it is aimed at people with a beginners curious mind, as is the yoga and meditation. 

To study about Buddhist Philosophy is to study yourself. During our retreat, our experienced teacher will explain Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and practices giving instruction in order to help you apply this ancient wisdom to increase peace, happiness, and compassion in your daily life. 

Topics include:

What is Buddhism? The Buddha’s life story

How Tibetan Buddhism differs from other types of Buddhism

How to be respectful and considerate when visiting Buddhist sites and places of interest

The Four Noble Truths – How to release yourself from suffering

The Noble Eightfold Path – The path to liberation and spiritual enlightenment

Wheel of Life, Karma & Re-birth

The body of the course is composed of philosophy classes supported by yoga and meditation sessions, as well as visits to local monasteries and nunneries and opportunities to practice meditation. 

Your Workshop Leader

While at Chenrezig  she assisted the spiritual program offered at Chenrezig leading meditations and pujas.   She also regularly taught introductory courses and led retreats at Chenrezig a becoming well known for her natural warmth, kindness and wisdom.  In 2012 she assisted the Kopan November course as meditation leader.  Since arriving in India in 2015 where she is learning  Tibetan and has taught at Tushita Meditation center and Root Institute.  Currently Drolma resides in Dharamsala as a student at the Institute of Buddhist Dialectics.

*Please note as we are planning this retreat so far in advance and due to current circumstances we are unsure exactly of where Emma will be in 2022. We hope she will be with us however she may not, in this case we do have some other local Western Buddhist Nuns who may be able fill in. 

PRACTICING BUDDHISM IN DAILY LIFE

You don’t have to be a Buddhist to learn from the Dharma. There are so many ways we can incorporate the wisdom of Buddhism into our busy modern lives. During these workshops Tammie will weave tips, tools and spiritual practices from her many years of teaching mindfulness and meditation to give you a fresh perspective on your daily life and activities.  

Topics Include: 

Mindfulness and Meditation practices for busy people

Buddhist Rituals

Incorporating the “Six Perfections” in our daily living

Your retreat leader

Tammie Day  is a mindfulness, meditation, yoga, nia teacher and group facilitator. A social worker by profession she spent 17 years as a counsellor. She runs retreats and workshops worldwide. Tammie has been facilitating retreats for 10 years and has found the most unique and beautiful places for you to visit whilst engaging in personal development acclivities. She likes to call these meaningful holidays. 

Your Local Guides 

Vikas and Ashish Kumar are a local guides who come from a small, picturesque village above Dharamsala. They are passionate about the area and the Himalayas and have worked as a trekking guides since leaving school. In this time both guides have introduced many international visitors to the wonders of the India and the Himalayas. They are very excited to be showing us around their local area, (beware everyone knows them so its a bit of a slow process walking down the main street in McLeod Ganj). One of the guides will be with us on outings and for our hike.

YOGA AND MEDITATION  

During this retreat participants will be welcomed to take place in either morning yoga, and/or meditation. This will be a gentle hatha/yogalates style, allowing space for those to work at their own ability and comfort level. Please note these sessions are in no way compulsory, and if yoga isn’t your thang, you can just come to the meditation or sleeping in is also an option. 

“Meditation brings wisdom; lack of meditation leaves ignorance. Know well what leads you forward and what holds you back, and choose the path that leads to wisdom.” -Buddha

THE PLACE – DHARAMSHALA NORTHERN INDIA

When travellers talk of staying in Dharamsala, McLeod Ganj is usually where they mean, however we are staying in the quieter, more relaxed and peaceful town of Sidphur. A sweet village that is home to the Norbulingka Institute, (where our accommodation is based) and some cute cafes. 10km’s up the road is the residence of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and home to a large Tibetan population, including many maroon-robed monks and nuns. The Tibetan government-in-exile is based in between at Gangchen Kyishong. McLeod Ganj attracts thousands of international visitors, many of them volunteering with the Tibetan community, taking courses in Buddhism, meditation or yoga, trekking in the Dhauladhar mountains, shopping for Tibetan crafts, or just hanging out enjoying the spiritual/alternative vibe and the plethora of good cafes where you’re never far from an interesting conversation with new friends. Dharamshala is also for people who believe in the magic of mountains, the nature lovers. 

You will fly in and out of Dharamshala Kangra Airport (DHM) via Indira Gandhi International Airport Delhi. Please read the FAQ’section at the end for full details on arrival and departure information.

OUR ACCOMMODATION – NORLING HOUSE

located in the ground of the Norbulingka Institute

Norbulingka is a unique institute dedicated to the preservation of Tibetan art and culture. They are a self-sustaining community located in Dharamsala, India, dedicated to ensuring that the integrity of Tibetan artistic traditions is maintained for generations to come.  Art is a large part of culture, and by maintaining artistic lineages, the institute helps to conserve the unique identity of Tibetans and the sacred traditions which took root in Tibet. Their studios produce museum-quality artwork using methods that have been practiced and passed down for many centuries. 

Norling House is located within the grounds of the Norbulingka Institute and is surrounded by the lush gardens and flowing streams. Each room is themed according to a different animal from Tibetan mythology and is a showcase of the work of Norbulingka artists, as all the furniture and original paintings were lovingly hand crafted and painted in Norbulingka workshops. Our guesthouse is the perfect place to spend a relaxing retreat, in a setting so peaceful you will feel you have stepped into paradise. We strive to offer our guests all the modern comforts in a setting of traditional Tibetan charm.

During the day Norbulingka Institute is open to the general public and is a popular tourist destination, outside of the hours of 9 – 5pm we have the place to ourselves. Within the grounds there is also a cafe, restaurant, shop, museum, temple and workshops for the artists, it is a truly special location to host a retreat.  It is also safe to walk around the local area outside of the institute which is mainly one street that leads up a hill, there are cafes and shops close by.

I’m hoping people can choose their favourite mythical animal for their room, after booking I will let you know what rooms are left. Perhaps think about which one you would you choose, the Snow Leopard, Dragon, Parrot, Tiger, Snow Lion, Ibex, Phoenix, Garuda, Fish or Sea Monster!

THE PLACE – ANDRETTA

Andretta is a village and an artists’ colony in Himachal Pradesh. The artists’ colony was established in the 1920s, when Irish theatre artiste and environmentalist, Norah Richards moved to the area. Just 13 km from the tea gardens of Kangra valley’s Palampur district  this peaceful village is home to around 550 species of birds and sits on the gentle gradient below the snow covered peaks of the Dhauladhar range. Andretta is approximately a 2 hour drive from Norling House and the location of our Retreat Centre The Mirage.

OUR ACCOMMODATION – THE MIRAGE

The Mirage is a cluster of traditional Himachali mud houses which have lovingly been restored to an inviting homestay with modern amenities. 

Set amongst dense foliage in the artist’s colony of Andretta, against a backdrop of jungle & bamboo groves of the Shivalik hills, the Mirage is a veritable museum of hand picked Indian furniture & artifacts.

PRICE PER PERSON

We have a maximum of 10 rooms for this retreat. , (please note that for the first 4 nights all rooms have ensuites however for the last 3 nights two rooms will share one bathroom), *flights not included,  “every day, think as you wake up, today i am fortunate to be alive, i have a precious human life, i am not going to waste it. i am going to use all my energies to develop myself, to expand my heart out to others; to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. i am going to have kind thoughts towards others, i am not going to get angry or think badly about others. i am going to benefit others as much as i can.” ―  dalai lama, your schedule, arrive to norling house from the airport, settling your room, have a snack in the café., 4pm we meet for a guided tour of the norbulingka institute, so we can better understand the purpose of this beautiful institute which focuses on preserving the tibetan art of thankga, (tibetan buddhist spiritual painting/woodcarving/metal work). you can see the craftsmen in their workshops and it has a lovely shop as well with paintings, carvings, clothes and soft furnishings. i recommend the pencil cases for presents they are very sweet and original., 5pm – introductions on the first floor of norling house includes masala chai. here we will discuss the week ahead, answer questions and get to know each other., 6pm our first group meditation in the stunning temple with its giant golden buddha statue., 7pm dinner and local dance performance  , accommodation – norling house (housed within norbulingka institutes grounds this is a very special and spiritual and artistic place i feel so blessed to be able to take you here.)  accommodation – norling house, 7am morning yoga on the grass followed by a 30 min meditation in the temple or  8am (for those not  doing yoga,  just join for meditation in the temple), 9am breakfast in the restaurant, 10am – 11am introduction to meditation with tammie, 11.30pm we explore (with our local guide) mcleod ganj home of the dalai lama in exile. this afternoon you can also visit a local temple and have time to wander the shops for tibet wares. purchase your beautiful singing bowls and tingshas, lovely shawls and other handmade products from the tibetan market. have lunch at a local cafe *self-pay, 4:00 – 5.30pm  meet  lozang drolma (emma billsberry) for our first workshop in  buddhism. we have a dedicated space at norling house set up for workshops etc., 7pm dinner accommodation – norling house, this morning sees us leaving early for a half day hiking tour , (only for the moderately fit) of the local  mountain ranges with our trusty guide vikas who knows this area like the back of his hand as it is his  local village., after our hike we will stop at st. john’s church in the wilderness  an eminent landmark in  the hill town of mcleod ganj. this church is an ancient church in himachal pradesh that was erected in  the year 1852. the most interesting aspect of this church is that it stands amid the lush green  surroundings of a forested area. such surroundings enhance its charm to a great extent. this church is  built in the neo-gothic style of architecture and is one of the key attractions located in mcleodganj. , on the way back to norling house we can check out the new cinema complex (maximums mall) to see if  a bollywood movie is showing with english subtitles, if not perhaps just some retail therapy or pick up  any items you may be missing, such as snacks or forgotten toiletries * if you are not keen on hiking  today you can have a relaxed day at norling house, wandering the local village, which has some cute  cafes and then meet us at the cinema complex in the late afternoon., dinner – to be decided perhaps at the mall, what a contrast, accommodation – norling house, 7am morning yoga on the grass followed by a 30 min meditation in the temple at 8am (for those not  doing in yoga, just join for meditation in the temple), 10am – 12pm workshop  – introduction to tibetan buddhism with lozang drolma, 1pm – 3pm workshop continued, 3pm we visit a local ngo  https://www.jagorigrameen.org/ to see the work they’re doing in relation to  gender equality and women’s rights in the local region, this also includes working with whole families  and men. this is the charity earmarked for this trip and a donation will be made on behalf of all  participants $25 per person., late afternoon takes us to dolmaling nunnery https://tnp.org/nuns/dolmaling/ just a 10 minute walk  from norling house. here we can hear about what the day in a life of a nun is like and have the nuns  lights a butter lamp for us, to make our dreams and wishes come true, or to show  gratitude for something, or for a loved one, this is a beautiful practice and each buddhist complex has  one of these beautiful light houses throughout the himalayas. the lamps traditionally burn clarified yak  butter, but now often use vegetable oil or ghee. hopefully the head nun will also have time to discuss  with us the current situation for tibetans in exile and how their struggle continues and how they have  made lives for themselves here in dharamsala., 8am breakfast –  after breakfast we drive to the mirage stopping on the way at a picturesque village of palampur for  lunch and a wander before making our way to dongyu gatsal ling nunnery which was founded by  jetsunma tenzin palmo at the request of her teacher his eminence h.e. khamtrul rinpoche. here we  hope to meet tenzin palmo in person and have a bit of a chat, coffee and buy some audios and  dvds in the shop, (these are great priced teachings of tenzin palmo and produced to support the  nunnery). the scenery in this part of the world is spectacular. *meeting tenzin palmo is dependent on her schedule and although we have put in a request if a more pressing matter comes up, (what than meeting us) then she will need to attend to this instead. , late afternoon we will arrive at the  mirage our quirky and rustic home for the next 3 days., 5pm a restorative yoga class will be offered or  you might like to take a dip in the newly built retreat centre swimming pool. we are expecting  temperatures around 30 degrees, even though you may still see snow-capped mountains., 7pm we will take dinner on the terrace before having a restful night sleep.  the mirage is a retreat and heritage homestay in the foothills of the dhauladhar range. please note it is  very rustic and bathrooms may be shared. as always beds can be firm and hot water not always plentiful  so please adjust your expectations accordingly., accommodation – the mirage, 7am wake up morning yoga and meditation class before eating breakfast on the patio overlooking the  gardens., this morning will be a workshop with tammie on how to use the principles of buddhism everyday life too  busy modern westerners ., this afternoon we visit the local artists colony of andretta starting with norah richard’s house – started  some 75 years ago by an irish woman named norah richards, who acquired the land from the district  commissioner of kangra in 1935. norah richards, a dramatist and environmentalist lived in andretta  from the mid 30’s, through the time of partition until her death in 1971. she was a formidable and  resourceful irish woman, passionate about shakespeare, who built an adobe house here in the english  style. she taught punjabi students how to perform plays in a small outdoor theatre outside her home.  her adobe house has recently been renovated by the punjabi university patiala, with the skills of local  artisans. the little theatre is still in use by the punjabi university students. they perform plays every year  on norah’s birthday, october 29th. anyone can come and watch the well-acted dramas, sitting under  the stars among the local village folk. — google “andretta artists village” for more on the fascinating  story of norah richards & andretta’s direct links to some of the founding legends of bollywood. norah  richards was brought to andretta at the insistence of jaya dayal of lahore university, the man who built  the mirage in 1948. according to the late cine actor shammi kapoor, “he was in love with her & she with  shakespeare”., andretta pottery and craft society – this is a working art pottery making attractive earthenware with  rangoli style slip designs. the pottery offers 3 month classes for students. also attached to the pottery is  a terracotta museum. while the main collection in this museum is the work of local village potters from  the neighbouring parts, the museum also has a house collection of pottery from around the globe  including several works from mexico, england and holland. — for more about andretta pottery go  towww.andrettapottery.com , sobha singh art gallery – the art gallery is a display of work by the famous painter of sikh gurus, sobha singh, created over his three decades in andretta. he was another of norah’s artist friends that she  brought together to share her dream. b.c. sanyal the artist – b.c. sanyal, who died recently at the ripe old age of 101, had a beautiful mudbrick  holiday cottage in andretta where he used to come and paint. his daughter amba is today a  director of the norah centre for the arts., return to the mirage for some quiet reflection time. , 7pm dinner – after dinner inspirational buddhist movie, 7am morning yoga and meditation class before eating breakfast on the patio overlooking the  gardens., this morning will be a workshop on how to use the principles of buddhism everyday life too  busy modern westerners (continued from yesterday with tammie). , 2pm we head out to the wah tea estate for a guided tour , lunch and a tea tasting., head back to our charming accommodation for a farewell meal and final night together., [/fusion_tab][fusion_tab title=”day 8″ icon=””], morning meditation followed by breakfast and closing ceremony., head back to the airport to make our way home, refreshed, reenergised and hopefully with a few new  tips to live a more content life., may you be peaceful, may you be happy, may you be safe from harm and free from suffering, may you be awakened to the light of your true nature, may you be free, *please note as we are planning things so far in advance and due to the current situation some changes may be needed, for example some businesses may no longer be in operation or may not be accepting visitors etc. , this retreat is for you if you want to ……, immerse yourself    – in one week of meditation and buddhist philosophy, yoga, discussions, workshops, deep thinking all of which can bring new and exciting elements to your spiritual practice., get a new perspective  –  going to a new place creates an opportunity to experience a new landscape externally but also internally.  , *actually* meditate  –  when you have extended free time, it’s a lot easier to meditate. no cell phone buzzing or boss reminding you about deadlines. on retreats, it feels a lot more natural to breathe deeply and be present in the moment. there is perhaps no better place in the world than to practice meditation than dharamshala, the collective energy is very powerful, you actually want to participate and meditate. , detox digitally  –  one of my favourite things about a retreat is shutting off my technology. while we do have wifi, you don’t feel the need to constantly text, update facebook or call friends. it feels good to unplug. trust me the wifi is crap, you’ll have no choice anyway, relax and de-stress  –  sometimes we have to be far from home to give ourselves the permission to truly relax. being on a retreat allows you to listen to your body, rest when you need it, and be free from stress. even though we have a full schedule, its not taxing and there are lots of nurturing activities like yoga and walking, watching movies, sightseeing, having all meals loving prepared for you etc. , replace old habits  –  the best way to break a bad habit is to replace it with a new healthy one. when you feel motivated you can replace unhealthy habits with conscious new behaviours that support you in being your best self., make new friends  –  undeniably, you will meet individuals with similar interests. even if you go alone, you have a chance to make friends with people who you might know for the rest of your life. , appreciate home and your life more  –  while a week away is always nice, we often come home with a refreshed appreciation for life, feeling happier, healthier, and re-energised to jump back into your routine with new vigour. heck, it might even feel fun. , you deserve it  –  thoreau said: “go confidently in the direction of your dreams. live the life you’ve imagined.” while this quote might be on your refrigerator, chances are you make excuses about why you can’t yet. often times the excuses are about money, time or circumstances but guess what, you deserve a break. you work hard for a reason and you can always find reasons why you should or should not do something. the key to happiness is deciding what you really want and making it happen. no excuses. the time is now , this retreat is not for you if … , you have recently gone through a major crisis and are still very emotionally fragile – the whole experience may be too overwhelming so it may be best to wait until you have regained some inner strength (feel free to contact us if you want to discuss this), you are seeking a therapeutic program, this is a skills development retreat with a focus on understanding buddhism. this does not mean that you will not experience therapeutic or life enhancing benefits we just want you to make sure your expectations match our program outline., you are expecting to have individual sessions/counselling with the retreat leader, unfortunately time does not allow for this. .

Your health and/or mobility prevents you from travelling to a country such as India.  The footpaths are very uneven and there are stairs at the accommodation.

You expect India, a developing nation, to have all of the comforts and conveniences of a Western country. (The places we stay in are beautiful, comfortable and perfectly suited for a retreat experience but India is not a western country so things run differently – I guess this needs to be met with a level acceptance and understanding). For example beds are very firm and hot water and good water pressure are not guaranteed. 

This retreat is designed to support busy women to slow down and connect with themselves, in a beautiful location, in a fun and supportive way, whilst in the company of other like-minded women.    

The Trip Notes on this link are always the most up to date version. When booking a tour in advance things regularly change such as visa application processes or pick up information, please always refer to these notes on the website as the most recent version of trip notes for your tour. 

Visa requirements the most convenient and cheapest way to get your visa is online e-visa – to complete online choose e-visa application. https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html the online application can only be completed 30 days prior to travel, unless you want a 12-month visa. previously it has taken 3 days to receive the e-visa. this cost is between $10 and $50usd, prices change all the time sorry but just to give you a guideline. , some further details – india mission is where your application will be lodged ie canberra, sydney etc the office closest to you. you can use these contact details for hotel and reference in india sections. you can use these contact details for hotel and reference in india sections. address: norling house – mohli lahrandi, himachal pradesh 176057, india phone: +91 94184 36410 or alternatively ekno tours and travels pvt ltd, dickey cottage village molhi, po sidhpur, hp 176057, ph 0981685999. your reference in australia is your emergency contact it seems there is no other option but to request a 1-year visa and for 60 days even though you may only be travelling for 8 days. you also only require single entry unless you are planning on visiting india twice in the same period . good luck and welcome to indian bureaucracy.

ARRIVALS: You will arrive and depart from Dharamshala Kangra Airport (DHM) via Indira Gandhi International Airport Delhi.

There are no direct flights to Dharamshala. Depending on the airline you travel with you may need to transfer from the international to the domestic terminal. If you need to spend a night in Delhi we suggest the Aloft Hotel at the Delhi Aerocity. The Lemon Tree Premier Airport Hotel or Red Fox Hotel at Delhi Aerocity are also fine, just rooms are a lot smaller (they are all within a 3 minute walk to each other and we can do drop offs and pick ups). Tammie will be staying at the Aloft hotel on the night of the 23rd of March and can fly with you the next day to Dharamshala. *Flights are not arranged as yet but we will put them here when we have them. 

If you would like us to arrange your extra nights accommodation and airport transfers for you please see below.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Please note you can arrange to get a taxi from the airport to the hotel etc, for around $20AUD each way if you prefer that. Our quote is more expensive because it is someone who will wait at the arrivals gate for you with a sign with your name on it and even if your flight is delayed will still wait for you. Not everyone is comfortable arranging taxis although it is fairly straight forward at Delhi airport. The drive to the hotel is only around 7 minutes. 

Return trip from airport  to hotel with car and driver and drop off to airport with car and driver – A$60 each way (this is only if you are spending the night in Delhi, airport transfers in Dharamshala are included in your package) *This is per car which can take 3 people and you can divide the cost. If there are more than 3 people we will have to send a mini bus and will notify you of the price.

If you book the Lemon Tree when you go to add your personal details it also gives you the option to add an airport transfer. I cannot vouch for these not having used them before.  but it is the only hotel that offers hotel transfer – HERE

ACCOMMODATION

We prefer the Aloft Hotel Delhi but you can also stay at the Lemon Tree Premier or a cheaper hotel, the Red Fox, which is adjoined to the Lemon Tree Hotel and is around $35 a night cheaper. You can book these yourself online, please note all bookings are subject to 25% tax and you may want to include breakfast in your room rate.

For the Red Fox click HERE

For the Lemon Tree click HERE

Or stay where Tammie is at the Deli Aloft click HERE

IF YOU WANT US TO BOOK FOR YOU:

We can only book for you 1 Night accommodation at the Delhi Aloft– $250AUD per room single, (*Lemon Tree is cheaper and very small room with single bed you can book this yourself here ) $290AUD twinshare per room (A$145 per person)

*you may not need this accommodation if you are flying on the same day as the start day and can arrive to Dharamshala before 2pm in the afternoon. 

FLIGHTS DELHI TO DHARAMSHALA

We will discuss flight times with you to fit in with your international arrival and departure flights. Please note: cost for flight is subject to change until they have been paid for. Flights are currently fluctuating so we suggest using https://www.skyscanner.com.au to book your flights, alternatively contact Donna McHugh – [email protected] our personal Travel agent if you wish her to book flights for you. She will send you a quote first and charges $55 for the booking and will post tickets to you. She can arrange international and domestic flights anywhere in the world. 

DEPARTURES: You can depart anytime on the last day of the retreat this is the 31st of March 2022. You need to leave the retreat centre 4 hours before your flight departs so please consider this while you are also considering your return international flight. Depending on which airline you use you will possibly need to take a shuttle bus from the domestic to international terminal so please also allow time for this. DIAL provides a complimentary shuttle bus service for passengers, every 20 minutes between domestic and international terminals of the Indira Gandhi International Airport. You can also spend an extra night in Delhi we can help you will all arrangements. 

FLIGHT BOOKINGS: Donna McHugh from Wauchope Travel to arrange all of our flights please contact her if you require assistance on (+61) 02 65852288 or email [email protected] Donna can arrange flights to and from anywhere in the world and she knows our itineraries.

[/fusion_toggle][fusion_toggle title=”Inclusions & Exclusions” open=”no”]

Meet and greet by vibrant women representative at dharamshala airport, 7 nights’ accommodation with breakfast , 1 dinner and local dance performance at the norbulingka institute, guided tour of the norbulingka institute, 3 lunch and dinners at the mirage, andretta, pickup and drop off at dharamshala airport, sightseeing in and around dharamshala as per itinerary, entrance fees, tea tasting at wah tea estate, 3 workshops on tibetan buddhism with a lozang drolma at norbulingka institute, 3 workshops on incorporating buddhism into busy western lives, lamp light ceremony and visit to dolma ling nunnery, donation to dgl nunnery, dolma ling nunnery and jogori charitable foundation (on a group basis), local english speaking guide throughout tour , international and domestic air fare, indian visas, lunches & dinners (where not included), travel insurance (compulsory), occasional optional items not identified in itinerary description, tipping and personal expenses (we suggest $15 a day per person to cover our drivers, accommodation and guide tips. you can pay this in aud $105 or 5,000rp. we will collect this at breakfast on the first day of the retreat)., bottled water and other beverages not included with meals, it is essential all guests take out their own travel insurance and to travel with a credit card in case of emergencies. guests need to tell their bank they are travelling to india so that the bank allows them to use their card there., up until the 31st of march 2021 all monies paid are full refundable. from 90 days before the start of the retreat a $750 non-refundable, non transferable deposit will be retained.  for between 90 days and 60 days,  50% will be forfeited in addition to the non refundable, non transferable deposit.  for less than 60 days or for no shows the entire amount will be retained as we would have already had to pay for accommodation, transport, flights and activities, and this money will not be returned to us.  once the tour has commenced no monies will be returned to you.  this is why   travel insurance  is compulsory., payment of your deposit indicates your agreement to the cancellation policy., [/fusion_toggle][fusion_toggle title=”meals” open=”no”], all meals are included whilst at the mirage., only breakfast is included whilst at norling house., all other meals are self pay, 3 lunches and 3 dinners. there is a cafe and restaurant at norling house and some meals we will also eat out. , whilst at the mirage, the home cooked regional dishes are made from locally sourced produce and are simple and tasty. the spice level is minimal and you can add extra chilly and salt etc to meet your taste., breakfast  breakfast generally consists of fruit salad, eggs & toast etc. porridge or paratha & curd is also available upon request, the cook will do his best to accommodate any specific dietary requirements if informed. condiments, jams & spreads are available., lunch   lunch is a home-cooked vegetarian meal., dinner dinner consists of soup, salad, 3 veg dishes and then followed by dessert., indian rupees are only available in india as it is a closed currency. you can change some money at the delhi airport on arrival and then a credit card and an atm card as well just in case you need a back up. good to have a few options in case one doesn’t work., you will need to take some money to cover drinks, laundry and souvenirs, plus any additional sightseeing that may be offered to you. we think around aud$300/£165/$215usd per week should be enough. your india retreat does not include some lunches and some dinners however, you will also need to allocate a certain amount of money for shopping and drinks while on retreat. these meals are at your own arrangements so the amount allocated will be different for each participant. on average in 2019 our meals were around $15 aud., tipping is a firm and expected element in the tourism industry. a nominated tipping amount is not included in all group tour pricing. however, we suggest $15 a day is appropriate. we will collect approximately a$105 (5000r) at the introduction session, this will then distribute the tips among your main service providers – guides, drivers and accommodation – on your behalf. you will see how hard people work for us but of course this is only a suggestion. any other tipping, such as tips for for restaurants is at your discretion based on satisfaction of services received, as are gratuities for additional requested special services. it is suggested a 200r tip for your drivers to and from the airport is adequate (approx. aud$4). you can pay for your tips in aud too totally fine $105aud., the temperature in march ranges between 10 and 30 degrees celsius. the average temperature being 21 degrees during the day and 12 degrees overnight. the weather remains pleasant throughout and hence; it is an excellent time to enjoy sightseeing and walking in the himalayas. hopefully there will still be some snow on the mountain tops but nice warm days 🙂 perfect time to visit. , now the official line is that they will only allow 15kgs of check in luggage and 7kgs of hand luggage, (and they strict about this) as it is a small regional airport. extra baggage allowance is ir500 or a$10 per kg for every extra kg (which the clients have to meet). however, air india may honour the international baggage allowance of – usually 30kgs coming to australia, (it is different for europe and usa),  if people can show their air india ticket  they have flown or about to fly internationally within a 24 hour window they will usually honour the international allowance. when they check in they will have to produce their international ticket and remind the counter staff of the rules, (which they should honour albeit with reluctance). *only applicable if flying air india on both domestic and international flights, otherwise the 15 kilo limit applies..

A. Dharamshala Kangra Airport (DHM) via Indira Gandhi International Airport Delhi.

There are no direct flights from Australia to Dharamshala. Depending onthe airline you travel with you may need to transfer from the international to the domestic terminal. For this reason we suggest you spend a night at the Lemon Tree Premier Airport Hotel in Delhi. Tammie will also be staying at this hotel on the night of the 4th or 13th of April and can fly with you the next day to Dharamshala. Flight still to be decided. *If you would like up to organise your accommodation, airport transfers and domestic flight from Delhi to Dharamshala return please ask us for a quote.

You can depart anytime on the last day of the retreat however it is a 2 hour drive from our accommodation to the airport so please consider this while you are also considering your return international flight. You will possible need to take a shuttle bus from the domestic to international terminal so please also allow time for this. You can also spend an extra night in Delhi we can help you will all arrangements. 

Q. What dates and times should I fly in/out of India?

A.  Please make sure your flight arrives no later 2pm into Dharamshala as we have a guided tour planned for 4pm and the drive is 1 hour from the airport. Dharamshala is a very small airport you will have no trouble finding your driver with a sign with your name on it. 

Q. What sort of rooms are available?

A. We have both single and twinshare rooms available. The single room has the supplement included. If you choose twinshare and are not travelling with a  friend we will do our best to find you a roommate however in the event noone else is seeking a twinshare roommate then the single room rate will apply. We hope you understand. *Please note that snorers, smokers or people who wear CPAP machines when sleeping must disclose this when booking as this could impact other peoples sleep and they need to be aware of this. **Also please note we cannot guarantee compatibility of roommates, for example you may be of different ages or nationalities, however mostly when we do match people up they get on well and its only for a short period of time. Some people have even made lifelong friendships.

Q. Will there be any western facilities? A. I’m not going to lie to you, the hot water is sketchy and the water pressure low, however the weather is warm so it will be fine. There are western toilets at all venues. At Norling House people have ensuites, at The Mirage one bathroom is shared between two rooms (which could be up to 4 people). Beds at the Mirage are firm. 

Q. What is the maximum group size?

A. Our groups are usually between 12 and 18 participants. These are ideal numbers as they are small enough to be manageable and intimate but large enough for diversity and fun! We have a maximum of 10 room for this retreat.

Q. What will the food be like?

A. The food is Indian haha and I think most people know what this is like. Yes its spicy but we can ask to tone it down. Keep in mind that when you ask, “Is this spicy ?” and the waiter says, “No Maam” his taste buds are not like yours and it will be spicy. India is heaven for vegetarians, all that delicious dahl, spinach and paneer, mushrooms with tomatoes and cauliflower and fresh green peas, potatoes with cumin seeds, koftas and the list goes on, India is my favourite food destination.

Q. Will there be alcohol available?

A. Due to the location of this retreat alcohol is not available for purchase. McLeod Ganj itself is a dry town. If you would like to have a few drinks we suggest bringing some duty free with you which may be nice on the terrace of The Mirage in the afternoon for sun downers. As this is a Buddhist retreat we do not encourage excessive drinking, we want you to make the most of your time and fully immerse yourself in the experience. 

Q. Do I require a visa to enter India?

A. The most convenient and cheapest way to get your visa is online e-Visa – To complete online choose E-Visa Application. 

https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html 

The online application can only be completed 30 days prior to travel, unless you are requesting a 12 month visa. Make sure you don’t apply too early so that your visa is expired by the time you want to depart, 30 days in advance is enough, previously it has taken 3 days to receive the E-Visa. This cost is between $10 and $50USD, prices change all the time sorry but just to give you a guideline.

You will receive a document on how to complete your VISA application around 6 weeks before the start of the retreat. Its a step by step process with images.

Q. I have never travelled to a an exotic country like India before, will I experience culture shock?

A. Yes, but in the very best way. India is an incredibly friendly place and has a rich cultural and spiritual history. Dharamshala has a large Tibetan population so you can at times feel like you are in Tibet or Nepal, also geographically with the backdrop of the Dhauladhar range. If you have been to India before Dharamshala will feel very different, relaxed and not so noisy.

Q. Will I get altitude sickness?

A. Sorry girls we are not climbing to Everest base camp, you will not get altitude sickness, the highest point of Dharamshala is 2,100 metres above sea level and to to get altitude sickness you need to be above 2,500 metres above sea level. Once you get above the tree line where plants don’t grow this is a good indication of altitude. There are some winding roads however if you are prone to car sickness, but we only travel for a most of 2 hours on 2 days. 

Q. What should I wear/bring with me?

A. Please wear culturally appropriate clothing ie cover shoulders and knees. You will need stretchy comfortable clothes for yoga and meditation. It will be warm so you won’t need many clothes. *Please do not bring any valuable items with you to India such as expensive jewellery.

Q. How much money will I need?

A. Well, that depends on your shopping habits! You will need to allocate around $15 per meal lunches and dinners and then add on extra for personal spending. Normally I tell people to bring around $500AUD to change on arrival to India. Then bring a credit card for the other larger spending. I would be very surprised however if you can spend $500AUD I think $300 would be sufficient. 

Q. Can I add extra days or extra tours to this trip? 

A. We do not suggest you come early or stay longer unless you have something specific in mind or another person with you. Mostly we are covering all the places to visit during our time together so unless you just want to rest or hike (two extremes) there isn’t really that much to do. 

Q. I think I wanna come….but it is a big decision and I am not 100% sure, can I talk it over with you and see if it is right for me?

A. Yes, I think that is a great idea.

You don’t know me and I want you to! Please view previous testimonial  here  to get an idea of what our past guest have to say about us and also if you just flick me an email to [email protected] I will arrange a time to call you or just give me a call – (+61) 0459247122 this works for Whatsapp too.

A. Great! You can just complete the registration form on the webpage and from there we will send you a confirmation email outlining what is covered in the trip, answering any questions and provide you with payment options. Once you have paid the deposit or commenced a payment plan then we will send you the trip notes and any other documentation you need to prepare for your journey. We are available to help you every step of the way.

Q. I’m nervous about arranging my international flights, can you help me?

A. We use Donna McHugh from Wauchope Travel to arrange all of our flights please contact her on (+61) 02 65852288 or email [email protected] Donna can arrange flights to and from anywhere in the world and she knows our itineraries.

Please complete and return your important guest information form to us 60 days before departure. 

Add our “colours of india tour” to your retreat to create an india extravaganza, click the image below for more details, “every morning we are born again. what we do today is what matters most.” – buddha .

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What is Dharamshala's Connection with Tibet & His Holiness the Dalai Lama‪?‬ Travel. Explore. Celebrate Life Podcast with Neil and Sunila Patil

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Dharamshala's appeal extends far beyond its geographical location. Rather, this place is a unique cultural melting pot where Tibetan, Himachali and British influences converge. So why is that? Let's answer that today. 

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Saint Petersburg - Karelia 9 days - 8 nights

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Moscow-Saint Peterburg tour package 8 days/7 nights BEST DEAL (15th of MAY-22d of MAY only)

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Welcome to visit moscow tours.

We provide authentic, informative and memorable tour packages and city tours, at very competitive prices. Visit Moscow Tours are available not only in Moscow, but also in other cities: Saint Petersburg, Kazan, Suzdal and Sergiev Posad.  We also organise customised individual programs tailored just for you.

Our guests come in large groups, small private groups, as couples or as single travellers. We take care of and treat our guests with respect in a friendly and warm family environment. We show people our beautiful cities with passion and deep knowledge of their history, culture and traditions.

Our guides are extremely hospitable, helpful and well-informed. They are simply the best because only by providing the best services can we make the world fall in love with Russia. And we are very happy when our guests say that they will definitely come back to Russia and that they will tell all their friends how great Russia is! That is what inspires us to put even more dedication and hard work into our tours, knowing that what we do is positive and meaningful.

Our classic tours include tours of Moscow and Saint Petersburg, two main Russian cities.

Moscow is a big and busy  megalopolis and Russia’s capital city, where more than 12 million people live and work. Our capital city is happening place; it is mysterious, elegant, luxurious, fashionable, clean and bright, with its unique legends, traditions and events. It is with great pride that we show the Red Square and the Kremlin, our Underground and Tretyakovskaya Gallery, among other stunning attractions.

Saint Petersburg is our second capital,  the second largest city in the Russian Federation. This wonderful city has a strong and lively aristocratic spirit, uniquely Russian royal architecture, magnificent museums and theatres. Saint Petersburg bears the royal heritage of Russia, which can be felt in its air, its streets, parks, monuments, museums and citizens.  In Saint Petersburg tours, we will take you to the Hermitage, Peter and Paul Fortress, Faberge Museum and Orthodox Cathedrals. We’re sure you will love it!

If you have a few more days to spare, venture into the dreamy Russian countryside in Suzdal or Sergiev Posad. Suzdal is a small town with a population of about ten thousand people, situated on less than 15 square kilometres. This tiny area is home to 53 historic cathedrals, five monasteries and a kremlin. Church domes are visible like mushrooms from anywhere and everywhere in the town like in a fairy tale. No wonder Suzdal is called the ‘Town Museum”.  It is definitely worth visiting!

Just try any of Visit Moscow Tours’ tour packages or any individual city tour, and we promise that you will want to come back to Russia again.  Russia is huge with countless amazing places to visit. There are so many unique experiences to be had and energies to be felt that one tour is definitely not enough to explore this vast land. It is also a very safe destination to travel, and we have a tradition of warm hospitality. Our people adore and take care of visitors as our own guests, and even if they do not know your language very well, they still try to be helpful and hospitable.

Our guides will show you the most interesting attractions and historical places, taking you on a journey to the past to enjoy stories of medieval times, the Romanov monarchy, the Soviet Era. And of course, we will show you the contemporary life of our country through authentic local experiences.

We look forward to meeting you soon!

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

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Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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The epicenter of modern Russia, Moscow booms with shiny new skyscrapers, the bulbous onion domes of the tsars and politically-rich Red Square. Explore the metropolis with a tourHQ guide.

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The sprawling, mind-boggling metropolis of Russian Moscow has long been one of the theatrical stages on which the great dramas of Europe and Asia have been played out in grand style. Burned by Napoleon in 1812, immortalised by Tolstoy, utilised by the Bolsheviks and championed as a bastion of heroic defiance by the post-war communists, it’s almost hard to believe just how defining the historical events that found their home on Moscow’s streets have been. Moscow tour guides will easily be able to mark the major must-see landmarks on the map, from the onion-domed orthodox Saint Basil's Cathedral, to the political powerhouse of Red Square just next door, while others will be quick to recommend a ride on Moscow’s famous subterranean metro system, or a visit to the UNESCO-attested Novodevichy Convent on the city’s southern side. But Moscow is a city also in the throes of a cultural wrangling between the old and the new. Creative energies abound here: Boho bars and pumping super clubs now occupy the iconic mega structures of the old USSR; high-fashion outlets, trendy shopping malls and luxurious residential districts stand as testimony to a city that’s now the undisputed playground of the world’s super-rich, while sprawling modern art museums dominate the cultural offering of the downtown districts north of the Moskva River.  

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