Dharamshala is a city located in the western Himachal region of India. It is also known as the winter capital or spiritual capital of Himachal Pradesh. When you visit Dharamshala, you feel like you are visiting a land settled by Tibetans. But this place is truly gratifying and welcoming. Dharamshala is a leading name in the Buddhist path to the state, as the home of the Dalai Lama. And now it has emerged as one of the most visited places in Himachal Pradesh, attracting devotees, scholars, savants, tourists, etc.
The hillside town of Dharamsala opens out along the Dhauladhar range in the highest reaches of the attractive Kangra district, between magnificent deodar, conifer, pine forests, tea gardens, and foggy hills. Since 1960, when it became the temporary residence of the Dalai Lama, it has attracted seekers of spiritual enlightenment throughout the world. Dharamsala is divided into two diverse (different) parts – Lower Dharamsala and Upper Dharamsala, with places like McLeod Ganj and Forsyth Ganj testifying to the history of the area. The place is an outstanding base for pleasant walks and treks to the Dhauladhar range.
For some places, you can visit in and around Dharamshala, do give a read to the following sections of the article.
THEKCHEN CHOELING TEMPLE
The Thekchen Choling temple complex is an important monument and tourist attraction in the region. A Buddhist temple and the private residence of Piety, the Dalai Lama, it is a calm and peaceful space. The Dalai Lama moved here in 1968, and at his precept, a simple space was built. Its purpose was to come up with a place of devotion for Tibetan refugees. There is also a mega statue of Shakyamuni Buddha in this temple. Indeed, it is the perfect place to get back to yourself and achieve contentment.
The Church of St. John in the Wilderness
The church pays tribute to Lord Elgin and is a fine example of Gothic and Colonial-style architecture. The church was built of stone and has incredible stained glass windows. Above the church, there is the earliest garden of remembrance. The place in the middle of the wilderness attracts many visitors who like to see the typical British aura.
SEVEN HILLS OF DOKKAEBI
The most famous restaurant in the region serves you the delicious food of the region. You must pay a visit if you are a food lover. There are some legendary food items you would love to have, such as kimchi, bibimbap, sushi, kimbap, hot chocolate, bulgogi, chrysanthemum tea, etc., are some prominent food items there.
MUST DO LEARNINGS:-
The following are some learning activities preferred to do for art lovers or explorers:
NORBULINGKA INSTITUTE
This place is known for wood carving, thangka paintings, and wood paintings—it is a unique kind of painting. There is a throne of the spiritual leader, Dalai Lama, with a three-dimensional look in his remembrance. It is a must-do for any art lover because you can learn or practice wood carving and make paintings there.
LAKA GLACIER TREK
Located at an altitude of 3200 meters, the Laka glacier is one of the most famous treks in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. It is equally loved by regular and seasonal trekkers. It is one of the easiest treks which gives access to the glacier region with a small hike of 18 kms from it's base camp at McLeodganj. Laka glacier trek difficulty falls between easy to medium level, so it's a beginner's trek and can be enjoyed by beginners also.
High mountains, snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, dense forests, and beautifully decorated McLeodganj and Dharamshala make this trek even special. The mesmerizing view from the peak of the Laka glacier trek will make your day.
TSUGLAGKHANG COMPLEX
"Dalai Lama's Residence" Far from urban civilization and in the hills of the state of Himachal Pradesh, lies the Tsuglagkhang complex, also known as the residence of the Dalai Lama, the most salient monk in Buddhism. When you visit this place, you will see a number of devotees and tourists from throughout the world. The complex houses a monastery, museums, a library, a bookstore, temples, and a cafe. You will also experience complete peace and repose in this place.
TIBET MUSEUM
The Tibetan Museum, one of the modern museums in Dharamsala, bids to introduce people from the land of Tibet, its culture, and history, hence giving a glimpse of Tibet. This picturesque museum displays documents, mementos, objects, manuscripts, terracottas, and much more that will give you an extensive idea of the huge talent of Tibetans. You can also buy souvenirs, paintings, and handicrafts in the local shop to take home memories of your trip.
KANGRA FORT
Kangra fort is at a distance of 20 km from Dharamshala. It is known as the oldest fort in India with a prominent history of its existence. It is also visible from Sansar Chand Museum. There is a statue of Rishabhnath inside the Ambika Mata Temple at the top of Kangra Fort and a Jain temple inside the fort. The views from the top of the Kangra fort are mesmerising and it's a pleasurable experience to visit this place as the vibes are strong and energetic because of its past. The forts' walls are evidence of their age, but they still stand by the beauty of the place. It is a perfect place to make a visit and not to overlook.
MCLEODGANJ MARKET
Mcleodganj is known for its crafts, culture, and tourist attractions from all over the world. Shopping in the McLeod Ganj market is an elating experience. You can purchase all the market stuff from here, such as carpets, scarfs, chain ornaments, etc., all made up of Tibetan touches of art. If you try the local food there, you will enjoy the market more and you can even buy some to take back with you to enjoy on the way. It is worth paying a visit to this place and yes, there are some nearby places just within walking distance that you can easily visit, like Kalachakra temple, Dip the Chok ling, Dal lake, Maa Chintamani temple, Shiva temple-Shri Durveshar Mahadev, etc.
