dharamshala solo trip

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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• Discovering Pleasure In The Pathless Woods: Shekhar’s Solo Trip To Dharamshala & Dalhousie

27 Mar 2023

Shekhar believes that traveling is an essential part of life. Travel to him is like a drug that keeps him sane and therefore before starting a new job, Shekar in his attempts to make the most of the 7 days break he could not think of anything better but travel. Here is how TravelTriangle planned for him a trip to Dharamshala that he will cherish for a lifetime.

Travel is all about knowing yourself and the world around you better and for me who has suffered a lot lately, travel helps in keeping my mind focused. Traveling helps me know myself and the world around me better. I am more of a person who loves peace and tranquility and moreover prefer keeping away from the chaos and noise of the city. But you do not always get what you want but I was lucky enough to get a 7 days break before starting a new job and I felt it to be just the right time for a solo trip to the mesmerizing peaks of Himachal Pradesh.

As I did not get time to plan my own solo trip to Dharamshala, I gave this opportunity to TravelTriangle and I believe that they have done a wonderful job!

Things To Do On A 6 Days Solo Trip To Dharamshala And Dalhousie

• Day 1&2: Arrival in Dharamshala and sightseeing
• Day 3: Trekking and bonfire
• Day4: Arrival in Dalhousie
• Day 5: Visiting Khajjiar and solo trek to KalaTop and Kangra Fort
• Day 6: Journey back to Dharamshala and then to Delhi

My Dalhousie & Dharamshala Solo Trip Package Details

Trip Type: Solo Trip Duration: 5 Nights 6 Days Trip Cost: INR 20000 Agent Name: Wings Of Himalaya Tour & Travels Inclusions: Hotel Room, Camp Stay, Breakfast, Dinner, Volvo Bus Tickets, Local Sightseeing, Cab for Sightseeing, Taxes Exclusions: Flight Tickets, Rail Tickets, Cab for Transport

Day 1-2 : Mountains Calling!

Today was the day to pack my bags and onset on a journey to Dharamshala. I took a flight from Pune to Delhi and later as planned was to board an overnight bus to Dharamshala from Delhi. But, unfortunately, I missed my bus and was upset about the fact that I could waste a day of my trip while staying in Delhi. Luckily, I managed to board the last bus to Dharamshala. On arriving at Dharamshala at about 6:30 A.M., a cab driver was already waiting for me. After checking into the hotel, I rested for a few hours and later set out to experience the local life of the people of Dharamshala and also visited the sightseeing attractions.

  11 Travel Tips For Himachal Pradesh That Will Come In Handy For Your Trip In 2022

Day 3: Trek Your Heart Out!

The adventure freak in me is one that encouraged me to travel all the way from Delhi to Dharamshala and encounter a trek to Triund.

Today, with a group of 14 people, I started my trek at around 10:30. The trek seemed like a real adventure in the jungle surrounded by tall trees and crooked ways that lie ahead. This trek can really test your limits if you are out of physical exercise. Drained of all our staminas we reached the top of the mountain to find a beauty to behold.

Snow covered mountains surrounded us and all are exhaustion left us. Our base camps were ready.On reaching we were treated with snacks and tea. Beautiful hues of sunset made my evening. Later in the evening, I had a bonfire to keep to keep us warm and some music to lighten our moods and minds.

  Explore The Himalayas: 48 Best Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh In 2022!

Day 4 : More Adventure Awaits!

Sunrise and sunset views are the best part of my day and I could not miss the chance to witness the beautiful sunrise, so I got up early and waited for the sun to rise over the snow covered mountains. Hereafter, I began my journey back after a hearty breakfast. On rea thing Dharamshala, I started my Dalhousie solo travel and there is much left to explore in Himachal. After reaching Dalhousie, I rested after and action-packed day.

Top Things To Do In Dharamshala 2022: A Mix Bag Of 22 Popular And Offbeat Activities

Day 5: Visiting “Mini Switzerland”

After breakfast at the hotel, I headed to Khajjiar which is also known as “Mini Switzerland”.The drive to this mini gem was wonderful with few snow patches on the road. The highlight of this destination are the beautiful trees that give the place a heavenly look. On returning I enjoyed a 6 km walk in solitude and visited Kala Top, one of the must see destinations in Dalhousie.

After days of wonderful journey and experiences it was time to bid bye to this beautiful haven. On reaching Dalhousie, I figured that we had time to explore the city as I had an evening bus to Dharamshala. Without wasting time, I visited the Kangra Fort as suggested by my driver. The fort for ages holds the beautiful history of the majestic mountains and offer magnificent views.

  Snowfall In Uttarakhand, Himachal, And J&K Turns The North Into A White Wonderland

Day 6: Leaving Only To Come Back!

On reaching Dharamshala, I took a bus back to Delhi and later boarder my flight to Pune. I really missed the mountains on reaching the city and would soon come back for yet another adventurous trip.

In conclusion, I had a wonderful experience on my solo trip to Dharamshala. It got me a little closer to not only myself but also nature. I came back rejuvenated with so many experiences and memories.

Peak Attractions Of My Trip

• Triund trek
• Sunset and Sunrise views from Triund Valley
• Khajjiar visit
• Kalatop visit

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Dalhousie In December 2022

The Only Hiccup On My Trip

Well, I could have listed down one if I would have missed my bus and felt like I was going to miss a day from my already short trip but with the help of agents from TravelTriangle, I was able to save the day.

Top 12 Resorts In Himachal For A Truly Spoiling Holiday In 2022

Tip For Future Travelers

• Though I picked this place at this time of year to avoid the crowds, I think Khajjiar needs to be visited at another appropriate time.
• The place gets really cold during this time so one should prepare themselves for the trip.
• Also, enquire in advance about heaters in the hotels.

30 Best Hill Stations In Himachal To Experience Pure Bliss In 2022

Himachal Pradesh appeals with a perfect holiday vibe. If the mountains lure you to the plunging river valleys, a Himachal vacation is a must have for all your trekking feels. Don’t forget to tag along your favourite travel buddies in case you’re a group traveler. But, an adventure like the one on a solo trip can never be compared to anything else for sure!

Frequently Asked Questions About Dharamshala And Dalhousie

A.  Dharamshala is a safe place to explore as a tourist destination. There are a large number of solo travelers visiting this exquisite destination every year.

A.  An ideal time to visit Dharamshala is spring and early summer when a lot of tourist attractions can be accessed and easily explored. A maximum temperature of 25 degree celsius is observed at this place around this time.

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14 Best Places For A Solo Trip In Himachal

Updated on: January 16, 2024

Travelothon

Editorial Team of travelothon.com

Himachal Pradesh, nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, is a paradise for solo travelers seeking adventure, tranquility, and breathtaking landscapes. From snow-capped peaks to lush green valleys, Himachal offers a diverse range of experiences for those embarking on a solo journey.

14 Must-Visit Places in Himachal Pradesh For Solo Travelers

In this article, we will explore seven captivating destinations in Himachal Pradesh that should be on every solo traveler’s itinerary. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a culture lover, Himachal has something for everyone.

Manali – Gateway to Adventure and Serenity

No exploration of Himachal Pradesh is complete without a visit to Manali, a charming town situated at the northern end of the Kullu Valley. Known for its picturesque landscapes, adventurous activities, and vibrant culture, Manali is a haven for solo travelers.

The town serves as the base for various trekking expeditions, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure. Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, and Old Manali are must-visit places, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

For a hassle-free experience, consider opting for a Manali tour package that includes accommodation, transportation, and guided tours.

Shimla – The Queen of Hills

Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is renowned for its colonial charm and panoramic views. Solo travelers can explore the Mall Road, visit the historic Christ Church, and take a ride on the UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla Toy Train.

The Ridge, Jakhoo Temple, and Annandale are additional attractions that showcase the city’s rich history and natural beauty. Shimla’s pleasant climate and welcoming locals make it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the hills.

While planning your trip, consider incorporating Himachal tour packages that cover Shimla and other nearby destinations.

Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj – Tibetan Retreat in the Himalayas

For a spiritual and cultural experience, solo travelers should head to Dharamshala and its suburb, McLeod Ganj. Known as the residence of the Dalai Lama, McLeod Ganj exudes Tibetan influence with monasteries, prayer flags, and a vibrant market.

The Bhagsunag Waterfall, Tsuglagkhang Complex, and Namgyal Monastery are must-visit attractions that provide a deep insight into Tibetan culture.

Dharamshala offers a perfect blend of spirituality and adventure, with trekking trails like Triund providing breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar Range.

Include this unique destination in your itinerary and explore the Tibetan way of life amidst the serene Himalayan landscapes.

Kullu – Nature’s Paradise and Adventure Hub

Located on the banks of the Beas River, Kullu is a valley known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities. Solo travelers can indulge in river rafting, paragliding, and trekking, making it a perfect destination for adrenaline enthusiasts.

The Great Himalayan National Park, Raghunath Temple, and Bijli Mahadev Temple are some of the prominent attractions in Kullu. The valley is also famous for its vibrant festivals, including the Kullu Dussehra, which attracts visitors from around the world.

A “Himachal tour package” covering Kullu ensures a seamless travel experience, allowing you to explore the natural wonders and cultural heritage of the region.

Spiti Valley – A Journey to the Cold Desert

For the intrepid solo traveler, Spiti Valley is a destination that promises a unique and rugged experience. Known as the “Middle Land,” Spiti is a high-altitude desert valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks and barren landscapes.

Key attractions include the ancient Ki Monastery, Tabo Monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the picturesque Chandratal Lake. The challenging roads to Spiti offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas and are a haven for adventure bikers.

If you seek solitude and unparalleled natural beauty, Spiti Valley should undoubtedly be on your list. Ensure your “Himachal tour package” includes this hidden gem for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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Dalhousie – Colonial Charm in the Himalayan Foothills

Nestled in the Dhauladhar Range, Dalhousie is a quaint hill station that exudes colonial charm and tranquility.

Solo travelers can explore Victorian-style architecture, take a stroll in the vibrant marketplaces, and enjoy panoramic views from places like Panchpula and Satdhara Falls.

Khajjiar, often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” is a short drive from Dalhousie and offers lush green landscapes surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

Chamera Lake, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, and St. John’s Church are additional attractions that add to the allure of Dalhousie. Include this hill station in your itinerary for a serene and laid-back experience in the Himalayan foothills.

Manikaran – Hot Springs and Spiritual Retreat

Manikaran, located in the Parvati Valley, is a spiritual and cultural hub known for its hot springs and religious significance. The town is famous for its Sikh and Hindu temples, with the Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara and Lord Shiva Temple being prominent pilgrimage sites.

The natural hot springs in Manikaran are believed to have healing properties, making it a unique destination for those seeking relaxation. The surrounding landscapes, including the Parvati River and lush green hills, add to the overall appeal of Manikaran.

For a holistic experience, solo travelers can immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere and enjoy the therapeutic hot springs.

Kasol: Mini-Israel in Himachal

In Kasol, the vibrant fusion of Israeli culture and Himachali tranquility creates a unique atmosphere. Cafes serving delectable Israeli cuisine dot the village, providing a taste of the Middle East amidst the Himalayas.

The Parvati River’s soothing sounds complement the laid-back ambiance, making it an ideal place for introspection and relaxation.

The Kheerganga trek, starting from Kasol, is a mystical journey through dense forests, hot springs, and panoramic landscapes.

Reaching Kheerganga, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views and a chance to soak in the natural hot water springs, an experience both rejuvenating and surreal.

Chamba: Ancient Temples and Palaces

Chamba, situated on the banks of the Ravi River, exudes an old-world charm with its cobbled streets and medieval architecture. The Chamba Palace, a testament to the town’s regal past, showcases intricate woodwork and artistic brilliance, transporting visitors to a bygone era of princely grandeur.

The Chamunda Devi Temple, perched on a hilltop, not only serves as a spiritual retreat but also provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the town below.

The sacred aura of the temple blends seamlessly with the natural beauty of Chamba, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere.

Kasauli: Serenity in the Midst of Pine Forests

Kasauli’s tranquility lies in its offbeat charm, nestled away from bustling tourist circuits. Solo travelers can embark on enchanting strolls through the narrow lanes, inhaling the invigorating aroma of pine forests.

The colonial-era Christ Church, with its neo-gothic architecture, stands as a testament to Kasauli’s historical roots, inviting exploration and contemplation.

For a more adventurous spirit, trekking to Monkey Point provides a rewarding escapade. As you ascend, the majestic Himalayan peaks gradually reveal themselves, creating a breathtaking panorama.

The solitary journey to Monkey Point encapsulates the essence of Kasauli – a haven where nature, spirituality, and solitude intertwine, offering a haven for the solo sojourner.

Bir Billing: Paragliding Capital of India

Bir Billing’s allure extends far beyond its reputation as a paragliding haven. As the adrenaline junkie soars through the skies, the panoramic views of the Dhauladhar Range and lush valleys create an exhilarating backdrop.

The Bir Tibetan Colony introduces solo travelers to the rich tapestry of Tibetan culture, with monasteries, traditional markets, and authentic cuisine providing a cultural immersion.

Sherabling Monastery, an architectural marvel, offers a tranquil retreat amidst prayer flags and serene landscapes. For the introspective solo traveler, Bir Billing becomes a playground for the senses – a harmonious convergence of adventure and cultural exploration, leaving indelible memories against the backdrop of the Himalayan expanse.

Palampur: Tea Gardens and Scenic Landscapes

Palampur’s serenity is a balm for the solo traveler’s soul, offering an idyllic escape framed by tea plantations and the majestic Dhauladhar Range. The Baijnath Temple, dating back to the 13th century, stands as a testament to ancient architectural finesse and spiritual resonance.

Wander through the lush tea gardens, where the aroma of freshly plucked leaves fills the air, providing a sensory delight.

Andretta Pottery, a unique artistic enclave, invites solo travelers to witness the magic of pottery against the backdrop of the Himalayas. Neugal Khad, a riverside spot, offers a tranquil retreat where the gushing Beas River and surrounding greenery create a picturesque setting.

Palampur, with its harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and artistic allure, beckons the solo explorer into a world of peaceful introspection.

Kinnaur: Land of Apples and Monasteries

In the heart of the Himalayas, Kinnaur unfolds its mystical charm, a haven for solo travelers seeking both cultural richness and spiritual resonance.

The enchanting Kamru Fort, with its ancient architecture and panoramic views, invites solitary explorers to step back in time. The quaint Kalpa village, surrounded by apple orchards and against the backdrop of Kinner Kailash, offers a surreal experience, providing a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the locals.

Recong Peo, the district headquarters, serves as the gateway to Kinnaur and the mesmerizing Spiti Valley.

Here, solo travelers can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture, characterized by ancient monasteries, traditional festivals, and warm hospitality.

Kinnaur, with its apple-scented air and spiritual sanctuaries, unfolds as a destination where the solo journey becomes a cultural and mystical odyssey in the heart of the Himalayas.

Khajjiar: Mini Switzerland of India

Khajjiar, often hailed as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India,’ isn’t merely a destination; it’s a poetic tapestry of nature’s wonders.

The sprawling meadow, fringed by dense cedar forests and the awe-inspiring Dhauladhar Range, casts a spell of serenity on solo travelers. Horse riding, a popular pursuit, allows exploration of the meadows with a touch of adventure.

Khajjiar Lake, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding greenery, provides a peaceful sanctuary. Beneath the emerald canopies, solo sojourners can revel in the calm ambiance, finding solace in the harmonious coexistence of nature’s elements.

Khajjiar, with its ethereal beauty, invites the solitary wanderer to witness nature’s grandeur and find moments of profound tranquility amidst the Himalayan splendor.

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6 Joyful Weeks in Dharamshala – Here’s What I Did

What does this travel guide to Dharamshala contain?

• My Dharamshala trip at a glance
• About Dharamshala District, Himachal Pradesh.
• My best things to do in Dharamashala.
• What is the best time to visit Dharmshala?
• How to reach Dharamshala, India?
• How to reach Dharmshala from Delhi?
• Where to stay in Dharmsala?
• How much would a Dharamashala trip cost?
• What to bring to Dharamshala?
• Is Dharamsala safe for solo travelers?

How to avoid the smoking culture of Dharamshala if you don’t want to be a part of it?

• How to go on a long trip to Dharamshala India?
• Around Dharmashala and further reading.

Things to do and places to visit in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

This is not your typical Dharamshala travel guide.

During my six weeks in Dharamshala, I hardly ever searched for “things to do in Dharmshala” or “best places to visit in Dharmashala.”

What was I doing? I was busy taking my Dharamshala trip slow.

This might sound clichéd, but I was learning the art of doing nothing .

Visiting Places in Dharamshala and Doing Things at My Pace

I started my journey in Dharamshala by attending a Vipassana course in Dharamkot, one of the many green villages of the Dharamshala district. After a much-needed ten-day silence of body and mind, I packed my bags and headed out of the deodar forests of the Dharamkot Vipassana center. My plan was to stay for a week in upper Dharamkot. 

But something made me leave Dharamkot in two days. Was it the smoky air of my Dharamkot hostel or the hippies lining the cafes in Dharamkot market, I am not sure. I went to live on the other side of Dharamkot to Upper BhagsuNaag, another lush village in Dharmshala .

I had gone to Bhagsu for a week, and I didn’t know I would end up spending more than a month there. 

What was I doing in Bhagsu village for so long?

I was just being.

Soaking sunshine, breathing in fresh air wafting from the pea fields, reading, writing , hanging out with travelers from around the world, hiking in Dharamashala , learning the flute, understanding my body, doing Vipassana meditation, and practicing yoga were some of the things I did during my one-month stay in Bhagsu. (You might like my ideas on a happy, healthy, and aware life , too.)

Some days, I walked to Mcleodganj. On other days I hiked to Dharamshala city by finding obscure paths through the jungle. In Dharmsala, I saw my first movie alone in a theatre, devoured bowls of mushroom soups in local Tibetan stalls, gorged on parathas loaded with butter at Himachali food shops, and found green trails to discover a new village or practice flute with birds.

Even though writing, blogging , and learning new things occupied me, life in Dharamshala still felt slow.

If I couldn’t wander in the wild for whatever reason, my feet got itchy.

Exploring tiny trails through garlic fields, watching goats and sheep climb up and down, chatting away with the farmer ladies feeding the cows, watching children walking back home on treacherous paths, listening to loud streams gushing close by, choosing one from the hundred tiny mud paths all curling towards the same place, walking under the umbrella of the fragrant deodar and pine trees, admiring the blood-red rose bushes that jump out of nowhere, I didn’t realize how time went by.

At the end of the day, I often tucked up in bed with a piece of Bhagsu cake in hand and an Antman movie on my computer or a Ruskin Bond book (he inspired me to have fun at work ). If it rained, I ordered masala chai to warm my hands and soul.

Don’t judge me for too much chai. I needed those steamy cups on the moody days in Dharamshala in Himachal more than the French need their wine after work.

The weather in Dhramsala shifted like the mood of a disappointed life partner . Suddenly clouds would come floating close to my balcony. At other times it hailed as if someone had opened a door. I even ran downstairs to get hit by the icy balls in my head, but the young caretaker at my homestay scolded me and asked me to go back to my room. Then I sat around the restaurant kitchen to drink masala chai or rum and coke. At other times, I wore my pink rain jacket and walked to lower Bhagsu for a tattoo had to be made.

I haven’t told anyone about the tattoo bit yet. Sshh.

I might have lied a little when I said I was doing nothing. At least I felt I wasn’t doing much in Dhramsala.

Sometimes, I sat and admired the caravan of nature. On other days, I became a part of it. And why wouldn’t I? The scenery was breathtaking, the mood was vibrant, and the sun was generous, at least a few days of the week.

Whatever I did, the white-chocolate-sprinkled Dhauladhar range stood tall and peeked at us from everywhere in Dharamshala. Everything was ethereal.

At those heights, you rarely feel stressed. Life seems like a tiny spectacle in front of the gigantic mountains (one of the reasons I travel and live as an itinerant writer ).

People of Dharamshala don’t have an easy life.

I kept asking locals about their routines. If the restaurant people made enough money to support their families. If the guy who sold rudraksha malas in Mcleodganj  had enough. If the 20-year-old boy from Kashmir could study along with his day job that feeds his family back home.

Like everywhere else, some people in Dharmsala struggled more than others. Some hoped for a better tomorrow.

But none of them told me they wanted to go somewhere else. They were all content living in the mountains away from the chaos of cities.

When you travel to Himachal Pradesh, talk to some people there (if you don’t already). They have interesting stories to tell (this tale of a Himalayan woman in a small village taught me much about resilience and repetition).

Also see these 71 photos in which I remember my favorite moments from Himachal Pradesh

Even though it seems almost clichéd to say you should travel or visit the mountains to be free. To look at the bigger picture. To find yourself .

Looking down on the world while nestling in a sleeping tent on the top of the Himalayan peaks does add a skyline to the mundane.

So what do you say? Let’s visit some mountains this year. Let’s do the clichéd. Let’s get out and climb some hills. Who knows what we might find.

Travel can be the catalyst to a small change , which can in turn transform our life.

Though I am painting a fairytale picture here, over the past few years Dharamashala has been getting many more tourists than a village hamlet should. Israelis, Europeans, English, and North and South Americans all come here to live in peace, learn yoga in Dharamsala , and progress on the path of spirituality. But the exponential growth in Dharamshala tourism has its disadvantages.

Occasionally, you will find crowds of young Israelis playing loud music at 1 in the night. Your table and chair would disappear from your balcony or would be loaded with dirty plates some drunk people didn’t care to put in the kitchen. You would wake up to almost-naked men sun-basking as if they were in a private garden.

Travelers wouldn’t move for days and would smoke away expecting you to join. Your music teacher might not show up for classes no matter how many times you remind him. Someone would light a joint right after a yoga class at 10 in the morning. Even if you try to work, people would come over and sit at your table expecting you to expect company. They won’t move but you would have to.

I was able to thrust away some of this social conundrum. Some days it bothered me. Other times I joined. And some afternoons I quietly shifted to another table in the sun hoping to write the persuasion away .

Do what you have to do. Not wanting to smoke doesn’t make you uncool. Whatever you do, remember to not step over others’ space. 

Related Read: 15 things we overthink about

However hard the struggle to keep a peaceful environment might sound, I would have it no other way. This constant switch between comfort and discomfort makes me who I am .

At times I couldn’t stop smiling for serendipity unfolded and left me in the middle of amazing people.

On days, you would find yourself wandering in the woods while at times you would sit in your homestay watching the sky catch fire with a cup of tea and conversation with your host. You can eat paneer butter masala and roti for lunch while dinner could be a burger with salad and potato fries. You can sit with a laptop or you can meditate.

Everything is possible in Dharamashala.

About Dharmshala, Himachal Pradesh

Do you know Dharamshala city is the second capital of Himachal Pradesh after Shimla? The district headquarters of the Kangra district in Himachal, Dharamsala is also the Dalai Lama’s and thousands of Tibetans’ home after Tibet was occupied by China.

Surrounded by the snowy Dhauladhar ranges, Dhramshala is a peaceful place to visit.

My Best Things to do in Dharamshala

The location of Dharamashala makes the district an amazing place to hike, relax, eat, learn, read, and live. Some refer to Dhramshala as Dharamshala hill station, a place tucked away in the mountains.

This list will take you to the nooks and corners of Dharmshala and to some well-known places to visit in Dharamsala while making you feel you haven’t been doing much.

Remember there are a plethora of activities in Dharamshala to choose from. See what you like.

Let’s start.

1. Take a meditation course and change your life

My favorite meditation center, or to say realistically, the only one I tried was the Vipassana meditation center in Dharamkot.

Vipassana is an ancient meditation technique passed on by our beloved Buddha himself. I have yet to write an article on Vipassana, but for now, I would say meditation isn’t as fancy as it seems. You are basically trying to control your thoughts, body, and brain while focusing on your breath (and your body parts). You try to become mindful .

The ten-day-long Vipassana course at the Dhamma centers is good for beginner meditators or those who want to know more about meditation. Though Vipassana is a hard course and you have to sit on the floor to meditate for about fifteen hours a day, suffering is an intended part of the course. The pain arising from long sittings has to be observed until it passes. Whether it rains or hails, you meditate.

Vipassana doesn’t only help focus the mind and manage the pains, it also helps in rewiring our behavior. I still need to meditate more regularly. But since I have gone to the course, I don’t take many medicines for period pain. I know the pain is temporary and it will pass. Try the course if you want to use meditation techniques to live a more present life.

When to go: The Dharamkot Vipassana center is closed in the winter so the best time to go is March/April to September/October.

H ow to go: Apply on the Dhamma website . When you receive a confirmation, follow the steps in this article to travel to Dharamshala. Dharamkot is a small taxi or bus ride away from the Dhramsala bus stand.

2. Hike in Dharamashala – Best way to Visit Places in Dharamshala

My best way to travel in Dharamshala was to walk. And to your surprise, most places in Dharamshala (and Himachal) can be hiked up to by many different paths.

I am listing down all the places to see in Dharamshala and around I hiked to or lost my way. Feel free to go on some of these hikes or find your own.

You can read my guide to trekking in Dharamsala for complete information on all these treks.

• Kareri lake — Kareri Lake lies a trek away from the village of Kareri.   Located at a high altitude of 2934 meters, Kareri lake is a freshwater lake that is said to have the most gorgeous landscape. I almost went for this trek but my plan got canceled and I ended up in Amritsar instead. 
• Naddi — A village walkable from Mcleodganj. Go here for beautiful sunsets.
• Dharamkot or Bhagsu to Dharamashala city —   A long but beautiful walk. Take the road that forks from the Bhagsu-Mcleodganj road and goes down, and keep walking. Ask the locals for the way. You can also walk along the stream that goes down from Bhagsu waterfall and continues. Or you can choose to walk up the hills as I did. More details in the Dharamshala hiking guide.
• T o an unnamed waterfall in Dharamkot — One of my best places in Dharamshala to visit

A gorgeous waterfall (in which you can swim) lies a two-three-four hours hike (depending on your speed) from Dharamkot and Bhagsu. Walk up to the Gallu Devi temple (one of the many revered temples in Dharamshala) above Dharamkot and ask for the way. 

• To BhagsuNag waterfall by two different paths— Walk to the Bhagsu waterfall from either upper or lower Bhagsu. The upper part of the Bhagsunag waterfall is quieter than the lower.
• To the  Triund campsite and the snow-capped mountains of Dhauladhar — A six km uphill walk under the red rhododendrons from Upper Dharamkot would bring you to the Triund hill. Do it yourself or take a guide, the walk is pretty either way. More details on this are in the hiking guide.

One other things to do on your Dharamshala trip is to hike through the Indrahar pass. This trek takes about four days and three nights to complete.

Sightseeing in Dharamshala by hiking is much more interesting than taking a bus or a taxi. Walk it away. Remember, the altitude of Dharamshala is about 1450 meters, so if you start panting, don’t be hard on yourself. 

3. Sign up for a yoga course in Dhramshala

Due to the scenic Dhauladhar Himalayas enveloping Dharamshala from all sides, the Dalai Lama, and the mediation centers around Dharamashala, yoga has become a popular activity to do in Dharamshala.

Yoga is such a trend in Dhramsala that everyone who goes there has yoga added to their itinerary. Due to the demand for yoga classes in the area, many yoga centers have opened up and they run on run on donation-based hourly yoga classes.

Though new yoga teachers have opened up yoga centers for different kinds of yoga, many old yoga centers still thrive in the area. 

My guide to Dharamshala yoga (which also includes an introduction to yoga in India) will help me fully understand the yoga scene in Dhramshala. It also lists many yoga centers and how to find a yoga center if you are looking for one.

4. Live in a village in Dharmashala

What is better than waking up to a silent village, a few birds chirping to wake up the world, and a misty view from your balcony?

I lived in Bhagsu village for more than a month (linked is the narrative) doing the many things I mentioned above. If you love a location-free lifestyle, just hop onto one of the many villages in Dharamshala and see how life goes on in Himachal.

But having said all the nice things about a village stay, let me tell you the unlimited self-growth classes – music, yoga, meditation, and healing have sort of compromised on the local feel of the Himachali villages. Sometimes you would feel as if you are in Europe or some other cosmopolitan place outside India.

Amongst the tonnes of self-improvement classes, travelers forget to go out in nature and see how healing nature can be. By stepping aside from the main paths, find the magic of the Himalayas on your own.

5. Practice a musical instrument, and, again, change your life 

Many classical musicians and singers from around India flock to Dharamshala not only for some respite from city life but also to teach aspiring singers and musicians.

Go try the Jolly music shop at the center of Dharamkot. It is easy to find. You get to choose an hourly class of an instrument of your choice. The price per class is around 400-500 rupees.

Sit out in the many classical music festivals held at restaurants and cafes at night and get inspired to learn.

Update 2022: I’m sad to inform you that Jolly baba is no more, as all of us lovingly called him. Hope he took the music with him.

6. Enjoy Tibetan and Nepali food while not forgetting we have also got parathas and rajma chawal in Dhramsala 

Food is westernized and expensive in Dharamshala villages. As few Indians stay put in a destination for long, restaurants make food for an international palette. The almost bland food processed by these restaurants is sometimes thought of as real Indian food by foreign tourists.

Request the restaurant to balance spices in your curries while you order. Mcleodganj has more local, simple, and cheaper food options than the villages.

My favorite places to eat in Dharamashala,

• Roja Cafe, Upper Bhagsu — Home-grown wheat chapati and aloo gobhi. Poori sabzi (dry veggies with pooris). And more.
• Jungle Calling, Upper Bhagsu — Chocolate balls. Hundred rupees for one piece (woah).
• Tibet Kitchen, Mcleodganj, Dharamshala — All Tibetan thukpas, momos, and finger-licking.
• Bishnu Trekkers tea house — Small Himachali stall near Mcleodganj Square. Thali or the Himachali Dham for rupees 61. Unlimited food but please pay more for you can only get so much in 61.
• White Rabbit, Upper Bhagsu — For authentic Indian thali and crispy dosas.
• Evergreen Cafe — Upper Bhagsu. Spinach burger with fries. All things Indian are good here. Their sister also runs a place called Evergreen on the way from Dharamkot to Bhagsu. All good food and ginger lemon honey. 
• Bodhi Greens, Dharamkot — Good sandwiches and cakes.
• The Yak Cheese Sandwich shop — Dharamkot. For fresh yak cheese sandwiches and all things sweet.
• Heena Cafe— Upper Dharamkot near Bunker hostel. For good Indian and Tibetan food.
• Brahma Cafe — Upper Bhagsu. For Indian thali and garlicky palak paneer.
• Namgyal cafe — For those days when you need good crunchy pizza.
• Samosa and tiki shops in Mcleodganj on the Dalai Lama temple road.
• Small stalls in Mcleodganj – For kadhi chawal, rajma chawal, and aloo paranthas. If you want simple and cheap food, Mcleodganj is your best bet.

Places I didn’t like :

Little Buddha, on the way from Upper to Lower Bhagsu – Food was very average here though the place was always crowded.

Trimurti gardens in Dharamkot — I liked this place but I didn’t understand the hype.

Trek and Dine – A very popular place in Dharamkot but I found the food to be average. Also, the place was full of people (ahem Israelis) who rudely always shifted places as they liked and didn’t respect anyone else.

To name a few.

7. Try your hands at photography under Dharamshala’s deodars and pines

Chase those birds but from a distance. Capture that golden sunset. Set up the tripod and trace those stars in the sky. This is the time.

8. Get acquainted with Buddhism and the simple way of living

The Dalai Lama stays in Dhramshala in the Dalai Lama main temple (one of the best p laces to visit in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj ). Along with him came many of his followers from Tibet, and Tibetans now have their own government in exile in Dharmshala.

Dharamsala has been a spiritual center for decades now. Tushita meditation center in Dharamkot is next to the Vipassana meditation center.

You can sign up for a ten-days introductory course to Buddhism three or attend some open and free meditation classes in the morning.

Walking around Dharamshala is also a great way to interact with the monks and understand their life. You can strike up a conversation in the Dalai lama temple (a good place to visit in Mcleodganj) or in the streets of the district.

Staying close to people living such humble lives is eye-opening.

Also, the simple lives of the people of Himachal are no less than guidance in our 21st century. Most of the people of Himachal are quite well-doing and have multiple homes and farmlands. But you would never see them sitting idle, hiring many machines to do their work, engrossed with the phone, or showing their money in jewelry or expensive things – women were especially hard workers as far as I noticed.

Their simple lives would help you focus on what’s important.

9. See some crazy art performances from around the world — One of the many intriguing activities in Dharamshala.

Dharamashala is a spiritual place that attracts all kinds of travelers and non-travelers from around the world.

You can be part of a lot of spiritual and art activities in Dharamasala. Regular messages are posted on the Dharamkot information board. Or join the Bhagsu, Dhramkot, or Dharamsala Facebook group and stay updated.

Slow travel is the best travel in Dharamshala.

And if you are in a rush, pick a few things from this list and do as much as you can. Or practice the art of doing nothing. You can also opt for this GetYourGuide full-day Dharamshala tour with a local guide who will help you navigate the city and show some of its must-sees in a day while providing local insights.

What is the best time to visit Dharamsala, India?

The weather in Dharamshala shifts quicker than you can imagine.

The best time to visit Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh is summer which lasts from mid-April to June/July when the monsoon begins. Though the summer months are supposed to be dry, Dharamshala receives heavy rainfall and hailstorms even in summers. So be prepared. 

In the summers in Dharamshala, you can manage during the day with a shawl or a light jacket. But the evenings can get chilly so carry a thick jacket. Don’t worry about things to bring to Dharamshala for I have covered them later.

In winters, Dharamshala gets covered under heavy layers of snow, and many businesses shift to Goa to cater to the customers there. If you plan to visit Dharamshala in December or any other winter months, inquire first about the availability of places and guesthouses.

Most dangerous are the months of July, August, and September when Dharamshala receives heavy rainfall making landslides a common scene. Please take extra care during these months, stay alert with news, and ask locals for advice.

How to reach Dharmsala, India?

The nearest airport to Dharamshala is the Dharamshala airport. Fly to Dharamshala from Delhi or take any other domestic flight. 

Traveling to Dharamsala is also convenient from Pathankot and Amritsar, cities in Punjab. So fly to these cities or reach them via a bus or train. Then you can either fly from Pathankot and Amritsar or take another bus to Dharmshala. Pathankot to Dharamshala distance is approximately 85 km but do keep a buffer for local buses have their own moods and stops.

You can also travel to Dharamashala by bus from many other places such as Bhuntar, Manali , Shimla, and other cities in Himachal.

Book your HRTC or private buses on Redbus . If you don’t see many buses, check on Cleartrip, Yatra, and other websites. When I was traveling in Himachal, I realized all the Himachal and Punjab buses weren’t listed on Redbus.

Please note – Dharamsala doesn’t have a railway station, and the nearest railway station to Dharamshala is Pathankot in Punjab. 

Taking a taxi up to Dharamshala is also a good way to travel if you are short on time or don’t want to enjoy the experience of traveling in an ancient bus on curvy paths on the Himalayas.

Mcleodganj and Dharmshala are connected by buses and shared taxis which don’t run at night. Get a private taxi at night from the Dharamshala bus stand. Taxi prices are fixed, and Dharmshala to Mcledoganj is about 350/400 rupees during the day/night.

Don’t forget to download an offline Google map of Dharamshala.

How to reach Dharamshala Hill Station from Delhi?

Delhi to Dharamshala by Bus — This is the most common option for traveling to Dharamshala from Delhi. Get an overnight bus from either old or New Delhi to Dharamshala city. The Delhi to Dharamshala journey would take about 14 hours.

Delhi to Dharamshala by Train — You can only travel until Pathankot. Then either take a taxi, bus, or flight to Dharamshala. 

Delhi to Dharamshala by taxi or self-driving — A good option always. Be prepared to drive on mountainous roads. 

Delhi to Dharamshala by Air — Fly to Dharamshala airport.

If you are planning a trip to Mcleodganj from Delhi, get a direct bus from Delhi that goes until Mcleodganj.

Where to stay in Dharamshala?

Even though Dhramshala is a great place to stay, not all homestays in Dharamshala are really homestays. Locals have commercialized their places and the homestays have become more like hotels where you come, go, and live independently and don’t spend much time with a Himachali family.

I was not particularly excited by this commercialization of Dharamsala homestays as I like to know the locals and spend time with them. But I had to instead focus more on interacting with locals outside my home for homeowners seem to have had enough of tourist interaction. Of course, this isn’t true for all the homestays, and especially new guesthouses are more inclusive.

Having said that, you can find places to stay in Dharamsala just by walking around. But do book a place to stay for your first night if you are arriving late. If you are heading straight away to villages, book a place in either Bhagsu or Dharamkot. The taxis can come up to a certain point and then you’ll have to walk.

Book a place in Dharamashala here on Booking . R emember most of the places the website shows come up in Bhagsu, Mcleodganj, or Dharamkot. If you are arriving late at night, ask your guesthouse about how to reach the place at night.

After spending a day, feel free to walk around, lose your way in the hidden trails of the valley, and ask for availability and prices. Many guesthouses aren’t registered on any tourism website so your best bet to find an affordable place is by walking and asking around.

My guides on finding home accommodations in India and affordable Indian guest houses might help too.

I liked Bhagsu and Dharamkot better than Mcleodganj for living. Mcleodganj was louder and had a fast-moving influx and outflow of tourists.

Dharamkot is a nice area to stay in if you like to stay close to the action. Upper Dharamkot is more peaceful than lower.

Upper Bhagsu is less crowded and more peaceful than lower Bhagsu, which is visited by a lot of tourists coming in to pray at the Bhagsunag temple.

Guesthouses in Dharamshala are of many kinds. Homestays are easy to find by asking around and so are hostels and hotels. I chose to stay in a homestay for a month at the price of almost 15k per month (discounted from 700 rs to 550 and am sure I could have gotten it for 500). The room has an attached balcony and a toilet with 24-hours hot water. I used to get a bird’s eye view of Dharamshala from my balcony so it was worth it.

For me, the best place to stay in Dharamshala would be Upper Dharamkot or Upper Bhagsu.

On that note, here are some hotels, home stays, and guesthouses I like in Dharamshala,

Bhagsu homestay in Upper Bhagsu

Minhas Homestay in Dari village  of Dharamshala

Prakriti Aalay in Dharamshala city

Buddha House Himalayan Brothers , again in Dharamshala town

S amdupling Himalayan Brothers in Dharamshala

Farm’s Nature Nest in Dharamshala city

How much would a Dharamshala trip cost?

I spent about five hundred rupees on my stay, and about five hindred more on food, coffee, and daily necessities. 

Additional costs:

A hatha yoga class for one and half hours — two hundred rupees minimum donation.

A flute lesson — four hundred rupees per class for a one-hour class.

Fruits – Few apples, bananas, and mangoes cost about two hundred rupees, maximum of three dollars, in lower Bhagsu.

Taxis and autos run on fixed prices. Though you wouldn’t be able to take them much as the roads aren’t always motorable. Also, walking around Dharamsala was so much fun and a natural exercise I almost always walked on my Dhramshala solo trip.

If you are visiting many places near Dharamshala, hop onto buses, a fun way to explore Himachal.

What to bring to Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh?

• Bring along a  rain jacket . 
• Reliable  walking shoes  and  flip-flops . 
• Comfortable track pants (both thin and thick) for walking.
• A few t-shirts, thick ones if you come in the winter and thin ones for the summer. 
• Some warm clothes as the weather gets colder in the evening. You would also need those warm clothes or at least a  woolen shawl  or a  jacket . (I brought a sweater, too, but I sent it back because I didn’t need one in the summer.) You can buy a shawl from Dharamshala, too.
• Your  toiletries  and  sunscreen  and a  hat  for the sun. 
• A  headlamp  or  torch  for night walks through the mountains. 
• Bring a  mosquito repellent . 
• Long socks , a  full-sleeved shirt , and  full-length trousers  for treks.
• Bring  binoculars . A  good camera . Ask that friend for his heavy lens, you might need it to click a whistling thrush.
• Basic  medicines .
• Yoga matt or buy one from Dharmshala.
• A refillable water bottle. You have to pay 10 rupees for a bottle of filtered water at most of the guesthouses. But my  LifeStraw bottle filters water on the go and has saved me much money. I fill it up from any community tap around the village as the water comes directly from the Himalayas. Even if it was not coming from the mountains, Lifestraw has a strong filter. No more buying plastic water bottles. 
• Some lovely  books  to read.

Is Dharamshala Safe for solo travelers?

I was never scared to walk alone in Dharmsala. Himachal Pradesh — in general — is a pretty safe place even for a solo woman. 

Having said that, please do take the basic precautions every traveler needs to take. Don’t venture out late at night alone. Bring a torch. Ask the locals for help. Let someone know if you are heading out to one of the places to visit near Dharamshala. See the weather and then plan the hike of the day.

I have written more safety tips on traveling alone and in a group in my Dharamshala trekking guide .

Smoking h*** is a culture in Dharamshala.

Remember if you don’t like to smoke, you can always say no. You don’t become less cool if you don’t smoke. Do what you have to do. You would have to find your space and also be ready to feel out of the group (not always and you might want to stay away from groups who don’t respect your choices).

If you want to smoke, do it responsibly and while being respectful to the locals. 

How to go on a long trip to Dharamshala?

My digital nomad lifestyle allows me to travel.

But if you have a job, how can you visit any place for longer?

Combine holidays. Think about long weekends and join them together with your other holidays. Take sabbaticals. Get a break in between jobs. Give yourself a chance to see the world after graduation. Ask your partner to plan a trip with you. Pamper your child with a getaway to the grandest mountains  of the world.

Well, you get the idea.

Places to visit near Dharamshala and further readings.

You have access to many places around Dharamshala for you are in the mighty Himalayas.

Here are some of the places near Dharamshala I visited on my Himachal trip:

Spiti Valley

Traveling Alone in Spiti – My Travel Guide to Spiti Valley

Surreal Spiti in Photos – Everyday Pictures of Spiti – Photos of Spiti that show regular Spitian life

Parvati Valley

Kalga Village, Parvati, Himachal – My favorite village in Parvati

Kalga to Bunbuni Pass and then to Kheerganga – Hiking on offbeat paths in Parvati

Manikaran Sahib, Parvati valley – A timeless village in Parvati

Running away from Shilha village – Escaping the loudspeakers in Parvati

Travel guide to Kasol village in Parvati – Only the gateway to Parvati valley

An honest travel Guide to Parvati Valley – No sugarcoating but only the real scene of Parvati and peaceful places to go.

My offbeat travel guide to the best places to visit in Manali

Travelogue of Naggar , a small village near Manali

Some other places to visit and things to do in Himachal Pradesh,

• Hiking down to the leopards in a Shimla village
• Living in Shakrala village of Shimla (in the lockdown)
• Making a picnic at Kanag Devi temple , on top of one of the hills in Shimla
• Why not to visit Fagu village in Shimla
• Admiring the blood moon From Mashobra, Shimla
• An Itinerant Writer’s life in Mashobra, Himachal
• No one knows about these Shivpur temples in Mashobra
• Why I loved Pangna village in Mandi
• Daring to hike Shikari Devi temple on our own, in Mandi
• Plucking apples with Himachal Pradesh families
• How a dam destroyed Tattapani hot water springs
• Roaming around Karsog to buy shoes, Mandi district

Did you like my Dharamshala blog? Let me know in the comments.

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28 thoughts on “6 Joyful Weeks in Dharamshala – Here’s What I Did”

Wow, thanks a lot for sharing! Planning my first trip to India and Dharamshala will definitely be on my list 🙂 Not sure if you check comments section still but how is WiFi there? I am working remotely so I am trying to understand whether it’ll be comfortable to work there or should I take a few days off… I would appreciate if you could share your experience.

Thanks, Eugeniya

hey, thanks for your comment. Yes, wifi works well in Dharamshala. If a place doesn’t have internet, one can always use phone’s 3G/4G which connects well. Enjoy your trip 🙂

This is one of the best tour guides about Dharamshala. You know I took inspire from your blog to Improve my blog quality thanks a ton for this blog.

Aaroham Resort by Aamod at Dharamshala Address: SATOBARI HILLS ROAD,MCLEODGANJ, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176216 Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 11:30PM Phone: 062300 75111

Dear Priyanka, Thank you for sharing this blog.You have done really a great job … appreciated… Blessings!!!

Dharamshala is a beautiful destination and images that you shared are very amazing they are making me excited to go to visit Dharamshala i promise to myself this year.

Hi,am planing a solo trip to himachal.planning to visit most attractive places like manali,kullu,spiti,etc.wanted to know how the means of transportation is,like if we want to see most of the places in dharmashala.travelling by taking cabs individually will be expensive I hope.do we have any other means.please advise.

Hi Mobin. Consider taking the local buses if you are on your own. That’s the best option to travel intercity.

Well, the article is well worth to read.

Hi Priyanka, it’s written and explained beautifully. I am in Rakkar (a small village near Dharamshala)for a month with my family. Your blog is really helpful to explore the more unexplored places. Keep on writing Love Renu Datta

Love your article, Beautiful explore!!! Keep posting the same.

Hello! It was delightful to your blog.

Awesome article!!! Keep posting the same.!!!

Hi Priyanka,

This was not only comprehensive but as I read I felt like I was a part of the journey too and that is something eh? Kudos!

thanks a lot 🙂

I have been to Dharamshala twice and after reading this blog post, I need to go more often. Flute and meditation in Himalays is such a bliss.

Your Dharamsala guide is comprehensive and fantastically written. Kudos.

Thanks for reading. I am glad it helped.

Amazing , I live in Dharamsala but you have beautifully explored every moment..amazing

Loved your article. I live in USA and work in IT so I can understand the urge to change. Didn’t know anything about Dharamshala before and now will surely plan a trip there. Sooo happy for you that you are living your dreams. Way to go girl. Will join onmycanvas to read your traveling adventures

Loved reading this Priyanka. Headed there next week. Will keep referring to your Himachal blogs ?

Wow, thank you so much for this guide. I cannot wait to go see some of these places and eat the foods and find my self 🙂 great article Priya

Felt like reading some sort of encyclopedia. Great information How did you manage to take such fantastic photographs.

Hey. Thank you for dropping by and for the beautiful comment. Pictures are a mix of phone and Nikon. But still mostly phone. Encyclopedia? Really? That’s nice 🙂

This is a brilliant guide.

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Solo female travel anywhere and everywhere.

Why Himachal Pradesh is one of India’s safest states for solo female travelers

Is solo female travel in Himachal Pradesh safe? Check out this guest post from Priyanka of On My Canvas travel blog on her solo travels in Himachal Pradesh, India. Head to the end of the post for solo travel tips, a very useful guide for those wondering if solo female travel in Himachal Pradesh is safe.

For a whole week, rain poured in Dharamshala’s Bhagsu Nag village.

The hills were so slippery that even short walks had to be braved. All of us travelers were confined to our rooms and the restaurant of the big blue Bhagsu homestay. We must have gone through our mental lists of things to do in Dharamshala at least a hundred times. I was particularly eager to explore more of Dharamshala, as I was soon leaving for Parvati Valley .

Finally, the sun came out. Encouraged by the warmth of the morning, a friend and I decided to head to Mcleodganj, another town in Dharamshala district.

After a short downhill hike, we were eating Himachali dham —a traditional Himachali thali of rice, dal, and curries—in a small dhaba in Mcleodganj. As soon as my friend finished her meal, she got up and left. Though I was getting accustomed to this leave-whenever behavior of many travelers, I still felt alone whenever someone went away abruptly, despite whatever plan we had.

A home in Kalga, a village in Himachal’s famous Parvati Valley

Really, I shouldn’t have cared; by that time I’d hiked and wandered solo in Dharamshala’s villages for about a month. After a flute lesson in Dharamkot, I’d walk up to the pine woods to practice flute on my own. Elbowing my way through rose bushes and ignoring mosquitoes, I would tread off random paths, searching for scenic points to look over the valley. Once, I hiked up a hill and almost ran into a Himalayan deer! She was far more startled than I.

Never had I felt uneasy or unsafe in the mountains. No one had stalked me or tried touching me indecently just because I was alone in the woods.

Trusting my instincts, I decided I would make an adventure out of that day. I paid for my dham , strapped my bag on my back, and strode on.

Hikes and help on the way down to Dharamshala

Walking back from the town, I took a downward road on the way from Bhagsu to Mcleodganj I’d always wanted to explore. I hiked from village to village, sauntering on tiny muddy trails, clambering down my way through treacherously placed rocks on the edges of hills, and stopping regularly to drink water and soak in the view.

At many points, multiple paths lay in front of me. Each time, a local man or woman would appear from nowhere and help guide me on my way. One Himachali woman told me the path I was following could lead me all the way to Dharamshala. When I asked her if I would be able to find my way to the city, she remarked that if I had made it from Bhagsu to her village, I wouldn’t get lost.

Mid-journey, I descended down into a valley full of grazing horses. They ignored me as they drank from a trickling stream.

At first I was scared: it was just me and the horses. If someone followed me or tried to harm me, I would neither be able to run—steep mountains surrounded us on all sides—nor would anyone hear my calls for help from the bottom of the deep valley.

But there was really no reason to worry; all the locals and foreigners had been cordial and respectful in Himachal until then. I calmed down and climbed up a mountain, plodding on. When rain began to pour, I slowed down to let it soak me.

On the way down to Dharamshala

Dharamsala, solo

Within five hours of starting my journey, I was in Dharamshala, a city overlooking the snowcapped Dhauladhar mountain range.

After a lunch of kadhi and rice, I began exploring the city, and eventually decided to see a movie on my own. By the time I came out of the theatre at 10 PM, shared taxis and local buses had stopped. Rain was pouring, street lights weren’t working, and most people had gone home already. I was alone in the center of the city.

It sounds scary, but it took no time at all to hire a private taxi driver to drop me at the bottom of Bhagsu Nag village. We chatted for the entire ride, and I treated myself to a Bhagsu cake, a local specialty, once he dropped me. That night, I went to bed feeling like a little girl who just discovered the entire world.

And this is but one day. I have many more stories of long journeys along unknown paths in Himachal Pradesh. All end with me returning to my room, happy and safe.

One of many stunning valleys in Himachal Pradesh

Is solo female travel in Himachal Pradesh safe?

Himachal Pradesh and its many valleys are known to be very secure for travelers. People who live there— both locals and foreigners — want more travelers to come and explore the mighty Himalayas. If tourists weren’t comfortable, they wouldn’t visit and live freely as they do now.

Solo female travel in Himachal Pradesh: Is it safe to hike solo in Himachal Pradesh?

In Himachal, solo, couple, and group hikers can be found easily on both long and short hikes with or without guides. If you meet any locals on the way, they might warn you about Himalayan bears… but they wouldn’t say you have to be careful of people.

The coherent ecosystem of Himachal promotes live and let live. Neither I nor my Indian/international friends felt unsafe in Himachal. I don’t know of anyone who had unpleasant incidents during our stay. We even went out at night, walked through empty hills, and still we felt comfortable.

Later on, I explored and hiked in Parvati Valley solo. The only encounters I had were with kind shepherds or fat furry dogs who helped me or accompanied me on my journey. Once, I stumbled into an apple farm on an obscure path near Old Manali. It was raining heavily, so the farmer invited me to his farm and we had tea together in his orchard. When I hitchhiked solo from one Spitian village to another, I rode with many truck and car drivers; our casual conversations made me feel as if I’d known them my whole life.

Read:  Hitchhiking down the Leh-Manali highway

Solo female travel in Himachal Pradesh: Did I have any bad experiences in Himachal Pradesh traveling as a woman alone?

Most Himachal places — Spiti Valley, Dharamshala, Parvati Valley, Manali, and surrounding places — are extremely calm.

The only time I was a bit creeped out was in the middle of the New Manali Bazaar. A drunk man stared at me, sat too close, and didn’t move even when I shouted at him. Something similar happened in Manikaran: a drunk man decided to stand inches away from my Chilean friend and I as we waited for our bus. When we told the locals about him, they surrounded the man, and told him to be ashamed of himself for troubling us. The local tea-shop owner and others kept an eye on the guy and made sure he didn’t trouble us.

It’s important to note that these are the crowded and the more accessible places of Himachal. There, travelers come from the North Indian cities of Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, mostly to drink rather than explore the mountains or to live peacefully. They might approach solo women or even women in groups; you can mostly avoid bad situations by saying no or involving locals if men persist.

Towards the interiors of the Himalayas, everyone is there for a purpose. The more remote you go, the safer and more peaceful you will be.

Hiking through the Dhauladhar Mountains

Solo female travel in Himachal Pradesh: Best places to stay for solo female travelers in Himachal Pradesh

As the number of traveler-oriented hostels and family homestays grows ever larger, there are some great options for solo female travelers in Himachal Pradesh. In places such as Parvati Valley, it’s best to just show up or ask other travelers who have been there before, as booking online isn’t really possible. But in hub towns like Manali or Dharamshala, there are a plethora of options available, such as:

Moustache McLeod Ganj: Part of the famous Moustache hostel chain found all around India, the McLeod Ganj branch is a great place to meet other local and international travelers, including plenty of women. The hosts are friendly and fun, there’s real coffee, and the hostel is tidy and comfy. Book Moustache Mcleodganj here .

The Unmad: This calm and relaxing homestay in Dharamkot run by the lovely Krishan and Aparna is nestled among some beautiful hills. It’s guaranteed to make you feel right at home. If Krishan or Aparna have time, there’s a chance one of them will take you on some impromptu hikes or shows you around—a great opportunity if you’re traveling solo and want some company on your hikes. Check out the Unmad here .

The Divine Hima: If you’re craving a bit more luxury, the Divine Hima is set in lovely lush surroundings, adorned with all kinds of personal touches by the owner, Sanjay. The food is excellent and Sanjay will do everything he can to make your stay in the area memorable. Book the Divine Hima now .

Backpackers Headquarters Manali: The name says it all—this is a great place if you want to meet backpackers. The hostel’s colorful interior and nice rooftop terrace are perfect for chilling, and it offers comfortable dorm beds and private rooms. It’s right in Old Manali, one of the easiest places to meet fellow solo travelers. Book Backpackers Headquarters Manali now .

Pir Panjal Cottage: Run by Huzefa and Honey, this cottage is set in an apple orchard overlooking the Pir Panjal mountain range. It’s located in a quiet area about 1.5 km from the main Manali road. The family also runs a small cafe. Check out Pir Panjal Cottage now .

Dostat Daraam: If you like beautiful views, cats, and open minds, this is the place for you. Afrah, the owner, envisions this as a homestay and art space. Set among pine trees, and about 3km walking from Old Manali, peaceful Dostat Daraam is a great place for solo female travelers looking to rejuvenate away from the stress of the town. Book Dostat Daraam here .

Safety tips for solo female travel in Himachal Pradesh

Priyanka’s experiences are proof: solo female travel in Himachal Pradesh is totally possible. But, that doesn’t mean we should let our guards down! Even though solo female travel in Himachal Pradesh is relatively safe, here are some tips you should follow while traveling alone there, male or female:

• If someone asks you weird questions or stares, politely tell them you know they’re looking at you and ask them to not stare. Occasionally, people stare out of curiosity, not with the intention of ogling.
• Trust your instincts and past experience in the place. Know it’s natural to feel more conscious if you are alone and going on a hike or walking around in the mountains.
• Carry a flashlight if going out at night to avoid stepping on animals (mostly snakes) and to avoid falling off any cliffs. Not that the region is particularly full of snakes or that it’s easy to fall off cliffs, but we’re still talking about the mountains.
• If you want to go on a long trek, make sure someone at the homestay/hotel knows where you’re going. Carry essentials like medicine, phone, flashlight, rain jacket, etc.
• Always check with locals before starting out. Some hikes shouldn’t be done alone, and locals may connect you with a guide. If there’s been a landslide, talk of a lingering bear, or something else, local people would know. Better to be safe than sorry!
• Stay aware of your surroundings , especially if smoking or chilling in the mountains alone or with a group of people you just met. Though the area is safe and most people are nice, it’s still important to be careful. If something happens in the mountains, there might not be anyone around to call for help.
• Keep the phone number of the homestay or hotel handy in case you have to call them in an emergency.
• Make the most of it! Himachali people are used to seeing solo travelers; they won’t be weirded out by a solo female traveler as, say, locals in smaller cities of Uttar Pradesh or Madhya Pradesh where solo women aren’t common. Solo female travel in Himachal Pradesh will become more and more normalized as women keep traveling there alone.

Most importantly, have a great trip in Himachal Pradesh!

What’s your top tip for solo female travel in Himachal Pradesh, India? Share it in the comments.

• Himachal Pradesh

Priyanka Gupta

12 thoughts on “ why himachal pradesh is one of india’s safest states for solo female travelers ”.

I As a resident of Himachal, I am really very happy that women feel safe here while traveling solo. The author is right most of the people are kind and sweet. You won’t face any trouble from their side.

Nice Blog…. This is really amazing. Great information.

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Insta Himachal Blog

Don’t let sky be your limit unforgettable places in himachal pradesh for women to go on their first solo trip.

• By Insta Himachal

A solo trip for a girl is something that she dreams of at least once in her lifetime. Female bloggers and Bollywood movie characters like Naina from Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani and Laila from Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara blow more fuel on the fire, as they say. 

Having the freedom to explore every corner of a brand-new city without any second thoughts about our decisions is a dream come true. Travelling solo enables one to discover themselves in a more intimate and personal way. 

It is natural for women to strive to become self-sufficient. But their desire to explore the unknown alone is even more powerful. However, safety comes first.

India has been regarded as an unsafe place for quite some time now, especially for women, which has often prevented them from venturing out alone. Nevertheless, there are some friendly states in India that are safe and welcoming! And that surely includes your beloved state ‘Himachal Pradesh’. 

So women! Whether it’s concerned about safety or confusion about where and how to plan your trip , we’ve got your back! The time has come for you to let go of your hesitations and explore solo travel .   

And that’s exactly why we at Insta Himachal have compiled a list of some of the safest destinations in Himachal Pradesh that will satisfy your wanderlust. 

First things first, even though Himachal is safe , you never know with some miscreants. So just in case.

Here Are Some Safety Tips For Solo Female Travelers in Himachal Pradesh

1. It’s pepper spray! Whenever you are travelling alone, you should always keep pepper spray in your bag for safety reasons. 2. When someone stares at you, politely let them know that you know they’re staring, and ask them to stop, or you can simply ignore them. There are times when people stare out of curiosity, rather than with the intention of wooing.  3. Make sure there is someone at the homestay/hotel who knows where you are going if you’re going on a long trek.  4. Always carry the essentials, such as medications, a phone, a flashlight, and a rain jacket for treks. 5. Listen to your instincts and remember what you have experienced before. It’s normal to feel more aware while hiking or walking in the mountains alone. 6. Before heading out, check with locals. Locals can connect you with a guide if you are planning to hike alone. Locals would probably know if a landslide happened, if there was talk of a lingering bear, or if something else was happening. Don’t take any chances! 7. Make sure you know the phone number of the Homestay and Guesthouses or Hotel in case of an emergency. 8. Have a great time! It isn’t strange to find a solo female traveller in Himachal Pradesh.

Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh For Female Solo Travelers

1. Dharamshala 2. Dalhousie 3. Jibhi 4. Kasauli 5. Lahaul Spiti 6. Shimla

1. Dharamshala

Fortunately, Dharamshala is very welcoming to women . There’s no place as secure as Dharamshala! Many female solo travellers enjoy exploring Dharamshala and McLeodganj independently. 

Once you’re here, you cannot help but stare at the Himalayas as they form a captivating backdrop. Neither Dharamshala or McLeodagnj will let you go. Fresh air, the breathtaking view, delicious food at the wonderful cafes , and warm people who always want to help are just a few of the things sure to leave a lasting impression.

In this Himalayan territory, solo female travellers are often seen exploring rare places. Some even practise yoga alone on hills or cliffs. The natural world returns positivity tenfold.  

Places to Visit in Dharamshala- Indrunag, Mcleodganj, Naddi, Khaniyara, Boh valley. Best Time to Visit – March to June is the best. Summers are pleasant here. Things To Do in Dharamshala – Paragliding, Camping, Cricket Match at HPCA Stadium, Visit Dal Lake, Triund Trek, Meditate at Gyuto Monastery, Dharamsala War Memorial, Kareri Lake Trek, Visit Jwalamukhi Devi Temple, Bhagsu Waterfall, Visit Tea Gardens, Explore Kangra Fort, Aghanjar Mahadev Temple, and many more.

2. Dalhousie

What comes to mind when you hear the name Dalhousie ? Mini Switzerland maybe. Well, there’s a lot more. The hill station will capture your senses with its waterfalls, rivers that snake through mountains, trails that run parallel to mountain crags with a view of the Dhauladhar range , and a couple of churches built during the British Raj . Watching the picturesque green environment and snow-covered mountains from the top of the mountain is an absolute delight. It’s a pleasant change from the scorching heat in the lower areas of the country during the summer when the golden sun shines . For nature lovers, Dalhousie is the ultimate destination !  

Nevertheless, Dalhousie is just the right place for you if you are a female solo traveler looking for a place to be yourself.   

Places to Visit in Dalhousie- Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary, Khajjiar, Panchpula, and St. John’s Church. Best Time to Visit – Say from March to June.  Things to do in Dalhousie- You can try rafting, paragliding, trekking, river crossing, and more adventure activities.

Jibhi, surrounded by lush green mountains , pine forests , freshwater lakes and pristine villages , is sure to become a top holiday destination in India in the coming years. This picturesque place is a sight not to be missed. There are lots of reasons why one would completely fall in love with Jibhi : sleeping hamlets, ancient temples , immaculate hiking trails , beautiful forests , and spectacular landscapes . Jibhi is primarily known for its local culture . There are still Victorian and native-style stone and wood cottages and huts along Jibhi’s streets, providing a blend of old colonial charm and local folk traditions .  

Places to Visit in Jibhi- Jibhi Waterfall, Chehni Kothi, Jalori Pass, Shringa Rishi Temple . Best Time to Visit – The Best time to visit Jibhi is from March to May.  A pleasant summer day in Jibhi is followed by a chilly night. Making it one of the most offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh to visit in summer.   Things to do in Jibhi- Village walks, Do Serolsar Trek, visit Stay in a tree house, these are a few things that you’ll love doing.

Kasauli is one of the jewels in the crown of Himachal Pradesh . Kasauli is situated in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, and it boasts some of the most breathtaking attractions with soothing and invigorating effects. It is a wonderful experience to watch pine and cedar trees sway under the forceful winds coming from the majestic Himalayas. Due to its mystical ambience and safety , Kasauli is one of the most popular destinations for female solo travellers these days. Experience the tranquillity of a quiet hill station while enjoying your own company.

Places to Visit in Kasauli- The Mall Road, Monkey Point, Sunset Point, Gilbert Trail. Best Time to Visit – During the months of April to June, and again from September to November, is the best time to visit Kasauli. Things to do in Kasauli – Nature walks, Toy train ride, explore the Tibetan market, and Experience the timber trail.

5. Lahaul Spiti

Here, nature is raw – with very scant vegetation, peaks covered in snow, and many untouched gems . Unlike other Himachali towns , Spiti is not a tourist hotspot , which is one of the main reasons to visit it. With some of the highest passes in the world, age-old monasteries , crystal blue lakes , and minus all the technology, Spiti Valley is a perfect example of ‘off-beat’ vacation. The Buddhist mantra ‘ Om Mani Padme Hum ‘ is carved on large prayer wheels and stones at the entrances of many villages. The isolation of a village might make you wonder how these communities are able to survive.

Places to Visit in Lahaul Spiti- Monasteries, Chandratal Lake , Kunzum Pass , Kibber etc.  Best Time to Visit – During the summer months, between May and October, is the most ideal time to visit this remote, yet stunning part of Himachal Pradesh . Roads remain clear of ice only during this time. Come August and autumn, the valley is ablaze with colour! Lahaul & Spiti conceals its beauty under a thick blanket of snow in the wintertime. Things to do in Lahaul Spiti – Meditate at monasteries, Trek to Dhankar Lake, Star gazing, Nako Village walks, Chill by Spiti river.

How about a winter retreat or a summer retreat? Are you looking for an adventure? Will you be travelling alone? Shimla has everything! The quintessential hill station lives up to its reputation with natural wonders, breathtaking architectural wonders, temples, and much more. Whether you’re travelling alone or with a group, Shimla is clearly on most people’s bucket lists. Here you can visit Jakhu Temple and Kufri, go trekking, or explore the markets and streets of Shimla . All of the places are very secure, offer a variety of hotels at reasonable prices, and even have guides to show you around the queen of picturesque attractions. In other words, women who plan solo trips to Himachal , make sure this place is included in your itinerary.

Places to Visit in Shimla – The Mall Road, Jakhu Temple, Kalka Shimla Highway , Indian Institute of Advanced studies.  Best Time to Visit – There is something new and unique in Shimla all year round, be it during the snowy winters or during the lush green monsoons. For instance, there is something new to observe and experience during the snowy winters compared to the lush green summer monsoons.  Things to do in Shimla- Explore Lakkar Bazar, Eat at quirky cafes , Visit Chadwick falls, Ice skating in winters, Toy train ride, Camping, and Cycling.

So gals! Get out of your comfort zone, explore new things , and gain a better perspective of yourself and the world around you. Plan a solo trip to Himachal Pradesh . At Least now you have enough reasons to get excited about. The most critical thing is how systematically you plan your trip to Himachal so that you can get the most out of it with the minimum of effort. Do good research and you will absolutely have the time of your life with a carefully planned solo trip to Himachal Pradesh . 

If you still have doubts because it’s a new place for you to travel to, don’t worry we’ll back you up. Contact [email protected] for more details. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it advisable to travel alone in Himachal Pradesh? Solo travellers can feel quite secure in Himachal. Solo travellers would love Himachal Pradesh’s places like Dharamshala, Dalhousie, McLeod Ganj, Kasauli, Shimla, and more. 2. Is Himachal safe at night? Yes, it is safe at night in Himachal Pradesh, however, don’t take risks like going out alone at night.  Wild animals are more likely to attack at night, so avoid travelling in the open.  3. How many days are enough for Himachal Pradesh? 7-8 days should be enough. Travel plans totally depend on the kind of activities you want to explore, your preferences, as well as what your budget is.

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Himachal Info

This blog is quite helpful. My desire to take a vacation in the stunning state of Himachal Pradesh has undoubtedly increased as a result of the incredible photographs you have shared. I can’t wait to have my own exciting encounters and return home with memories that are chock-full of enjoyable adventures!

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Why You Should Choose Dharamshala, India For Your First Solo Trip

W e think solo travel is a great way to experience India. Unfortunately, it can be challenging for women due to safety risks. In turn, we’d like to offer some suggestions.

First, there are two big questions that commonly emerge regarding one’s first solo trip — where to go and whether or not it’s safe. We recommend choosing female-friendly locations when you’re first starting to travel solo, especially in India.

One such destination visited by many first-time solo female travellers is Dharamshala. Tucked in the lower Himalayan ranges of the Dhauladhar Mountains, Dharamshala is in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Famous for both its landscape and is the official home of the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people, Dharamshala attracts travellers from India and abroad alike.

Why should it be your first choice?

For a solo woman traveller, Dharamshala is relatively safe and also has a lot to offer. Whether you’re a nature-lover or spiritual-seeker, you’ll find everything here.

In particular, McLeod Ganj (a small suburb known as Upper Dharamshala), is a great place for you to base yourself out of. It has loads of inexpensive accommodations, restaurants, and easy access to various sites. In terms of activities, there are loads to look forward to.

Join a meditation retreat

With India being the birthplace of many forms of yoga and meditation, there are tonnes of options to engage in these activities. Options include the Tushita Meditation Centre , where they offer week-long meditation retreats exploring Tibetan forms of Buddhism, or the Dharma Sikhara, Himachal Vipassana Centre , that features 10-day mindfulness meditation retreats.

Learn more about Buddhism

Alongside the meditative sessions, you can also take a course that covers basic Buddhist philosophy. Once in a while, the Dalai Lama himself will offer public teachings. You can find information on his website .

Additionally, programmes are offered at the Tibetan Library of Works and Archives, located halfway between lower and upper Dharamsala. Chamtrul Rinpoche, a revered Tibetan Lama, also teaches each spring and autumn in Dharamsala. It’s clear that when it comes to Buddhist pilgrimage in India , Dharamshala holds an important place.

Trek to Triund

Sitting at 9,000 feet, Triund Hill is one of the most popular hiking routes for travellers. You’ll see kids as young as eight years old and seniors as old as 60 traversing this path. As the trail zigzags up the hill, hikers get to see some of the most beautiful views of the Kangra Valley sprawled out below.

Most people complete the trek in a single day, starting early in the morning and returning before nightfall. However, you can spend the night on top of Triund Hill for an unforgettable bout of stargazing. Tent rentals are available at the top or you can rent one in the main market.

Walk to Dal Lake

Surrounded by lofty deodars, Dal Lake is a beautiful spot to soak in nature. This medium-altitude lake is known for its religious significance and a fare held in September each year. A walk from McLeod Ganj to Dal Lake will treat you to some stunning views of the hills and the forests that lie in between.

Visit the Bhagsu Waterfall

Located just two kilometres from McLeod Ganj town centre, Bhagsu Waterfall gets its name from the village of Bhagsu, where it’s located. The waterfall is spiritually significant as it falls right behind the majestic Bhagsu Nag Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Spend a day in Dharamkot

If you tread upwards from Bhagsu Nag, you’ll reach Dharamkot, another quaint village that you must visit on your solo trip to Dharamshala. Dharamkot has some beautiful meditation centres and yoga retreats nestled within its narrow streets. Late in the evening, you can catch a glimpse of the setting sun from one of the cafés. Dharamkot’s café culture and peaceful vibe make it a great place to rest and relax.

Go on a food tour

If you’re a food lover, Dharamshala has you in for a treat. In addition to mouth-watering Tibetan dumplings (momos), you can indulge in some of the most delicious Italian, Chinese, Indian, and German delicacies found in India. The cute bakeries and rustic cafés here offer great space to chill out. They’ve all mostly got free Wi-Fi too, so you can spend a few hours catching up on emails.

Give back to the community

You can give your solo trip some purpose by joining one of the many volunteering programmes that organisations conduct in Dharamshala. For example, you can spend anywhere from one day to six months teaching English or computer-skills to Tibetan refugees. It’s a great way to give back to a deserving community.

Getting to Dharamshala

The nearest airport to Dharamshala is roughly 40 kilometres away. Don’t be confused as it goes by a number of monikers – Gaggal Airport, Kangra Airport, or Dharmashala-Kangra Airport.

Dharamshala is well-connected to most north Indian cities like New Delhi, Pathankot, Shimla, Mandi, and Chandigarh through state-run buses. You can opt for private cabs and taxi services as well.

Deluxe buses leave Majnu-ka-tilla, New Delhi throughout the evening and run directly to McLeod Ganj, arriving in the early morning. They return following the same schedule.

The only railway network that connects to Kangra Valley starts at Pathankot.

Where to stay

Green hotel.

Just off the Bhagsu Road, the Green Hotel is a budget-friendly accommodation that has rooms equipped with private showers and hot water in McLeod Ganj. They offer a wide selection of Tibetan fare for breakfast and some beautiful views of lower Dharamshala.

Tibetan Ashoka Guest House

On Jogiwara Road near McLeod Ganj’s main square, this guest house is another budget-friendly option. It offers all the basic facilities you’ll need for a comfortable stay.

Pema Thang Guest House

If you want something above basic, Pema Thang Guest House is a beautiful mid-range property. They have elegantly-decorated rooms and sumptuous meals at their restaurant. The best part is that this guest house is just five minutes away from a popular tourist site and important Buddhist temple – Tsuklakhang Royal Chapel and Monastery.

Chonor House

Designed and built by British architect David Porter, Chonor House is one of McLeod Ganj’s foremost premium properties. It’s located near the Thekchen Chöling Temple Complex, adjacent to HH the Dalai Lama’s residence.

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As a part-time traveller and full-time writer, Teesha has had several opportunities to explore the world. She loves to share her experience about living in India and travelling abroad to help others plan well. When not writing or travelling, you'll find her reading a book or immersing herself in the history around pilgrimage sites in Asia. She's an architecture buff and a nature-lover as well.

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Travel Guide to Dharamsala

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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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About Mariellen Ward

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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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,

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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!

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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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Dharamshala Travel Guide

History And Culture Of Dharamshala

How to travel to dharamshala, best time to travel to dharamshala, getting around dharamshala and mcleodganj, breaking stereotypes about dharamshala, go check out, a guide to exploring dharamshala.

If you’re daydreaming at work about a break in the mountains, a place where you can unwind, someplace you can just get away, then Dharamshala is where you want to be. Surrounded by the pristine, snow-clad mountain ranges, Dharamshala is a hit with all kinds of travelers. What better place than to relax amidst the mighty Dhauladhar mountain ranges, surrounded by pretty arching deodar and cedar trees? This Dharamshala travel guide will answer pretty much all of your questions if you’re planning a holiday here.

For those craving adventures, again, the Dhauladhar range offers access to many interesting treks that are easy to start from Dharamshala.

Dharamshala is also the seat of His Holiness The Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, and the Tibetan Government in Exile is also based out of Dharamshala. The Tibetan influence is easy to spot with all the beautiful monasteries spread across the Kangra Valley. With a plethora of great Middle-Eastern, Tibetan, and Himachali food options, the food and cafe culture in Dharamshala is also growing steadily in prominence.

Nestled in the Kangra Valley, surrounded by the Dhauladhar mountain ranges, Dharamshala has been home to the Gorkha regiment of the Indian Army for the longest time. The mountain town was a popular hill station among the British officers stationed in Delhi ; they would frequent Dharamshala for respite from Delhi’s extreme heat in the summer months.

Since 1959, Dharamshala has become home to the Tibetan community in exile, the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of the Tibetan Buddhists had to seek refuge in India and was allowed to settle down in McLeodganj in the upper parts of Dharamshala. The Dalai Lama has established the Tibetan Government in Exile in McLeodganj. He also established the Namgyal Monastery, the personal monastery of the Dalai Lama.

Thousands of Tibetan exiles have found a home in McLeodganj, and since Dharamshala has always been relevant in Buddhism. You’re likely to find monasteries throughout the region, with some built as early as the 15th century.

Dharamshala is not just a town, but also a district that comprises smaller towns like McLeodganj, Dharamkot, Bhagsu, and Triund. These villages are gateways to great hikes in the Dhauladhar and also make for a great spot to view the birds of Kangra Valley.

Getting To Dharamshala By Air

Flying into Dharamshala is an option from Delhi and Jaipur . Kangra Airport, which is the closest to Dharamshala, lies approximately 15 kilometers away. You can choose to fly into Amritsar and drive about four and a half hours to get to Dharamshala.

Getting To Dharamshala By Train

To be honest, Dharamshala doesn’t enjoy great rail connectivity; the two closest railway stations to Dharamshala, Pathankot Junction, and Amritsar Junction are 3 and 4 and a half hours away respectively. So, traveling by road or air is the best option. Although the scenic view makes the drive worth it.

Getting To Dharamshala By Road

Dharamshala is well connected by road to Delhi, Amritsar and most other big cities in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand . Most buses are overnight buses; there are also a few day buses, but we recommend the overnight buses as the congestion on the narrow winding Himachali roads is lesser. The buses can be booked online on the Himachal State Transport Corporation website.

It’s always a good time to explore Dharamshala. The summer months from March to June are extremely pleasant and are arguably the best time to visit. But the winter months can be appealing too!

Winter in Dharamshala and McLeodganj can be quite extreme and most guest houses aren’t really equipped to help you combat the heat. If you’re on a budget and expect to have a heater or have access to hot water at all times, then winter may not be the time for you. Dharamshala in the monsoons can be very wet and not conducive for heavy treks but the place is quite green, serene and very pleasant.

Also Read: 7 Monasteries In Sikkim For A Tranquil Holiday

Finding a taxi, rickshaw or bus in Dharamshala isn’t hard at all as the town itself is at the base of the valley. As you make the ascent further up, you’ll come across smaller towns like McLeodganj and Dharamkot. We recommend exploring these towns on foot, as it’s not only the easiest option but also the most efficient way of exploring these cute mountain towns at your leisure.

“Dharamshala and McLeodganj are the same.”

While they’re technically the same places, Dharamshala in its entirety is a district. It’s made up of a lot of hamlets like Dharamkot, Triund, Bhagsu and McLeodganj. And while you’re visiting Dharamshala, you’re likely to spend a lot more time in these hamlets (which are all a part of Dharamshala).

Namgyal Monastery

Namgyal Monastery is also called The Dalai Lama’s temple and is the personal monastery of the Dalai Lama. Founded in the 16th century, after the arrival of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetans, the monastery was relocated to Dharamshala in the 1960s. The Namgyal Monastery houses 200 monks to this day and is the most prominent monastery in Tibetan Buddhism.

While the monastery may be deemed a bit simple from the outside, the place is known to have an extremely calming effect on people. Try making it for the evening prayers to witness the chanting of the monks and maybe even interact with them after for life lessons and perspectives.

Tsuglagkhang Complex

This is the official residence of the Dalai Lama. If you plan well in advance, you may even be able to meet with the Dalai Lama and attend one of his discourses (Tip: check the schedule on their official website to see if there are discourses around the time when you’re going.)

Should the Dalai Lama’s discourse not be scheduled for when you are in Dharamshala, you can still explore the complex and it’s definitely worth a visit!

Explore Bhagsu And Its Delicacy

The local delicacy of the Bhagsu hamlet and all of Dharamshala is the Bhagsu Cake; it’s the ultimate sweet dish. It has an extremely buttery taste to it and is loved by locals and tourists alike.

Norbulingka Institute

The Norbulingka institute in McLeodganj offers a different perspective and lets you delve deeper into the culture and traditions of Tibetans. You can not only visit but also participate in the different workshops that are held at the institute. Try your hands at woodcarving, wood painting, applique, Thanga painting, etc and play a part in conserving centuries-old art that has been passed down through generations.

If workshops aren’t your thing then walk around the huge campus. The architecture would certainly make you feel like you’re in Tibet. Check out their gardens, museum, cafe, and local shop that has many artifacts on display. The institute is open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm daily, but the workshops are closed on Sundays and the second Saturdays of the month.

Bhagsu Waterfall

Bhagsu is another small town in Dharamshala like McLeodganj and you can either trek upto Bhagsu by road or the waterfall route. To make it accessible to most tourists, a fair length of the trek has steps alongside the waterfall.

For those you wish to hike further, you’ve to climb up rocks and boulders which make it more of an adventure. The trek can get difficult if traveling in the monsoons because as you go higher, it tends to get colder. But it’s worth the effort as the view from the top is spectacular. Right at the top, there’s a cafe, where you can chill and reward yourself with a delicious bowl of Maggi or hot chocolate! The hike to Bhagsu waterfall is a day trek of about 3-4 hrs.

Triund Trek

For those who love walking, hiking and being close to nature, make the most of your trip to Dharamshala by trekking to Triund. This is a two-day trek that starts from McLeodganj going through Dharamkot and the Galu Devi temple up to Triund, which is at an altitude of 9,500 ft. Wake up to the snow-kissed Himalayan ranges that glow orange under the sun; the Dhauladhar mountains on one side and the Kangra Valley on the other. One the way back to McLeodganj, go via the Bhagsu waterfall route.

Also Read: Things To Pack For A High Altitude Himalayan Trek

How Many Days Are Enough For Dharamshala?

3 days would be sufficient for exploring Dharamshala and the towns of McLeodganj and Dharamkot. Keep aside 5 days if you’re planning a trip to Dalhousie as well.

Is Dharamshala Worth Visiting?

Of course! This hill station in Himachal Pradesh is the perfect blend of Himachali and Tibetan culture and cuisine, and you’ll be blessed with splendid views of the Dhauladhar ranges and the Kangra Valley.

Is Dharamsala Safe?

Yes! Dharamshala and McLeodganj are quite safe for travelers. But we recommend that you take all the necessary precautions when visiting.

Is Dalhousie Better Than Dharamshala?

Dharamshala is a bigger city than Dalhousie, which means it has more things to do, and a thriving Tibetan Buddhist culture. On the other hand, Dalhousie is more ideal for those looking for a lazy and quieter holiday.

Which Is Better Shimla Or Dharamshala?

Shimla has beautiful colonial buildings and the major attractions are close to the city, but the rampant commercialization of Shimla makes it a little less appealing. Dharamshala is a smaller town with a thriving Tibetan Buddhist culture.

How Far Is Kasol From Dharamshala?

Kasol is about 200 km away from Dharamshala, and would take you about 6-7 hours by road. There are buses and cabs that you can avail between these hill stations.

How Far Is Dalhousie From Dharamshala?

Dalhousie is about 118 km away from Dharamshala. This journey would take you about 3-5 hours. You can either board a bus or hire a cab for travel.

Can I Meet The Dalai Lama?

If you time your visit to the Tsuglagkhang Complex (the official residence of the Dalai Lama) with his discourse, you can attend his sermon. Also, you can request an exclusive appointment with His Holiness by sending an email to the website of the Tsuglagkhang Complex.

How Far Is McLeodganj From Dharamshala?

McLeodganj is about 5 km away from Dharamshala. You could get a rickshaw, but walking all the way would be more rewarding.

Is There Any Snowfall In Dharamshala?

Yes! If you love snowfall, you should definitely visit Dharamshala in the months of December and February. It goes without saying, but make sure you carry a lot of warm clothing!

North India (Mountains)

Places To See

Namgyal monastery, bhagsu waterfall, triund trek, norbulingka monastery, tsuglagkhang complex.

Best Time To Visit

All through the year.

What's The Weather Like?

Pleasant through the year. winters can be extremely cold, dharamshala is a great destination to visit through the year. avoid major holidays and long weekends to avoid crowds.

Food You Must Try

Momos, pizzas, burgers, pancakes, bhagsu cakes, carrot cakes.

Hindi, English

No / No (Local cabs are easily available)

• Dharamshala
• Explore Dharamshala
• Things To Do In Dharamshala
• Trip To Dharamshala

25 Gorgeous Places To Visit In Dharamshala and McLeodganj, Himachal

Looking for places to visit in Dharamshala? You would be surprised at what the little Himalayan town has to offer on your trip to Mcleodganj and Dharamshala.

Did you know? You can do a combined Dharamshala and Mcleodganj trip easily within 3 to 4 days. The cafe culture and the hippie vibes of McLeod Ganj & Dharamshala attract the backpackers and youngsters looking for a quick getaway from Delhi or Chandigarh to the hills of Himachal (hence the crowd!).

Check out this Dharamshala and Mcleodganj travel blog to know about the places to visit in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj.

Top Places to Visit in Dharamshala and McLeodganj

Where is Dharamshala?

Dharamshala or Dharamsala is a city located in Kangra district in Himachal. From being predominantly an abode for Tibetian Buddhists and a place to spend the summer, Dharamshala has now grown popular among the backpackers & hippies.

Where is Mcleodganj?

Mcleodganj is about 5km from Dharamshala and is popular also as Upper Dharamshala.

There are many places to visit in Dharamshala and Mcleodgan, both touristic places as well as those where you could enjoy total bliss.

Most of the people would direct you to upper Dharamshala or McLeod Ganj as it is better known. But your Dharamshala sightseeing definitely should include the highest cricket stadium in India if you are a cricket fan though!

Read below to find out more

1. Visit the abode of the Dalai Lama at Tsuglagkhang

One of the top places to visit in Dharamshala is the Tsuglagkhang temple complex. It is a sacred site for the Tibetan community and is popularly called the Dalai Lama temple. You can’t travel to Dharamshala and not visit this stunning place.

The areas around Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj are known as the little Lhasa of India for its Tibetan communities that have been inhabiting for a very long time, headed by the spiritual guru the Dalai Lama. So obviously, visiting the Tsuglakhang temple and hoping to meet the spiritual leader is high on everyone’s list and is also one of the top places to visit in McLeod Ganj.

There are regular workshops and occasional speech events where the travelers get a chance to interact with the Dalai Lama.

The Tsuglagkhang complex itself is lovely, and you can spend some time observing prayers and getting to know a bit about the lives of the monks.

Check the official website of the Dalai Lama here for the calendar of events in the monastery.

There was a traditional ritual on the day I visited, and I saw the monks performing well practised slow steps to the tune of the trumpets. The vibrant attire and the huge masks of the monks looked well to blend with the loud chants of prayers.

Tsuglakhang Temple timings: 6 AM to 6 PM ; Free entry

2. Explore Namgyal Monastery

Namgyal Monastery is one of the most recommended places to visit in Dharamshala. Namgyal, a vast monastery, is a prominent place for monks all over the world. The Dalai Lama resides here whenever he is in the town.

The monastery has meditation halls, temple complex surrounded by prayer wheels and offers beautiful views of the town from the top.

Spend time exploring the monastery, which also has a cafe.

Namgyal monastery timings : 6 AM to 7 PM; No entry fee

3. Learn about Tibetan culture at the Tibetan Art Museum

Within the Dalai Lama temple complex is one of the must-visit attractions in Dharamshala. The Tibetan Art Museum is one of the places where you can get a glimpse of Tibetan Buddhism. It has an exclusive collection of artefacts which are worth checking out for sure.

Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM; Free entry

You can get some fresh air and the views of the valley if you walk ahead of the temple to Bhagsu Waterfalls.

Editor’s note: 15 Amazing Things to do in Bir, Himachal

4. Visit Bhagsu Temple

Bhagsu temple is one of the popular tourist attractions in Dharamshala, especially among the locals. It gets crowded during the weekends and holidays.

There is a large pool outside the complex and seating area to relax and enjoy the views of the valleys.

5. Take a short hike to Bhagsu Waterfalls

If you walk a little further away from Bhagsu temples, you will come across Bhagsu waterfalls, which is one of the top places to visit in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj.

Honestly, the waterfalls themselves is not so great, but the trek to the place is worth some views.

There is a small trek to be done to get to the foot of the waterfall but luckily you can see the view of the falls halfway to the top, so you can either stop there or go further.

6. Take a Walking along the Dal Lake

Dal Lake, named after the gorgeous lake with the same name in Kashmir, is one of the recommended places to visit in Dharamshala.

If you are wondering what to do in Dharamshala especially in the evening, go take a walk along the lake. There is no entrance fee, and there are plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.

How to reach – You can take a cab if you insist on visiting for 250 INR (which is expensive!). A better way is to take that long walk in the mountains and stroll beside the lake.

Editor’s note: Love Hiking? Check out these 201 Awesome Mountain Quotes to Inspire Your Trip!

7. Pay a visit to Aghanjar Mahadev Temple

Visiting Aghanjar Mahadev temple is one of the popular things to do in Dharamshala, because of its excellent location atop a hill flanked by forests.

This ancient temple is at least over 500 years old, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a famous religious place among the locals of the neighbouring villages. Go there around sunset to experience the pleasant weather and awesome views of the sunset overlooking the valley.

Timings: 5 AM to 8 PM; Free entry

8. Explore the Church in the Wilderness

St. John’s Church, popular as the church in the wilderness is one of the awesome places to visit in Dharamshala. If you are a creative soul looking for some quiet inspiration amidst woods, head here because its secluded location is just perfect. It’s on the way from Mcleodganj to Dharamshala and you can either walk or drive.

9. Check out the Library Of Tibetan Works And Archives

The Library Of Tibetan Works And Archives is one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala to understand and appreciate more about the Tibetan culture.

This tradition-style building has an extensive collection of ancient Buddhist scripts, details of the monks, paintings, and books all giving us insights into their culture and religion.

Among over 70,000 collections, the special artefacts include the traditional Tibetan Thangkas or paintings, rare photographs, and hundreds of statues of the Buddha. The library is located between Mcleodganj and Dharamshala so you can make a stop if you are traveling by taxi.

Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM.

10. Meditate at Nechung Monastery

Close to the Library of Tibetan arts is Nechung Monastery, which is one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala if you are looking for a serene place.

This 18th-century monastery is the seat of the State Oracle of Tibet, and is popularly called the Demon Fortress of the Oracle King.

Visit this lovely monastery to admire its excellent location. You can meditate and also watch the lives of the monks.

Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM; Free entry

11. Get to know about ancient Tibetan arts at Norbulingka Institute

If you are eager to know more about the Tibetan culture or want to get a glimpse of another colourful, traditional complex, head to Norbulingka Institute . It is one of the offbeat places to visit in Dharamshala, founded by the Dalai Lama.

The institute is worth a visit for its beautiful setting consisting of ponds, gardens, library and temple. The organisation is home to the Academy of Tibetan Culture, Literary and Cultural Research Centre and the Centre of the Arts.

You can easily spend an hour or so in the institute as there are plenty of things to keep you occupied. The best part is that there is no entry fee.

12. Visit the sacred Kalachakra temple

Kalachakra temple or the wheel of time is one of the most visited places in Dharamshala. It is located next to Tsuglagkhang and houses unique Buddhist paintings, the centre of which is Kalachakra.

13. Shop, Dine Or Idle Away at the Popular Cafes

The laziest way to idle away in McLeod Ganj is to head to the cosy cafes and watch the world go by or do nothing. There are some good cafes for coffee, books and more in McLeod Ganj, which also have rooftop dining opening to the views of the valley.

Plus if you either wondering what to buy in Dharamshala, there are plenty of things. If you are a shopaholic, you can stop at a lot of places for quick buys.

There is no dearth of hawkers and vendors on Mall road in McLeod Ganj. This Tibetan colony is home to pretty woollen wear, antique Buddhist souvenirs and more. If you are interested in various lovely statues of the Buddha, then head to Kotwali Bazaar, where you can also get shawls. Try

So shopping in Dharamshala or McLeod Ganj is fun for sure, but don’t forget to haggle a little as the shop owners usually quote very high prices.

14. Head to Gyuto Tantric Monastery Temple

If you are interested in learning about Tantric Buddhism and the philosophy, one of the recommended places to visit in Dharamshala is Gyuto Tantric Monastery, which is also known for its amazing location.

Snow-capped mountain peaks of the Himalayas form the backdrop of this peaceful monastery, where hundreds of monks practice Tantric Buddhism.

You can meditate, read and enjoy quiet walks in the lovely garden absorbing the views of the mountains. Gyuto monastery is one of the places to getaway from popular Dharamshala attractions for a serene retreat.

Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM; Free entry

Editor’s note: Traveling alone for the first time? Here are 25 top solo travel tips to know

More Places to Visit in Dharamshala and Mcleodganj

If you are looking for more awesome things to do in Dharamshala and around, check out the places below.

They are further away from Dharamshala, but you can definitely include them in your Mcleodganj and Dharamshala trip as excursions or mini-day trips.

15. Pay tribute to martyrs at the War Memorial

Close to the town of Dharamshala is a beautiful memorial dedicated to the brave Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the war against neighbours.

It is one of the worth places to visit in Dharamshala to pay your respects to these martyrs.

16. Marvel the architecture at Masroor Rock Cut Temple

Not many people are aware that there exists an amazing rock temple very close to Mcleodganj. It is one of the most awesome places to visit in Dharamshala, so here’s why I’d recommend you to visit Masroor.

An ancient temple dedicated to Rama and another dedicated to Lord Shiva exists amidst beautiful scenery on top of a hill.

On a clear day, you can see stunning, panoramic views of Dhauladhar mountain range. There is a pond in front of the temple complex, and it is a serene place to enjoy a few hours on your Dharamshala solo trip .

You can take a shared taxi from Dharamshala to Masroor rock cut temple.

17. Feel the bliss at Dharamkot, hippie’s paradise

If you find McLeod Ganj to be too mainstream and touristy, well, you have a village to escape. Located about 2.5 km from McLeod Ganj, Dharamkot, mostly well known for its hippie culture and the lazy cafes is quickly catching up as an alternative.

You can stay in the village for a few days, experience the serene life amidst the mountains. You can enrolling in Yoga and meditation classes or learn about Tibetan Buddhism.

Whatever your idea of spending time in Dharamkot is, please plan a trip because it is one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala.

The cabs charge 300 INR for a return journey from McCleod Ganj. There are a few homestays/guest houses as well if you wish to stay there.

Editor’s note: Raj Gundha Trek – A lovely trek guide to the Wilderness

18. Enjoy the village life at Naddi

Naddi is another village ahead of Dal Lake and is perfect for a walk in the evening for a pleasant sunset. Combine it with the walk to the lake or drive in the evening to get away from the bustling McLeod Ganj.

19. Check out the highest cricket stadium in the world

Of all the things, going to the cricket stadium in Dharamshala was the most exciting part of my trip to McCleod Ganj.

The HPCA stadium opened in 2013 is the prettiest cricket stadium in India, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of Dhauldhar mountains that create a majestic backdrop up close.

The cheapest way to reach the stadium is to take the public bus from Dharamshala bus stand.

20. Explore the oldest fort in the Himalayas

If you want to venture towards offbeat places to visit in Dharamshala, I suggest visiting old Kangra enriched with history and nature.

The old town is known for the Kangra Fort, the oldest fort in the Himalayas with a history of thousands of years, and the view of the Himalayas from the top is stunning.

Reach Kangra from Dharamshala via a bus. From there, local buses go to the fort at regular intervals. You can also take a cab or a rickshaw if you intend to travel more conveniently.

21. Enjoy the views of tea gardens and the village life in Kangra valley

Kangra Valley comprises many villages surrounded by gorgeous mountains. You can go hiking, spend a lot of time in the valleys, and enjoy the view of tea gardens which are found in abundance in Palampur.

You can also explore Bir , which is very popular for paragliding.

At higher altitudes, further away in the Himalayan region of Dharamshala are many places if you want to enjoy camping, hiking and a walk, here are the some of the best places to visit in Dharamshala.

Note that the altitude of these places are high, which means you might face AMS or mountain sickness. So if you have pre-existing health conditions like hypertension or cardiovascular diseases, please consult your doctor before planning a trip to these places.

22. Explore the stunningly beautiful Kareri Lake

Kareri Lake is a beautiful glacial lake located at higher Himalayas close to Mcleodganj. It is one of the most adventurous places to visit in Dharamshala. It is about 9 km from the city centre is located in a village called Kareri.

It is only possible to reach the lake located at about 3000 meters high through a hike as there are no roads. Be sure to be rewarded by magnificent views of the Himalayas from the lake.

23. Trek to Triund to watch Dhauladhar mountains from the top

Triund is one of the most popular short treks in the Himalayas, and this snow trek is perfect for beginners to enjoy the majestic views of the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas, with mountains studded with pine trees & the valley of Kangra that stretches to the farthest horizon.

But I met a lot of travelers who told that the trail is pretty clear and can be added as a DIY trek. You can either start early and come back the same day or camp at the summit.

Editor’s note – How to plan the Valley of Flowers Solo Trip under 2500 INR!

24. Explore Lahesh Caves

Another place for some adventurous trek in Dharamshala is Lahesh Caves. Located at around 3500 meters, hiking to Lahesh Caves is not an easy trip for sure, but be assured that you will encounter stunning views of the mountains with rivers and streams running between them.

It is about 12km from Mcleodganj and starts from Dharamkot. Many people combine it with Triund, and make a total trip for about 3 to 4 days. You can do the trek by yourself or book a hiking tour, which lasts for about 2 days.

25. Enjoy the beauty of Indrahar Pass

Now let me answer some FAQs that might help you in planning your Dharamshala trip.

PLACES TO VISIT IN DHARAMSHALA – KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Frequently asked questions (faqs) – places to visit in dharamshala, 1. where to stay in dharamshala.

Which is better Dharamshala or Mcleodganj? Obviously, McLeod Ganj has better options compared to Dharamshala. There are plenty of hotels in Mcleodganj in all price ranges.

It is also possible to find hotels in Dharamshala as well, but many attractions are close to Mcleodganj, and hence it is preferred.

Most of the travelers choose between McLeodganj or Dharamkot or the hotels en route to McLeod Ganj from Dharamshala.

Recommended Places to Stay in McLeod Ganj & Dharamshala 

Hotels in Dharamshala were scarce a few years ago, but times have changed with the opening of backpacker stays, homestays in McLeod Gan j & Dharamshala.

These are my top picks for stay at McLeod Ganj in different budget ranges. I have also included a few recommendations in Dharamshala as well, for you to have more options.

Budget Stays in Mcleodganj – Below are some of the best hostels and budget stays in the town.

Midrange stays and homestays in Dharamshala & Mcleodganj

If you don’t mind spending a bit, wanting to enjoy luxury, I’d recommend these lovely places.

2. How to reach Dharamshala?

You can travel to Dharamshala in many ways. The mode of transport to get to Dharamshala depends on your city of departure, your trip time and budget.

By Air: The nearest airport to Dharamshala is Gaggal airport in Kangra, located about 15 km. There are regular flights from Delhi every day.

By Road: The distance between Delhi and Dharamshala is   over 475 km .  There are frequent buses from Delhi to Dharamshala, and it takes about 8 to 9 hours. Apart from Delhi, major cities of Himachal are well connected to Dharamshala by road with regular buses.

Some people also plan from Dharamshala to Dalhousie or return from Dalhousie to Dharamshala to continue their Himachal trip. If that is the case, note that there are limited buses to Dalhousie from Dharamshala and return as well. There is one public bus that leaves at 7 AM in the morning and reaches Dalhousie at 11:30 AM. Depending on the season, the buses run.

You can check the status of the buses and also book online here on HRTC

By Train: The nearest railway station to Dharamshala is Pathankot, which is about 85 km. You can then take a cab or a bus to Dharamshala.

Ensure you carry the tents and the sleeping bags for camping though, as you don’t get them at the top.

How to get from Mcleodganj to Dharamshala?

Dharamshala to McLeodganj distance is about 5 km and you can travel from Dharamshala to McLeod Ganj in 20 minutes. Shared taxis, jeeps and public buses ply every 5 mins and hence commuting between Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj is not only a breeze but quite cheap too.

3. What is the Best Time to Visit Dharamshala?

If you are wondering when to visit Dharamshala, well, the best time to visit Dharamshala is after the monsoons, from September until the onset of monsoons in June. The best time to visit Mcledoganj is also pretty much the same.

Winter can be a bit harsh but can be managed, but avoid heading there during the rains. Also, Dharamshala weather is the best during the summer. Hence you’ll find many travelers from cities like Delhi, Chandigarh and Jaipur heading to McLeod Ganj & Dharamshala to cool off!

4. How many days would I need for Dharamshala trip?

The number of days for places to visit in Dharamshala depends on many things. You can combine a few trips together to nearby places as mentioned above or add hiking to your itinerary, and in these cases, you may need around 7 to 8 days.

You can even plan a weekend trip to Dharamshala and Mcleodganj, where you can explore all the major attractions although it might become a packed trip.

Ideally, I’d suggest you to keep around 4 to 6 days at least to make the most of your time to explore a combination of attractions.

5. Want help with Itinerary for Dharamshala and Mcleodganj ?

Your Dharamshala and Mcleodganj itinerary varies depends on the number of days. If you have just 2 days or a weekend, start from Mcleodganj to explore the Dalai Lama temple, Bhagsu temple and falls, Dal lake, St.John’s church and other temples on your first day. Keep your second day to explore Dharamshala and around, heading to the cricket stadium, monasteries and other attractions.

You can add Kangra Valley and its attractions including Kangra Fort or Bir to your Dharamshala Mcleodganj itinerary if you have more than 3 days.

You can also make your Mcleodganj trip itinerary adventurous by adding hikes to Triund of Lahesh caves, which would need another 3 to 4 days more with an extra day to spare.

So this is it about the places to visit in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj! Have you been to McLeod Ganj & Dharamshala? How did you find them? Have I missed anything that you feel I need to add?

Let me know in the comments below!

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Very good article with all minute details. Very, very useful for every enthusiastic. Pilgrims and Yatris. Thanks a lot.

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Karan Sharma

My first solo road trip experience in the hills.

It’s been a year since I last made a solo trip to Manali, and I’d been getting restless at home. I’d wanted to make a long-ish trip with my car for quite some time now, and the heat of North India started to take a toll on me. I’ve made quite a few trips by myself and with friends, and I don’t necessarily prefer one over the other. Both have varied experiences, but this time I was definitely itching to go somewhere quiet, where I could get the most driving pleasure. And so I chose, Naddi, a village near Dharamshala. It’s about a 20 mins drive from the very touristy McLeodGanj (Upper Dharamshala). I’d found a lovely guesthouse via Airbnb and booked it after talking to the hosts.

Started the trip early morning at 5:45 from my place in Faridabad. Although that isn’t relatively early to start, I was able to make decent progress before the city woke up. I’ve travelled quite a few times on this highway (Panipat - Karnal - Ambala), and I prefer to stop at Haldiram’s at CHD Developers Daana Paani for breakfast.

Energised me with a good breakfast and some masala chai (my favourite thing while travelling). I floored the pedal (not literally, there are police patrolling vehicles throughout NH-44) and made good progress till Ambala. The fun part of the road trip starts now, with wide roads traversing the state of Punjab. Sprawling large sunflower fields make for a good sight on these roads.

Stopped just before the Nangal-Mehetpur checkpoint (where you need to pay some toll tax to enter Himachal) for a fuel + stretching break.

Hilly roads finally begin in Una, the main entry point to Himachal when you’re coming from Punjab. The streets are wide enough to enjoy the driving for now, and it’s around 2PM. I wasn’t feeling particularly hungry for a packed lunch, so I kept driving at reasonable speeds and wanted to reach my destination asap. Dharamshala was around 2.5 hours more, and I expected to arrive before 5PM, sleep for a while and only have dinner.

The last ~1 hour or so did test my driving and patience skills. Saturday/Sundays are the worst days to visit any hill station in India. Long queues of cars from neighbouring states, all wanting to find peace in hills while blaring horns (the irony).

I was overwhelmed by driving through umpteenth hairpin bends and really steep curves from Dharamshala to Naddi; I was glad I made it safely to the Airbnb.

After unpacking my bags, I decided to explore the local area for a short while before settling into sleep as it was still evening. I went to Dal Lake; sadly, the lake was all dried up in the scorching heat of May. However, the tall Deodar trees are a pleasing sight and made the 10hr journey completely worth it.

Had a quiet dinner and night’s sleep that day. My plan for the next few days was to visit the local areas of Naddi and McleodGanj. Since I was WFHing during the trip, I only had weekends to explore other parts of Kangra valley.

The following day, being a Sunday, meant a lazy brekkie - preferably brunch. I impromptu decided to drive to Palampur and further go up to Bir and Billing valley. I’ve heard a lot about tea estates in Palampur, and the drive was really spectacular.

I didn’t want to drive a lot this day, so I chose to skip Bir and go straight to Billing for brunch. The roads to Billing valley are pretty narrow and crowded, so I decided to park my car in the first open parking lot I found. Two locals approached me and insisted that I pay them 50 bucks for parking without giving me any ticket. I obviously knew it was a scam, but after driving for 2.5 hours and semi hangry, I just gave them the money after resisting. A few steps further in the valley, I found the “proper” govt parking lot. Meh, shit happens. I devoured a nice cheese omelette with some ice tea at one of the local cafes in Billing. There are plenty of food options, and I’ve heard there are good pizzerias. Since I was by myself, I sure couldn’t eat a whole pizza, so I, unfortunately, had to skip it.

Billing had a different vibe to it. I wish I could spend more time here for a few days. Definitely gonna come back again in future and explore Bir as well.

Over the next few days, I roamed around Naddi and gave my car a bit of rest. Luckily I’d visited Mcleod in my car during a weekday, and suffice to say that driving on the weekend inside Mcleod is an activity that is best left unexplored. I tried a Tibetan thali at Tibet Kitchen, a popular eatery in Mcleod and loved Ema Datshi. Laphing was another thing that I loved, despite being hot AF and me being someone who hates spicy food (I make certain exceptions, like Meghana Biryani).

I frequented Mcleod over the next few days but got acquainted with a friendly Subway guy after getting bored with the local food. Yes, I’m that guy who likes Subway even though it’s somehow a cool thing to hate it, but yeah, whatever. I did try chicken momos from a streetside vendor, and being brutally honest - they were awful. You get better momos than that crap in Delhi. I felt a bit disappointed, but I guess you’ve to make peace that almost all popular/touristy destinations have almost everything average. You’ve to set your expectations reasonably at that level.

The following weekend came, and I was excited to drive more in the hills. Somehow my favourite thing about this entire trip was driving. I discovered a lovely cafe in Dharamshala and happily spent half of my day here. Everything was top notch: the food, the vibe, and the people running this cafe. Discovering this place is easily one of the highlights of my trip.

The next day, I decided to do a few touristy things. I went to War Memorial in Dharamshala. The person at the counter was super shocked to know that I was alone. This place is really well maintained, has plenty of quiet, peaceful spots and a beautiful garden to take a walk-in.

Roamed around for a bit and decided to head to Masroor Rock Cut Temple. I’d heard a lot about this from my Airbnb host, and since it was a drive that meant I could explore other parts of the valley, it interested me. The roads in Kangra valley will definitely excite you. The hairpin bends take some time getting used to, but damn, they are fun. Although, something that seems to be the norm in the hills (but was new to me) was that some drivers will turn on the indicators, signalling that you can overtake them from that side. This was obviously confusing initially, but then it’s all about getting used to it.

I reached the place and was surprised to see that the ticketing system was entirely online, and there was no cash counter. Scan the code, pay via UPI and enter a temple built in the 8th CE. If this is not a brilliant display of post-modern India, I don’t know what is. Oh, the monolithic rock-cut temple was darn impressive. It was initially a complex of 19 temples; however, only a few remain after the devastating earthquake in 1905 that hit the Kangra valley. Out of the 19 temples, 16 of them were carved out from a single rock!

I had some delicious Maggi from a stall on my way back, and you’ll find many such on hilly roads. Placebo effect or not, Maggi is best relished in the hills.

After exploring almost all of Naddi, Mcleod, and Dharamshala the following week, I found it boring over the weekdays. My original plan was to stay here for a bit longer, but I decided to cut short my trip and this week being my last week. I visited Andretta Valley, and boy oh boy. This was the most beautiful part of the Kangra valley, just a few km away from Palampur. This small village had all my heart with its tranquil and relaxing vibe. The roads towards Andretta were newly constructed, and I was cruising at 70-80 in the hills. After driving in Mcleod’s busy markets for 2 weeks, I’d almost forgotten that my car’s 5th/6th gear also exists. The experience was surreal; I sat here and did nothing, just observing these folks’ slow and peaceful lives. There are no tourists here, and I didn’t particularly find any shops here either. The more I write, the more I want to go back and experience it again.

And with that beautiful drive, it was time to pack my bags and bid this lovely place a final goodbye. I couldn’t sleep properly at night because I had a weird excitement about going back home, eating home food and sleeping on my familiar bed. I guess 2 weeks of travel does this to you.

I started the journey in the wee hours of the morning, around 4:45, with a laser-sharp focus to just reach asap. Yeah, I don’t like to take a lot of breaks when driving; I know many people prefer it the other way, but for me, even the food breaks shouldn’t take more than 20-30 minutes. Else I feel I wasted a lot of time. An advantage of driving so early was that I could exit Himachal in just three hours or so, which otherwise would have taken 4+ hours because of traffic etc. Also, look at the pretty sunrise somewhere in Kangra! I stopped for a quick brekkie, but in my true essence, instead of having something light, I packed on a nice Chole Bhature and, of course, the tea.

Cruised along the NH44, reminiscing all the sweet memories of the trip but a euphoric feeling of getting back home. I reached by 2:30 PM, had lunch and fell into a deep slumber.

Overall, I had a lot of fun, and yes, some things didn’t go right (in terms of adequately planning beforehand). But, I guess the point of solo trips is not that they’ve to be picture-perfect, but instead, how you deal with situations thrown at you, all by yourself. I skipped visiting a few places I had in mind, I could have planned a better stay where I could meet other fellow travellers, but I don’t regret this trip even a bit. I got to finally drive my car on the hills solo, which gave me a lot of confidence to make much more challenging trips in the future. Hope the hills beckon me soon!

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Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj – A Complete Travel Guide for Tourists

Are you planning a trip to Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj and confused on how for the journey? Well, this comprehensive travel guide of Dharamshala and Mcleodganj for backpackers & trekkers will answer all your questions.

The first thought that comes to mind while seeing the majestic Dhauladhars for the first time could well be ‘ if these are the foothills of the Himalayas, how enormous the actual Himalayas would be ’! Dhauladhar mountain range situated in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh is pristine, snow-clad (most time of the year) and full of beautiful treks .

Let us look at this detailed travel guide of Dharamshala and Mcleodganj for tourists, backpackers, and trekkers in this article.

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Let's quickly dive into the details:

About Dharamshala & Mcleodganj

The most famous hill town in these mountains is Dharamshala , which shot to fame when His Holiness the present Dalai Lama established Tibetan government-in-exile here. One of its suburbs, the upper Dharamshala (McLeod Ganj ), became a paradise for foreign and Indian travelers. People who wanted to experience Tibetan culture, enjoy a melange of cuisines from Indian to Tibetan, Israeli to Italian, meet the Dalai Lama , learn meditation or yoga, and escape from the mundane city life.

Even today, Dharamshala and its surrounding villages, McLeod Ganj, Dharamkot, Naddi, and Palampur, are full of foreign travelers and dignitaries. They include folks concerning business with the Tibetan government or tourists that come here for pleasure. However, like any other touristy place, this one also gets a lot of tourist footfall, which has led to an increase in vehicular traffic and urbanization.

So, if you are visiting Dharamshala to escape the city crowd, you might be disappointed, especially over a long weekend! But peace and tranquility still prevail here amongst the numerous monasteries, eating joints, trails, and beautiful sunsets.

We will explore more of this interesting hill town in this article which I will call as a comprehensive travel guide for visiting Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj.

Location & Weather

Located at higher altitudes of Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala has a cool climate most of the year. Though summers, especially the month of June, can get hot here with the temperature soaring as high as 40-degree Celsius.

However, monsoon in July brings immediate respite from the heat and keeps the region wet till mid-September. Dharamshala is one of the wettest places in Himachal. Dharamshala city has an average elevation of around 5500 feet while the altitude of McLeod Ganj is 7800 feet above sea level.

October onwards it starts getting chilly and winter is at peak during December and early January with the city witnessing the good amount of snowfall in the upper reaches (McLeod Ganj, Naddi, and Bhagsu). Amongst Dharamshala’s suburbs, McLeod Ganj is most p by travelers. The little town is nicknamed mini Lhasa or ‘Dhasa’ (mix of Dharamshala and Lhasa) by Tibetans.

Trip Suggestion : If you love hiking and trekking, then you must also check out The Trek to Gaumukh – A Step by Step Guide

Best Season to visit Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj

Dharamsala can be visited throughout the year, and roads are accessible during all seasons. However, the safe and best time to visit Mcleodganj or Dharamshala is from March to May. It will help you avoid the scorching summer heat. Otherwise, October to December is also a good time to visit Dharamshala if you want to avoid chilly winters. Snowfall can be best enjoyed during January , and if you are lucky, you can get to see it in late December too.

February remains chilly as well, but spring onsets during March and make the weather pleasant. In my personal experience traveling there during October – November gives you the best of both worlds. The hills are fresh green after the monsoon, but the snow hasn’t set in yet. It is cold but not too chilly, just the perfect weather to trek around and explore the place.

How to Reach Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj from Delhi

I have written about Dharamshala’s connectivity to Delhi and the rest of India in my previous article on monasteries in Dharamshala . Here I will elaborate on the details. The city has developed a lot in the past few years, and last year it was chosen as the second capital of Himachal Pradesh.

It has also been listed under PM’s smart cities program. As I mentioned before, Dharamshala is well connected by road, air, and train to Delhi and other major cities like Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Jaipur.

Plenty of private bus services operate from Delhi to Dharamshala, Punjab, and many cities of Himachal too. Even HRTC and HPTDC buses are available for traveling from Delhi to Mcleodganj. From Delhi, most operators run Volvos providing a comfortable night journey to Dharamshala. There are multiple pick-up points for these buses in Delhi, including Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, Majnu ka Tila, and ISBT.

Though these operators provide blanket and water during the journey. I would advise you to carry an extra cover for yourself, especially if you are traveling during winter. Mostly, these journeys are safe even for solo women travelers. I have traveled on these buses many times with my female friends and alone too.

Travel time could be anything between 10 to 13 hrs depending on road and weather conditions. Of course, you can always hire a taxi or do a self-drive trip to Dharamshala from Delhi.

The nearest train station from Dharamshala is Pathankot (85 km away). Taxis are easily available at the station to travel further, or you can pre-book a taxi too. You can also take a bus from Pathankot to reach Dharamshala. Both state transport and private buses operate on this route.

Pathankot to Dharamshala drive duration is approximately 3 hours. The overnight train journey from Delhi is a comfortable option; there are multiple trains available from Delhi that halt at Pathankot. Those fascinated by the narrow gauge trains (toy trains) can also take the toy train from Pathankot to Kangra. Six different toy trains run from Pathankot to Baijnath / Joginder Nagar that stop at Kangra. Cabs and buses regularly ply from Kangra to reach Dharamshala.

I recently traveled by Jhelum express, which started the journey around 9 pm from Delhi and reached Pathankot at 7:00 in the morning. As I was traveling with family (kids), we needed to break our journey for some refreshments while driving down to Dharamshala.

There is a decent hotel in Nurpur, Jyoti Hotel & Restaurant. It is almost 30 minutes (13 km) away from Pathankot station. Jyoti Hotel offers a clean and comfortable garden seating area, restaurant, and washrooms to travelers. The staff was good, and they even cooked customized meals for small kids. It is a good place for families to freshen up and even stay for a night if necessary, their rooms are clean and affordable.

Kangra airport located at Gaggal is 13 km away from Dharamshala and about 15 km from McLeod Ganj. A flight from Delhi takes a little over an hour to reach here. Besides, Delhi, the Dharamshala airport is connected to other cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune, Jaipur, and Hyderabad.

It is a domestic airport and most international flyers reach here via Delhi. Air India and SpiceJet run most flights in Dharamshala, and the last flight leaves the city around 5 pm for Delhi.

You can easily hire a taxi from the airport to reach the main city. If you are traveling from cities other than Delhi, then you can fly to Chandigarh (244 km away) and then take a taxi or bus from there. Delhi to Amritsar is a comparatively reasonable flight route, Amritsar is 200 km away from Dharamshala and distance can be conveniently covered by a taxi or bus. Alternately, one could also fly into Jammu, which is around 230 km away.

How to Get Around Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj

Dharamshala and its suburbs – McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu, and Naddi are all beautiful hilly places that can you can easily walk around if one chooses to. However, there are plenty of transport options available in the city including taxis, public & private buses and auto-rickshaws.

Dheeraj Sharma

Private and Public Buses

These buses touch almost all major destinations in and around Dharamshala. They are the most economical option to travel around and are easily available but more time-consuming. Besides waiting for the buses (almost half an hour), you lose time while they make multiple stops to drop off and pick up passengers. You can hop on a bus at the Dharamshala bus stand or any of the bus-stops around. Fares range between 10-30 INR.

Auto-rickshaws

These are accessible for local sightseeing with fixed rates for a particular number of sights. They follow tariffs fixed by their union which can be anything between 100 to 500 depending on the number of places you want to visit.

Taxis in Dharamshala

Private taxis are a convenient way of intracity travel in Dharamshala. Similar to auto-rickshaws, taxis also have fixed rates for sightseeing and most-frequented destinations in and around the city. The government approved taxi-union is located near Kotwali Bazaar in Dharamshala, you may hire taxis from here.

You can find many taxis near McLeod Ganj market or down at Dharamshala. You may view and pre-book a sightseeing package at the taxi union’s website, Dharamshala taxi union. You can also get connected directly to some of these taxi drivers in Himachal Pradesh . These drivers can also come and pick you up from Manali / Shimla / Delhi / Chandigarh too, of course with a price of a pick-up as well.

You should always carry your water bottle and refill it as many times as you need water. It will not only keep you hydrated always, but you will also help in saving the Himalayas from plastic garbage. Remember, every tiny step counts and your step in this direction can help save the Himalayas too !! 🙂 🙂

Food options at Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj

Dharamshala’s food culture is an amalgamation of Himachali, Punjabi, Tibetan , Italian, and Israeli cuisines. In lower reaches of the city, you will mostly find Indian and Tibetan food, while the higher you move (McLeod Ganj and Dharamkot) you will see more variety of Italian, Israeli, European, American and even Japanese food joints.

Because of the high number of foreign travelers visiting the city, the quality of global cuisines is pretty good here. Some of these travelers have started living here and opened their restaurants. I will elaborate more on Dharamshala’s food culture and restaurants in my upcoming article. But, here is a snapshot of what all dishes you should try there:

Tibetan Food

This is one place in India where you can get authentic Tibetan food cooked by the Tibetan people in a rustic way, devoid of too many spices. Food in this region is unlike the Indian version that’s usually available in Delhi or other cities in India. If you are looking for more than Thupka and Momos in Tibetan food, then you must try Kailash restaurant. You can find it on the temple road in McLeod Ganj.

This eatery is pretty famous amongst the local Tibetan population, and a lot of them are likely to recommend this place for the taste of authentic Tibetan food. It offers a good view and a rooftop seating with decent service and tasty food. For starters, you should try Gyuma, a local dish, especially to go along with some beer or fruit wine (if you order). They also offer a variety of Tibetan bread and teas, which are a delight to sample.

When in McLeod Ganj, one must taste mutton momos and Thupka at several places. Don’t forget to try Tibetan street food – visit Sheila Chowk in Dharamshala for mutton momos. A street vendor there sells delicious momos.

Italian Food

While Jimmy’s Italian is locals’ favorite, it is popular amongst tourists too. You get extremely delicious and well served Italian food up in Dharamkot at Trek & Dine. However, if you are craving Pizza, head to Namgyal cafe in McLeod Ganj without a doubt in your head (don’t forget to choose to sit on their terrace).

Himachali and Punjabi Food

When in Himachal, taste one of their famous street foods – Bun Chhole. You can find it at street vendors dotted along Himachal, including Dharamshala, and also try the juice of locally grown Keenu. You can start seeing Keenu juice vendors while driving down from Pathankot to Dharamshala (it has to be in season through – spring or late winter).

While you can get Indian/Punjabi food at most of the places in the city, I would suggest trying some dishes at Mcllo restaurant. It is the most famous restaurant in town, mainly because of its location and ambiance. Situated right at the McLeod Ganj market square, it is the biggest four-story place with a rooftop. Travelers come here mostly to enjoy alcoholic drinks and beer.

Israeli Food

Dharamkot and Bhagsu are dotted with numerous cafes and bakery serving global cuisines. I discovered a little gem of a place during my recent visit to Dharamkot earlier this year – Trek & Dine. A hillside cafe with a laid-back setting serving the most delicious food I have had in Dharamshala. From Hummus, Pita, and Falafel to Ziva, you will get all delicious Israeli dishes at this restaurant. There are many other cafes in Dharamkot serving Israeli cuisine, so explore!

Some of the good restaurants you should try are Hummingbird, Moon peak cafe, Illiterati, Woeser bakery, Snow Lion, Morgan’s place. Further details in my upcoming article on ‘ Food culture in McLeod Ganj ’.

Shopping options at Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj

There are numerous shops and sellers in Dharamshala selling everything from Tibetan handicrafts to apparel. I brought home some Tibetan crockery and clothes from the main McLeod Ganj market. Here are some suggested places to shop from:

Norbulingka Shop

Norbulingka institute has been nurturing Tibetan artisans and Buddhist art forms such as statue-making, thangka painting, thangka applique, wood painting, tailoring. You can buy all of these and more from here.

TCV Handicrafts

This is a non-profit organization working towards the welfare and education of Tibetan refugee children, especially orphans and destitute. Their stores (refer to the link for store locations) have an array of handicraft items to choose from, such as woolen garments, carpets, silverware, Tibetan ritual items, etc. You can visit their website for detailed information about what to buy from them.

Palaco Handmade Crafts

This one is situated close to the Dalai Lama temple and is famous for selling high-quality crafts, usually priced a little more than other shops. However, the variety and quality of crafts justify the cost. You may find good woolen wraps (shawls, scarves), lamps and thangkas here.

Explore the Kotwali Bazar and Jogibara road for a variety of Tibetan fare such as singing bowls, prayer flags, Buddha statues, bells, Tibetan jewelry, decorative hangings, etc. They serve well as souvenirs.

Attractions & Things to Do in Dharamshala & Mcleodganj

Dharamshala has plenty of places to explore and activities to do both within the city and in its neighborhood. You should divide your time experiencing Lower Dharamshala, McLeod Ganj, and Dharamkot in any 3-4 days trip.

If you have more days to spend, then you may head out to nearby getaways such as Dalhousie , Bir Billing, and Palampur . I will elaborate more on these places in my subsequent articles. Here are my recommendations for Dharamshala sightseeing:

Monasteries

Even if you aren’t a spiritual soul, you should visit them to experience Buddhism and Tibetan culture at their best. Not to mention the peace and serenity you will feel at these places. The Dalai Lama Temple (Tsuglagkhang Monastery), Namgyal Monastery, Gyuto Monastery, and Norbulingka Institute you sare not to be missed during your visit to Dharamshala.

Bhagsu Nag Temple

Bhagsu is located at upper McLeod Ganj and is one of the main tourist attractions here. A 3 km trek from McLeod Ganj town center leads to Bhagsu Nag temple (2 km away from the center) and Bhagsu waterfalls (Little over 1 km away from the temple).

It is an easy trek , and people of all ages can make it depending on their medical condition. As we traveled with family, my three-year-old son and 60-year-old father both did this trek on their own. There are tea shops and small cafes along the trek (near the temple); if you are not able to move ahead, you may relax in one of those.

The surrounding view is beautiful; stairs have been built for most of the trek which is covered with railings. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva , and it is believed that He visited this temple during the ancient period. This legend makes it a famous religious spot; locals revere this place.

The ancient 18th-century temple is built in stone, and its walls still contain some beautiful carvings and inscriptions. There is a pool inside the premises of the temple which is open for the public to take a dip into.

Bhagsu W aterfall & Shiva Cafe

Most travelers with kids and older people end their journey at Bhagsu falls. But, if you wish to visit the famous Shiva Cafe, you will have to trek a little further from the falls. The path to Shiva cafe is not well carved and is a little rough, but the journey is worth the effort, which you would realize after reaching Shiva cafe.

It is quaint, beautifully done, and located well up in the mountains. The ambiance is serene, and you will find people chilling in different moods here. They serve good food. Try their sumptuous Israeli breakfast, fresh juices and much more

This small but natural lake derives its name from the Dal lake in Kashmir and is a popular tourist sight in Dharamshala. Set in the backdrop of the Deodar forest, the lake could have been a quaint little gem. However, the presence of activities like boating and crowds of tourists have made it another tourist spot.

You won’t miss much if you don’t visit. Consider yourself lucky if you can hear the silence of the nearby forest! It is well in the reach of all major public modes of transport, and there are good chances of you passing by the lake while entering or leaving the town.

Tibet Museum

I am a connoisseur of history and politics, so I love museums. You must not miss this place if you want to know the details about the history of Tibet. You will learn about their relationship with China and what caused the great escape of the HH Dalai Lama and Tibetan people from their homeland.

Extremely informative depictions, pictures, and movies will enlighten you about the Tibet cause. Entry to the museum is free, and they run documentaries on Tibet twice a day. You may get all related information on their official website.

Sunset Point

This one will find a place in your list of ‘most beautiful sunsets in my life.’ It is not just about the actual sunset, but what makes it magical is the sight of mighty Dhauladhars on the opposite end. You would walk through the scenery of Dhauladhars to reach the sunset point. As the sun is setting, the golden orange glow will lit up those mountains situated exactly opposite the sight point.

You wouldn’t be able to decide which one to click first! It lies on Naddi road in Himachal with a couple of eateries to keep you nourished with tea and Maggi as you wait for the sun to go down. The road itself is wonderful to walk on, even post-sunset, – especially if you have a nice company.

Masroor Rock-Cut Temple

Situated 45 km from Dharamshala city, these temples date back to the 8th century. These are made from a monolithic rock, quite similar to the temples located in Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu) and Elephanta Caves (Mumbai). According to locals, Pandavas stayed here during their exile period and built this temple.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has an exquisite architecture that holds mythological value for locals. Guides are not available at the site, but temple priests and locals are quite welcoming to tourists and their questions about the place. You cannot do Photography is prohibited in some parts of the temple.

There is a pool located inside the complex. There is a belief to cure pilgrims of all evil if they take a dip in it. So if you are looking for a dose of history, mythology, and archaeology, this is the place to be!

Kangra Fort

Located around 25 km and almost an hour’s drive away from the main town, this one is the largest fort in the Himalayas. History enthusiasts and curious tourists should give it a visit. Public buses or taxis can easily reach them.

Like any other fort, you will have to walk around a lot to explore this place. But the climbs are gentle, and if the weather is nice, you will enjoy exploring it. Audio guides are available at the ticket counter, which gives you the freedom to get around the fort at your own pace. Normally it takes 1.5 – 2 hours to see the entire fort.

Built by the Katoch dynasty, this fort has an interesting history that traces back to the Trigarta Kingdom from Mahabharata. The hilltop location makes it a perfect viewing point for the entire valley. The visit to the fort and Masroor rock-cut temples you can club together as they are a little over 30 km away.

If you are planning for a hike to Triund, you should local at our 12 Must-Have Things to Carry on Hiking or Trekking Trips

Triund Hill Trek

You should not miss the trek to Triund because this is where you will see the best of Dhauladhars. You will walk amongst cloudy trails, locating herds of sheep, see the stunning evening sky and spend the night camping here.

The trek level is easy, and it passes through the forest with some of the steep ascents. However, it is not advisable to trek with small kids as there are few steep and rocky sub-trails. But you can reach easily till Galu Devi temple (on the way to trek) and return.

You may choose to camp at Triund for the night and watch the beautiful sunrise the next morning or plan your return the same day. Both options are feasible. In case you have missed, you can always read our complete guide on the trek to Triund .

Paragliding

A paradise for paragliding, Bir – Billing , is just 70 km away from Dharamshala. Because of its topography, wind direction, and wind speed, this is the best location for paragliding in India. Couple it with the amazing view of the valley it provides from the air and the professional paragliding operators, you will have the time of your life here. It is a one day trip from Dharamshala.

Besides the above-listed places, there are a few moderate to easy treks around Dharamshala that will give you gorgeous views of lakes, valleys, and Dhauladhars. You can choose to go to Kareri Lake, Laka Got Glacier or Indrahar pass treks. I will give detailed information about these in my article on ‘ Treks around Dharamshala ’ .

Places to Stay at Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj

There are numerous stay options in the entire Dharamshala for every budget and requirement. From luxury resorts to beautiful, rustic homestays which give you a slice of local life and views of the Himalayas .

Hotels and Resorts

Asia Health Resort and Spa located in lower Dharamshala is a good option for travelers with family. Located in strawberry hills near Dal lake, this hotel is for people looking for a luxury stay. Staff is nice and cooperative; the chef here customized the food for kids when we were staying there. There is a pool, terrace-seating restaurant with a good view and game area for kids.

Udechee Huts is for travelers who like their surroundings free of the usual hustle-bustle of touristy places. Situated in Naddi village, 5kms from McLeod Ganj, this boutique hotel provides an amazing view of Dhauladhars and a quiet stay. The food here is simple, not too many options, but delicious. The hotel suitably lies at a place for pursuing various treks around Dharamshala.

Gandhi’s paradise is a budget hotel that provides all basic amenities with a beautiful view from their balconies and a common terrace. The hotel is in front of the highest peak of Dhauladhar mountain range, the “Hanuman Ka Tiba” – so the view is without a doubt gorgeous. This one is very close to Bhagsu, and the trek to Bhagsu waterfall is a short walk away from here.

Do not forget to check the list of things to carry on a Himalayan trip .

HPTDC Hotels

These are the hotels managed by Himachal Pradesh’s tourism department and the government is doing an excellent job maintaining these hotels. They are an excellent option for budget travelers and also for people who want more than just basic facilities. Some of the hotels are beautifully located, like Hotel Bhagsu.

Hotel Bhagsu is situated in McLeod Ganj, a short walk away from the main market square. The property is surrounded by Deodars, has a backdrop of snow-clad peaks and spacious, clean rooms with huge reading-windows.

Windows are built with a big sill. It means you can comfortably sit on them and look down upon the beautifully curated garden full of dahlias. Or you can look at the mountains at a distance. It has a garden-restaurant and terraces seating area along with a beer bar. What more can you ask for from the trip? 🙂

This one is for nature lovers who like to sleep, walk and eat amongst trees and mountains.

There are other options from HPTDC as well – The Clubhouse in McLeod Ganj, Hotel Dhauladhar, Hotel Kashmir House and Hotel Kunal in Dharamshala. HPTDC hotels can easily be booked through their website.

Homestays at Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj

The best homestays in Dharamshala are located in Dharamkot, including the Eagle’s nest – famous for hosting few celebs and foreign dignitaries. McLeod Ganj and lower Dharamshala also have many options to enjoy the hospitality of a homestay.

Staying and eating with locals is the best way to have a first-hand account of the amazing culture of McLeod Ganj – Dharamshala. Locals – both Gaddis and Tibetans are warm, welcoming people who love to host guests and even accompany them to the treks.

Trip Suggestion : If you have already been to Dharamshala or Mcleodganj, you may also try a trip to Parvati Valley from Delhi .

Suggested Itinerary for Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj

If you want to do all the things listed above, below is the itinerary for a trip to Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj covering it all.

Day 1 : Arrive at Dharamshala in the morning following any of the modes mentioned in the article. After freshening up at your place of stay, explore lower Dharamshala (if you are staying there). Visit Gyuto Monastery and check out Kotwali bazaar and visit Dal lake, if you wish.

Day 2 : Head to McLeod Ganj, visit the Bhagsu fall and temple, relax at Shiva cafe if you go there. Post-lunch you can visit the Dalai Lama temple. During your return in the evening, you can check out McLeod Ganj bazaar.

Day 3 & 4 : If you are up for Triund trek, dedicate two days for it. You can easily find fellow trekkers in town if you are looking for a company. There are many trek operators and guides available in Dharamshala for it.

Day 5 : Take it easy post-trek; visit Namgyal Monastery and Tibet museum, enjoy the sunset at sunset-point. Don’t forget to check out the suggested restaurants at McLeod Ganj.

Day 6 : You can head out to explore the Masroor rock-cut temple and Kangra fort. You can also club a visit to the famous Dharamshala cricket stadium, it is a small but beautiful stadium with picturesque mountains as a backdrop.

Day 7 : Go for paragliding at Bir-Billing. Catch an evening bus or train back home from Dharamshala. Or schedule your return for the next day.

Dalhousie – Dharamshala – Manali – Shimla | Popular Itinerary

Below is the itinerary for covering Dalhousie – Khajjiar – Dharamshala – Mcleod Ganj – Manali – Rohtang Pass – Jalori Pass – Shimla. I hope it could be useful to someone doing the circuit with little tweaks accordingly.

• Day 1 : Pathankot (4 PM Arrival) – Dalhousie or Pathankot to Banikhet or Pathankot
• Day 2 : Pathankot – Banikhet – Dalhousie – Khajjiar
• Day 3 : Khajjiar – Kalatop – Khajjiar: You can also opt to stay in Kalatop FRH with prior bookings.
• Day 4 : Khajjiar – Dharamshala – Mcleod Ganj
• Day 5 : Mcleod Ganj: Visit Local monastery, Dal Lake, Bhagsunag Temple, and waterfall
• Day 6 : Mcleod Ganj – Manali: Enjoy mall road in the evening
• Day 7 : Manali – Rohtang Pass – Manali: Visit the Rohtang Pass in the first half of the day, Explore local monastery, Hadimba temple in the evening and You may also go to old Manali for the dinner
• Day 8 : Manali – Kullu – Jalori Pass – Shimla (Long day)
• Day 9 : Shimla Jakhu Temple in the morning, Mall road in the evening
• Day 10 : Shimla – Kalka (9:30 PM Departure)

ATMs at Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj

There are enough ATMs in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj, so you are not likely to face a cash crunch. But I would still advise you to carry sufficient cash, especially if you are traveling to the place around long weekends.

Tourist rush sometimes makes ATMs run out of cash. You will find most of the ATMs in markets – both and McLeod Ganj and lower Dharamshala. While traveling from Pathankot to Dharamshala, you would find only a couple of ATMs – none of which worked when we visited them. But don’t fret, there are plenty of options in the main city.

Mobile Connectivity at Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj

Being the second capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh and also listed amongst the ‘smart city project’ of the central government, Dharamshala has good mobile and internet connectivity of almost all major operators such as Airtel, Vodafone, and Jio.

Medical Facilities

Tourism and the establishment of Tibetan government-in-exile have contributed a lot towards the development of Dharamshala. The city has decent medical facilities including many clinics and hospitals, so finding one in need should not be a problem.

Miscellaneous Tips

Avoid visiting the place during long weekends to escape the crowd. The rainy season here gets very wet, so it is better not to plan your trip during the months of July-August. If you are interested in experiencing the culture mix here and love peaceful surroundings, then stay at Dharamkot, preferably in a homestay. You can venture out to McLeod Ganj / Dharamshala to savor the rest of this hilly town.

If you are planning to drive to Mcleodganj, then do refer our article on must-have things to carry on a self-drive trip to the Himalayas .

Dharamshala or McLeod Ganj are both beautiful hill towns with good infrastructure and facilities. All kinds of travelers get everything that they need here for a comfortable stay. The adventurous ones can venture out for treks and paragliding while the families can soak in the mother nature at the foothills of Dhauladhars.

Do you still have any questions or suggestions or need any help in planning your trip to Dharamshala & McLeodganj?

Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions on traveling to the Himalayas.

If you like the article, please feel free to share it with any of your family or friends who are planning a trip to Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj. In the next article of the series, I am going to talk more about paragliding in Bir – Billing and how to make a trip to Bir – Billing .

Now step out to experience the charm and beauty of this amazing place in the Himalayas 🙂 :).

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Anchal is an avid road-tripper, a travel writer by passion and a public relations professional at work. She loves to explore the tiniest of treasures found during her travels. Besides traveling and planning for her next adventures she loves to read, cook and go for long walks or drives. The Himalayas hold a special place in her sojourns and she keeps going back to the mountains through her writings, readings, and journeys to find bliss!

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• Tribal Places
• Hill Stations
• Treks of India
• Tips for travel

The idea of a solo trip to India seems fantastic. The freedom you get when travelling by yourself can scarcely be described. Pack your bags, get going, and visit a place as it was intended to be seen. You’ve always wanted to go on a solo trip to explore and learn more about different areas, whether hiking in Manali , seeing forts in Udaipur, or going island hopping in Goa. To maximise your unique adventure, a solo trip in India allows you to choose a trip plan customised to your interests and preferences. This kind of holiday offers a chance for introspection and personal reflection, making it a great choice for people who wish to look inward.

Solo Backpacking in India

Backpacking is a European concept that is quite new in India. It means to travel in a manner that saves more money and is sustainable – stay in less expensive places, spend less, and carry your belongings in a single backpack.

Backpacking is a sustainable travel option. It helps you be aware of how much you’re littering so you can help conserve the environment. Public transport is used to commute around, which further helps reduce the carbon footprint.

If you wish to solo trip in India, backpacking is a great option for the Earth and your pocket!

15 Top Solo Trip Destinations in India

1. Explore the Pink City of Jaipur

With Delhi and Agra, Jaipur is a corner of the renowned Golden Triangle, sometimes called the Pink City. It is a beautiful combination of the old and the new. It was formerly a region of Rajput kingdoms and is a popular destination for female tourists. Spend 2-3 days in Jaipur, easily accessible by rail and air, and select from various accommodations at backpacker hostels.

You can tour the Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Bapu Bazaar, Nahargarh Fort and more as you relish the delicious Rajasthani cuisine consisting of kachoris, samosas, daal baati churma and more. Student discounts at these sites are also available. The metro and e-rickshaws are feasible travel options.

2. Ladakh – An Enthralling Bike Trip

Although not a backpacker’s favourite location due to the expenses incurred, Leh Ladakh is a popular destination for solo travellers. A journey to Leh Ladakh allows visitors to see some of the most magnificent landscapes in the world. It is known for its turquoise lakes and steep slopes. The options for adventure are boundless, whether you’re hiking through the landscape or riding along the roads. You can also plan a bike trip to Leh Ladakh and have the time there!

3. Relish the Scenic Beauty of Manali 

Manali feels like a scene out of a storybook, with its peaceful fusion of history and technology, pine trees, and gushing river. Visitors may view the splendour of the Lossar Festival, which celebrates the Tibetan New Year, in February. It serves as a gateway to Spiti and Leh. Manali offers it all, whether you’re inclined to temples, hot springs, monasteries, or German bakeries. Plan a 5 to 6-day solo trip in India here. It is reachable by aeroplane to Bhuntar or by picturesque roads.

4. Have Tea at the Many Gardens in Darjeeling

Darjeeling, which lies 2,050 metres above sea level and exudes breathtaking beauty, is a haven for those who enjoy the outdoors. The old-world charm and experience of these places’ jaw-dropping locations are unmatched. It is dotted with churches, houses built in the colonial style, and several tea farms. The third-highest mountain in the world, Mount Kanchenjunga, may be seen in awe from this location. This beautiful hill town is one of India’s greatest gems. The Darjeeling Tour is one of the most popular tours for lone travellers who want to see North-East India.

5. Relax by the Beaches at Gokarna

Gokarna offers an outstanding beach experience. Beyond being a temple town, it has busy beaches and bonfire evenings. Dabolim in Goa is the closest airport and may be visited between October and March. It is reachable by bus or rail. You can also enjoy bioluminescence at the beaches here if you’re lucky!

6. Kasol – Best Place for a Solo Trip in India

Kasol is a village approximately five kilometres from Manikaran and about 40 kilometres east of Kullu, nestled in the gorgeous Parvati Valley, a great location for your first solo vacation to India. Old Kasol and New Kasol are located on opposite sides of the Parvati River and are connected by a bridge in the middle of the town. The settlement provides breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and serves as a starting point for hikes to the beautiful passes Sar Pass, Yanker Pass, Pin Parbati Pass, and Kheerganga. Engage in hippie parties while on your solo trip to India here.

7. Explore the Unexplored Ziro Valley

Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh promises an energising getaway with its beautiful pine woods and colourful flowers, and there are no excuses to avoid it. Explore the Dolo Mando walk, breathe in the reviving mountain air, or be delighted by the Ziro Music Festival. This picturesque location is close to Tezpur and must-see from February to October. To properly appreciate its magnificence, a four-day stay is advised.

8. Candy Streets of Pondicherry

Tamil Nadu, one of India’s seven union territories, has a border with Pondicherry, one of the country’s seven union territories. Pondicherry is sometimes known as “Pondy,” while Puducherry is occasionally used instead. This old French colony is a romantic getaway combining the best elements of Indian and French cultures. It is the perfect union of French design with conventional Indian sensibility. For those planning a solo vacation to India, Pondicherry has much to offer, such as traditional French bakeries, bohemian stores, and cobblestoned streets that are great for a stroll or a bicycle ride.

9. Marvel at the Snow-capped Mountains of Jibhi

Jibhi is a tranquil village unaffected by development, hidden in the Himachal Pradesh’s thick forests. It provides a Victorian-style getaway that takes you back in time with its thick pine trees, serene lakes, and spotless temples. You can easily get rental vehicles or take a bus from Delhi to Aut and then a direct link to Jibhi to get there through Shimla’s train station, which is 150 miles distant. Enjoy the sounds of birds while sipping TeaTea outside.

10. Enjoy the Tibetan Culture at Dharamshala

One of the nicest locations for a solo trip in India is Dharamshala. The exiled Dalai Lama resides in this Himachal Pradesh town home to the country’s biggest Tibetan minority. The Tibetan monasteries are popular with tourists; if you’re fortunate, you can meet the Holy Highness. You will feel completely at home in the Tibetan community. Due to the availability of trekking, camping, and paragliding opportunities in Dharamshala, adventure is another calling for tourists there. The Triund Walk draws tourists all year long.

11. A Historical Visit to Hampi

India’s state of Karnataka is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Hampi. It is located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, close to Hospet. This exciting and spectacular location is an outdoor museum filled with old temples, palace ruins, and other historical buildings. In addition to discovering surprising delights around every turn, visitors may explore the ruins of aquatic constructions, historic market lanes, royal pavilions, bastions, and treasury buildings.

12. Feel Royal in Udaipur

The Aravalli Mountains, which provide a breathtaking background for the city’s historic Havelis and dazzling lakes, make the Rajasthani Udaipur famous for its unshakable appeal and natural beauty. Udaipur, often known as the “City of Lakes,” has unequalled beauty, with shimmering lakes, charming forts, vibrant bazaars, traditional streets, and magnificent countryside all adding to its attractiveness. Every visitor to Rajasthan should visit Udaipur, where tourism offers the chance to enjoy the city’s rich history and culture. Udaipur is among the top places for a solo trip in India.

13. Walk the Untrodden Path at Auli

Auli, another lovely mountain retreat, is a good option for a solo trip in India. Uttarakhand is home to one of India’s top ski resorts. Travellers are drawn to the hill town all year by its pleasant setting. While the winter is wonderful for skiing, the summer is ideal for camping and hiking. The hill town is a wise choice for both fun and relaxation. The idyllic beauty soothes your spirit as you gaze at the snow-capped summits of Nanda Devi and other peaks. Trekking, skiing, and gondola trips will make your trip more exciting.

14. Part Hard at Goa

Goa is an excellent choice for a solo trip in India because it is ideal for solo travellers. The ideal place to conduct introspection is the country of sun, sea, and coastlines. Admire the beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Stay at beach camps with many hippies. There are more than 50 beaches, so visit them all. Enjoy swimming and other sports, including boat trips, jet skiing, snorkelling, and scuba diving. Take a backwater tour, a walk to the Dudhsagar waterfalls or a wildlife sanctuary exploration trip. Nightlife, events, cuisine, and sightseeing contribute to an amazing trip.

15. Relish the Israeli Culture at Pushkar

In Rajasthan, 15 kilometres separate the little town of Pushkar from Ajmer. Pushkar features various cafés and hostels for a backpacking trip, making it a great option for a weekend vacation from Jaipur. One of the largest camel fairs in the nation, the Pushkar Mela, is held at Pushkar every November.

Take in the chanting from the temples surrounding the ghats while lounging at the ghats, sipping TeaTea or meandering through the twisting alleyways. Pushkar’s stores in the main street provide everything from silver oxidised jewellery to goods wrapped in various colours, making it a treat for those who enjoy street shopping.

Safety Tips for a Solo Trip in India

While it is free to travel alone and not continually check in with others, make sure someone knows the phone numbers of the accommodations you’ll be staying at.

· Get an MTNL/BSNL SIM card for your phone if you are travelling to an area where your phone might not have service and are unsure of your accommodations because most locations do receive their signal.

· Always keep enough cash on you so that you may make it to a secure area if your luggage is misplaced.

· Keep your pack light when hiking so you don’t have to lug around extra weight. Going on a backpacking trip in a cooler climate allows you to reuse some of your clothing without getting sweaty and disgusting.

· When travelling alone, knowing a few basic words in the local tongue will be helpful, especially when engaging with the people. Knowing how to say “please” and “thank you” is also helpful since they may be used to request things more successfully, acquire restaurant suggestions, and other things.

· Solo travel makes it simple to meet new people. People with similar interests are drawn to one another. When you feel lonely in a strange area, start a discussion with others nearby. Making friends can help you overcome any travel phobia and allow you to meet new people going to the same place. It might also help you cut costs when you share cabs with people you meet.

Budgeting for a Solo Trip in India

Budget plays the most important role in how and where your trip is. Your major costs will be accommodation, transport, and meals. Usually, it takes Rs. 5,000-8,000 for a 3-4 day solo trip in India per city/destination.

Accommodation:  Choose hostels or guesthouses in the city. Dorm rooms will cut your accommodation costs – they usually start at Rs. 300 per night.

Transport within the Destination:  Use public and local transport facilities instead of taxis and cabs unless necessary. If you’re going shorter distances, you can choose to walk.

Meals:  Try eating at local restaurants and cafes or stalls. Blend in like a local regarding meals rather than going to expensive places for food.

Discounts:  If you’re a student, look for discounts at sightseeing places and transportation centres.

A transforming adventure, a solo trip in India offers the adventurous traveller a tapestry of encounters. As you embark on your voyage, you will be immersed in a nation brimming with rich culture, history, and varied landscapes. Several places to visit in India may satisfy any wanderlust needs. Many dimensions of India’s attractiveness are yet to be discovered, including its festivals’ exuberance, people’s friendliness, and the delectable variety of its cuisine. Beyond the sensory assault, a solo trip in India presents a special chance for personal growth as you explore the differences and complexity of this fascinating country.

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• solo travel
• Solo Trip in India

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Dharamshala Tour Packages

Compare dharamshala tours & packages from top travel agents.

Places to Visit in Dharamshala

Dharamshala Cricket Stadium: Located at a height of 1,457m amidst the Dhauladhar mountain range in Kangra valley, it is one of the highest sports grounds in the world. With a view comparable to the Adelaide Oval or Newlands, the stadium is open for tourists even when no matches are scheduled. The main stand is built with Tibetan architectural style. St John's Church: Located near Dharamshala and on the way to Mcleodganj, this neo-gothic church was built in dedication to John the Baptist. Set amidst lush deodar forests, this peaceful edifice is known for its Belgian stained-glass windows.  War Memorial: The War Memorial in the forests of Dharamshala was created to commemorate the memory of those who fought to save our motherland. Three huge panels of black stone, each 24 feet in height, preserve their memory in stone. The War Memorial is surrounded by the poetic pine forests of Dharamshala, leading to lush gardens through a quaint walkway. You can have some refreshments from the nearby cafe serving snacks, and visit the GPC college which is situated closeby. Bhagsunag Temple: ​​Surrounded by lovely pools and lush greenery, the Bhagsunag Temple is one of the oldest ancient temples. Also popularly known as Bhagsunath Temple, it is highly revered by the local Gorkha and Hindu community. The two pools around the temple are believed to be sacred and are considered to contain miraculous powers of healing. Dal Lake: The Dal Lake is a small yet picturesque lake. With its name taken from the famous and breathtaking Dal Lake of Srinagar, the lake is surrounded by rugged mountains and towering deodar trees. For adventure seekers, trekking expeditions around the lake are an option. Dal Lake is also a perfect place to stop over and relax if you are trekking up to Naddi, which is also known as the Sunset Point. Dalai Lama Temple: Replete with Tibetan culture, the Dalai Lama Temple, also known as Tsuglakhang Temple, is a politico-religious centre in Dharamsala. Ideal for peaceful meditation and religious rumination, it is in close vicinity to the abode of Dalai Lama and is frequently visited by him to preach and conduct prayer meets. The main here is the enormous idol of Buddha sitting on an elevated pedestal. Sunset Point: Naddi View Point or Sunset Point is the perfect location for catching a glimpse of the spectacular Dhauladhar ranges, especially during the winters when the peaks are covered in snow. Trek or drive to Naddi View Point in the evening to catch the sunset against the mountains, take photographs, and see the distant mountains through a telescope.  Mcleodganj: Mcleodganj is a hill station near Dharamshala, popular among trekkers. Also known as Little Lhasa, it is famous around the world for being home to the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama. Few of the most eminent and religiously significant monasteries in India are located here, including the Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang, where the spiritual leader Dalai Lama resides. Dalhousie: Dalhousie is a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, located around 120 km from Dharamshala. Boasting views of the snow-capped peaks of Dhauladhar ranges, Dalhousie is famous for its meadows, dense jungles and waterfalls. It offers an old-world charm, mesmerizing natural landscapes, pine-clad valleys and magnificent misty mountains. Khajjiar: Often referred to as 'mini-Switzerland of India', Khajjiar is a small town located close (20km) to Dalhousie and is great for a day or overnight trip. Khajjiar is known for its picture perfect grassy meadows.There is a small lake in the middle of the meadow and you could enjoy the scenery by yourself or take part in some of the adventure sports including paragliding, zorbing, and horse-riding.

Things to Do in Dharamshala

Trek to Triund: Triund is a 9-km trek, 7 kms away from Dharamsala. It is situated at a great height and provides a mesmerizing view of the Moon Peak-Indera Pass. This is an ideal spot for picnics and the clean and pristine environment will surely rejuvenate your senses. Take a Walk in the Tea Gardens: The smallest tea region of India, Dharamshala has beautifully lined and organized tea gardens across the Kangra Valley. It is known for its good quality tea and is available for purchase in many shops across Dharamshala and Mcleodganj. Walking down the tea gardens and trying the premium quality tea is one of the top things to do in Dharamsala. Trek to Bhagsu Falls: Set amidst lush greenery and nature in its most pristine form, these falls are majestic and grand and should not be missed by all tourists travelling here. This place is spread over a vast expanse of land and can be reached through a short trek which is ideal even for amateurs. You can also find cafes on the way to tend to your hunger pangs with delicious food.  Paragliding: With no shortage of hilly terrain in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, paragliding has become a significant adventure sport in the area. It is a beautiful opportunity for adventure lovers to fly like birds, surrounded by the gorgeous mountain ranges and the tea gardens under the clear blue skies. Indrunag and Bir Billing are two of the most popular spots for paragliding in Dharamshala.

Best time to visit Dharamsala

Thousands of backpackers travel to Dharamsala worldwide, but what’s the best time to visit Dharamsala? The second winter capital of India, Dharamsala, experiences four seasons annually. In summer, the lower Dharamsala experiences high temperatures, while the upper Dharamsala gets extremely cold in winter. Therefore, spring and fall are the most pleasant seasons to enjoy at Dharamsala. Summers are perfect for outdoor sports like paragliding, trekking, mountaineering, and camping and for those searching for an escape from India’s summer heat waves. However, Dharamsala seeks major tourists in June. At the same time, newlyweds and adventure lovers find the weather of October through February ideal. In December and January, snowfall covers Dharamsala, and it looks no less than a fairyland. Navratri, a nine days Hindu festival celebrated in March/April and October/November, are perfect weeks to visit Dharamsala if you desire to experience a spiritual vibe, seek the Goddesses’ blessings, and have a free meal. In addition, the 3-day International Himalayan Festival and Losan Festival are some of Dharamsala’s popular festivals worth attending at least once. July through September are the months to avoid because of the heavy rainfall and chances of landslides in Dharamshala and nearby areas.

How to Reach Dharamsala

Dharamsala is well-connected to major Indian cities by road, train, and air. So you need not worry about transportation; pick the most suitable means according to your budget and comfort.  Airways: Kangra Airport also called Gaggal Airport, around 15 km from Dharamsala, is the nearest domestic airport. From the airport, tourists can book a cab for half an hour's journey to Dharamsala. International visitors can book a flight to Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, and book a cab or Volvo bus for an approximately 10 hours journey from Delhi to Dharamsala or even a domestic flight. Railways: Pathankot Railway Station, Punjab, is 86 km from Dharamsala and the nearest railway station. Residents of Indian metro cities can reserve a train seat to Chandigarh, which is about 253 km away from Dharamsala. Either way, you must take a cab from the railway station. Roadways: For those who love to jam on Spotify’s playlist in their cars, Dharamsala delivers a smooth road experience. Take NH 154 and NH 503 for this 10+ hours trip to Dharamsala. You may self-drive, book a cab, or reserve a Volvo bus to enjoy your journey via road.

Popular Dharamshala Packages

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42 Dharamshala Tour Packages Found

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Customisable Dharamshala and Dalhousie 3N Package

3 Nights / 4 Days

Delhi(0N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Mcleodganj(0N) → Dalhousie(2N)

₹ 14,500* per person

₹ 14,500*

per adult on twin sharing

Dharamshala Weekend Getaway Tour Package from Delhi

2 Nights / 3 Days

Delhi(0N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Mcleodganj (0N)

₹ 11,500* per person

₹ 11,500*

Dharamshala Dalhousie Honeymoon Tour Package

4 Nights / 5 Days

Delhi(0N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Khajjiar(0N) → Delhi(0N)

₹ 19,500* per person

₹ 19,500*

Dharamshala Dalhousie Sightseeing Package by Volvo

Delhi(0N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Mcleodganj (0N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Khajjiar(0N)

₹ 20,299* per person

₹ 20,299*

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Amritsar Dalhousie Dharamshala Tour Package: Family Edition

Amritsar(1N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Dharamshala(1N)

₹ 20,000* per person

₹ 20,000*

Dharamshala and Bir Billing in Volvo (Group Tour)

Sonipat (0N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Bir Billing (01N)

₹ 12,250* per person

₹ 12,250*

Kareri Lake Trek Package from Dharamshala

Dharamshala(1N) → Kareri Lake(1N)

₹ 12,700* per person

₹ 12,700*

Delhi Amritsar Package Trip Including Dharamshala & Palampur

6 Nights / 7 Days

Delhi(0N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Amritsar(2N)

₹ 30,200* per person

₹ 30,200*

Experience the Best of Himachal including Manali

Dharamshala(2N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Manali(2N)

₹ 36,494* per person

₹ 36,494*

Dharmshala, Dalhousie and Amritsar Tour

5 Nights / 6 Days

Pathankot(0N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Amritsar(1N)

₹ 23,599* per person

₹ 23,599*

Exciting Dharamshala & Dalhousie 5 Nights Tour

Dharamshala(3N) → Dalhousie(2N)

₹ 21,500* per person

₹ 21,500*

Trending Now

Himachal Pradesh Itinerary: Dalhousie, Dharamshala, Shimla & Manali

8 Nights / 9 Days

Shimla (2N) → Manali (3N) → Dharamshala (1N) → Mcleodganj(0N) → Dalhousie (2N)

₹ 43,500* per person

₹ 43,500*

Dharamshala Tour Package along with Mcleodganj

Dharamshala(1N) → Mcleodganj(1N) → Bir(2N)

₹ 18,000* per person

₹ 18,000*

6 Nights Tour from Chandigarh to Shimla, Manali and Dharamshala

Chandigarh(0N) → Shimla(2N) → Manali(2N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Chandigarh(0N)

₹ 28,500* per person

₹ 28,500*

Mandi and Dharamshala Tour Package

Delhi(0N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Mandi(1N)

₹ 10,500* per person

₹ 10,500*

8 Nights 9 Days Himachal Package: Shimla, Manali, Dalhousie & More

Delhi(0N) → Shimla(2N) → Manali(3N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Dalhousie(1N)

₹ 44,200* per person

₹ 44,200*

Dharamshala – Bir Billing - Barot Tour

Pathankot(0N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Bir Billing(1N) → Barot (1N)

₹ 13,800* per person

₹ 13,800*

Beautiful Manali Dharamshala Dalhousie and Amritsar Tour Package

7 Nights / 8 Days

Manali(3N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Amritsar(1N)

₹ 32,580* per person

₹ 32,580*

Shimla Kullu Manali Dalhousie Dharamshala Tour Package

Delhi(0N) → Shimla(2N) → Manali(3N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Dalhousie(2N)

₹ 44,000* per person

₹ 44,000*

Fun-Filled Dalhousie and Dharamshala Package - 3 Nights 4 Days

Amritsar(0N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Dharamshala(1N)

₹ 15,000* per person

₹ 15,000*

Divine Katra and Dharamshala Tour

Jammu(0N) → Katra(1N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Dalhousie(2N)

₹ 23,999* per person

₹ 23,999*

Tour of Palampur and Dharamshala with Barot

Palampur(4N)

₹ 21,000* per person

₹ 21,000*

Himachal Devi Darshan with Vaishno Devi Tour Package

Chandigarh(1N) → Chintpurni(1N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Kangra(1N) → Katra(2N)

Adventurous North India Tour

9 Nights / 10 Days

Delhi(0N) → Shimla(2N) → Manali(3N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Chandigarh(1N)

₹ 53,499* per person

₹ 53,499*

Majestic Himalayas Honeymoon Special Package

Delhi(0N) → Shimla(2N) → Manali(3N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Amritsar(1N)

₹ 51,500* per person

₹ 51,500*

Magical Shimla Dharamshala Holiday Package for 5 Nights

Shimla(2N) → Dharamshala(3N)

₹ 25,800* per person

₹ 25,800*

Expert Choice

Delhi Shimla Manali Dharamshala Tour Package

Delhi(0N) → Shimla(1N) → Manali(2N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Dalhousie(2N)

₹ 26,450* per person

₹ 26,450*

Weekend Getaway to Mcloedganj (Luxury Volvo Package)

Delhi(0N) → Mcleodganj(2N)

₹ 10,800* per person

₹ 10,800*

Extensive Himachal & Uttarakhand Tour

12 Nights / 13 Days

Delhi(0N) → Haridwar(2N ) → Chandigarh(1N) → Kasol(1N) → Tosh(1N) → Prashar Lake(1N) → Barot(1N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Amritsar(1N)

₹ 53,500* per person

₹ 53,500*

Shimla Manali Dalhousie Amritsar Tour Package - 9 Nights 10 Days

Delhi(0N) → Shimla(2N) → Manali(2N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Amritsar(2N)

₹ 47,999* per person

₹ 47,999*

7 Days Shimla Dharamshala Manali Tour Package

₹ 29,999* per person

₹ 29,999*

Dharamshala Tour Package with Amritsar & Dalhousie - Excursion to Solang Valley

Manali(3N) → Dharamshala (1N) → Dalhousie (2N) → Amritsar (1N)

₹ 36,750* per person

₹ 36,750*

Simply Stunning Dharamshala Tour Package

Dharamshala(1N) → Palampur(1N)

₹ 11,000* per person

₹ 11,000*

Dharamshala & Dalhousie Tour Package

Dalhousie(2N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Palampur(1N)

₹ 20,500* per person

₹ 20,500*

Grand North India Tour Package

10 Nights / 11 Days

Jaipur(1N) → Delhi(1N) → Shimla(3N) → Manali(2N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Amritsar(2N)

₹ 40,000* per person

₹ 40,000*

Shimla Manali Dharamshala Dalhousie Tour Package - Day trip to Khajjiar

Shimla(2N) → Manali(3N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Amritsar(1N)

₹ 50,000* per person

₹ 50,000*

Romantic Dharamshala Dalhousie Honeymoon Package with Chamba

Pathankot(0N) → Dharamshala(3N) → Chamba(0N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Khajjiar(0N)

₹ 24,500* per person

₹ 24,500*

Beautiful Vacation Package including Dharamshala and Dalhousie

Delhi(0N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Dalhousie(3N)

₹ 23,600* per person

₹ 23,600*

3 Nights Dharamshala Family Tour Package

Pathankot(0N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Mcleodganj(0N) → Dharamshala(1N)

₹ 13,999* per person

₹ 13,999*

Dharamshala - Bir Billing - Sonipat Tour Package

Dharamshala(2N) → Bir BIling(1N)

₹ 14,250* per person

₹ 14,250*

Supersaver Himachal and Chandigarh Combo Tour for 7 Nights

Dalhousie(2N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Manali(3N) → Chandigarh(1N)

₹ 31,000* per person

₹ 31,000*

10 Nights Jaipur Tour with Agra, Manali and Amritsar

₹ 51,000* per person

₹ 51,000*

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Is Dharamshala Safe for Solo Travelers, Backpackers and Women?

traveller Akriti

Is Dharamshala Safe for Solo Travelers, Backpackers and Women? This is a pertinent question that needs to be addressed for the security of every first-time visitor. The answer is YES!

Dharamshala and Mcleodganj are as safe as travel destinations. Not only are they safe but they are exquisite. The majestic Himalayas form a riveting backdrop and you can’t help but stare at the natural wonder. A lot of travellers prefer to travel to and explore Dharamshala and McLeodganj all by themselves. 

In the current post, I will answer each and every safety question that has been posed to me by travellers across regions. The intention is for you to pack your bags and run off to the gorgeous Himalayan destination.

Is Dharamshala Safe for travellers? 

Dharamshala and McLeodagnj will make you their own forever. The fresh air, the stunning view, the lip-smackingly delicious food at the lovely cafes and warm people always ready to help, are some of the things bound to leave a permanent impression on you. 

Let’s find out the safety of Dharamshala by means of the subsequent table. The metrics have been based on my own travel experiences – alone, with friends and family.

Is Dharamshala Safe for Solo Travelers?

Dharamshala is one of the most sought-after travel destinations when it comes to solo travellers and backpackers. The reason for the high number of travellers isn’t just the beauty of the place. It has a lot to do with the security of Dharamshala.

It is quite common to see travel junkies explore this Himalayan town on their own. They stay here from just a day to over 2 months. For wanderlust lovers, Dharamshala comes across as a natural nest. If you’re travelling solo to Mcleodganj on a budget, here’s a blog can be useful . 

Hence, is Dharamshala safe for solo travellers? YES

Must Carry Things for a Safe Solo Trip to Dharamshala 

If you are travelling alone, it is important to take special care of certain things. I would suggest you include these things in your backpack:

Is Dharamshala Safe for a Trip with Friends?

Each year thousands of individuals from groups and venture to this lovely hill town. As long as you don’t indulge in rowdy behaviour, don’t expect any harm to you. 

Fun and frolic with friends is an obvious thing when it comes to taking a trip. Dharamshala will in no way come between your thrill and you because it’s pretty safe. You can venture out with your pals and explore this beautiful town.

Hence, is Dharamshala safe for a trip with friends? YES

Is Dharamshala Safe for an All Girls Trip?

An all-girls trip is not just fascinating but inspiring. However, when it comes to planning one, safety can be a major issue.  Not every place is safe for a gang of girls when it comes to India. Dharamshala thankfully is extremely female-friendly.

Safety will not be a problem here. It is common to see solo female travellers explore the rare places of this Himalayan territory. Many can even be seen performing yoga alone on cliffs and hills. They embrace nature and nature returns positivity tenfold.

Therefore, is Dharamshala safe for the all-girls trip? YES

Must Carry Things for a Safe All Girls Trip

When you are travelling with your girlfriends, make sure you carry these:

Is Dharamshala Safe for Couples?

Dharamshala is a good travel host to couples- married or otherwise. However, you have got to respect the local culture.   Avoid any kind of lewd behaviour in public. Try not to break any public rules here and you’re good to stay here with your significant other till your heart desires.

Make sure to carry a valid ID proof at all times. It will save you a lot of trouble.

Thus, is Dharamshala safe for couples? YES

Is Dharamshala Safe for Family Trips?

The north Indian town of Dharamshala is very safe for families. Each year hundreds of families flock here during summers and winters. There are fewer cases of criminal activity.

The only thing to be cautious about is shopkeepers. Do not allow them to rip you. Being a popular travel destination, they might ask you for higher prices than usual. Make sure you use your bargaining skills to the fullest. 

Therefore, is Dharamshala safe for family trips? YES

The War memorial at Dharamshala is dedicated to the memory of soldiers who have lost their lives protecting India at the borders. If you are visiting for the first time, there are many such places that need to be a part of your Dharamshala trip plan . 

Is Dharamshala Safe when it comes to accommodation?

If you are travelling alone, one safety concern that definitely comes to mind is the safety of your stay. The stays in Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj are totally safe for backpackers. You will see a lot of solo backpackers including women staying in hostels, guest houses and hotels all around Mcleodganj.

I would recommend travellers to stay at Mcleodganj and Dharamkot instead of the main Dharamshala town. Some of the most credible places to stay in my experience are:

• Zostel in Mcleodganj  
• Sky Pie Guest House near Bhagsu Nag , and
• Alt life, Dharamkot  

I have had a great experience in all the three places, and I can say that they are totally safe even if you are travelling alone.

So, is Dharamshala safe when it comes to accommodation? YES

Is Dharamshala Safe When it Comes to Public Spaces?

Being a popular travel destination, Dharamshala has its various spaces open to the public. These places are safe to visit. In fact, there’s seems to be a sense of calm all around. 

This is true for not just Dharamshala but Mcleodganj as well.

Whether you’re hiking up to Dal lake or sitting in meditation at the Dalai Lama temple, whether you’re getting clicked at the cricket stadium or enjoying momos at a punk cafe, you will feel safe at all times.

Therefore, is Dharamshala safe in public places? YES

Is Dharamshala Safe When it Comes to Eating Places?

Visiting Dharamshala and not exploring its eating places will be plain rude. The many restaurants, cafes and eateries are flooded with travellers.

The staff in most places is warm and hospitable. So are the owners. You will not find any kind of filthy behaviour around. At certain cafes, you will surely find people ‘high’ on a lot of stuff. But nobody will harm you in any way. 

Dharamshala is really a peaceful place.

Therefore, is Dharamshala safe when it comes to eating places? YES

There are many amazing cafes and eateries in Dharamshala & Mcleodganj. If you are a foodie like me, you may find this Dharamshala food guide helpful.

Is Dharamshala Safe When it Comes to Using Public Transport?

When it comes to internal transport, I suggest you prefer local minibuses to private cabs. This becomes even more important when you are travelling alone. 

U sing public transport will ensure your safety and avoid you spending extra bucks. In a group, however, even private cabs can be hired because you will be pooling money and you will not be alone.

Therefore, is Dharamshala safe when it comes to public transport? YES

Must Carry Things for a Safety in Public Transport 

Using public transport in Dharamshala and Himachal Pradesh , in general, is safe. However, when you are using a bus to travel between places in Dharamshala, there are certain things you must ensure you are carrying. This is important especially for solo travellers.

Is Dharamshala Safe for Taking Hikes and Treks Around?

In terms of safety from people around, surely Dharamshala’s many treks and hikes are secure. However, the weather can be unpredictable in this part of the world. So make sure to pursue these treks only during pleasant weather. 

One trek that I will surely recommend is the Triund Trek for beginners . It’s beautiful up there and the trail is quite easy.

7 Safety Tips for first-timers visiting Dharamshala-Mcleodganj

If you are travelling to Dharamshala and Mcleodganj for the first time, you should take into consideration the following points. 

Dharamshala will treat you well. Don’t be scared. Visit this place soon. T he snow-clad Dhauladhars, the whiff of romanticism, the quaint spiritual sway of his holiness – the Dalai Lama and the strong Tibetan influence make

Dharamshala is a favourite weekend getaway for a lot of people. Dharamshala is all about vibrant Tibetan flags, rolling prayer wheels and the in-sync sound of ringing bells and warbling birds.

Happy wayfaring 🙂 

THIS POST IS AN EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OF BUDGET WAYFARERS. ANY INDIVIDUAL OR ASSOCIATION INDULGING IN PLAGIARISM WILL BE DEALT WITH STRICTLY . IF YOU WANT TO USE INFORMATION FROM THE ARTICLE ABOVE, KINDLY QUOTE THE SOURCE.

Akriti Mattu

Ideal destination for solo travelers - Dharamshala, McLeodganj and Triund trek

This is a trip which can be covered in 2-3 days easily including local sight seeing and a one day trek. There are many volunteering options available for all those having some time and interest to devote time to help others. Locals are very helpful.

For someone planning a solo trip, this can be an ideal destination even for first timers as tourists are many and locals are very helpful.

Stay: One can stay at Dharamshala or McLeodganj depending upon the sequence of places one wants to visit. For trekkers, staying at McLeodganj and starting the trek in morning is a more convenient option.

Transport: Local transport is possible by hired taxis. For backpacking trip, local buses are readily available and are quite economical.

Get in: Dharamshala and McLeodganj are easily approachable by various buses starting from Delhi (ISBT Kashmere Gate). Volvo/AC/Non AC options are available

Temperature: Should carry a jacket for mornings/evenings in Indian summer months.

Some points to remember for solo travelers: 1) As usual, travel light, especially while going on trek. 2) Do keep water and some high energy stuff to eat. You can get maggi, omelettes, tea etc at two points in between the trek and at the top of triund trek. 3) To the local people, time runs very slow and they always tell you the distance is easily coverable in 15-25 minutes whereas it actually takes a normal person 1-2 hrs easily. Otherwise the local people are very helpful.

Cricket Stadium - Dharamshala

Notice at the top of trek

On Triund Trek

Triund Trek

I got remarried, and I'm raising 3 boys in a blended family. Kid-free travel helps us bond as a couple.

• Sara Lyle and her husband both  went through divorces and now have  shared custody of three sons with their exes.
• They let off parental stress by getting away without the kids — a tactic recommended by experts as well.
• Kid-free travel allows them to reconnect as a couple and counteract the demands of blending a family.

Last Christmas, my youngest son got me a "Wonder Mom" coffee mug from his school's holiday fair. It's red and blue with yellow stars and makes me smile whenever I see it in the cupboard. While I appreciate the sweet gesture, the gift didn't come with any superpowers. If it did, they would come in handy on school days. Allow me to explain.

My husband and I are raising a blended family with three boys — 8, 13, and 15 — who each go to a different school with slightly different start times. We have one car, so ensuring they arrive before the last bell rings requires Swiss time-keeping precision.

To beat the clock, I get up at 6:30 a.m. and head downstairs to cook breakfast for the five of us while my husband takes care of waking up the kids. Most mornings, I make a few variations of breakfast because we have a mix of picky eaters and food allergies to accommodate, and I want to make sure they have something healthy-ish in their stomachs before leaving. There are medications and vitamins to remember, school IDs and water bottles to pack, and the dog needs to be fed, too.

Once the boys are off, my husband leaves for work, and I get started on my to-dos from the home office. After school, there are pickups, extracurricular activities, dinner, and bedtimes to juggle. My husband and I finally take off for the night around 9:30 p.m., assuming there isn't any last-minute laundry to do.

Parental burnout is on the rise

We aren't the only ones with a schedule like this — to say nothing of dealing with work, financial and other pressures — which is why it makes sense that parental burnout is so high .

A 2023 study by the American Psychological Association found that parents of children under 18 reported a significant increase in stress levels compared to pre-pandemic times. To be exact, 33% of parents now rate their stress between 8 and 10 on a 10-point scale, a 9% increase since 2019.

The APA also looked at the impact of parental burnout and recommended various strategies to "enhance resilience in parenting" such as going on vacations without the children or simply taking "microbreaks" throughout the day. This can be as simple as listening to a guided meditation in the car after running an errand.

While the microbreaks idea was a new one that I might try, my husband and I were already well-acquainted with the relationship-strengthening remedy of getting away sans kids. It makes me a better mom, too. Here's what I mean.

A balance of family vacations and solo getaways

Since my husband and I blended our households last year, we've been intentional about doing activities and outings with all three of the boys to create family memories and build some lifelong bonds.

So far, we've gone on some fun ones, including a long weekend in Colorado Springs for our wedding with the boys last summer. This fall, we're looking forward to a Caribbean cruise for a nephew's wedding.

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However, between orchestrating the travel logistics to refereeing flare-ups along the way, it can feel like we need a vacation from our family vacation when we get home.

Then, there are the realities of reentry: unpacking everything you packed before, washing the dirty clothes, putting away the laundry and luggage, and catching up on all the other stuff you missed while you were away. For us, multiply that by five.

Getting away as a couple ? It's a comparative breeze. Even just staying for a Friday or Saturday night in nearby Denver allows us to reconnect and recharge, making us better able to handle the ups and downs of modern-day parenting.

We weren't together, pre-kids

My husband and I were never a couple before having kids; we were with other partners. Now, because we share custody with our exes , there are times we are without all three of our sons. Missing them can be tough, but we cherish the opportunities we have to be as "cringe-y" as we want — a term used by our youngest regarding too much PDA — and have some non-parental fun.

Spring break this year was a blast, for example. We spent half the time soaking up the Florida sunshine, seeing family and friends in our shared hometown. Then, we hopped over to New Orleans to enjoy the French Quarter revelries and basically eat our way around town — minus any dietary restrictions from the kids.

Last fall was another adventure, hitting the streets of my old stomping grounds in New York City for five days. Stay up late, wake up late, rinse, and repeat. They don't call it the city that never sleeps for nothing.

Sure, there are heart-twinging moments when we think about the boys — what they might enjoy or find overwhelming about where we're visiting — but we wouldn't trade our kid-free trips for anything.

We learn about ourselves

One of my favorite things about travel, in general, is coming back a whole new person. Getting out of your comfort zone can transform the way you think or see the world. I have experienced this phenomenon in varying degrees at different times in my life, from the summer in high school when I stayed with a friend's family in France to the seven years my son and I lived in Singapore and had the chance to travel around Southeast Asia .

There are so many places my husband and I want to visit together, and we're eager to cross them off our now-shared bucket list.

Speaking of the list, we realize we probably have fewer years ahead of us than behind us, and we aren't waiting for retirement to enjoy the here and now. It's also wonderful to know I can explore the world with my favorite person at my side, holding my hand.

Traveling without our kids is not about abandoning ship, it's about refilling our cups. Child-free vacations might not be an option for everyone, but even a staycation can do wonders.

Got a personal essay about living abroad or parenting that you want to share? Get in touch with the editor: [email protected] .

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Breaking news, prince harry and meghan markle to visit nigeria in may after his solo uk trip.

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Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are set to visit Nigeria next month.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will be making the journey shortly after Harry, 39, visits the UK to celebrate the  10th anniversary of the Invictus Games .

Celebrations are set to take place at London’s St. Paul’s Cathedral on May 8, but it’s expected that the Duke will attend the event solo.

The duo, who quit royal life in 2020 and hightailed it across the pond, were invited to Nigeria by the west African country’s chief of defense staff — its highest ranking military official.

He and Harry struck up a friendship in September after meeting at the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf, Germany.

Harry launched the  Invictus Games in 2014  as multi-sport Paralympic-styled games for wounded or injured servicemen and veterans.

There, the couple will meet service members and their families, and will participate in traditional cultural practices, according to local media.

Additional details about the pair’s upcoming trip will be released nearer the time.

Nigerian Defense Headquarters are “honored” and “delighted” that the Sussexes have accepted their invitation, local media reports.

It will be their first visit to Nigeria as a couple.

In 2022, the “Suits” alum told her “Archetypes” podcast listeners that she had recently discovered she was “43% Nigerian” after completing an ancestry test.

And at the opening ceremony of last year’s Invictus Games in Germany, Harry made reference to his wife’s heritage.

“Now, I’m not saying we play favorites in our home, but since my wife discovered she is of Nigerian descent, it’s likely to get a little bit more competitive this year,” he said at the time.

Following the news of their upcoming trip to Nigeria, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau published a letter in which he said the visit would “consolidate Nigeria’s strong hold” of the Invictus Games, as well as the “possibility of hosting the event [in] later years.”

Misan Harriman, the couple’s longtime friend and favored photographer, confirmed the news on X by posting a heart and flag emoji, hinting that he may travel with them as their snapper.

The trip will be one of the few overseas tours the pair have done since stepping down as senior members of the royal family.

In January, the duo visited Jamaica for the premiere of the Bob Marley biopic titled “One Love.”

The pair have also ventured out to Canada, the Netherlands and Germany for the Invictus Games.

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