Dharamshala

10 Fun Things To Do In Dharamshala For A Sorted Weekend

Written By: Abhilasha Prasad

The lovely hill station provides tranquil monasteries, lush green tea plantations, and breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. Every traveller can find something to do in Dharamshala, from climbing to Triund and exploring the historic Bhagsunag temple to taking in Tibetan music and dance performance and engaging in adventure sports. See the rich Tibetan culture firsthand, discover ancient art forms, and visit tea farms to sample fine teas. Here are some of the things to do in Dharamshala that you shouldn't miss.

1. Trek The Best At Triund

Triund, which is 2828 m above sea level, is a true treat for hikers and adventure enthusiasts. It is the shortest and simplest trek offering a gorgeous vista of the Kangra Valley and Dhauladhar hills. The total distance of the trek is 9 km covering 1000 m. There are also numerous camping sites and snack stalls along the trail. 

  • Visiting Timings: Open 2 hours

  • Visiting Duration: 5 to 6 hours

  • Entry Fee: INR 2600 (approx) 

  • Best Time To Visit: March to May; September to December

  • Nearby Attractions: Bhagsu Waterfalls (2.3 km), Namgyal Monastery (4.3 km)

Some trekking routes in and around Dharamshala:

1. Mcleodgang to Illaqua Gote

2. Dharamshala to Indrahar Pass

3. Dharamshala to Kareri Lake

4. Dharamshala to Thamsar Pass

5. Dharamshala to Nag Dal

2. Experience Boating At Dal Lake 

Boating at Dal Lake is one of the popular activities in Dharamshala. Enjoy a calm and romantic boat ride near the lake while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. The place also serves as the starting point for hikers and many activities. A small Shiva temple is also located at the edge of the banks, and a grand fair is held every year. 

  • Location: Khara Danda Rd, Dal Lake, Dharamshala

  • Visiting Time: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm

  • Visiting Duration: 1  hour

  • Best Time To Visit: March to October

  • Entry Fee: Not required

  • Nearby Attractions: St John in the Wilderness Church (2.3 km), Namgyal Monastery (4 km) 

3. Go For Paragliding 

Among the things to do in Dharamshala, Paragliding in Indru Nag is a wonderful opportunity for adventurers to fly like a  bird surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, tea gardens and under clear blue skies. It is done from a height of approximately 5,200 feet. Indru nag and Bir Billing are the two popular spots for paragliding in Dharamshala

  • Location: Indru NagTemple, Dharamshala

  • Visiting Time: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm

  • Activity Duration: 15 minutes (approx) 

  • Best Time To Visit: March to June, October to November

  • Entry Fee: INR 2000/- to 2500/-

4. Unwind Camping at Mana

One of the most serene and clean camping sites in Dharamshala. You must trek from Dharamshala to Mana village on Triund hill for two hours. The camp provides the finest tent with sleeping bags, and there is a cafe on the campsite called Lennon's Cafe that is composed of slate stones. The evenings are filled with bonfires, music and wonderful vibes making the most relaxing activities in Dharamshala.  Other best places for camping around Dharamshala: are Triund, Kareri Lake, and Indrahar Pass.

  • Organisers: Black Swan Camps

  • Visiting Time: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm

  • Best Time To Visit: February to May; March to October

  • Entry Fee: INR 1500 per person (approx) 

  • Nearby Attractions: Neelkanth Peak (9.8 km), Tapt Kund (5.2 km) 

Top Camping Sites in Dharamshala:

1. Hill Ventures

2. Black Swan Camps

3. Kareri Adventure Camps

4. Camp Lungta

5. Camp Off Road

5. Take a walk around the Tea Gardens

Tea Gardens in Dharamshala is one of the smallest tea-growing regions in India, rising to a height of 4,780 feet. Yet, it is renowned for its high-quality tea and a picturesque uphill trek that brings you near the natural world. You can stop to soak in the exquisite fragrance of freshly plucked tea leaves, chat with the tea planters and learn about the process of planting tea gardens. 

  • Location: Palampur, Kangra, Dharamshala

  • Visiting Time: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

  • Visiting Duration: 1 to 2 hours

  • Best Time To Visit: February to June

  • Nearby Attractions: Kalachakra Temple (10.6 km), Tibet Museum (4 km) 

  • Note: Don't miss the tea testing session. 

6. Explore the Dalai Lama Temple Complex

The temple is well known for its splendour and serene surroundings. It is famous for its unique enormous statues of Pamashambava, Avaloktwshwara, and Buddha. There is a small museum located within the temple complex.  As no food stalls are inside the temple, some street sellers serve delicious momo just outside the complex. 

  • Location: Temple Rd, Mcleodganj, Dharamshala

  • Visiting Time: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm

  • Visiting Duration: 1 to 2 hours

  • Best Time To Visit: September to March

  • Museum Entry Fee: INR 5 per person

  • Nearby Attractions: Kalachakra Temple (1 km), Namgyal Monastery (4 km) 

7. Take a look at Masroor Rock Cut Temple

The numerous rock-cut temples date to the eighth century AD.  The temple is enigmatic and fantastical because of its intricate patterns and celestial figures. Rama, Laxmana, and Sita each have their own primary shrine at the Masroor Rock Cut Temples. Visitors to this temple who are devout think that bathing in the tank inside the temple helps them wash their sins away.

Interesting Facts: The Pandavas of Mahabharata are said to have constructed this temple during their exile. 

  • Location: Masroor, Lahalpur, Dharamshala

  • Visiting Time: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm

  • Visiting Duration: 1 to 2 hours

  • Best Time To Visit: February to JunJune

  • Nearby Attractions: Kangra Fort (33.9 km), Baglamukhi Temple (30.9 km) 

8. Enjoy a match at Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

One of the best things to do in Dharamshala is to witness the match in the cricket stadium, which allows an unobstructed view of the game and offers an amazing seating arrangement.  The polite administration and quite well-maintained area make for a pleasant and hassle-free visit. "Should I look at the mountains or match? " will be the constant internal conflict that will rip you apart. 

  • Visiting Time: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

  • Visiting Duration: 1-hour maximum

  • Entry Fees: No entry fee is required

  • Nearby Attractions: Gyuto Monastery (6 km), Bhagsu Waterfall (14.6 km) 

9. Shop til' you drop at Kotwali Bazaar

One of the busiest markets in Dharamshala is Kotwali Bazaar, where you can get Tibetan souvenirs and woollen clothing. There are many stores where you can purchase magnificent sweaters, shawls, carpets and cardigans that are very attractive. You will find roadside stalls, restaurants, and other food carts in addition to stores selling various goods where you can purchase Tibetan cuisine. 

  • Location: Kotwal Bazaar, Kangra, Dharamshala

  • Visiting Time: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm

  • Visiting Duration: 1 to 2 hours

  • Best Time To Visit: Late afternoon

  • Nearby Attractions: Aghanjar Temple (9.5 km), War Memorial (3.1 km) 

10. Indulge in Tibetan cuisines

As Tibetan cuisine predominates, Tibetan cuisine is a highlighted delicacy served in Dharamshala.  Tingmo momos, Tibetan-style samosas known as Baklebs and a meal of soup and noodles called Thukpas are the most common. Don't forget to try the momos, tulpas and other Tibetan specialities.

Best Tibetan Restaurants in Dharamshala:

1. Tibet Kitchen

Location: Mcleodganj Main Square

Cost: INR 400/- for two

2. Peace Cafe

Location: Main Mall

Cost: INR 350/- for two

3. Namgyal Cafe

Location: Nowrojee Road

Cost: INR 450/- per person

Frequently Asked Questions—

What are the top activities for couples in Dharamshala?

Couples love Dharamshala because of its scenic appeal. Couples can engage in various activities, including spa treatments, nature walks, cuisine walks, and sightseeing trips.

What are the best things in Dharamshala for families and children?

When it comes to convenient access to hotels, medical care, and transportation, Dharamshala is a kid-friendly hill station. A family can tour the enormous Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, explore the tea garden, and meet the Dalai Lama on certain days of the year. 

How long should I plan to spend in Dharamshala?

To really appreciate the strange splendour, 4 days are plenty. You can also go on a one-day hike.

What time of year is ideal for a visit to Dharamshala?

The best months to travel to Dharamshala are February through June. The weather is ideal for an adventure at this time.

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