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Located in the Kangra Valley in the state of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala is as lovely as the name of the state it is in. Split into the Lower and Upper Dharamshala, each of these areas offers a well of beautiful and interesting places that lure in tourists.

The Lower Dharamshala looks like a typical city with the patented hustle and bustle that every city carries within its streets. On the other hand, the Upper Dharamshala, also known as the McLeod Ganj and touted as the seat of His Holy Highness, the Dalai Lama, captivates you with its loveliness. 

We explored both the areas of this beautiful place extensively and outlined the ten best things to do and the places you can’t miss while at McLeod Ganj and Dharamshala. 

Things To Do In McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala

1. Take Part in the Cultural Dance

The Lakhar Cultural Dance Female Organizers (Dhasa) have a weekly show on Wednesdays. Men and women dressed in local attire sang their songs while tuning in to the two musicians tapping along with the dancers. This is a local Himachal dance that can be seen for free. The dancers and the tourists circle the light pole at the center, dancing merrily. 

• Timings: 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, might extend until 9 PM.
• Location: Parking lot
• Entry Fee: Free.

2. Visit the Tibet National Martial Memorial

A memorial was constructed for the martyrs of Tibet, who self-immolated themselves, sacrificing their lives in their protest for China’s illegal occupation of the region. This act demanded the return of HH, the Dalai Lama, back to Tibet for the freedom and independence of Tibet. The names of these brave warriors are written on a board and placed close by. This memorial can be spotted on the side just before entering the Dalai Lama temple. 

3. Seek Blessings from the Dalai Lama Temple

The Dalai Lama temple, also known as the Namgyal Monastery or the Office of the H.H., is the personal monastery of His Holiness Dalai Lama. It is located next to his house at the McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala. 

Even today, several monks participate in rituals, practices, and prayers and follow the teachings of the four important lineages of Tibetan Buddhism. Check the Dalai Lama’s schedule if you plan to visit this site. You can also watch a virtual tour of the Tibetian temple in three different languages: English, Hindi, and Tibetan.

The whole experience of visiting the monastery was absolutely peaceful. With the monks chanting the mantras, the main sanctum is surrounded by a MANI prayer wheel, filled with thousands of Avalokiteshvara mantras, “Om Mani Padme Hum.” you can also take this as a chance to meditate and walk around the temple. 

• Timings: 5 Am – 8 PM from April to October, 6 AM – 6 PM from November to March
• Mobile phones and cameras are allowed. 
• Big luggage and items like knives, matchboxes, petrol, etc. are prohibited.

4. Trek up the Triund Hill

The Triund Hill is a beautiful trek easily accessible from Dharamkot, McLeod Ganj, and Dharamshala. It offers a panoramic view of the Kangra Valley, with the snow-clad mountains of the Dhaulahar mountain ranges. We’ve written down a detailed blog on this trek based on our experience. Be sure to check it out. 

5. Stop by the Bhagsunag Waterfall, Temple & Pool

We crossed the Bhagsunag Waterfall on our way back to the Triund trek. However, there hasn’t been much water flowing since November. Surrounded by lush greenery, the waterfall is 20m high and is particularly lovely during the monsoon months. Located close to Dharamkot village, the steps guide you to the waterfall, making the need for a guide optional. We relaxed at a cafe situated close by.

An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Bhagsu Naag temple is close to the waterfalls. The pool located on the temple’s premises is considered sacred and said to have miraculous healing powers.  

6. Ride the Gondolas of the Dharamshala Skyway

The ropeway that connects Kotwali Bazaar from Dharamshala city to the Dalai Lama Temple is the Dharamshala Skyway. Offering picturesque and spell-binding views of the McLeod Ganj hill station, you can hop into the colorful gondolas. It shows lush pine valleys, the backdrop of the Dhauladhars, and the aerial view of Kangra Valley beneath as you ride up to a height of 362m in minutes. The tickets to this can be purchased online as well.

• Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM. Roundtrip tickets will be issued till 5:30 PM, while one-way trip tickets are issued till 6 PM. The ropeway will close at 6 PM.
• Cost: A one-way trip costs INR 450, and a round trip costs INR 675.
• Security check is done at the entrance. Your belongings and yourself will be scanned. You can also take your luggage in the gondolas or store them in the cloakroom.

7. Tour the Museum of Kangra Art Dharamshala

Giving a glimpse into the history, heritage, art, and culture of the Himachal people from the Kangra Valley, the Museum of Kangra Art Dharamshala is a must-visit. It shows captivating photographs, paintings, sculptures, coins, ornaments, utensils, face masks, dresses, manuscripts, and jewelry. Some of these pieces even date back to the 5th century. It offers highly interesting insights into the diverse cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh, making it an excellent destination for art and history enthusiasts.

• Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM on all days except Mondays and holidays.
• Entry Fee: INR 50 for Indians, INR 150 for foreigners, and INR 30 for children below 10 years.
• Photography: INR 100 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners, and INR 50 (each photo) for research scholars. It costs more for videography.

8. Cafe Hopping

Cafe hopping is a delightful activity. Never mind how exciting it is to cafe hop in your own city. Doing it in a tourist destination holds that much more appeal. And cafe hopping at McLeod Ganj is a delightful way to explore the vibrant and diverse cafe culture in the hills. With a plethora of different cuisines, starting from South Indian and North Indian, Italian, Chinese, and continental, there is something to suit everyone’s taste. Whether seeking a serene spot to work remotely or spend an energetic evening with live music and delicious food, McLeod Ganj’s cafe scene caters to various tastes and preferences, making cafe hopping an enjoyable and flavourful adventure.

Take a stroll down the streets of McLeod Ganj, stumble upon the shops and cafes along the way, and discover souvenirs, art, and pieces of clothing that you might find interesting.

9. Visit the Dharamshala Stadium

In a cricket-frenzied country like ours, visiting an international cricket stadium in India is an exhilarating experience for sports enthusiasts and travelers alike. Known for our passion for cricket, we play host to several noteworthy stadiums, and the Dharamshala Stadium, or the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) stadium, is one among those. Standing as a testament to the nation’s love for the sport, the stadium has witnessed legendary matches with the picturesque backdrop of the mountains. Situated at 1457 m, visitors can look at the stadium from one of the gallery stands.

Visitor’s Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM. Tea breaks are from 11 AM to 11:15 PM and 3 PM to 3:15 PM, while Lunch breaks are between 1:30 PM and 2 PM. Entry is restricted during break times.

10. Pick Up a Skill

Several courses are offered at Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj for short- and long-time travelers. With ample opportunity to pick up various new skills, use this experience to enrich yourself. After all, it is learning with a view. You can see several posters and announcements as you walk along the streets and at shops. An ideal place to immerse yourself in yoga and meditation retreats, you could also opt to engage in workshops and classes conducted by local and international artisans to learn traditional crafts such as pottery, wood carving, painting, or weaving.

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