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Is Dharamshala Worth Visting?

Discussion in 'Himachal Pradesh' started by Sunaina, Feb 24, 2016.

  1. Sunaina

    Sunaina New Member

    I will be about 1 and a half hours away from Dharamshala and considering making a trip there, as it is supposed to be a good holiday destination. I have done my little research but not really found anything good about the place.

    Do you guys think that a drive to Dharamshala would be worth visiting?

    What can one see and do in Dharamshala?

    Is is a place full of foreigners?

    Is it a safe place to visit (dont know much about the place so just making sure)?
     


  2. Yes it is definitely a great place to visit, and it is well known for it's scenic beauty. Examples of this would the Kangra Valley, Dal Lake and the Bhagsung Waterfalls. Also any visit to Dharamshala is incomplete without visiting McLeodGanj, which among many other attractions has the residence of the current Dalai Lama.
     


  3. ChaiNashta

    ChaiNashta Active Member

    Dal lake is at Srinagar not Dharamshal or anywhere near it.

    Dharamshala is good for relaxing for a few days and Mcleodganj is a little higher up and is a good place as well.
     
  4. jnorth88

    jnorth88 Active Member

    Yes, it is definitely worth the trip. But only if you make the most of it. There are sites to see, and chances to engage with the locals. You will have a very relaxing trip. Are you going to see the residence of the Dalai Lama? He probably won't be there, since he is frequently abroad.
     
  5. briannagodess

    briannagodess Well-Known Member

    Hello and welcome to the forum!

    Dharamshala is definitely worth the visit. You'll find Dharamshala in the upper ranges of the Kangra Valley. The 14th Dalai Lama of the Tibetan Sector of Buddhism can be found here. Due to the presence of the Dalai Lama and the beautiful surroundings, Dharamshala became a popular tourist spot in Himachal Pradesh. Most especially for the devotees of Buddhism, Dharamshala is a must in their list of places to visit.

    Why is it worth visiting? Primarily because it's the place for spiritual people. If you're just curious about the Dalai Lama, this is also the place where you go. And lastly, for people who just want some quiet, away from the hustle and bustle of the city life, Dharamshala is the place for them. Because aside from the Dalai Lama, it is a place with picturesque views and amazing people.

    Here's some attractions in Dharamshala:
    • Tsuglagkhang Complex. The largest Tibetan Temple in India. You'll find the Kalachakra Temple inside the complex. Just opposite the temple is the residence of the Dalai Lama himself.
    • Naam Art Gallery. You can find paintings of Elizabeth Buschmann and Alfred W. Hallett here.
    • Tibet Museum. Learn more about the history of Tibet and its settlers.
    • Masrur. You can find various images of Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshamana here. It is a temple/cave dating back to the 8th Century A.D.
    • Kangra Museum. Learn more about Tibetan and Kangra culture when you visit this museum.
    • Kangra Tower. This was once the seat and residence of the Katoch Rulers. You can find some temples, halls and watchtowers inside.
    • Dal Lake. A popular picnic spot in the region.
    • Namgyal Monastery. This is home to about 200 Tibetan Monks.
    • Kunal Pathari. A popular pilgrimage temple in the area.
    It is usually from March to July that the place is crowded or full of tourists. If you can avoid these months, then you're better off doing that. Otherwise, head over to Mcleodganj for a less touristy or crowded destination, it is only 8 kms away from Dharamshala.

    Generally, it's a safe region to visit. Himachal Pradesh as a whole has a lower crime rate as compared to other states. Just make sure to follow safety precautions like staying out of the dark especially in isolated areas and never giving your personal information to anyone else. Aside from that, don't fall victim to scams and research well before going into the place.

    I hope this helps!
     
    ChaiNashta likes this.