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Dharamshala, situated at a high attitude and serving as a gate to the Himalayan beauty, has become an important base for travelers. The city is divided into two parts which differ in culture and lifestyle. While roaming here, the travelers can experience mixed lifestyles of the local and the Tibetan population.
Dharamshala is located in the Kangra valley, in the Dhauladhar mountain ranges. It has been the capital of the Kangra District since the year 1852. This city has a large population of the Tibetan community. In 1959, when Dalai Lama took refuge here, a lot of his followers settled here and gradually this region became their second home.
The region portrays the British lifestyle and taste, and attracts a lot of foreign tourists who live here and explore the nearby areas.
Dharamshala is an important pilgrim center for the Tibetans and houses many colorful temples and monasteries. It provides a mixed blend of different cultures in one place and makes visit here an interesting and amusing activity. Nearby pilgrim places, Hindu temples and the head office of the Tibetans altogether make this place rich in culture and spirituality. This combination in culture and lifestyle make it a unique experience for people visiting here.
History of Dharamshala
The history of Dharamshala roots back to the 8th century. During that period the region was owned by a British. In 1848, he converted the town into a hill resort. Later in 1905, an earthquake destroyed the complete region. After that the Tibetan population residing there took control and gradually it became a place of the Tibetan culture. The area is now divided into two parts: Upper and Lower Dharamshala. All the government offices and major business houses are located in the lower region. The upper part comprises of places like McLeod ganj and Forsythganj. At present over 3000 Tibetans have made this place their homes and the Tibetan culture clearly reflects in the atmosphere.
Special attractions in and around Dharamshala
Being in the hilly regions of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala offers natural beauty. It has a lot of breathtaking sceneries and presents a calm and peaceful environment. This area offers a lot of adventurous sports like rock climbing and trekking during the peak season that is from May to October. Apart from this religious places like Chamunda Devi temple, Jwalamukhi temple and other nearby pilgrim spots also attract a lot of visitors to this place. Other attractions are the Fort of Kangra and Mangarh. Tourists can enjoy fishing in Beas River and also shop for Tibetan handicrafts and fine embroidered carpets in the local markets.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit this place is from Mid-May to Mid-October.
Location
State: Himachal Pradesh
District: Kangra
Distance from nearest cities: Kangra city is approximately 15 kms from Dharamshala
How to reach Dharamshala
Nearest airport: The nearest Airport is at Gaggal which is 13 kms away from the town.
Nearest railway stations: The nearest railhead is Pathankot which is 85 kms away from Dharamshala.
Directions by road from nearby cities: Luxury buses are available from Delhi, Chandigarh and other parts of the state.
Tourism Department
Department of Tourism & Civil Aviation,
Government of Himachal Pradesh,
Block No. 28, SDA Complex,
Vikas Nagar, Shimla-171009
Toll Free Telephone Number: 1800-180-8077
Telephones: 91 0177 - 2625864 / 2625924 / 2623959 / 2625511
Fax: 91 0177 - 2625864 / 2623959.
Email:
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Climatic Conditions
Due to its close proximity with the Himalayas, Dharamshala is a moderately cold region. But, in winters it can become very cold. The temperature goes up to 0 degrees during this season.
Clothing
The climate is cold almost throughout the year; though in summers it might become pleasant. During this time light woolens and in winters heavy woolen clothes are recommended.
Tourist Attractions near Dharamshala
- McLeod Ganj: This is a Tibetan establishment where this community started living after following their leader, in 1959. A Buddhist monastery located here presents a serene era and you can hear the monks chant while praying.
- St. John's Church: This historical church lies amidst forests between McLeod ganj and Forsythganj and is located 8 kms from Dharamshala.
- Bhagsunag: It is an ancient temple close to a fresh water spring located around 11 kms from Dharamshala
- Kunal Pathri: This is a rock temple approximately 3 kms from the main market of Dharamshala
- Dharmkot : 11 kms from Dharamshala, it is a popular picnic spot and presents a panoramic view of the Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar mountain range.
- Triund: It is a popular picnic spot and a trekking route. It provides spectacular view of the snow clad mountains and is located 17 kms from Dharamshala and has an attitude of 2827 meters.
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