The high of His Holiness snow clad Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas form a magnificent backdrop to the hill resort of Dharamshala. This is the principal township of Kangra and the headquarters the Dalai Lama.
SOMESUGGESTED SIGHTSEEING PLACES :
• Mcleod Ganj :
Dharamsala is divided into two main parts namely, upper and lower. While the lower part shows Indian elements, the upper part is essentially known as Mcleod Ganj. This is the abode of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, who settled here after the Chinese invaded Tibet. This place is definitely worth a visit to experience peace, tranquility and check out the breathtaking surroundings.
• Dal Lake :
Lush green tall deodar forests surround Dal Lake located near Dharamsala. One look at it and you will be convinced that it is amongst one of the most beautiful creations of God. It qualifies for a perfect quite and serene picnic spot for the locals.
• Chamunda Devi :
With famous Dhauladhar waterfalls as its backdrop, Chamunda Devi Temple is not only religiously important but also offers breathtaking views of the high mountains and the forests of Baner Khud, Lahala and Pathiar.
• Kangra Art Museum :
Situated in Kotwali Bazaar of Dharamsala, Kangra Art Gallery was inaugurated in 1990. It houses an impressive collection of arts, crafts, artifacts, costumes and other treasures, which can be traced to as far back as 5th century.
• Library of Tibetan Works and Archives :
Library of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA) is situated at McLeodganj town of Dharamsala. It was founded by the 14th Dalai Lama and serves as an institution to preserve and promote Tibetan culture.
• Namgyal Monastery :
Sonam Gyatso, the third Dalai Lama, founded Namgyal Monastery in the year 1575. During that time, it was situated at the Potala Palace in Tibet. Its purpose was to assist the Dalai Lama in his spiritual duties and public religious activities.
• Norbulingka Institute :
Situated at a distance of 4 km from Dharamsala, Norbulinka Institute has a mission to preserve and promote. It is a picture of old rural Tibet with all its shady paths, wooden bridges, small streams and tiny water falls, along with wooden carvings, Tibetan Thangka paintings, Tibetan handicrafts and arts.
• Kangra Fort :
Kangra Fort was once the stronghold and seat of power of Katoch rulers, who ruled the land for over 2000 years. Today, it stands in ruins because of the devastating earthquake that hit the area in 1905.
HOW TO REACH :
By Air :
Kangra airport is the nearest airstrip from Dharamsala, situated at the distance of 10 km.
By Rail :
Pathankot is nearest railhead from Dharamsala, sitauted at the distance of 90 km. There are many trains running from Pathankot to different cities of India. From Pathankot, you can take the narrow gauge railway line train to Kangra, for further expansion of experience.
By Road :
Dharamsala has an excellent network of roads that links with almost all the major cities of the country. The place is situated at a distance of 529 km from Delhi, 259 Km from Chandigarh, 195 km from Amritsar and 259 km from Shimla.
