Dharamshala is situated in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It lies on a spur of the Dhauladhar range, the Pir Panjal region of the Outer Himalayas; and commands majestic views of the mighty Dhauladhar ranges above, and the Kangra Valley below. Dhauladhar means "white ridge" and this breathtaking, snow-capped range rises out of the Kangra Valley to a height of 5,200 meters (17,000 feet).
The Kangra Valley is a wide, fertile plain, crisscrossed by low hills. People all over the world flock to Mcleodganj to receive blessings and teachings from His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Western and Indian tourists and scholars come here to see the rebirth of an ancient and fascinating civilization.
Tsuglagkhang Temple :
The Tsuglagkhang Temple is the most renowned Buddhist monument in McLeodganj. There are three magnificent images of Buddha, including a gilded statue of Shakyamuni, statues of Valokitesvara and Padamasambhava.
The Namgyal Monastery was founded by the Third Dalai Lama, and serves exclusively the Dalai Lamas. A unique feature of this monastery is its diversity of practice. Namgyal monks perform prayers and rituals of all the major schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
Norbulinka Institute:
Just 4-kms from Dharamshala, Norbulinka was established to preserve and teach the ancient Tibetan arts. The shady paths, wooden bridges, small streams tiny water falls make this place look like heaven.
Here one can watch the wooden carvings and the tangka paintings, goldsmith and embroidery being done. The nunnery close to the institute is a place where women are taught the advanced levels of Buddhist philosoph
St. John's Church:
One of the most poignant memories of the British Raj is the church of St. John, situated in the wilderness. This charmingly dressed stone church is located just 8-kms from Dharamshala on the way to McLeod Ganj.
Under the shade of Doedar branches, a memorial has been made over the body of the British Viceroy, Lord Elgin who died at Dharamshala in 1863.
Triund:
Triund is a popular picnic spot at an height of 2827 m. The area is on the foothills of Dhauladhar range and is 17-kms from Dharamshala. The snow line starts at Ilaqua, which is five kms from Triund.
The breathtaking views of the mountains and the valleys makes Triund an ideal picnic spot and trekking spot.
Bhagsunag Temple & Waterfall
The old temple of Bhagsunath has a fresh water spring. Further, about a half km. is a beautiful waterfall.
Dharamkot
Situated on the crest of a hill, it affords a panoramic view of Kangra Valley, Pong Dam & Dhauladhar ranges.
Kangra Art Museum
This museum in Kotwali bazaar has artifacts dating back to 5th century which display the rich past of the Kangra Valley.
Dal Lake
A scenic picnic spot surrounded by forests of Deodar. An annual fair is held here every September.
Naddi
After Dal Lake is scenic spot Naddi, having a panoramic view of Kangra valley and Dhauladhar range.
Kareri
Passing through Dal Lake, Satobari & Ghera proceed to Kareri. 13 km further is the Kareri Lake (3200m) having beautiful high altitude meadows, extensive pasture lands & undulating slopes carpeted with patch work of green floral patterns iincludes a gallery of Kangra's famous miniature paintings, sculptures, pottery and anthropological items.
War Memorial
Landscaped lawns and a web of narrow paths fill a pine grove where a monument has been raised to commemorate the post independence war heroes of Himachal.
Kunal Pathri
A little rock temple dedicated to a local goddess. The road passes through a picturesque forest and tea gardens.
Local Places of Interest
- Chinmaya Tapovan Trust : 19 kms
- Andrertta : 55 kms
- Masroor : 50 kms
- Kangra : 28 kms
- Palampur : 45 kms
- Baijnath : 60 kms
- Jawalamukhi : 62 kms
- Chintapurni : 95 kms
