Dharamshala India

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Dharamsala, where the Dalai Lama has settled in exile, is a marvelous Tibetan township where an entire cultural tradition is being nurtured. It is a centre that attracts scholars, pilgrims and tourists. The snow line is perhaps more easily accessible at Dharamshala than at any other hill resort and it is possible to trek to snow point after an early morning's start.

History & Location

Dharamsala popularly known as the Scotland of India, is one of the 80 hill stations established by the British between 1815 and 1847 and has one of the most spectacular settings for a hill station is closest to the perennial snow-line and is built along a spur of the Dhaula Dhar range. Dharamsala is surrounded by deodar forests and provides a superb view of the great granite mountains that almost cover the town.

What To See in Dharamshala

Mcleod Ganj
A number of residential buildings, restaurants, antique and curio shops, together with famous Tibetan institutions have lent importance to McLeod Ganj. The Budha temple is situated opposite to the present abode of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama and is worth a visit. The Tibetan Institute of performing Arts(TIPA) is 1km. walk from McLeod Ganj and preserves a number of musical dance and theatrical traditions of Tibet. There is also a Tibetan handicraft centre situated at McLeod Ganj and a Sunday market is organized at about 10 minutes walk from here.

Bhagsunag Falls
At a distance of 11kms. from Lower Dharamshala, Bhagsunag can be approached by road, here an old temple, a fresh water spring and restaurant are located. Further about 2kms. is beautiful Bhagsunag water falls which sooths one's eyes.

St.John's Church
The church of St. John's in the wilderness lies on a motorable road between McLeod Ganj and Forsythe Ganj 8kms. from Lower Dharamshala. It has a monument of Lord Elgin, one of the Viceroys of India, who died in Dharamshala and was buried here in 1863.
Dal Lake
The lake lies amidst hills and stately fir trees 11kms. from Lower Dharamshala connected by motorable road. It is the starting point of excursions and trekking and is located next to the Tibetan Children's village.

Triund
It is a popular picnic and trekking spot. Accommodation is available in the rest house of Forest Department ,but water has to be fetched from a distance of about 2kms. Ropeway is being installed from Dharamshala to this place.

Jwalamukhi Temple
Dedicated to the "Goddess Of Light", the temple is one of the most popular Hindu temples in northern India. There is no idol of any kind the flame is considered as a manifestation of the goddess. An eternally burning and shining blue flame emanates from the rock sanctum and is fed by the priests with the offerings of devotees.
Trilokpur
It is situated 41 kms. from Dharamshala and can be approached by road the natural cave temple of Trilokpur contains a stalactite and stalagamite is dedicated to Shiva.