We use cookies to improve your website experience and provide more personalized services to you, both on this website and through other media. By continuing to use this website, you agree to our use of cookies as explained in our Cookie Policy. Please read our Cookie Policy for more information on how we use cookies and how you can disable them.
A gothic church hiding in the confines of a verdant forest. A Tibetan monastery situated atop a lofty hill. A cricket stadium suspended in the sky. This is just a small snippet of what Dharamshala tourism is all about. An ethereal hill station that calls out to travellers with the promise of… read more
Home to the world’s most peace loving individual, the Dalai Lama, it’s no surprise that travellers are drawn to this mountainous paradise. Nestled in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala is a place of immense beauty, spirituality, history, culture and recreation. A former British summer resort, it has centuries of experience in serving individuals with the finest of offerings. Currently a major tourist destination, it continues to please its guests with a heady blend of nature and entertainment. From religion to art, cuisine, sports and shopping, the city culminates into one enriching vacation spot!
When it comes to the climate, Dharamshala follows that of any other hilly terrain in the Himalayan mountain ranges. Its winters are piercing, its summers are mild and its monsoons are variable. And, with each period comes unique and unparalleled beauty attached to it. As such, when it comes to the best time to visit Dharamshala, one must delve deeper into each season.
Thomas Cook has done just this! Read further for a concise break up of each of the region’s pronounced seasons and all that comes with it.
Peak Season – March to June
Shoulder Season – December to February
Low Season – July to September
|
Travel Seasons |
Min/Max Temperature |
Season |
|
March to June |
20-35°C |
Summer - Pleasant |
|
July to September |
18-22°C |
Monsoon -High rainfall |
|
December to February |
4-7°C |
Winter - Freezing |
Temperature – The air temperature during the season of summer fluctuates between 20°C and 35°C.
Weather – The weather of Dharamshala during summer is perfectly pleasant. The sun shines with contentment and the flowers bloom joyfully. The climate is comfortable and the atmosphere is pleasing. In-fact, this is the best climate to visit Dharamshala for trekking and sightseeing!
Significance – The season of summer is the most delightful time to sightsee, wander and navigate this former British colony. From quaint colonial bungalows to beautiful churches and monasteries, colourful bazaars, fascinating art museums and rejuvenating Yoga institutes, Dharamshala is filled with exquisite places to traverse. And, let’s not forget the adrenaline pumping adventure sports!
Why you should visit now – If you’re seeking adventure and thrills, this season is yours for the taking. From trekking to paragliding, zip lining, rappelling, camping and cable car riding, Dharamshala offers an exciting itinerary of activities. Some of these may not be operable during winter and definitely not during monsoon, so take this into consideration when identifying your best time to visit.
Things to know before the visit – This is peak tourist season for obvious reasons. Hence, accommodation will be more expensive, sightseeing queues will be longer and guided tours may be booked out. Weekends are a particularly crowded time. Make sure to plan well in advance as this season welcomes throngs of travellers.
Tips – Due to the elevation of this city, the sun’s rays are direct and can be harsh. Make sure you strap on some sunscreen and throw on a hat! Keep your clothing light and airy, but make sure they include long sleeve t shirts and pants. Always carry a cardigan, just in case it gets chilly.
Temperature – The air temperature during the season of monsoon fluctuates between 18°C and 22°C.
Weather – Dharamshala during monsoon is a rainy-romantic affair! The showers rejuvenate the surroundings, rending everything green and lush. While days are humid, evenings are a particularly lovely time to enjoy the cool breeze. Rainfall is high and can be particularly unforgiving if not dealt with properly.
Significance – Just because it’s raining cats and dogs outside, doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do inside. Dharamshala’s resorts offer a unique blend of activities and facilities for a relaxed and fun holiday. What’s more? You can visit the charming cafes and book stores during this time. If the weather permits, there are scenic walking/driving routes and panoramic viewing points for you to enjoy.
Why you should visit now – The monsoon season can be a great time to go café hopping and initiate good conversation with fellow travellers. What better way to have unique experiences? Share a cup of steaming chai with someone from another country, as the rain creates its own symphony outside. Enjoy what the sparkling water does to the emerald surroundings, it is genuinely magnificent!
Things to know before the visit – The monsoon season brings with it, certain risks. Heavy rainfall can lead to landslides, road blockages and loss of communication. As such, adventure sports are not permitted nor recommended during this time. The precarious nature of this period renders it an off season, due to which travel and accommodation may be more affordable.
Tips – Pack an umbrella, windcheater and sturdy rain shoes such as gumboots. Plan your day according to the weather forecast, so that you can take advantage of periods of drizzles. Do not attempt to navigate the roads by yourself.
From mid-September to November, the rainfall diminishes to an inevitable halt. This period marks the confluence of the monsoon and winter season. During this beautiful passage, the climate is cool and pleasant. However, nights drop to bitter-biting degrees!
Temperature – The air temperature during the season of winter fluctuates between 4°C and 7°C.
Weather – Like other cities in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala experiences bitter biting winters. With temperatures landing the minus scale, the atmosphere is coated in thick layers of frost and fog. Strong gusts of winds add to the chill in the air. The landscape is blanketed in glistening snow, magic to the naked eye.
Significance – The season of winter is ripe for exploration and wanderlust – with the backdrop of the snowy mountains and crystalline waterfalls. One can visit McLeod Ganj, a suburb in Dharamshala, which is ideal for nature and culture enthusiasts. Shops, cafes and farms lend an air of authenticity and warmth. Lakes, valleys and trails create the most stunning setting for backpackers.
Why you should visit now – Winter is the best season to visit Dharamshala, if you’re looking to cosy up and enjoy some of its most gorgeous resorts. With indoor activities galore and sightseeing tours, you will have the opportunity to experience the best of both worlds. And, if you’re brave enough, this is the time to engage in some thrilling winter sports such as skiing.
Things to know before the visit – All hotels will offer electric heating and hot water facilities, but make sure you triple check. As this is mid-season, travel and accommodation prices will fall somewhere in between. With that being said, tourists still flock to the city to enjoy the snow and slate!
Tips – Make sure you’re geared up for the freezing climate. Which means having woollen sweaters, scarves, mufflers, a proper winter jacket, socks and snow boots. Invest in some thermals too! Carry protective inner wear such as vests, to keep your chest warm. Moisturiser and lip balm will be your best friends during this time!
Are you ready to experience the glory of this fine hilly haven? Sift through Thomas Cook’s Dharamshala tour packages to begin your holiday planning!
The Tsuglagkhang Complex is a religious centre and it was built when His Holiness the Dalai Lama visited India for the first time in 1959. The complex comprises of Dalai Lama’s abode and monastery. This is one of the best places to visit in Dharamsala and abode of Dalai Lama is one of the reasons why Dharamsala tourism is on everyone’s bucket list.
Nestled in the laps of the Dauladhar ranges and amidst verdant hills, McLeod Ganj is a beautiful hill station situated in the Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh at an elevated height of 6,831 feet. Steeped in Tibetan culture, it is also known as ‘Little Lhasa’ and is residence of the spiritual leader His Holiness Dalai Lama. Tourists from all over the world visit McLeod Ganj to experience the Tibetan culture, visit the monastery, study Buddhism, learn meditation and yoga, embark on a spiritual journey and enjoy the mesmerizing views, trekking and vibrant cafes.
Himachal Pradesh
https://www.google.co.in/maps/place/McLeod+Ganj,+Dharamshala,+Himachal+Pradesh/@32.2450183,76.2980746,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x391b56d4e3d36d19:0xa3e8725f0584be76!8m2!3d32.2425758!4d76.3212781
Tsuglagkhang
The Tsuglagkhang is a beautiful Tibetan temple adorned with a splendid gilded statue of Lord Buddha as well as statues of Chenrezig and Guru Rinpoche. This complex comprises of a monastery, museum, library, bookstore and a cafe. The Namgyal Monastery is the biggest Buddhist monastery outside Tibet and abode of His Holiness Dalai Lama. It was built in the 16th century and is home to nearly 200 monks who study Tibetan and English languages, texts of Sutra and Tantra, sacred arts, Buddhist philosophy, sand mandalas, meditation and ritual chanting. A significant place of worship, the atmosphere of the monastery brims with peace, serenity and divinity and attracts tourists and devotees from world wide who wish to experience the ambience. The museum built in the the unique Tibetan architecture introduces the visitors to the history of the Chinese intervention of Tibet and the consequent struggles and migration through photographs and interviews. It also houses an awe-inspiring collection of Tibetan art, historical documents, manuscripts, artifacts, handicrafts, paintings etc. that can be admired and purchased.
Norbulinka Institute 15 km from McLeod Ganj and established in 1988 is a cultural center aimed at fostering and preserving the Tibetan arts and culture. Developed by His Holiness Dalai Lama as a center for the continuation and training of traditional Tibetan arts and crafts, it is a fascinating place reflecting beautiful Tibetan architecture. Here one can witness artisans working on woodcarving, metal statue-making, thangka painting and embroidery. The institute produces high-quality art objects, clothing, accessories and home furnishings. The institute has several buildings ornately decorated with one building in the complex showcasing the creation of the institute using traditional techniques through a photographic exhibition. The complex also has a scenic koi pond, bridges and Japanese styled garden. The Norbulinka institute has a Losel Doll Museum which has beautiful dolls depicting the Tibetan cultures and livelihoods and are for sale.
Bhagsu is a quaint village 3km from McLeod Ganj popular for the Bhagsu Falls and Bhagsunath temple. The Bhagsunath temple built by King Bhagsu is a majestically beautiful ancient temple and an important pilgrimage site situated at an elevated altitude of 1,770 meters above sea level. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and and the local deity Bhagsu Nag, the shrine is revered by devotees who visit to worship and feel at peace. The pools around the Bhagsunath Temple are believed to be sacred and contain healing powers. The temple is surrounded by serene nature and exudes an air of spirituality.
About 500 meters away from the temple is the enchanting Bhagsu Falls that starts from the base of the Dauladhar valley and cascades from a height of 20 meters. The waterfall is absolutely stunning during the monsoons when it gushes down from 30 meters and is a phenomenal sight to behold. The fall is an ideal picnic spot and is lined with cafes which tourist visit to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee while watching the mesmerizing fall and the surrounding picturesque view of lush greenery.
A trekkers paradise, several trekking trails originate from McLeod Ganj such as Triund, Bhagsu Trek, Kareri River Trek, the Indrahar Pass Trek, Kangra Valley Trek and Guna Devi Temple Trek. Triund is the most popular trek with an easy 9km long trail amongst rocky terrains and Rhododendron and Oak forest and scenic views. One can also camp overnight here under the brilliantly star lit sky. The Indrahar pass trek is an exhilarating moderately difficult trek with spectacular views of the majestic Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal mountain ranges and sacred peaks of Mani Mahesh Kailash. The trek passes through dense deodar and rhododendron forests and one can encounter wildlife such as wild goats and leopards. The Kareri Lake trek takes place at a high altitude of 9,629 feet above sea level and trekkers can camp overnight at the banks of the lake. Between December to April the lake gets frozen. The Kangra Valley trek is a delightful simple trek that passes through Kareri lake, old temples and lush verdant valleys. Guna Devi trek is a simple trek through the lush deodar forests to the Guna Devi temple. Bhagsu trek is a 12km thrilling trek that commences from McLeod Ganj and trails through Dharamkot, Galu, and Naddi Village ending at the Bhagsu falls whilst offering spectacular views of the majestically imposing Dauladhar ranges.
The best time to visit is between September to June. One can experience the city during summers or winters when temperatures drop and the city along with the mountain ranges glisten with snow.
An enriching experience of embarking on a spiritual journey, trekking and meeting people from different parts of the world.
Flight: The nearest airport is Kanra Airport, Gaggal located at a distance of 30 km. A cab can be hired from there directly to McLeod Ganj
Train: The closest major station is Pathankot railway station at a distance of 90km. Another station is Kangra station at a distcance of 25km. A cab can be hired from there directly to McLeod Ganj
Road: Several private and state buses ply from major cities such as Delhi, Chandigarh and Dharamshala to McLeod Ganj. Private car and taxi can also be hired.
The Tsuglagkhang Complex is a religious centre and it was built when His Holiness the Dalai Lama visited India for the first time in 1959. The complex comprises of Dalai Lama’s abode and monastery. This is one of the best places to visit in Dharamsala and abode of Dalai Lama is one of the reasons why Dharamsala tourism is on everyone’s bucket list.
Nestled in the laps of the Dauladhar ranges and amidst verdant hills, McLeod Ganj is a beautiful hill station situated in the Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh at an elevated height of 6,831 feet. Steeped in Tibetan culture, it is also known as ‘Little Lhasa’ and is residence of the spiritual leader His Holiness Dalai Lama. Tourists from all over the world visit McLeod Ganj to experience the Tibetan culture, visit the monastery, study Buddhism, learn meditation and yoga, embark on a spiritual journey and enjoy the mesmerizing views, trekking and vibrant cafes.
Himachal Pradesh
https://www.google.co.in/maps/place/McLeod+Ganj,+Dharamshala,+Himachal+Pradesh/@32.2450183,76.2980746,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x391b56d4e3d36d19:0xa3e8725f0584be76!8m2!3d32.2425758!4d76.3212781
Tsuglagkhang
The Tsuglagkhang is a beautiful Tibetan temple adorned with a splendid gilded statue of Lord Buddha as well as statues of Chenrezig and Guru Rinpoche. This complex comprises of a monastery, museum, library, bookstore and a cafe. The Namgyal Monastery is the biggest Buddhist monastery outside Tibet and abode of His Holiness Dalai Lama. It was built in the 16th century and is home to nearly 200 monks who study Tibetan and English languages, texts of Sutra and Tantra, sacred arts, Buddhist philosophy, sand mandalas, meditation and ritual chanting. A significant place of worship, the atmosphere of the monastery brims with peace, serenity and divinity and attracts tourists and devotees from world wide who wish to experience the ambience. The museum built in the the unique Tibetan architecture introduces the visitors to the history of the Chinese intervention of Tibet and the consequent struggles and migration through photographs and interviews. It also houses an awe-inspiring collection of Tibetan art, historical documents, manuscripts, artifacts, handicrafts, paintings etc. that can be admired and purchased.
Norbulinka Institute 15 km from McLeod Ganj and established in 1988 is a cultural center aimed at fostering and preserving the Tibetan arts and culture. Developed by His Holiness Dalai Lama as a center for the continuation and training of traditional Tibetan arts and crafts, it is a fascinating place reflecting beautiful Tibetan architecture. Here one can witness artisans working on woodcarving, metal statue-making, thangka painting and embroidery. The institute produces high-quality art objects, clothing, accessories and home furnishings. The institute has several buildings ornately decorated with one building in the complex showcasing the creation of the institute using traditional techniques through a photographic exhibition. The complex also has a scenic koi pond, bridges and Japanese styled garden. The Norbulinka institute has a Losel Doll Museum which has beautiful dolls depicting the Tibetan cultures and livelihoods and are for sale.
Bhagsu is a quaint village 3km from McLeod Ganj popular for the Bhagsu Falls and Bhagsunath temple. The Bhagsunath temple built by King Bhagsu is a majestically beautiful ancient temple and an important pilgrimage site situated at an elevated altitude of 1,770 meters above sea level. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and and the local deity Bhagsu Nag, the shrine is revered by devotees who visit to worship and feel at peace. The pools around the Bhagsunath Temple are believed to be sacred and contain healing powers. The temple is surrounded by serene nature and exudes an air of spirituality.
About 500 meters away from the temple is the enchanting Bhagsu Falls that starts from the base of the Dauladhar valley and cascades from a height of 20 meters. The waterfall is absolutely stunning during the monsoons when it gushes down from 30 meters and is a phenomenal sight to behold. The fall is an ideal picnic spot and is lined with cafes which tourist visit to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee while watching the mesmerizing fall and the surrounding picturesque view of lush greenery.
A trekkers paradise, several trekking trails originate from McLeod Ganj such as Triund, Bhagsu Trek, Kareri River Trek, the Indrahar Pass Trek, Kangra Valley Trek and Guna Devi Temple Trek. Triund is the most popular trek with an easy 9km long trail amongst rocky terrains and Rhododendron and Oak forest and scenic views. One can also camp overnight here under the brilliantly star lit sky. The Indrahar pass trek is an exhilarating moderately difficult trek with spectacular views of the majestic Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal mountain ranges and sacred peaks of Mani Mahesh Kailash. The trek passes through dense deodar and rhododendron forests and one can encounter wildlife such as wild goats and leopards. The Kareri Lake trek takes place at a high altitude of 9,629 feet above sea level and trekkers can camp overnight at the banks of the lake. Between December to April the lake gets frozen. The Kangra Valley trek is a delightful simple trek that passes through Kareri lake, old temples and lush verdant valleys. Guna Devi trek is a simple trek through the lush deodar forests to the Guna Devi temple. Bhagsu trek is a 12km thrilling trek that commences from McLeod Ganj and trails through Dharamkot, Galu, and Naddi Village ending at the Bhagsu falls whilst offering spectacular views of the majestically imposing Dauladhar ranges.
The best time to visit is between September to June. One can experience the city during summers or winters when temperatures drop and the city along with the mountain ranges glisten with snow.
An enriching experience of embarking on a spiritual journey, trekking and meeting people from different parts of the world.
Flight: The nearest airport is Kanra Airport, Gaggal located at a distance of 30 km. A cab can be hired from there directly to McLeod Ganj
Train: The closest major station is Pathankot railway station at a distance of 90km. Another station is Kangra station at a distcance of 25km. A cab can be hired from there directly to McLeod Ganj
Road: Several private and state buses ply from major cities such as Delhi, Chandigarh and Dharamshala to McLeod Ganj. Private car and taxi can also be hired.
Despite being in the mountains, Dharamshala offers great air connectivity with the Gaggal Airport situated about 15 km from McLeod Ganj — the heart of the town. Direct flights are available only from New Delhi, while one-stop flights come in from all corners of the country including major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Jaipur and Hyderabad. These are serviced by reputed domestic carriers such as Spice Jet, Air India and IndiGo. It is advisable to purchase airline tickets in advance as rates can increase closer to your travel dates or during peak seasons.
Once you arrive at Gaggal Airport, taxi services are present on ground to take you into town. They generally cost around INR 900-1000 and take about half an hour to reach Dharamshala.
Some travellers choose to only fly till New Delhi, with the Indira Gandhi International Airport being so well-connected to the country and the world. If you choose to do that, you’ll have to take a cab, hired car or bus to reach Dharamshala in a 10-11 hour journey.
Trains are a convenient and economical way to get to Dharamshala but there is one drawback — the town itself has no railway station and the closest one is Pathankot Station about 86 km away in Punjab. Having said that, you can easily find means to get to Dharamshala once you alight. There are regular buses from the Pathankot Bus Stand or taxis for hire, with the total ride taking about 4 hours.
Direct trains to Pathankot are available from the following cities:
Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Bhopal, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Kochi, Trivandrum, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Patna and Lucknow.
The second railway route to Dharamshala is from Chandigarh Station, which also welcomes trains from every major city in the country. You can catch a taxi from outside the station or any number of buses from the stand for the remaining 5-6 hours of road journey.
You could drive to Dharamshala from your home city since the roads are in good condition. Most will have to drive up to Delhi and then catch the NH154 and NH503 that lead to the town. But if self-driving isn’t your thing, there are other more convenient road travel options such as hire cars, prepaid taxis and bus services.
If you’re coming from New Delhi, there are plenty of vehicles renting agencies around or buses across every budget can be taken from the Inter-State Bus Terminus. A premium seat would generally cost between INR 1200-1800, running overnight for an approximately 11-hour journey. Cars or taxis should get you there sooner but it’s better to then do the journey by day.Also check out the best time to visit Dharamshala and book your tour accordingly.
Direct buses to Dharamshala are also available from:
Pathankot, Dalhousie, Chamba, Manali and Shimla
Distance Chart:
|
City |
Distance to Dharamshala |
|
Chandigarh |
247 km |
|
Agra |
702 km |
|
Jaipur |
740 km |
|
Mumbai |
1830 km |
|
Kolkata |
1945 km |
|
Hyderabad |
2033 km |
