What to See at Dharamshala

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Dharamshala was recognized in 1849, by British rulers, for the intention of having a place where they escape from the scorching heat of Indian plains. Now the ill resort developed into big town and is divided into two distinct parts-lower Dharamshala and upper Dharamshala. Lower Dharamshala includes the civil and business area with courts and Kotwali bazaar. Upper Dharamshala includes places like Mcleod Ganj and Forsyth Ganj. Dharamshala also serves as the residence of Tibetan spiritual leader, Dalai Lama. The town is surrounded by some interesting and beautiful tourist attractions that make up its excursions. Some of the places to see near Dharamshala are mentioned below.

What to see at Dharamshala

  1. Mcleod Ganj: It is 9 Km up from Kotwali Bazar Dharamshala. It is also known as 'Little Lhasa'. This is the residence of Tibetan spiritual leader, Dalai Lama. The Tibetan Government in exile has been here for approximately four decades. Several monasteries and Tibetan schools came up at McLeod Ganj. The impressive monastery has larger than life I ages of the Padmasambhava, Avalokteshwara and Buddha. A large Tibetan community and the existence of traditional architectural designs drawn form Tibetan have enhanced the charm of the area. Mcleod Ganj is tranquil area and offers tourists the perfect option of a spiritual sojourn.
  2. Namgyal monastery: If you are in Dharamshala, visiting Namgyal monastery is something that you cannot afford to ignore. It is surrounded by prayer wheel and is located in the centre of McLeod Ganj. It is erected as a memorial to those Tibetans who lost their lives for a free Tibet. It is one of the first places visited by tourist coming here.
  3. Dal Lake: It is about three Kilometers from McLeod Ganj and next to the Tibetan children's village. This lake is small and brownish in color. It is not nearly as impressive as the name suggest. However, if you are looking for a picnic spot in or around Dharamshala, Dal Lake is just the place for you.
  4. Tsuglag khang: It is situated opposite the residence of his holiness the Dalai Lama. It is known to the local Indian as the main temple. It is popular for housing three meter high, gilded bronze image of Sakyamuni Buddha. It also boasts of inmpressive images of Padmasambhava and Avalokitesvara.
  5. Kotwali Bazar: This bazaar provides all the color and unconventional behavior of a small town and simple life style. The bazaar treasure love of the Kangra valley's arts, crafts and rich past displays artifacts thatdate back to the 5th century. It includes gallery of Kangra's famous miniature paintings and an envoy collection of sculptures, pottery and anthropological items.
  6. St. John's church: It is located around eight Kilometers from Dharamshala. It is situated in the forest between Mcleod Ganj and Forsyth Ganj. It has beautiful spotted glass windows and there is Christian cemetery around it. It is housing the grave of Lord Elgin who wished to be buried here.