Dharamsala Trip
Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh is a destination that has something to offer for everyone. Nestled in the foothills of the Dhauladhar Himalayas, this picturesque town is not only a paradise for nature lovers but also a hub of spiritual and cultural activities. It is also the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the seat of the Tibetan government-in-exile. It is therefore a significant centre for Tibetan culture and Buddhism. During my recent trip to Dharamsala with my family, we explored this beautiful town with its diverse offerings, from its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage.
Road Trip to Dharamshala
We drove to Dharamsala in our Tata Nexon car from Delhi (Greater Noida), taking the Delhi Meerut Expressway, passing through Dasna and getting onto the Eastern Peripheral Expressway (EPE), then passing through Sonepat, Panipat, Karnal, Ambala, Chandigarh, Kiratpur Sahib, Nangal, Una, Kangra, and finally arriving at our destination. The journey was a scenic and enjoyable one, with many interesting pit stops along the way for tea, refreshments and lunch. We recommend taking breaks on the way to stretch your legs and enjoy the sights along the route.
I have had TATA Nexon in my stables since 2021. Prior to that, I owned a Maruti Alto CNG which I consider my first love as far as four-wheelers are concerned. An excellent car I must say. The Tata Nexon that I own now is a beast of a car especially suitable for hills and mountains, thanks to its high ground clearance, robust build quality, and responsive engine options. The car is also equipped with safety features like ABS, EBD, and hill hold control, which make it suitable for tackling steep inclines and descents on mountainous roads. However, driving in the hills requires caution more than expertise and my recommendations while driving to hill stations like Dharamsala is to drive responsibly and follow all safety guidelines.
The road condition from Delhi to Dharamsala is absolutely fantastic except at a few places after Una. We also had to ask for directions after Una as the navigator sometimes gave misleading directions. Finally, we reached the beautiful hill station of Dharamsala.
Where to Stay in Dharamsala
While searching for a stay in Dharamshala, we came across Mannat Villa and booked it for 3 days. Mannat Villa in Dharamshala is close to the interstate bus stand, 1.5 km away. This is a property with the owners staying on top floors and the person who had taken it on lease on the ground floor renting front rooms for the Guests. We had two bedrooms with two bathrooms to ourselves. There is also a living room, a porch to sit around and a small garden. Parking for one car for the guests is available. Our experience of homestay in Dharamsala was fantastic. The homestay offered a warm and welcoming environment, the rooms were spacious, and clean, and offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The only thing we did not like was the food but that wasn’t a problem as we mostly ate outside.
Food and Drink
The food in Dharamsala is a gastronomic delight, with plenty of local delicacies to savour. When in Dharamsala why not try some popular local Tibetan dishes like momo, thukpa, and Tibetan butter tea? We visited some notable cafes and restaurants in the town, including Namgyal Cafe and Tibet Kitchen. These places not only offer delicious food but also have a great ambience.
Things to Do and See
Dharamsala has plenty of attractions and activities to keep visitors engaged. Some of the highlights of our trip included a visit to Macloedganj, the Namgyal Monastery and the Dalai Lama Temple, a visit to Bhagsu Nala and a trek to Bhagsu Nala waterfall. We could not go for the popular Triund Trek and also couldn’t see the Kangra Fort. The town of McLeod Ganj is a haven for art and culture enthusiasts.
Local Culture and History
Dharamsala is steeped in history and culture, of which we got a glimpse of it during our visit. We visited Macloed Ganj which is a popular place to visit to see the Tibetan culture and is a hub of Tibetan handicrafts, and we enjoyed shopping for local souvenirs. A visit to the Bhagsu Temple and waterfall was also worth it. The local people in Dharamsala are friendly and welcoming.
Dharamsala Weather
Speaking of Dharamsala Weather, the town has a temperate climate, with mild temperatures throughout the year. The weather in Dharamsala is mostly temperate and pleasant throughout the year. During summers (May to June), the temperatures range from 22°C to 35°C. The monsoon season starts from July to September, occasionally bringing heavy rainfall, making it a less popular time of the year to visit Dharamsala. The winter season which is quite chilly lasts from December to February, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C. During winter there is occasional snowfall. The best time to visit Dharamsala is from March to June when the weather is pleasant, and the forests, valleys, and mountains are adorned in their best finery.
How to Reach Dharamshala
Planning a road trip to the serene hills of Dharamshala? Here are two popular routes to embark on your journey from Delhi:
Route 1: The Direct Path
This route offers a direct and scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. The total distance is approximately 480 km and the travel time is about 10.5 hours approx.
Key Stops: Panipat, Karnal, Ambala, Kharar, Nangal, Amb, Kangra
Route 2: The Longer, Less Winding Route
If you prefer a less winding road, consider this route. While it adds a few hours to your journey, it offers a smoother drive, especially for those who might be prone to motion sickness. The total distance is approximately 575 km and the travel time is about 11.5 hours approx.
Key Stops: Panipat, Ambala, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Pathankot
Other Travel Options to Dharamshala
By Train
Pathankot Nearest Railway Station
Numerous trains connect Delhi to Pathankot daily. From Pathankot, you can hire a taxi or bus to reach Dharamshala.
Amb Andaura Station
Consider taking the Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 22447) from New Delhi to Amb Andaura. From Amb Andaura, you can hire a taxi or bus to reach Dharamshala.
By Air
Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala Airport) is the nearest airport located approximately 15 km from Dharamshala. Multiple flights connect Delhi to Dharamshala.
Tips for a Smooth Journey:
Plan Your Route: Choose the route that best suits your preferences and time constraints.
Check Road Conditions: Stay updated on road conditions, especially during the monsoon season.
Pack Essentials: Carry warm clothing, comfortable footwear, and necessary medications.
Enjoy the Scenery: Take breaks to admire the stunning views and capture memorable moments.
With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, your journey to Dharamshala promises to be a delightful experience
To Conclude
Dharamshala, a haven nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual serenity, and Tibetan culture. Our journey through this enchanting destination was an unforgettable experience. From the tranquil monasteries to the vibrant markets, every corner of Dharamshala exudes a sense of peace and tranquillity. The breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, and cascading waterfalls left us in awe.
We soaked ourselves in the vibrant Tibetan culture, exploring ancient monasteries, spinning prayer wheels, and witnessing captivating Buddhist rituals. The warm hospitality of the locals and the delectable Tibetan cuisine enhanced our experience. While we couldn’t embark on a trekking adventure due to time constraints, Dharamshala undoubtedly beckons outdoor enthusiasts. Its scenic trails offer breathtaking vistas and opportunities to connect with fellow travellers from around the country and the globe.
As our trip came to an end, we carried with us not just memories but a newfound appreciation for the simple joys of life. Dharamshala, with its spiritual aura and natural splendour, is a destination that leaves a lasting impression on the soul. We eagerly anticipate our return to this Himalayan paradise