Dharamshala - The Little Lhasa in India OR home in exile of the Dalai Lama OR A place of peace and harmony

The present headquarters of the Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala -- also spelled as Dharamsala -- is one of the famed tourist places in India and much loved for its natural magnificence and great spiritual connection. Earlier called Bhagsu, Dharamshala -- which is also one of the most rapidly developing cities in the HP -- gives enchanting vistas of the snow-clad Dhauladhar peaks of the mighty Himalayas to its awe-struck visitors.

The present winter seat of the Himachal Pradesh Government, Dharamshala just stands out from the many other hill-stations of the country, so bewitching its appeal is. No wonder, since long, this amazing tourist destination has attracted visitors from India and abroad and inspired them to spend their holidays in its serene and peaceful surroundings. The place is also a classic escape of sorts for the tired and weary city people with thatched cottages located picturesquely amidst deep verdant dense pine and deodar forests.

Dharamshala Tourist Attractions

This lovely tourist destination boasts of numerous attractions such as: Bhagsunag Falls: A key draw of the area, the Bhagsunag waterfalls are located at just a little distance away from the main Dharamsala Town and much known for their scenic beauty.

Dal Lake: Located only 10-odd kms away from Dharamsala, the Dal Lake, dotted with Deodar and Fir trees, is yet another famous attraction of Dharamshala. McLeod Ganj: Much famous as the Little Lhasa, McLeod Ganj is the abode of the Tibetan Spiritual Guru Dalai Lama and also the seat of the Tibetan government in exile. McLeod Ganj also boasts of groups of monasteries and Buddha statues located in its sylvan surroundings.

Jwalamukhi Temple: Dedicated to the Goddess of Light Jwalamukhi Temple is located at a distance of two hours drive from the main town of Dharamshala. This spiritual place much interestingly does not have any idol inside its premises to worship. Instead here a burning blue flame, coming out from inside the rocks, is worshipped. ChaumadaDevi Temple: Only 15 Kms From Dharamshala is Temple dedicated to Chamudadevi the slayer Of two demond Chanda & Munda . This Beautiful Temple on The Back drop Of Dhauladhar Ranges is situated on the banks Of River Banganga a Tributary Of Beas River.

Brijeswari Devi Temple: One Of Temples Of 51Sacred Shakti peeth’s .This temple was so Wealthy That It was Invaded By Mahmud Of Gazni in The year 1009 & again by Feroz Tughlaq in the Year 1360. The Temple was rebuilt after The old temple was completely ruined By Earthquake in the year 1905. St. John's Church: Located between McLeod Ganj and Forsythe Ganj, St. John's Church is another famed draw of Dharamsala.

Kangra: Situated 18 km south of Dharamshala, Kangra is one of the loveliest valleys in the state with lush green terraces and orchards and yet another well-known attraction of Dharamsala.

How to Reach Dharamshala

Gaggal, located l3 km away is the nearest airport while Pathankot, located 85 km away, is the nearest railway station. One can take the many buses and taxis which connect the place to the many key cities of the country.