Destination Dharamshala India, Mcleod Gunj, Travel Himachal Pradesh

Home of the Dalai Lama, this is the place to head for Tibetan culture (and chocolate cake). While Dharamshala is synonymous with the Tibetan Government in Exile, the actual headquarters is about 4km above Dharamshala at Gangchen Kyishong, and most travelers hang out at McLeod Gunj, stung along a high ridge 10km above Dharamshala.

Dharamshala itself is of little interest to travelers, although Kotwali Bazaar, at the foot of the roads leading up to McLeod Gunj, is an interesting and colorful market, and you can visit the Kanga Art Museum. Dharamshala stands at the foot of snow wrapped lofty Dhauladhar ranges and offers a magnificent view of snowy peaks, deodar and pine forests, tea gardens and beautiful hills. Dharamshala with a number of Tibetan settlements and the residence of the spiritual and temporal leader of the Tibetan people, the Noble Laureate His Holiness the Dalai Lama, now really has become a place of international significance.

Places to See Dharamshala -

Kangra Art Museum

This museum, a few minutes walk south of the tourist office, has miniature paintings from the Kagra school of art, which flourished in the Kangra Valley during the 17th century, it also has elaborately embroidered costumes of Kangra people, woodcarvings and tribal jewelry. It's open Tuesday to Sunday 10 am. to 5 pm. Entry is free.

McLeod Gunj

Before upper Dharamshala, or McLeod Gunj was established in the mid1850s as a British garrison, it was the home of the semi nomadic Gaddi people. There is still a sizeable number of Gaddi families in the villages around McLeod Gunj. The Briish developed the settlement as an important administrative centre for he Kangra region. McLeod Gunj is the best known as the headquarters of the Tibetan Government in Exile and is the home of the His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. Dalai which means the embodiment of the ocean of wisdom, is a title that has been conferred on the rulers of Tibet since the 16th century. Dharamshala in 1959 made this place more lively. A number of Tibetan settlements with religious education and other rehabilitation centres have emerged all over McLeod Gunj. Today, McLeod Gunj is a major Buddhist centre of pilgrimage and learning.

Bhagsunag Fall

The fall is about 11 km. from Dharamshala town, known for its old temple, a fresh water spring, water falls and slate quarries. This spot can be easily accessed by road. The Bhagsunag fall is one of the major attractions of Mcleodganj.

War Memorial

The War Memorial is situated in Dharamshala town, near the entry point to Dharamshala commemorates. This was built in the memory of those who fought valiantly for the honor and defense of the mother land. The place is ideally located amid the pine forest. There is also a cafe just close to War Memorial serving fast food and beverages.

Places to See Dharamshala -

Air :

Nearest airport is Gaggal airport located 15 km. from Dharamshala. Other airports having regular service are : Jammu 200 km. Amritsar 210 km. and Chandigarh 260 km.

Rail :

Nearest broad gauge railhead is Pathankot 95 km. A narrow gauge railway line between Pathankot and Jogindernagar passes through Kangra, 17 km. from Dharamshala.

Road :

Almost each and every part of the state is linked by roads. The Himachal Road Transport Corporation is running its buses covering the whole state. And we also arrange the car coaches to get there. There is huge network of HRTC to cater the needs of the people.

Nearby Travel Destinations Himachal Pradesh: -

Shimla

Take a trip on the toy train to experience the decrepit grandeur of the the Raj in this pleasant hill station. Shimla was once par of the Nepalease king-dom and called Shyamla, another name for the goddess Kali, but Shimla never gained any fame until it was 'discovered' by the British in 1819. Three years later, the first 'British' house was erected, and in 1864 Shimla became the summer capital of India.

McLeod Gunj or Dharamshala

Kullu Valley

Scenically pretty valley and adventure playground. Kullu was once known as Kullanthapitha - the end of the habitable world. Beyond rose the forbidding heights of the Greater Himalaya, and by the banks of the shining river Beas, lay the fabled Silver Valley.

Chamba

A beautiful town with ancient Hindu temples hidden in winding backstreets. Situated in the bosom of the middle Himalaya, Chamba has preserved its identity inviolate through a period when the plains of India were ravaged by fanatical hoarders from Afghanistan and Central Asia.

Manali

Manali situated in the north Indian hill state of Himachal Pradesh. Situated at the Northern end of the Kullu valley with its spectacular views of the snowcapped peaks and wooded slopes, the Beas rushing along its rocky course amid grassy wild flowered meadows, is ideal for honeymooners and adventure sport lovers.

Sarchu

The picturesque town of Sarchu is located at the height of 4253 meters and 105 km from keylong. This is the last point on the Himachal Pradesh - Ladakh border that offers splendid views of snow capped mountains. The unspoiled natural beauty of Sarchu offers a perfect ambience to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

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