Best Places to See in Dharamshala – A complete travel guide

1. McLeod Ganj

The cultural capital of Tibetan Buddhism in India, known as Little Lhasa.

Highlights:

Tsuglagkhang Complex – Dalai Lama’s official residence, temple, and prayer wheels.
Tibetan handicraft markets.
Cafes like Illiterati, Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen.
Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) for traditional music and dance.

2. Bhagsu Falls & Bhagsunath Temple

A refreshing waterfall with a spiritual touch.
Tips:

Visit Bhagsunath Temple first.
Trek up to Shiva Café for amazing views and laid-back vibes.

3. Triund Trek

A must-do trek for incredible mountain views.

Distance: ~9 km one way
Moderate difficulty
Option to camp overnight under starlit skies.
Check best price available

4. Naddi Viewpoint

Best for sunset lovers.

Quiet location away from McLeod Ganj’s rush.
Perfect for photography.

5. Kangra Fort

One of the largest forts in the Himalayas, 20 km from Dharamshala.

Rich history of the Katoch dynasty.
Stunning views of rivers and valleys.
Check tours

6. Dal Lake

Serene spot for picnics and short walks.

Surrounded by deodar trees.
Boat rides available seasonally.

7. St. John in the Wilderness Church

A historic stone church amid tall pine and deodar trees.

Gothic architecture from 1852.
Belgian stained glass windows.

8. War Memorial

Tribute to Indian soldiers who fought bravely.

Located at the town’s entrance.
Set in peaceful pine forest surroundings.

9. Tibetan Museum

Inside Tsuglagkhang Complex.

Documents Tibetan history and culture.
Artifacts, photographs, and multimedia exhibits.
Check tours

10. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium (HPCA Stadium)

One of the most scenic cricket stadiums in the world.

Stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Open for visitors when no match is scheduled.

11. Gyuto Monastery

Renowned for tantric Buddhist studies and golden statues.

Peaceful atmosphere.
Located near Sidhbari.

12. Norbulingka Institute

Preserves Tibetan art, crafts, and culture.

Workshops on thangka painting and wood carving.
Beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

13. Masroor Rock Cut Temples

Often called the “Ellora of the Himalayas.”

8th-century rock-hewn temples.
Panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range.
Check tours

14. Indru Nag Temple & Paragliding Point

For both spirituality and adventure.

Temple dedicated to the snake god.
Paragliding with a view of Kangra Valley.

15. Tea Gardens of Kangra

Rolling green slopes producing aromatic Kangra tea.

Short guided tours available.
Best for photography and nature walks.

🍲 What to Eat in Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj

🥟 Tibetan Classics (Must-try street & café food)

Momos – Steamed, fried, or in soup. Try buff, chicken, veg, or even chocolate momos in Bhagsu market.
Thukpa – Tibetan noodle soup with vegetables or meat; perfect for cold evenings.
Tingmo – Fluffy steamed bread, best with spicy Tibetan curries.
Shabalay – Deep-fried pastry stuffed with meat or veggies, crispy outside, juicy inside.

🌿 Himachali Flavours

Siddu – Steamed bread stuffed with poppy seeds, walnuts, or green peas; served with ghee.
Madra – Yogurt-based chickpea curry, mild yet aromatic.
Thenthuk – Hand-pulled noodle soup, often spiced for warmth.
Rajma Chawal (Himachali Style) – Local red kidney beans with a richer, earthier taste.

🍰 Desserts & Sweet Treats

Bhagsu Cake – The legendary layered caramel cake found in Bhagsu cafés.
Tibetan Butter Tea – Salty & buttery; an acquired taste but warming.
Buckwheat Pancakes – Nutty flavor, often served with honey or bananas.

☕ Café Culture & Backpacker Favourites

Israeli Shakshuka – Egg dish in spicy tomato sauce, found in Dharamkot cafés.
Wood-fired Pizza – Particularly good at Moonpeak Espresso or Namgyal Café.
Smoothie Bowls – Fruit-packed bowls with granola, perfect after a trek.
Masala Chai with a View – Any rooftop café will do — the view makes it better.

🥢 Where to Try (Popular Spots)

Tibet Kitchen – For authentic thukpa & shabalay.
Illiterati Café – For coffee, pasta & books.
Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen – Pizza & pasta lovers’ paradise.
Clay Oven – Great momos & soups.
Woeser Bakery – Famous carrot cake.
Moonlight Café (Bhagsu) – Chill vibe, live music nights.

💡 Tip: If you’re trekking (Triund/Kareri Lake), stock up on roasted corn, local apples, and peanut chikki — light to carry & energy boosting.

Read: Backpacking in Himachal? Here Are the Best Places to Explore

Travel Tips for Dharamshala

Best Time: March–June and September–November.
Pack layers – weather changes quickly.
Use local taxis or shared jeeps for sightseeing.
Respect Tibetan customs in monasteries (remove shoes, avoid loud talking).