Dharamshala

Introduction and Histroy : Dharamshala has become the synonymous to the Tibetan government in exile and the home of Tibetan leader Dalai Lama. It was founded by the British between 1815 and 1847. Until October 1959, Dharamshala remained a low-profile hill town till the influx of Tibetan refugees along with the Dalai Lama. India welcomed the religious leader and offered him and his people sanctuary and a place to stay in Dharamshala. Ever since, a continuous flow of refugees has transformed the town into a miniature Tibet with Buddhist temples, schools, crafts organisations, meditation centres, library and medical centre. The upper area of McLeodganj was founded in 1848 and named after David McLeod, the Governor of Punjab. Even if the Tibetan community dominates the town, still it has retained the colonial lifestyle and British fervour

What To See : Dharamshala overlooks the plains and is surrounded by dense pine trees and Deodar forests. A nearby snowline with numerous streams and cool healthy atmosphere makes the surroundings very attractive. A busy bazaar town, Dharamshala has established itself as the travellers’ base camp, which come to explore the nearby mountains. The Kotwali Bazaar provides the entire colour and characteristic of a small town, which is mixed with the simple life style. The ideal time to visit Dharamshala is from the months of April to October.

Things to do: Although, the natural beauty with snow covered mountains forms the basis for tourists, other than the cultural heritage, hand gliding, paragliding, parasailing, angling, fishing and rock climbing keeps the adventurers attracted to this beautiful valley.

Accomodations : There are lot of hotels available depending on the budget. The hotels are spread well across the valley and one can suite themselves as per his own preferred style of accommodation.

Mode Of Transport :Dharamshala can be approached by air from Delhi and the nearest Airport is at Gaggla, just 13 Kilometres away from the town. Pathankot is 85 Kilometres and is the nearest railhead for Dharamshala. One can drive from Delhi via Chandigarh, Kiratpur, Bilaspur and it’s an 8 hours journey. From Delhi and Shimla, luxury buses ply to Dharamshala.

Related links:• Official Site: www.dharamshala.net
See also (Nearby places):Macleodganj, Kareri, Masrur, Triund, Toral Pass , Tang Narwana, Bhagsu, Dharamkot, Ilaqa Got, Nadaun, Pong Dam, Dalhousie, Mandi, Kangra valley, Dal lake, Cave temple at Trilokpur.