One of the most beautiful Weekend destinations from Delhi, Dharamshala pulls travelers with its sky-soaring valleys, lakes, waterfalls, temples, and Tibetan heritage. If you are here to experience its charm, we suggest you extend your stay to visit, if not all, at least the best places to visit near Dharamshala.
And if you are still planning, nothing like it. Make sure you plan your itinerary in a way to cover the best attractions in and some beautiful places around Dharamshala. Most of these nearby beauties are easy to reach and can be covered in one day. However, some of these detours are so pretty that you could plan a complete a weekend here. From lakes to forts and hill stations – all the places around Dharamshala have something amazing in store for you.
15 Best Places To Visit Near Dharamshala
Planning for a mesmerising holiday post COVID? Dharamshala is one of the destinations which will leave you spellbound as it is located in between the mountains and is surrounded by deodar trees and coniferous forests which will bring you in close proximity with nature. Some of the best places to visit near Dharamshala are Mcleodganj, Manali, Triund and many more which will create wonderful memories for you for life. Go through the list and get planning a trip to the serene hill station of Dharamshala.
- Manali – Enjoy Spectacular Views Amidst Nature
- Triund – A Heavenly Trek Base Camp
- Kangra Fort – Historical Place With Enchanting Views
- Palampur – A Simple Town With An Abundance Of Nature’s Mystique
- Bir – One Of India’s Top Paragliding Destinations
- Khajjiar – A Treat To The Eyes
- Dalhousie – Blend Of Culture And Nature
- Chamba – Hill Station Established Alongside River Ravi
- Barot – For A Peaceful Experience
- Mandi – Temples And More
- Mcleodganj – The Peaceful Suburb
- Baijnath – The Beauty Of Jyotirlingas
- Joginder Nagar – An Offbeat Valley
- Naggar – An Ancient Village
- Kareri – Take The Challenging Trek
1. Triund – A Heavenly Trek Base Camp
Triund is a picturesque camping spot, which makes it one of best places to visit near Dharamshala. It is located close to the snow-capped peaks at a height of 2,828 meters above sea level. The trek to Triund is a moderately challenging trek that starts from Mcleodganj – a serene suburb of the hill station. If you’re visiting Dharmshala in winter and looking for snow places near Dharamshala, you may get lucky here.
Things to do: Take a mountain trek, camp in the forests
Distance from Dharamshala: 6 km (3 hours trek, depending on person to person)
Suitable for: 1 night and 2 days
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs, cycling, walking
Cost of travel: INR 30 – 100
Why you must visit Triund?
- For the lovely views and spellbinding beauty that you encounter during the trek
- The amazing camping experience
- Stargazing at the camping site
Must Read: 17 Amazing Restaurants In Dharamshala Which Are A Must Try In 2022!
One of the closest historical places to visit near Dharamshala, Kangra Fort is a remnant of valley’s history. The fort is spread across 4 km and its structure has temples, mosque, palaces, and royal gateways. It dates back to a few years before 470 AD, which is the year when it was first invaded by the King of Kashmir.
The legends about this fort have also been mentioned in Mahabharata. Besides mythological mentions, Kangra Fort has been ruled by the likes of Jahangir and Maharaja Ranjit Singh before being taken over by British rulers, who took control post the Sikh War in 1846. Many years later, a devastating earthquake struck Kangra Valley in 1905 and damaged the fort. Even though it’s in ruins today, it attracts a large number of tourists in all seasons making it one of the best places to visit near Dharamshala.
Things to do: Relive the past glory of the fort, witness the beauty of Kangra valley
Distance from Dharamshala: 21 km (50 minutes)
Suitable for: Day trip
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs, local transportation
Cost of travel: INR 100 – 300
Why you must visit Kangra Fort?
- It is one of the most famous forts of Himachal Pradesh and a part of Archaeological Survey of India
- If you take the audio assistance, the fort tour takes you through the fort’s interesting history
- The scenery around the fort is breathtaking
Suggested Read: 15 Hill Stations Near Dharamshala: Visit For Total Rejuvenation In 2022!
3. Palampur – A Simple Town With Abundance Of Nature’s Mystique
A little-known hill station and one of the best places to visit near Dharamshala, Palampur is enveloped by tea gardens and pine groves. Water streams here flow along the road, where sometimes local mushrooms crop up on the sides. The weather in Palampur is pleasant throughout the year. It gets extremely cold during the winters, it’s romantic nevertheless. Palampur is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.
Things to do: Seek Blessings at Temple, Neug al Khad: Enjoy A Picnic, Tea Plantations: Explore The Green Land, Triund: Trek To The Peak
Distance from Dharamshala: 35 km (1 hour)
Suitable for: 1 night and 2 days
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs, local transportation
Cost of travel: INR 100 – 500
Why you must visit Palampur?
- To relax in lush greenery and stroll the famous tea gardens; it is known as the Tea Capital of Northwest India
- The resorts here are a delight, especially for a much-needed break with family or with your partner
- The quietude here is blissful!
Suggested Read: 10 Hotels Near Dharamshala That Offer A Perfect Alternative To Overbookings
4. Bir – One Of India’s Top Paragliding Destinations
Paragliding in Bir Billing entices domestic as well as international travellers. The sport has made Bir, which is 14 km south of Billing, one of the best places to visit near Dharamshala for thrill-seekers. Over the past few years, the small village has emerged to be a famous hill station in Himachal.
Besides paragliding, you can go fishing, visit the tea-garden, and or trek the nearby trails in Bir.
Things to do: Paragliding, touring the monasteries, exploring the village
Distance from Dharamshala: 65 km (2 hours)
Suitable for: 1 night and 2 days
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs, local transportation
Cost of travel: INR 200 – 1500
Why you must visit Bir?
- Bir is one of the best paragliding destinations of India
- The tea gardens here are beautiful; one can go on lone strolls in the verdant tea gardens
- The peaceful monastries are perfect for meditation as well as introspection
Suggested Read: Paragliding, Bonfire, & Shooting Stars: Her Whimsical Weekend Adventure In Bir Billing Is Stealing Hearts
5. Khajjiar – A Treat To The Eyes
Known as the Switzerland of India, Khajjiar is where travellers come for retreat. There are activities like paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding that’ll keep you out and active all day long. At the same time, if you’re a leisure traveller, you can simply sit on a bench and admire the views. Lush green vegetation, cloud-kissed peaks, and a glistening lake make it among the loveliest places to see near Dharamshala.
Things to do: Zorbing, Jungle Safari, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Trekking, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Handicraft Shopping, HP State Handicraft Centre
Distance from Dharamshala: 118 km (4 hours)
Suitable for: 1 night and 2 days
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs, local transportation
Cost of travel: INR 100 – 1500
Why you must visit Khajjiar?
- Dharamshala to Khajjiar is a scenic drive, fringed with deodar trees
- It is perfect for a day picnic
- Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a delight for wildlife lovers
Suggested Read: 30 Amazing Places To Visit In Dharamshala In 2022!
6. Dalhousie – Blend Of Culture And Nature
Dalhousie is one of the most-visited places near Dharamshala. The hill station is known for its buildings that reflect the influence of the colonial era. There are many interesting locations to visit in this hill station including churches and various natural attractions that will take your breath away. The lush greenery of this hill station will simply leave you mesmerized.
Things to do: Panch Pulla, Khajjiar – Go Paragliding, Chamera Lake – Go Boating, Chamunda Devi Temple – Offer Prayers
Distance from Dharamshala: 121 km
Suitable for: 2 nights and 3 days
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs, local transportation
Cost of travel: INR 100 – 1500
Why you must visit Dalhousie?
- This hill station is admired by the tourists for its natural attractions like Kalatop Forest, Dainkund Peak, Bakrota Hills, etc.
- You can explore some of the best Hindu temples in this hill station
- Shopping experience would be quite amazing, as you’ll get to choose from a wide variety of handicrafts
Suggested Read: 6 Picnic Spots Near Dharamshala That Are Packed With The Most Picturesque Views!
7. Chamba – Hill Station Established Alongside River Ravi
Established on Ravi River banks, Chamba is simply one of the most admired locations in Himachal, situated at a close distance from Dharamshala. There are various temples as well as palaces in this hill station that are worth witnessing. This hill station is loved for its historicity as well. During the 2nd century, this region was occupied by the Kolian Tribe. Chamba is definitely one of the best places to visit near Dharamshala.
Things to do: Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Trekking, Bhuri Singh Museum, Boat Ride
Distance from Dharamshala: 130 km
Suitable for: 1 night and 2 days
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs, local transportation
Cost of travel: INR 200 – 2000
Why you must visit Chamba?
- There are various meadows, streams, and lakes that make this hill station one of the most picturesque locations in Himachal
- Locals in Chamba are quite welcoming
- You can have a great shopping experience in this hill town, as there are several markets in this region
Suggested Read: 6 Beautiful Resorts Near Dharamshala Where You Can Have A Comfortable Stay In 2022!
8. Barot – For A Peaceful Experience
This village was established during the 1920s and therefore apart from its scenic beauty, the hill town is a paradise for the history buffs. It has only been made accessible after 1975. This is one of the best places close to Dharamshala and attracts tourists for all the right reasons. You can come here to spend some time in tranquility while absorbing the breathtaking natural setting.
Things to do: Camping and fishing in Uhl river, visiting the temples, nature photography
Distance from Dharamshala: 114 km
Suitable for: 1 night and 2 days
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs, local transportation
Cost of travel: INR 100 – 1500
Why you must visit Barot?
- Not only is this village beautiful on its own but is also opens for you the way to Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary
- Can be a great destination for a one-day trip
Suggested Read: Shopping In Dharamshala: 7 Places Where You Can Splurge Your Money In 2022!
9. Mandi – Temples And More
Mandi is amongst the most popular districts in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is also known to be one of the most prominent commercial regions in the state. The district is home to some of the most uniquely built temples that are considered to be the best tourist attractions. The beautiful natural setting as well as welcoming locals make for the reason why tourists keep flocking here.
Things to do: Trek to the gorgeous Prashar Lake, Rejuvenate your mind & soul at Bir Monastery, Camp under the stars in Barot Valley, Visit the popular Shikari Devi Temple
Distance from Dharamshala: 129 km
Suitable for: 1 night and 2 days
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs, local transportation
Cost of travel: INR 200 – 2500
Why you must visit Mandi?
- This district in Himachal has some of the most awe-striking temples
- The hill town is established along the banks of River Beas
Suggested Read: Top 5 Places To Visit In Dharamshala In June For A Tranquil Vacation In 2022!
10. Mcleodganj – The Peaceful Suburb
One of the finest places to visit near Dharamshala is McLeodganj which is basically a suburb of Dharamshala. With features and landscape particularly the same as Dharamshala, you additionally get more of TIbetan culture, mind-blowing restaurants and delicious street food.
Things to do: Visiting the monasteries, boating at the Dal lake, visiting the churches
Distance from Dharamshala:
Suitable for: 2 days
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs, cycling, walking
Cost of travel: INR 30 – 100
Why you must visit Mcleodganj?
- Verdant hills and landscapes to witness
- Peaceful meditation centers for soulful rejuvenation
- Exclusive understanding of Tibetan culture
Suggested Read: Camping In Dharamshala 2022: 8 Exquisite Sites For A Stay In The Lap Of Nature!
11. Baijnath – The Beauty Of Jyotirlingas
Baijnath other than being one of the most beautiful places to visit near Dharamshala is a major pilgrimage center as well. It has one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India and has been acting as a center for spiritual tourism. The magnificent backdrop of mountains and the sanctity and serenity together make it one of the top explorations.
Things to do: Praying at the Baijnath temple, admiring the magnificent views
Distance from Dharamshala: 54 km (1 hour and 40 minutes)
Suitable for: 1 day
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs, local transportation
Cost of travel: INR 50 – 200
Why you must visit Baijnath?
- To witness the amazing Baijnath temple
- Watch the beautiful scenery around
Suggested Read: Manali Vs Dharamshala: Choose Your Escapade For Next Summers
12. Joginder Nagar – An Offbeat Valley
Joginder Nagar is a hill station and indeed the terminal station of the 163-kilometer narrow-gauge railway line in Kangra Valley. What makes it the finest places around Dharamshala are the incredibly lush surroundings and a laid-back vibe. The valley is popular for many adventure activities that have long been the tradition at this hill station.
Things to do: Trekking, traveling in the narrow-gauge railway line
Distance from Dharamshala: 74 km (2 hours)
Suitable for: 1 night and 2 days
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs, cycling, walking
Cost of travel: INR 100 – 500
Why you must visit Joginder Nagar?
- The extremely amazing views
- Laid-back vibes making for an offbeat vacation
Suggested Read: Pitching Dharamshala Vs Dalhousie And Making All The Difficult Decisions At Ease In 2022
13. Naggar – An Ancient Village
Naggar is an ancient village in Himachal located on the banks of river Bea. It might not be one of the most popular places nearby Dharamshala but its old-world charm is particularly impressive. The old town has a mystic appeal and mostly being hidden from tourists acts as a secluded and soulful destination. What adds to its serene beauty are deodars, waterfalls and snow-capped mountains.
Things to do: Trekking in the passes, visiting the Naggar castle, touring the ancient temples
Distance from Dharamshala: 200 km (6 hours)
Suitable for: 2 night and 3 days
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs, cycling, walking
Cost of travel: INR 500 – 1000
Why you must visit Naggar?
- To witness the old-world charm
- Discover the hidden gem and spend an isolated and private vacation
- Trekking through some landmark trails
Suggested Read: 8 Mesmerizing Places To Visit In Dharamshala In May 2022 To Keep You Hooked
14. Kareri – Take The Challenging Trek
Kareri is another high-altitude destination and perhaps one of the few places nearby Dharamshala that is not flocked by many tourists. Reason being, it is offbeat and cut off from much of the city. Located near McLeodganj, the Kareri lake is a major source for adventure activities.
Things to do: Trekking at Kareri lake and Indrahar Pass, witness magnificent beauty from the view points
Distance from Dharamshala: 26 km (1 hour)
Suitable for: 1 day
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cycling, trekking
Cost of travel: INR 30 – 100
Why you must visit Kareri?
- To witness absolute natural splendour
- Adventure activities that overpower your trip
15. Manali – Enjoy Spectacular Views Amidst Nature
Image Credit: Aniket431 for Wikimedia Commons
One of the best tourist places near Dharamshala is Manali which is an abode of beauty, spectacular views, adventure sports, ancient heritage and mouth-watering food. Manali is a fun-filled destination to spend quality time with your partner, family and friends. Camping in Manali will be an adventurous experience for you which will take you beyond the mountains. You must try out adventurous sports which are regarded as one of the best things to do in Manali.
Things to do: adventure sports, zorbing, Visit Rohtang pass
Distance from Dharamshala: 239 km
Suitable for: 2 nights and days
How to reach from Dharamshala: Buses, cabs
Cost of travel: INR 935 – 1000
Why you must visit Manali?
- Manali is a place offering a subtle amalgamation of adventure.
- To visit temples like Hadimba, Manu and Shiv temple and get religious vibes.
- Solang Valley and Rohtang pass add adventure to the trip along with amazing views.
Further Read: 21 Things To Do In Mcleodganj For A Super-Cool Retreat In 2022
Why just a weekend? Take a whole week off to explore Dharamshala and the incredible hideouts in its vicinity. With this list of best places to visit near Dharamshala, you now know what to add into your itinerary. Your Dharamshala trip is definitely going to be amazing. The question is which nearby destinations would you like to travel to and make your trip extraordinary. Do let us know in the comments below!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Visit Near Dharamshala
Where can I go from Dharamshala?
You can visit plenty of places near Dharamshala after you’re done exploring this lovely town. You can trek to Triund, see the Kangra Fort, visit Palampur, paraglide in Bir, and relax in Khajjiar.
Which place is good, Dharamshala or Dalhousie?
Both of these are absolutely stunning destinations and there’s no comparison. While Dharamshala offers a unique Tibetan culture and jolly vibe with lots of options for shopping and food, Dalhousie is a rather relaxed and refreshing town where you can unwind amidst nature’s beauty and amazing views! While Dharamshala is usually more crowded, Dalhousie is rather peaceful and quaint.
How far is Dharamshala from Dalhousie?
Dalhousie is located about 42 km away from Dharamshala and can be reached in less than an hour at a consistent speed.
How can I go to Dalhousie from Dharamshala?
The easiest, fastest, cheapest, and most convenient way of traveling from Dharamshala to Dalhousie is by road. You can book a cab or hire a vehicle to drive to Dalhousie. You can also hop into a state-run bus to get there.
Which is better Shimla or Dharamshala?
Both Shimla and Dharamshala are beautiful in their own way. While Shimla is crowded, Dharamshala is comparatively quaint. While Shimla has plenty of options for sightseeing and adventure, Dharamshala is more laid back with many options for relaxing and basking in the Tibetan culture.
Are Mcleodganj and Dharamshala the same?
Mcleodganj happens to be a suburb of Dharamshala itself in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It is a part of Dharamshala and is famous for its Tibetan culture.
Which is a better place to stay Dharamshala or Mcleodganj?
One should consider staying in Mcleodganj since this is the commercialized part of Dharamshala where there are plenty of good hotels, restaurants, markets, and touristy places.
How many days are enough for Dharamshala?
A duration of 2 to 3 days is ideal for a trip to Dharamshala. You can add a day for the Triund trek that is a must in Dharamshala.
How can I go to Dharamshala?
It’s pretty easy to reach Dharamshala. You can take a train to the nearest major railway station is of Pathankot which is just 85 km away from Dharamshala. Or you can also hire a vehicle or book an outstation cab and ride to Dharamshala via awesome views. For a cheaper option, you can book a seat in any of the private AC buses or state-run buses headed to Dharamshala from cities in North India like Delhi, Jaipur, and Chandigarh.
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