Dharamshala is a beautiful hill station located in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh in India. With its picturesque views and serene atmosphere, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Every year, tourists from India and abroad come to explore the beauty of this hill station. If you are planning a trip to Dharamshala, then you are in for a treat. In this blog post, we will tell you about the top places to visit near Dharamshala. From magnificent temples to pristine lakes and lush green forests, there are plenty of places to explore. We have curated a list of the best places to visit near Dharamshala that will make your trip more memorable. So, if you are looking for the perfect holiday destination, then this post is just what you need
KANGRA FORT
Kangra Fort is an ancient fort situated near Dharamshala in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It was built in the 18th century by the royal family of Kangra and was one of the strongest forts in the country. It has been a witness to many battles and is a great example of the architecture and military strategy of the time.
The fort has a fascinating history, having been built and destroyed many times over the centuries. It has been the residence of many rulers, including the Katoch dynasty, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and the British. The fort has served as a seat of power for many centuries and is one of the oldest forts in India.
The fort stands tall amidst the valleys of the lower Himalayan ranges and offers breathtaking views of the nearby scenery. Its walls are made of sandstone and granite and are more than 3 km in circumference. Visitors can explore its many chambers, bastions, and gates, which are all well-preserved. The fort also houses a temple of Lord Shiva.
Kangra Fort is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Dharamshala. It is a great way to learn about the region’s history, and admire its architecture and natural beauty.
NAGGAR
Nestled in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, Naggar is a small village situated about 15km from Dharamshala. It’s a popular tourist destination, with its lush green valley views, ancient monasteries, and tranquil atmosphere. The village is surrounded by the beautiful snow-covered Dhauladhar Mountains, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful summer retreat.
Naggar is home to numerous ancient monasteries, offering visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich Buddhist heritage. The most popular monastery is the Gompa Kari, which dates back to the 12th century and was once an important Buddhist learning center. Visitors can also explore some of the older temples, such as the Bhuri Singh Mandir, which was built in the 16th century.
The village is also known for its natural beauty, with its many hiking trails and views of the lush green valleys. It’s a great spot for a picnic or just a stroll, and you can also take a boat ride on the Beas River.
If you’re looking for an adventure, Naggar has plenty to offer. There are several outdoor activities, such as paragliding, bungee jumping, and rock climbing. You can also trek up to the famous Triund Hill, which is located near the village.
Naggar is an ideal destination for those looking for a peaceful getaway. It offers the perfect blend of ancient culture and natural beauty, making it a great spot for a relaxing holiday. Whether you’re looking for an adventure in the mountains or a peaceful retreat, Naggar is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
Mcleodganj
Mcleodganj is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Dharamshala. It is located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh and is a popular tourist destination for its Tibetan culture. The most popular attraction in Mcleodganj is the residence of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet. It is also home to many monasteries, temples, and other places of worship.
The Bhagsunath Temple is an ancient temple that is believed to have been built in the 16th century. It is located near a natural spring and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the area. The temple complex includes a tank, a Shiva temple, and a waterfall. The Shiva temple is especially popular among Hindus and Buddhists alike.
Dharamkot is another must-visit destination near Mcleodganj. It is a small village that is well known for its breathtaking views of the Kangra Valley and the surrounding snow-capped mountains. It is also home to many trekking trails and meditation centers. The village of Triund is at the top of a mountain and is a great place to explore and take in the views.
The city of Palampur is also close to Mcleodganj and is worth a visit. It is known for its tea plantations, colonial-era architecture, and the Lakhamandal temple complex. Palampur is also home to the popular Norbulingka Institute which is dedicated to promoting Tibetan culture and arts.