Dharamshala is a hill station set gracefully in the beautiful Kangra Valley, amidst the snow-capped Dhauladhar Mountain ranges. It is a famous place among people of different hobbies and interests, especially nature lovers and adventure seekers as well as those who are searching for spirituality. It has a favorable climate, a beautiful green environment, and a beautiful cultural and historical heritage hence it is one of the best places to visit for a holiday. This extraordinary town has more to offer than the usual tourist sites that everyone stops by to visit; the town is renowned for its Tibetan culture and monasteries.
Are you tired of visiting the same places and doing the same thing over and over again? Then Dharamshala has some surprises for you. For a trove of trails, and the odd cafe to boot, pack your bags and see this Himalayan wonderland in a new light. In this article, let me guide you through some of the best tourist attractions and some of the interesting yet offbeat things to do in Dharamshala.
Top Things To Do In Dharamshala:
1. Enjoy the Nature’s Treasure Trove at Kareri Lake
Trekking to Kareri Lake is perhaps one of the untypical things to do in Dharamshala. While the trek to Triund is the more famous of the two treks, the trek to the Kareri Lake is a relatively less explored one but just as beautiful. There are forests, meadows at high altitudes, some of the secluded villages in the country, and finally, a heavenly mountainous lake of crystal-clear water the color of the sky at the trail’s end. When the camp is by the lake and you are sleeping outside under the stars, that is something to remember.
2. Visit the Norbulingka Institute: A Cultural Odyssey
The Institute is called Norbulingka and concentrates on the preservation of Tibetan culture, but it is rather difficult to pay attention to it as it is rather small. Stroll through the magnificent gardens, view the authentic Tibetan art Gallery, involving yourself in the customs of the place by watching the artisans at work. The temple dedicated to locals known as Deden Tsuglakhang is also located within the territory of the institute; it has marvelous murals and statues on the walls.
3. Paragliding in Bir Billing: Fly Like a Bird
Even though Bir Billing is a little out of Dharamshala it’s only a few hours’ drive and can easily be considered as a day trip. Popularly known as the paragliding capital of India, Bir Billing is probably one of the most thrilling experiences one can get flying over some valleys and some of the traditional mountainous villages here. The aerial view of the place is somewhat breathtaking and that is why it has become one of the most fascinating off-beat things to do near Dharamshala.
4. Take a Tour to the Rock Cut Temples of Masroor
The Masroor Rock Cut Temples, officially known as the ‘Ellora of the North’ are a small group of 15 Monolithic Rock Temples that depict the Gupta period of the 8th century. This magnificent archaeological site which is perhaps the only temple that is hewn out of a single stone is situated some forty kilometers from Dharamshala. The carving done on the walls and the beauty of the region provide beauty and give one an impression of the early capabilities of architects in the region hence a must-visit place for people who have an interest in archaic structures.
5. Get a Pottery Workshop at Andretta
To get a refreshingly authentic and rather artistic touch of the place, Andretta Pottery, and Craft Society is the place to visit. Pottery is also famous in a small village called Andretta, situated near Dharamshala. Have a pottery lesson and get to know how a potter Molds the clay from experienced individuals. Because therapy is inherent in the process, plus it is very rewarding and you can make your special souvenir to bring home.
6. Meditate at the Tushita Meditation Centre
Traveling is always lovely but when one gets a chance to be accorded a few moments of solitude, then that is a blessing. One of the centers for teaching and practicing Tibetan Buddhism and meditative Practices is the Tushita Meditation Centre in Upper Dharamshala which provides courses and sessions for drop-in. It is a great chance to plunge into a sparring and liberal sphere with experienced teachers to find your inner self and get closer to a state of conscious serenity.
7. Sip Coffee at Illiterati Books & Café
Continue discovering the town by the evening & relax at Illiterati Books & Café an eccentric café with influences of books and the Dhauladhar ranges in close vicinity. Comprehension is all the more important because all the shelves are filled with books from different genres, which is a dream for any lover of literature. Siesta in front of the television, read a novel, eat a cup of coffee, enjoy a plate of Italian pasta and serenity. It is ideal for one to sit and ponder on the next course of action or even take a break and sort yourself out.
8. Volunteer at Local NGO
Volunteering According to the given list of activities in Dharamshala, there are several organizations through which one could volunteer. The LHA Charitable Trust and Tong-Len Charitable Trust invite volunteers to assist in the teaching of English as well as computers and offering medical care to the refugee Tibetans. Charity work is one of the best and most enjoyable methods of interacting with the area's inhabitants while being on the trip.
Conclusion
If sightseeing is considered in a wider context, then Dharamshala is much more than a place of tourist interest, it is a voyage into the realm of Nature-Culture-Adventure. Thus, unless you deviate from the usual pattern of events and everyday routine, you come across something broader, deeper, and more profound. Be it hiking to the remote mountains in search of a small lake, visiting one of the oldest rock-cut temples carved out of a hill, or sipping tea in a quiet café tucked on the side of the hill, quirky things to do in Dharamshala do not disappoint. Therefore, it is time to fasten your seat belts and come forward to explore this beautiful Himalayan queen with Capture a Trip.
