Dharamsala, one of the most exotic and beautiful hill resorts of India, is situated on the high slopes of the Kangra Valley against the picturesque backdrop of the amazing Dhauladhar mountain ranges in the lower Himalayas. The hill resort is divided into lower and upper towns having an altitude difference of about 1500ft. between them. The hill resort set in exotic surroundings of lush green forests comprising of beautiful pine trees and velvety tea gardens, is known for its exceptional natural beauty, calmness and serenity. Dharamsala is also famous as the travelers base camp, who come to explore the nearby mountains.

One of the major advantages in visiting Dharamsala is its easily accessible snowline. You can easily trek upto the milky snowline after an early morning's start. When the sun rises and its rays fall upon the glossy snow, they are reflected back in the valley in all the seven colors of the rainbow, creating a spectacular view that mesmerizes all its visitors.

Dharamsala also gained enormous popularity because of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama. Dharamsala has been the Dalai Lama's home since 1959. The Tibetans monastery is situated amidst beautiful surroundings of hill slopes with flower beds and underground electric lighting. All along are stone walks, elegant wooden benches and covered decorated shelters. There is also an artificial stream flowing through and tanks filled with gleaming gold fish adding more charm to its beauty.

Major Attractions
Mcleod Ganj: Famous for the Buddha temple situated opposite the present abode of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama. Tibetan monasteries and nunnery are other attractions situated in the town. Chamunda Devi: The famous temple of Chamunda Devi is dedicated to the Goddess Chamunda Devi. It is situated in the village of Dadh, 15 km from Dharamsala. It provides enchanting glorious views of the mountains, the Baner Khud, Pathiar and Lahla forests.

Norbulinka Institute: Located at 4 Km from Dharamsala, Norbulinka is famous for its Norbulingka Institute of Tibetan Culture founded by the Department of Religion and Culture to preserve and promote Tibetan art and culture in exile. This place has a deep Japanese influence.

War Memorial: a beautiful memorial built near the entry point to Dharamsala. It was built to commemorate the memory of those who fought in defense of the motherland.

Triund: Located at 17km from Dharamsala it lies at the foot of the snow clad Dhauladhar at a height of 2827 m. It is a popular picnic and trekking spot.

Kunnal Pathri: The spot is famous for a rock temple of the local goddess at about 3 km from Kotwali Bazaar

Dal Lake: The picturesque Dal Lake is located at about 11km from Dharamsala. It is beautifully surrounded by fir trees.

Venur: Located at 30 km from Dharamsala, Venur is famous for the Gomateshwara statue built in 1605 AD by an Ajila Prince.

Other major attractions include the Shrine of Bhagasunath, Lord Eligin's Memorial, Namgyal Monastery and St. John's Church In Wilderness among many others.

How to reach
By Air: Nearest airport at Gaggal is at about 12 km from Dharamsala. Indian Airlines operates flights thrice a week from Delhi on Monday, Wednesday and Friday

By Rail: Nearest Railhead is Pathankot at 85 km from Dharamsala. The town is well connected by rail from all major cities of India via Pathankot Dharamsala. Kangra Mandir Railway Station on narrow gauge is 22 km away and is closest to Dharamsala.

By Road: Dharamsala is well connected by all weather-metalled road to all major towns nearby. Pathankot is only at 85 km from Dharamsala by road.