Over the past few years, Indians from every part of the country have taken to traveling and exploring. From mountains to deserts, and waterfalls to beaches, tourism in India has become a highly lucrative industry. Working professionals across the nation have been giving up their jobs in cities to travel full time. It is exhilarating and liberating for them to give up their 9-5 corporate jobs and embrace freedom as their full-time profession.
When we talk about freedom, the mountains come to our mind. John Muir’s famous quote “The mountains are calling and I must go.” has become a hot favorite among backpackers and travelers. Himachal Pradesh is one such tourist hotspot that has become immensely popular in recent years. Whenever someone talks about taking a trip Himachal comes to everyone’s mind. Manali, Spiti, Dalhousie, Kinnaur, Shimla, Kasol, Barot, Lahaul, and Dharamsala are among the most visited tourist destinations in Himachal.
One of these famous destinations, Dharamsala, also known as the winter capital of the state has witnessed a record number of tourists over the past few years. The city is popular due to its easy accessibility, favourable temperature, great hotels, and abundant natural beauty. Apart from the mainstream places that one can visit in the region, there are a number of hidden gems that one can explore.
Here is a list of places you can visit while you’re visiting Dharamsala:
Dharamkot
Located in the crest of the hill above Mcleodganj, Dharamkot is a beautiful hamlet that has become popular especially among youngsters looking to chill amidst nature. With cafes like Trek n Dine, Morgan’s Place, Moonlight Cafe, and many other Dharamkot is the ideal spot for you to have a great time over the weekend. The spectacular view of the might Dhauladhars can leave you spellbound. The Vipassana meditation center in Dharamkot is a top choice for people looking for a spiritual experience that rejuvenates their souls. In the past few years, Dharamkot has become a hot favourite among travelers looking for tranquillity and natural beauty. The place is also popular among Israeli tourists who can be found here in great numbers.
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Kharota
Although this spot is more popular among the locals, the scenes of nature from this point are magnificent. Located above the Khanayara Valley in Dharamsala, the place is located at a mountain top. Travelers can reach here through their personal vehicles and taxis from the main Khanyara market. After parking their vehicles at the main stop, you can reach the top after a small hike and the view becomes even more magnanimous. This place is a must-visit when you’re in Dharamsala, you can know more about this place after enquiring from the locals. From the hilltop, you can also see Camp Lungta a famous camping destination where people swim, camp, spend blissful evenings, and enjoy.
Gallu Temple
Gallu Temple is the base for the famous trek to Triund. Almost everyone who visited Dharamsala has visited and stayed over at Triund. But very few of them sit down to explore Gallu and take in the natural beauty of the place. The Gallu Devi Temple has an ancient history and is revered by the locals. It is also the registry point for people who are soon to begin their trek to Triund.
Dorzong Monastic Institute
Located 20 km from Dharamsala, near Gopalpur village, Dorzong Monastic Institute is a beautiful Buddhist temple located in a serene environment. The place is more peaceful than any other place you’ve seen and is yet unexplored. It is not even very popular among the locals and has few visitors. Nevertheless, located in the middle of nowhere this place is a treat to the eyes and a remedy for the soul. This place must make it to your must-visit list when you’re in Dharamsala.
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Indrunag
This is another famous spot among the locals of the area which presents a bird’s eye view of the entire city. The place is called Indrunag because of the famous temple located in the area. Recently, a number of campsites have been coming up in Indrunag as well as adventure sports such as Ziplining, paragliding, and many more. The view from this place will not disappoint you as it’s the perfect place to look at the entire city and marvel at its beauty.
Apart from the places mentioned above, Dharamsala is home to many more beautiful hidden gems that need to be explored and are much more fun than the usual tourist hotspots. These offbeat places are blessed with marvelous beauty and will strike a chord with your visual senses for sure. Far from the hustle-bustle of the mainstream destinations, these places will surely win your hearts. The next time you visit Dharamsala be sure to keep these places in the mind and you will be pleasantly surprised.