About Dharamsala

Situated in the mighty ranges of the Himalayas and overlooking the Dhauladhar array of the mountains, stands the city Dharamsala. The name suggests “pilgrims’ resthouse”, though the city had transgressed the meaning a lot of years ago. The city has been the home for not only Indians and Hindus but also for the Budhhist followers who came down from Tibet with The Dalai Lama.

The view from Dharamsala


Dharamsala is a municipal council in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. The city has a long history of establishment. It has been through the rough patches of natural disasters and human invasions and settlements. It has seen the transcendence of ruling parties from the Royal families to the British governance to the present day government.

With all the natural beauty, Dharamsala is a favorite summer destination for tourists around the world. Budget to star rated hotels accommodate many tourists round the year. In a nutshell, the city has many things to offer in terms of historical importance and many attractions in lieu for nature lovers.

Tourism in Dharamsala

Dharamsala, as mentioned earlier, attracts many tourists to its land every year. There are a number of religious spots that attract people to the city. It includes the exile home of The Dalai Lama, the Jama Masjid and Church of St. John in Wilderness. It is very apparent that the city is in lieu with the constituency of India and provides religious shelter to all believers of all religions.

The city is also a great place for people interested in history since it provides the opportunity to visit old temples with rock carvings to museums with valuable relics.

Church at Dharamsala


Most importantly Dharamsala is a city where people mostly come to enjoy the weather and have a small spell of relaxation out of the hustle bustle of city life. The hill station is quite near to many big cities and is one of the favorite and preferred weekend spot in summers and autumns.

Additionally the city also holds a beautiful stadium that is capable of holding international cricket matches, Ranji matches and other cricket tournaments held between state teams. The city is also the venue for holding Film Festivals that showcase best regional and national movies.

Transportation in Dharamsala

Dharamsala is easily accessible by road, air and railway. The city does not have its own railway station or airport but can b reached by car from the nearest railway station or airport in a couple of hours. The roads are good and there are separate roads for trucks, buses and heavy vehicles making it comfortable for tourists and local commuters to roam around the city. Read More.....................

Geography of Dharamsala

Dharamsala is situated within the upper reaches of the Kangra Valley. The city is beautifully decorated and surrounded with forests that contain mainly deodar, pine and oak trees. The Summers are not very hot while the Winters are chilly in the city. The temperatures differ from the Lower Dharamsala to Upper Dharamsala owing to the difference between the altitudes. The city has a number of suburbs and together they make a good place to inhabit. The soil and land of Dharamsala are fertile for farming and irrigation. The city receives its water supply from the streams and lakes formed by melting glaciers from the mountains. Read More..................

Streams at Dhramsala


History of Dharamsala

Dharamsala has a long history that bears its existence from a long time. It has been part of two countries, Nepal and India. Presently it is situated in India and is the headquarters for Central Tibetan Administration.

The city has been under the rule of the ancient Katoch dynasty. With time, the rulers changed and the city witnessed a lot of settlements and migrations. The most important phase was the British Raj when the city was supposed to be declared the summer capital of the Raj. However, the earthquake of 1905 changed the decision and instead Shimla was declared the summer capital.

Historically the place recognizes many more incidents among which the exile of The Dalai Lama and the settlement of Tibetan community at Upper Dharamsala.

Dharamsala is the proud founder of 1st Gorkha Rifles of the Indian Army. The Gurkhas have settled in this city and have been instrumental during the World Wars. The most important participation of the Gurkhas for Dharamsala is the rebuilding of the city after the devastating earthquake of 1905.

Thus, a rich history follows the background of the scenic city of Dharamsala. Read More............

Business and Industries in Dharamsala

Dharamsala as such is not a center for industrial sphere. There are small industries that manufacture handicraft items and items made of wood.

Conifer Trees at Dharamsala


The main source of income for the local people in Dharamsala is the tourism industry. There are many hotels and restaurants that run with profit during the tourist seasons. Furthermore, the travel and tourism departments in Dharamsala are quite good. Buses, taxis and rented cars are frequently available here. Many local people sell local goods to tourists visiting Dharamsala. Since trekking is one of the major attractions of the city, trekking guides are also chosen for employment option here. Tourism industry provides the major contribution in business and commerce. Read More.................

Fact File of Dharamsala

Area: 29.51 km2
Longitude: 32.218°N
Latitude: 76.320°E
Population: 19,124
Density: 650 per sq kilometer
Male: 55%
Female: 45%
Literacy Rate: 77%
Telephone code: 01892
Pin Code: 176215
Vehicle Registration: HP 39, HP 68
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