Overview
The hill town of Dharamshala occupies a position along a spur of the Dhauladhar Range in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Unlike other cool retreats of the country, the town, apart from offering numerous short and long walks, is also known for its special Tibetan influence. After the Chinese invaded Tibet, it was here that the Dalai Lama and his disciples sough refuge. The town also has one of the best schools of Tibetan studies. So, there's also an option to hit the books and have an insightful view of Tibet and its exotic culture. For tourists, there is lots more to soak up and experience.

Climate & Best Time
You would experience a fairly temperate climate in Dharamshala. Summer temperatures rarely cross the limit of 40 degrees centigrade. The lowest temperature during winters hovers around zero degrees. The monsoons, however, are quite prominent here. Annual rainfall ranging between 290 cm and 390 cm wets the town thoroughly from July till August. The ideal time for you to make a trip here is either between October and December or from March to June.

Places to Visit
Apart from heart-stopping views of snow-laden mountains, Dharamshala has an irresistible charm in terms of culture. There are monasteries, churches and temples that are a must-visit for travellers.

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» McLeod Ganj
The place mights make you feel as if you are at Lhasa in Tibet. Such is the influence exerted by clusters of monasteries and statues of Lord Buddha. Besides, it is here that Dalai Lama resides.

» Jwalamukhi Temple
A major attraction for tourists here is this temple, dedicated to Goddess of Light. You wouldn't notice any idol worshipping here. Instead, there is a constantly burning blue flame which is worshipped.

» St John's Church
The church can be visited as you advance towards Forsythe Ganj from McLeod Ganj. Another attraction here is the tom of Lord Elgin, one of the former viceroys of British India.

» Bhagsunag Falls
The picturesque waterfall is a big draw for visitors to Dharashala. It is located at a distance of 11 km from Lower Dharamshala.

Stay Options
Dharamshala hasn't yet come up with a five-star deluxe. However, it offers quite a few resorts where its visitors can feel entirely at home. You can choose to stay at the Surya Resorts (Upper Dharamshala) or Bhagsu (HPTDC).

Getting There
The Gaggal Airport of Dharamshala has flights (thrice a week) from Delhi and Kullu. The closest railhead is Pathankot, which is 90 km from the town of Dharamshala. From Pathankot, you hire a taxi to Dharamshala. Through road routes, the town has links with Chandigarh (239kms), Amritsar (200kms), Delhi (514kms), Dalhousie (55kms), Shimla (322kms) etc.

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