Dharamshala from Delhi: Travel Options | Things to do
Getting Dharamshala from Delhi is a commonly asked question, given the popularity of both destinations. Dharamshala perches in Himachal Pradesh of Northern state of India. It is particularly favored by spiritual seekers and backpackers, travelers interested in experiencing Buddhism in India. However, the distance between Delhi and Dharamshala is not short.
Traveling to Dharamshala from Delhi can be accomplished through various modes of transportation. Depending on your preference, you can opt to travel by flight, train, or bus to Dharamshala from Delhi.
Suggested Read: Dharamsala to Rishikesh: Travel Options & Budget Tips
By Flight
For the quickest journey from Delhi to Dharamshala, flying is your best bet. Several airlines like SpiceJet, IndiGo Airlines, and Helitrans offer direct flights, cutting down travel time to just around 1 hour.
Ticket prices typically range from INR 4000 to INR 15000 per person, and you can easily book your tickets online. Departing from Delhi Airport (DEL) and landing at Dharamshala Airport (DHM), also known as Kangra Airport or Gaggal Airport.
The airport is situated roughly 15 km from Dharamshala town. From there, you can conveniently hail a taxi or catch a bus to reach your final destination.
- If not booked well in advance, Delhi to Dharamshala flight prices can be high as the frequency of flights is low.
- Be prepared for potential cancellations, especially during late December or January due to fog in Delhi or inclement weather in Dharamshala, making landing difficult.
- The Kangra (Dharamshala) Airport is about a two and a half hour drive from Dharamshala town, offering a scenic mountain drive.
On the other hand, flying will get you to Dharamshala faster, allowing you more time to explore once you arrive. Whichever mode of transport you choose, be sure to factor in potential delays due to traffic or weather, especially if you’re traveling during the monsoon season.
Note: In case of flight cancellations, you can rely on a bus from Delhi to Dharamshala as an alternative. However, it’s essential to plan your onward connections carefully when booking a flight between Delhi and Dharamshala.
Suggested Read: Mcleod Ganj Dharamsala: “Into the Land of the Dalai Lama
Dharamshala From Delhi by Train
There isn’t a direct train from Delhi to Dharamshala, but you can take a train from Delhi to Amb Andaura or Una Himachal, which are the closest railway stations to Dharamshala. The train journey typically takes about 6 to 7 hours and costs between INR 300 and INR 1000 per person.
You can book your train tickets online on websites like IRCTC or Cleartrip. Trains depart from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) and arrive at either Amb Andaura Railway Station (AADR) or Una Himachal Railway Station (UHL) or From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Dharamshala, which is about 70 km away.
You can consider also Pathankot Railway Station, which is the nearest railhead that requires an additional 2.5-hour drive after the train journey.
- Pathankot has two railway stations: Pathankot City and Pathankot Cantonment. Include both options when searching for a train to ensure you find the most suitable option for your travel plans.
Here are some points to consider when opting for a train from Delhi to Dharamshala:
- Indian Railway bookings open 120 days in advance, so it is our recommendation to book your tickets as early as possible to secure your seats.
- If regular tickets are not available, explore options under the Tourist Quota.
Suggested Read: Dharamshala From Delhi by Train: Timing, Duration & Routes
Tsuglagkhang Main Temple
By Road
Traveling to Dharamshala from Delhi is a breeze with the well-connected roadways. You have the option of hopping on a bus or hiring a cab, both of which will take you along the NH 154 and NH 503 highways. The journey promises stunning views, though keep in mind that weather and traffic can influence travel time. Covering approximately 480 km, the trip typically takes around 11 to 12 hours by bus. So, settle in, enjoy the scenic route, and anticipate reaching Dharamshala in about half a day’s time!
Dharamshala Elevation
Dharamshala is in the Kangra Valley and shadowed by the majestic Dhauladhar mountains. It boasts an average elevation of 1,457 meters (4,780 feet) and spans an area of approximately 8.51 square kilometers (3.29 square miles).
McLeodganj Dharamshala
People often use McLeodganj and Dharamshala interchangeably. Dharamshala is in 2 parts, upper Dharamshala refers as McLeodganj is situated at a higher elevation, closer to trekking trails and Buddhist monasteries.
Here are some of the top things to do in Dharamshala:
Visit McLeod Ganj:
Explore Upper Dharamsala, known as McLeod Ganj, situated 5km uphill from Dharamshala city. Experience the rich Buddhist culture, Tibetan history, and peaceful ambiance in this area often referred to as ‘Little Lhasa’. Don’t miss the chance to visit the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama.
Explore the Dalai Lama (Tsuglagkhang) Temple Complex:
Discover the Tsuglagkhang Complex, the largest Tibetan temple outside Tibet and the official residence of the Dalai Lama. Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture and spirituality as you explore this significant site. Adjacent to the complex, visit the Kalachakra Temple and offer your prayers at the Buddhist shrine.
Discover Namgyal Monastery:
Founded by the 3rd Dalai Lama in 1575, Namgyal Monastery was relocated to Dharamshala during the 1959 Tibetan uprising. This monastery, home to around 200 Tibetan monks, is a popular attraction where visitors can learn about Tibetan culture and find serenity through meditation.
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