Pathankot to Dharamshala Distance, Route & Travel Options

Located in the scenic Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India.  Pathankot to Dharamshala road trip offer  a breathtaking  landscapes, serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The town is embraced by the magnificent Dhauladhar mountain range.

This town splits into two distinct parts – Upper Dharamshala and Lower Dharamshala. Upper Dharamshala, known as McLeod Ganj, serves as the residence of the Dalai Lama and is renowned for its vibrant Tibetan culture, while Lower Dharamshala thrives as a bustling commercial hub.

Pathankot to Dharamshala Distance

The distance between Pathankot and Dharamshala by road is 85 kilometers.  The travel time is approximately 2.5 hours by road via Nurpur.

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Best Time to visit from Pathankot to Dharamshala

The best time for a road trip to Dharamshala is favorable around the year. The Comfortable temperatures enhance the overall experience. However, it’s best to avoid the monsoon season from July to August due to slippery roads and common landslides.

Here are three popular routes:

1. Route 1: Pathankot to Dharamshala  – Jassur – Gaggal – Dharamshala This is the most common and preferred route. Take NH154 from Pathankot to Jassur, then the state highway to Gaggal, followed by a short drive to Dharamshala.
2. Route 2: Pathankot to Dharamshala – Nurpur – Indora – Dharamshala This route offers scenic views of Himachal Pradesh’s countryside. Take NH154 from Pathankot to Nurpur, then the state highway to Indora, and finally the road to Dharamshala.
3. Route 3:Pathankot to Dharamshala – Jassur – Palampur – Dharamshala This route passes through the tea gardens of Palampur. Take NH154 from Pathankot to Jassur, then the state highway to Palampur, and finally a short drive to Dharamshala.

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Places to visit along the route:

1. Kangra Fort – Located in the town of Kangra, this ancient citadel is one of the largest forts in the Himalayas.
2. Norbulingka Institute – Situated in Sidhpur, this institute promotes Tibetan art and culture, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
3. Tea Gardens – Near Dharamshala, you’ll encounter various tea gardens, including the renowned Palampur tea garden. Take a break to savor a cup of freshly brewed tea amidst the breathtaking views.

Places to eat along the route:

1. Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba – Situated on NH1, this dhaba is renowned for its delicious Punjabi cuisine, making it a popular stop for travelers.
2. Vyanjan – Located in Kangra, this restaurant serves authentic Himachali cuisine, including Dham and Siddu.
3. Lung Ta – Found in McLeod Ganj, this restaurant offers delectable Tibetan and Bhutanese cuisine, including Momos and Thukpa.

In conclusion

The journey from Pathankot to Dharamshala offers a delightful experience through picturesque landscapes and cultural delights. With a distance of 85 kilometers and a travel time of approximately 2.5 hours via Nurpur.

The travelers can choose from multiple scenic routes. Whether exploring the historic Kangra Fort, admiring Tibetan art at the Norbulingka Institute, or indulging in authentic cuisine along the way. This road trip from   Pathankot to Dharamshala promises memorable encounters.