Dharamshala
india
About Dharamshala
Home to the Dalai Lama and now a de-facto centre of Tibetan Buddhism, Dharamshala has a spiritual feel helped along by its peaceful setting below the green Dhauladhar mountains of northern India. It's a hub for hiking in the lush Kangra Valley and is also the gateway to nearby tea plantations. You can spend your days exploring the monasteries and temples or sipping chai at a hillside café in this cedar-fringed destination in India's Himachal Pradesh region.
Stick with the Tibetan theme and stay at a hostel in Dharamshala decorated in art inspired by the local culture. You can also choose places a little out of town among the trees near Bhagsunag Falls for easy access to hikes. Most hostels in Dharamshala have views of the mountains and one even includes a rooftop Indian restaurant serving spicy curries. Look out for accommodation with extras like yoga practice rooms, shared kitchens and cosy common areas.
Dharamshala is made up of two parts. Lower Dharamshala, or just Dharamshala, refers to Kotwali Bazaar and its surrounding markets. McLeod Ganj is the area most travellers are referring to when they talk of visiting the city. This hillside area is where the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile are based. The two areas are around a 30-minute drive from one another, linked by a steep and narrow road. McLeod Ganj is tiny and has one main street full of Tibetan-style cafés and bakeries, as well as bookshops and mountain equipment stores.
The Dalai Lama lives in the Tsuglagkhang Complex, along with about 200 fellow monks, making this the biggest Tibetan temple in the world outside Tibet. Inside, you can visit the Namgyal Monastery, with its colourful prayer wheels and flags. For some more historical sightseeing, head to Masroor to check out the 8th-century temples carved from rock. There's plenty of hiking in the area, from day walks to multi-week treks; a particular favourite is the trail to Kareri Lake, a tranquil spot with views of snow-topped peaks.
You can get to Dharamshala on an overnight air-conditioned bus from the Inter-State Bus Terminus in New Delhi, which takes about 12 hours. To reach Dharamshala from other large cities around India, catch the train to Pathankot (88km away) and then the bus to Dharamshala. Or fly to Kangra Airport, about 13km from Dharamshala, and take a taxi straight to McLeod Ganj once you land. Only taxis and small cars manage the drive up to McLeod Ganj from Lower Dharamshala.
City Info
30 Hostels in Dharamshala
Located in Dharamshala
One More Night welcome you in McLeod Ganj.
Located in Dharamshala
The Hosteller Kareri in McLeod Ganj provides accommodation with comfortable private rooms and dorm rooms.
Located in Dharamshala
Zostel Mcleodganj is below to Zostel group.
Located in Dharamshala
The first Zostel with an in-house club for partying, Zostel Plus Kareri has uber-cool features to make your stay a happening one, like a swimming pool, watchtowers, bonfire area, and commonspaces.
Located in Dharamshala
Located in Dharamshala, 17 km from HPCA Stadium, Dreamwoods - Hostel & Cafe provides accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge and a restaurant.
Located in Dharamshala
Hobo Hostel is featured with free wifi.
Located in Dharamshala
EEVOLVE in Dharamshala is 7.9 km from HPCA Stadium.
Located in Dharamshala
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Dharamkot, Utopia Hostels stands as a beacon of tranquility and serenity in the heart of the Himalayas
Located in Dharamshala
At the hostel, rooms are fitted with a private bathroom with a shower.
Located in Dharamshala
Mitra Hostel Dharmkot is situated in McLeod Ganj, with Boasting a terrace and views of garden.
Located in Dharamshala
Chill with us at Zostel Mcleod, our cosy backpacker hostel tucked in a scenic, peaceful corner of Dharamkot. Well connected, fun hostel with stunning mountain views & a great cafe.
Located in Dharamshala
Mitra Hostel Mcleodganj is Situated in Dharamshala, 7.3 km from HPCA Stadium.
Located in Dharamshala
Located in upper Bhagsu near Dharamkot, The Hosteller Mcleodganj, Bhagsu is a vibrant backpacker hostel themed around a fusion of Tibetan and Himachali art & culture mixed with modern & smart design.
Located in Dharamshala
Live Free McleodGanj is located within walking distance from the main temple of Dalai Lama and the market area which makes it easy for guests in sightseeing.
Located in Dharamshala
EDM Hostel offer cozy bed in Dharamshala.
Located in Dharamshala
Young Monk Hostel & Cafe Dharamkot features a restaurant and a shared lounge and garden in Dharamshala.
Located in Dharamshala
Around 7.8 km from HPCA Stadium and 2 km from Small waterfall, La siesta India Mcleodganj welcomes your stay with us.
Located in Dharamshala
Sky Pie Guest House features a tour desk, and currency exchange for guests.
Located in Dharamshala
A five minute walk from the colourful Mall Road, this hostel is in the middle of all the action without being overwhelming when you want to kick back and relax.
Located in Dharamshala
Featuring a garden, shared lounge and views of mountain, Chinmay Hostel is located in McLeod Ganj, 9.1 km from HPCA Stadium.
Located in Dharamshala
The hotel offers clean rooms with beautiful Himalayas views and high-speed Wi-Fi.
Located in Dharamshala
The Alt Life Hostel in Dharamkot is a Brand New Experience in the Backpacking Narrative.
Located in Dharamshala
Moustache Mcleodganj is featured with comfy beds.
Located in Dharamshala
The Bunksters Dharamkot is near McLeod Ganj in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.
Located in Dharamshala
Our amazing staff can help you planing the perfect activities for your stay.
Located in Dharamshala
Set in Dharamshala, 11 km from HPCA Stadium, La Montana offers accommodation with a garden and free private parking.
Located in Dharamshala
The Hostel Stories Dharamkot - Mcleodganj features a shared lounge.
Located in Dharamshala
Located in McLeod Ganj, 9.2 km from HPCA Stadium, Rahgir Hostel has accommodations with a terrace, private parking and a restaurant.
Located in Dharamshala
Sortby Stays is a serene hostel in a picturesque valley, surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains.
Located in Dharamshala
Located in Dharamshala, Hotel King Castle (McLeod Ganj) is providing best Dormitory in Mcleodganj Area, we understand about comfortable & clean room.
Dharamshala is a fantastic destination for backpackers offering a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and affordability. Whether you're planning a short trip or making it part of a longer backpacking journey, this city should definitely be included in your travel itinerary. When looking for accommodation in Dharamshala, hostels provide the best value and opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
Whether you're looking for a social party hostel, a quiet retreat, a centrally located base for exploring the city, or something in between, Dharamshala has options for every type of traveler. Many hostels in Dharamshala offer additional amenities like free breakfast, communal kitchens, outdoor spaces, and organized activities.
When visiting Dharamshala, don't miss the opportunity to:
- Explore the local cuisine and nightlife
- Visit historical landmarks and cultural sites
- Connect with other travelers at hostel events
- Discover hidden gems off the tourist path in Dharamshala