DHARAMSHALA

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INFO

Dharamshala has a spectacular getting along a spur of the dhauladhar range, varying height from 1250 meters at the “lower town “bazaar to 1768 meters at the pleasanter Mcleodganj. t is this “upper” end more attractive part of town that attracts the bulk of visitors. Surrounded by forests of chirpines , rhododendron and Himalayan Oak ,is it set against a back drop of high peaks on three sides ,with superb views over the Kangra valley and shivaliks ,and of the great granite mountains that almost overhang the town.

The hill station was established by the British between 1815 and 1847,but remained a minor town until the dalai lama settled here after Chinese invasion of Tibet in October 1959 .There is an obvious Tibetan influence in Mcleodganj .The Tibetan community has tended to take over the hospitality business ,sometimes a cause of friction with the local population. Now many westerns come here because they are particularly interested in Buddhism Meditation or the Tibetan cause.

Dharamsala is known for its scenic beauty, calmness and serenity. It has high pine trees, tea gardens and timber yielding trees.

An earthquake once wrecked Dharamsala in 1905. Since 1960, it became temporary headquarters of the Dalai Lama and has risen to international repute as " The little Lhasa in India".

After the Indo-Chinese and Indo-Pak wars, the govt. erected war memorials of jawans and officers belonging to Kangra, who died in the war.

Tibetan environment has been created in the high altitude, and more than 3000 Tibetans have made Dharamsala their temporary home, living mostly in Mcleod Ganj. To add to its beauty, there is an artificial stream flowing, gleaming with gold fish.

Tibetans took shelter in India in 1959. In the wake of Dalai Lama’s flight from Tibet, 85000 Tibetans were devastated. Their spiritual leader hasn’t given up the hope of a free Tibet, but to keep the Tibetan art alive, efforts have been made to preserve them. Tibet’s unique form of Thongka painting, woodcarving, metal –crafts and music are very famous. Tibetan works and archive are preserved in the library at Dharamsala where Buddhist monks from distant refugee camps come to study ancient manuscripts.

SIGHTS

Mcleod Ganj

Tibet has lent importance to Mcleod Ganj. The Buddha temple is situated opposite the present abode of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama. This place is well worth a visit and around it is situated Tibetan monasteries and nunnery. A number of residential buildings, restaurants, antique and curio shops are present. There is an annual 10-day fair opera in Dharamsala, which takes place on the second saturday of April.

War Memorial

It is a very beautiful place to visit in the afternoon. This memorial is built near the entry point to Dharamsala. It was built to commemorate the memory of those who fought in defense of the motherland. People offer prayers at this memorial place.

Triund

It is 17km from Dharamsala and lies at the foot of the snow clad Dhauladhar at a height of 2827 m. It is a popular picnic and trekking spot.

Lord Eligin's Memorial (1860)

It is a world famous church built in the memory of lord Elgin, the Scottish working peer and eighth Viceroy. In 1896, he took vacations from official Shimla. He was not able to finish his four-year term and died in Dharamsala. Before his death he had given instructions to be buried in the Church of St. John. Inside the church is the monument of this Viceroy.

Dal lake

The picturesque Dal Lake is about 11km from Dharamsala. It is surrounded by fir trees. There is an annual fair in Sept. and is largely attended by Gaddis and other hill men.

Bhagsu

The shrine of Bhagsunath is famous for its ancient temple. It is 11km from lower town. Slate quarries are found here. There is a tank and spring which are considered sacred by the Hindus.

IMPORTANT FACTS

Accessibility                    Local Transport – Taxis, Buses.

By Air                                 Nearest airport 12km away at Gaggal.

By Rail                               The convenient rail head is at Pathankot at a distance of 90km . 

By Road                             Dharamsala is directly linked by all  road with Pathankot , Mandi , Kangra, Palampur .

STD Code                          01892

Area                                   28.81 sq. km. (2881acres)

Altitude                              Between 1250m and 1980m

Climate                              Summer    max. 38^O c min. 22^O c     Winter     max.14.5^O c and min 0^O c.

Clothing                             Cotton and light in summer and heavy woolens in  winter.

Best season                     March-June, Sept- Nov