Welcome to Dharamshala! If you are here, chances are that you’re looking for the quickest way to get from Chandigarh to Dharamshala. Well, we’ve got you covered. This blog will tell you all about the route from Chandigarh to Dharamshala and also give pointers on how to reach this beautiful town. We’ll discuss all the options you have when it comes to travelling from one city to another, like flying or driving.
If you’re looking for an adventure that combines stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and the thrill of the open road, a road trip from Chandigarh to Dharamshala is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Related Article: 5 Best Dharamshalas In Chandigarh – Find the Perfect Spot
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How to Reach Dharamshala from Chandigarh
To reach Dharamshala from Chandigarh, you can opt for the route via Rupnagar, Anandpur Sahib, Amb and Kangra. It takes around 4 hours to drive from Chandigarh to Dharamsala. The best part is that it takes 5 hours by bus and 4h 11m by car. The road route is shorter but it has many twists and turns in between. Embark on a journey through the winding roads of the Himalayas with us as we take you on a road trip from Chandigarh to Dharamshala.
Popular Routes and Transportation Options
- Flying from Chandigarh to Dharamshala is the most popular route and it costs around $219. This includes airfare and taxes.
- There are also multiple options for travelling by bus on this route. You can opt for a comfortable bus with safety and comfort features such as Wi-Fi, AC, reclining seats, etc. The cost of a bus like this will vary from Rs 2,500-3,000 depending on the type of bus and the number of stops you make.
- Alternatively, you can opt for a non-AC bus that offers cheaper but more comfortable rides. The fare for a non-AC bus is usually between Rs 1,250 and Rs 2,000, depending on the number of stops made.
- Tourists can also opt for a 3-day taxi tour from Chandigarh to Dharamshala starting at a rate of Rs 9,000. This will cover all expenses such as food and accommodation while giving you a chance to experience some of the best highlights in Dharamshala.
- However, tourists must ensure that they have their itinerary well planned before booking any transport options to avoid any disappointment later on.
What to See and Do in Dharamshala
If you’re in Dharamshala, you won’t want to miss out on a trip to the magnificent Dalai Lama Temple Complex. Set in the heart of the city, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important places to learn about Tibetan culture and Buddhism.
The complex contains the Pabongkhag Jangchubling Palace, where the 14th Dalai Lama lived for more than 40 years, and the Norbulingka Buddhist Institute, which was built between 1959 and 1985. Inside both structures, you can see religious artifacts from Tibet’s history and also view art galleries showcasing contemporary works from local artists.
Another must-do in Dharamshala is exploring the picturesque St. John in the Wilderness Church. This church has been around for over 100 years and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in McLeodganj, an English-influenced area of the city. The church has two steeples, a bell tower and a verandah that provides spectacular views of nearby fields and forests.
A short trip on the road will take you to the Mall Road. Here you can find souvenir shops selling everything from clothes and handicrafts to food items made by local artisans. There are also many restaurants serving traditional Indian dishes as well as British cuisine. A short detour will take you to Talnoo Lake or Bhagsunag Waterfall, which offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains and riverside forests.
Finally, if you have time, don’t forget to visit Lord Elgin’s final resting place at Mcleodganj cemetery where he lies buried alongside his wife and children.
Where to Stay in Dharamshala
Dharamshala is a popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh with its British colonial heritage and rural beauty. There are various accommodation options for you to choose from, ranging from luxurious star-rated hotels to budget resorts. Some popular options include The Divine Hima (Star-rated), Prakruti Aalay, Hotel Shivani International (Deluxe), Udechee Huts, and Pink House (budget). Get a sense of the British colonial lifestyle while staying in the upper portion of the hill town, known for its Forsytheganj and Mcleodganj suburbs. You can also explore various attractions at Dharamshala like Ashoka Stupa, Yamla Hills etc. If you are planning a trip to this beautiful place, do not forget to explore its vast tourism offerings in detail.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
If you’re planning a trip from Chandigarh to Dharamshala, a tour package from the city is the best way to go. Tour packages help you plan your journey and make sure you don’t miss out on any important details. They can include visits to local attractions and sights, as well as booking hotels, flights, and other transportation. This saves time and energy and ensures that your trip is fun and worry-free. Discover the stunning beauty of Himachal Pradesh with our guide to travelling from Chandigarh to Dharamshala.
A 4-day tour from Chandigarh to Dharamshala would cost approximately Rs 9,000-10,000 for a sedan taxi and ₹ 12-14,000 for an Innova. After breakfast, drive back to Chandigarh to end the tour.
As you can see, a road trip from Chandigarh to Dharamshala is an epic adventure that offers a glimpse into the rich culture and stunning natural beauty of the Himalayas. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable journey.
FAQ’s
What is the best route to take from Chandigarh to Dharamshala?
The best route to reach Chandigarh to Dharamshala is “Chandigarh > Rupnagar > Anandpur Sahib > Amb > Kangra > Dharamshala”.
What are some of the major attractions that can be seen along the route?
Some of the major attractions that can be seen in Dharamshala are:
1. The St. John Church in the Wilderness: This church is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists who visit Dharamshala to pay their respects to Guru Rinpoche.
2. Ancient temples like Brijeshwari, Jwalamukhi, and Chamunda: These temples date back to at least the 7th century AD and are some of the oldest structures in the region.
3. Tourist spots such as War Memorial, Kotwali Bazar, and Kangra Art Museum: These places offer tourists a glimpse into the local culture and history.
4. Dharamshala is a popular trekking destination with scenic trails that provide great views of the lush green forests, snowy peaks, and miles of stretching tea gardens.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of travelling by road versus travelling by rail?
There are a few advantages and disadvantages to travelling by rail versus travelling by road.
The main advantage of travelling by rail is that it can be more time-consuming than travelling by road. For instance, if you’re travelling from city A to city B by train, it may take you longer than travelling from city A to city C by car. However, this is not always the case.
Another advantage of travelling from Chandigarh to Dharamshala by rail is that it can be more expensive than travelling by road. For example, if you’re travelling from city A to city B by train, it may cost you more than travelling from city A to city C by car. However, this may not always be the case.
Travelling by rail can also be less comfortable than travelling by road. For example, if you’re travelling from city A to city B by train, you may have to sit in a cramped and uncomfortable car for hours on end.
Finally, Travelling by rail can be slower than travelling by road. This is because trains need to go through lengthy railway tunnels or federally-owned tracks in order to reach their destinations as quickly as possible.
What are some of the notable tourist destinations that can be visited along the route?
Some of the notable tourist destinations that can be visited during the route include Chandigarh to Dharamshala, Ladakh, and Leh. Each destination offers a unique experience that is worth exploring. It is advisable to make a trip to all of the destinations on the route. The best way to tour the route is by car. There are a number of car rental companies that can be used to explore the route.
