Quick Facts

Quick Facts

 General Overview

• Location: Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, India
• Altitude: ~1,457 meters (4,780 ft) above sea level
• Famous for: Tibetan culture, monasteries, and Himalayan landscapes
• Nickname: Little Lhasa of India

 Spiritual Significance

• Home of the Dalai Lama – Official residence in McLeod Ganj
• Tibetan Government-in-Exile – Based in Dharamshala since 1960
• Major hub of Tibetan Buddhism

 Historical Facts

• Originally a British cantonment established in 1848
• Became a refuge for Tibetan exiles after 1959

 Main Attractions

• McLeod Ganj – The cultural heart, filled with monasteries and cafes
• Namgyal Monastery – Personal monastery of the Dalai Lama
• Bhagsunag Waterfall & Temple
• Triund Trek – A popular trek with stunning Himalayan views
• Dal Lake – Small scenic lake surrounded by deodar trees

 Climate

• Summer: Pleasant (April–June)
• Monsoon: Heavy rains (July–September)
• Winter: Cold and snowy in upper regions (Dec–Feb)
• Best time to visit: March to June and October to November

 Interesting Fact

• Dharamshala Cricket Stadium – One of the highest sports grounds in the world, with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains