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Dharamkot : A Charming Hippie Village

Dharamkot, a charming hippie village nestled in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, sits perched above McLeodganj offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Dhauladhar ranges. Located at an altitude of 2100m, this serene hill station has evolved from an off-the-beaten-path destination to a beloved retreat for spiritual seekers, trekkers, and travelers seeking respite from city life. The area gained prominence in the 1960s and 70s following the establishment of the 14th Dalai Lama's residence in nearby McLeodganj, transforming the region into a spiritual hub with a unique blend of Tibetan, Indian, and international cultures. What makes this village special is its distinctive vibe – a magical mix of spiritual energy, natural serenity, and communal warmth that awakens all senses with the sounds of mountain birds, whistling deodar leaves, and distant aromas of herb-based cooking.

 

Dharamkot serves as the perfect base for multiple treks, including the popular Triund (9km away at 2,827m), Illaqua (where the most accessible Himalayan snow line begins), and Indrahar Pass. The village is characterized by narrow pathways rather than roads, encouraging visitors to explore on foot and discover hidden waterfalls, viewpoints, and meditation spots adorned with Buddhist prayer flags.
 

Beyond its natural beauty, Dharamkot is renowned for its vibrant café culture with establishments like Trek and Dine, Moonlight Café, and Blue Caterpillar serving exceptional international cuisine (particularly Italian dishes and the famous Bhagsu cake), herbal teas, and even local fruit wines. The spiritual aspect of Dharamkot is anchored by centers like Dhamma Shikara for Vipassana meditation and Tushita for Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism, alongside numerous yoga retreats catering to those seeking physical and mental rejuvenation. Whether wandering through Lower Dharamkot's budget accommodations or enjoying Upper Dharamkot's premium stays, visitors find themselves immersed in an environment where the hustle of urban life fades away, replaced by the pure, unhurried rhythm of mountain living.

Young Monk Dharamkot Map

Places To Visit In Dharamkot

Trekking/Hiking Adventures
 

Triund Trek

  • Starting point: Dharamkot village

  • Distance: 9 km one way

  • Altitude: 2,827 meters

  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

  • Special features: Most accessible snow line in the Himalayas begins at Ilaqua (4 km beyond Triund)

  • Panoramic views: 360° vista of Dhauladhar range and Kangra Valley
     

Indrahar Pass

  • Challenging extension of the Triund Trek at 4,342 meters

  • Multi-day adventure through alpine meadows and rocky terrain

  • Historical significance as an ancient trade route between Kangra and Chamba valleys

  • Trek difficulty: Moderate to difficult, best attempted May-June or September-October

​

Kareri Lake Trek

  • Starting point: Kareri Village (approx. 25 km from Dharamkot)

  • Distance: 13 km one way

  • Altitude: 2,934 meters

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Special features: Crystal-clear glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped Dhauladhar peaks

  • Panoramic views: Alpine meadows, dense pine forests, and spectacular mountain vistas

  • Best season: April-June and September-November

  • Duration: 2-3 days round trip

  • Camping: Overnight camping available at the lakeside with basic facilities

​

Illaqua

  • Located 4 km beyond Triund at the foot of the Dhauladhar range

  • Beginning of the most accessible snow line in the entire Himalayan range

  • Spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and valleys below

  • Ideal for camping under starlit skies (seasonal)

​

Gallu Waterfall

  • Starting point: Dharamkot village

  • Distance: 3 km one way

  • Altitude: 2,200 meters

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Special features: Serene waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and streams

  • Panoramic views: Scenic views of the surrounding hills and dense forests

Cultural Heritage
 

St. John's Church

  • Distance: 2.2 km from Dharamkot

  • Features: Beautiful Norman architecture with Belgian stained glass windows

  • Historical significance: Built during British colonial period

  • Setting: Surrounded by verdant pine forests

  • Accessibility: Short drive or moderate walk from Dharamkot
     

Kangra Art Museum

  • Distance: 2.7 km from Dharamkot

  • Features: Extensive collection of Kangra Valley art and artifacts

  • Highlights: Traditional Kangra paintings, ancient sculptures, historical items

  • Cultural importance: Preserves the artistic heritage of the region

  • Accessibility: Located in central Dharamshala, easily reachable by taxi


Chamunda Devi Temple

  • Distance: 19.7 km from Dharamkot

  • Religious significance: Sacred Hindu temple dedicated to goddess Chamunda

  • Features: Traditional hill architecture with spiritual importance

  • Cultural aspect: Regular religious ceremonies and festivals

  • Accessibility: 45-minute drive from Dharamkot


Bagalamukhi Mata Temple

  • Distance: 15 km from Dharamkot

  • Religious significance: Ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Bagalamukhi, one of the ten Mahavidyas

  • Features: Distinctive yellow-colored shrine with traditional Himachali architecture

  • Cultural aspect: Important pilgrimage site known for fulfilling devotees' wishes, especially against enemies

  • Rituals: Special pujas performed with yellow offerings (flowers, sweets, clothes)​

  • Accessibility: 40-minute scenic drive from Dharamkot through mountain roads

​

Dalai Lama Temple (Tsuglagkhang Complex)

  • Purpose: Spiritual center for Tibetan Buddhism and residence of the Dalai Lama

  • Activities: Tibetan Buddhist teachings, prayer ceremonies, and meditation sessions

  • Key features: Sacred shrines, beautiful murals, and Tibetan architecture

  • Historical significance: Established after the Dalai Lama's exile to India in 1959

  • Location: McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala

  • Visitors: Open to tourists and pilgrims for peaceful reflection and spiritual practices

​Must-Visit Places
 

  • Bhagsu Temple & Waterfall : 4 km from Dharamkot, near Bhagsu Nag Temple

  • Dal Lake : Serene mountain lake surrounded by dense deodar forests 5.2 km from Dharamkot

  • Naddi View Point : Panoramic sunset views of the Dhauladhar mountain range and Kangra Valley, 5.7 km from Dharamkot

  • Dharamshala Cricket Stadium : Setting amidst the breathtaking Himalayan backdrop 9.8 km from Dharamkot

  • ​Kalachakra temple : 2.5 km from Dharamkot, it is a focal point in the world where Kalchakra initiation takes place and spiritual practices are disseminated

Adventure Activities
 

  • Paragliding In Bir Billing : One of the top paragliding destinations in the world, located about 3 hours drive from Dharamkot

  • Paragliding in Dharamshala : You can enjoy paragliding in Dharamshala as well. 6.5 km from Dharamkot

  • Triund Camping : Enjoy camping under the stars near Triund with panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range

  • Rock Climbing and Rappelling

  • Forest Walk and Bird Watching

  • ​Ropeway In Mcleodganj

How To Reach Dharamkot

How to Reach Dharamkot

Dharamkot, McLeodganj, a serene hill destination in Himachal Pradesh, can be reached through the following routes:
 

By Air

  • The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala) located approximately 15 km from McLeodganj

  • Alternatively, Chandigarh Airport (250 km) offers better connectivity with major cities

  • From either airport, you'll need to continue your journey by road


By Train

  • No direct rail connectivity to McLeodganj/Dharamkot

  • The nearest major railway station is at Pathankot (90 km)

  • From Pathankot, you'll need to travel by bus or taxi to reach McLeodganj/Dharamkot


By Road

  • From Delhi: Take NH44 to Chandigarh, then NH154 via Una and Kangra to reach McLeodganj (total distance approximately 480 km, 10-12 hours)

  • From Chandigarh: Follow NH154 via Anandpur Sahib and Kangra to reach McLeodganj (250 km, 7-8 hours)

  • From Pathankot: Take NH154 via Kangra to McLeodganj (90 km, 3-4 hours)


By Bus

  • Direct buses from Delhi to McLeodganj are available (overnight journey, 10-12 hours)

  • Regular buses from Chandigarh and Pathankot to McLeodganj

  • HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) operates frequent services to McLeodganj


Reaching Dharamkot from McLeodganj

  1. Dharamkot is located 3 km uphill from McLeodganj

  2. Can be reached by a 30-minute trek from McLeodganj main square

  3. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available for the uphill journey


Important Route Points

  1. Reach McLeodganj

  2. From McLeodganj main square, follow the uphill road past Bhagsu to reach Dharamkot. Take a reference of Heena Cafe. 


Travel Tips

  • The road from McLeodganj to Dharamkot is narrow and not suitable for large vehicles

  • Consider taking a taxi only to the point where motorable road ends, then walk the remaining distance

  • During monsoon months (July-September), the trek path can be slippery

  • Private taxis from Dharamshala/McLeodganj to Dharamkot are readily available

  • During winter months (December-February), check road conditions as occasional snowfall may affect accessibility


The journey to Dharamkot, though long, rewards travelers with breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape, making the travel experience itself memorable.

Young Monk Hostel Dharamkot

Perched in the tranquil heights of Upper Dharamkot village, just 0.8 km from Dharamkot center with seamless road connectivity, Young Monk Hostel offers a serene escape from the bustling crowds of nearby McLeodganj and Bhagsu. Our thoughtfully designed property features two distinct wings: Wing A houses comfortable standard rooms, luxurious deluxe accommodations, and a premium 8-bed dormitory, while Wing B welcomes travelers with additional dorm options and our vibrant café. The highlight of Young Monk is our casual dining restaurant—a unique café-hostel hybrid that boasts breathtaking 280-degree views of the Himalayan landscape, open to both in-house guests and outside visitors. Upper Dharamkot's peaceful atmosphere and spectacular vistas have made it a favorite among international travelers seeking an authentic mountain retreat, combining accessibility with the serenity that defines this special corner of Himachal Pradesh.

Front desk

Common area

Cafe

Free Wi-Fi

CCTV

Housekeeping

Air conditioner

Inhouse Store & Games

Online Travel Desk

Power Backup

OPEN YOUNG MONK HOSTEL DHARAMKOT ON GOOGLE MAP HERE

An extremely comfy hostel with the best views, mattresses, pillows and cafe on this hill. Folks working as staff is extremely helpful with navigating you around the valley. 

An Old Soul'd Wanderer

An amazing place with the friendliest people. The owners and their staff really go out of their way to make you feel at home. Also don’t miss out on the tasty food!​

​

Arief Ernst

The rooms are spacious and clean with spectacular views-caught the best sunset here.

The food is top notch-better than you’d find at most of the other cafes here.​

Bhawna 

Great location almost at the start of the Triund track (which is well worth the 5 hour return hike) Amazing rooms that are clean and spacious with awesome showers.

​

Chris Stanbridge

I recently stayed at Young Monk and I have to say, From the moment we arrived, it was clear that they were dedicated to making every guest feel special and comfortable.
 

Nidhi Singh

Important Timings

Check In
1 PM

Check Out
10 AM

Reception
7 AM - 12 AM

Common Area
24 Hours

Cafe 1st Half
10 AM - 3 PM

Cafe 2nd Half
6 PM - 10 PM

Visitor
9 Am - 9 Pm

  • Adults only (18+) - strict age policy with no exceptions

  • Digital check-in via QID app - paperless system

  • Self-service model with pay-as-you-go amenities

  • Maximum 6 people per online booking

  • Check-in: 1 PM - 11 PM; Check-out: 7 AM - 10 AM

  • Valid government ID required for all guests

  • Unmarried couples welcome

  • 100% advance payment required for online bookings

  • No drugs; smoking only in designated areas

  • Alcohol allowed (subject to management discretion)

  • No visitors in rooms; common areas only (10 AM - 8 PM)

  • No responsibility for lost belongings

  • Meals not included, available at in-house cafes

  • No food, drinks, or cooking in rooms

  • Silent hours: 12 AM - 7 AM

  • CCTV monitoring throughout the property

  • Management reserves the right to cancel bookings for inappropriate behavior

  • Contact via WhatsApp only: +919429692942
     

Please visit our General Policy page by clicking here if you wish to explore more about them. 

  • What is the location of Young Monk Hostel Jibhi?
    Young Monk Hostel Jibhi is located at Gadagushaini Road, Gadagushaini, Bhalagram, Jibhi, Tandi, Himachal Pradesh 175123. Click here to open the location on google map.
  • How to reach Young Monk Hostel Jibhi?
    Please do explore "How To Reach" section above to know.
  • What is the best time to visit Jibhi?
    One can visit Jibhi all year around. The best time to visit Jibhi is from October to May.
  • Does the hostel have parking?
    Young Monk Hostel features convenient parking facilities in both wings. Located directly on the main road, our parking areas are easily accessible for all guests.
  • Do the rooms have attached washroom?
    Yes, every dorm and private room has a ensuite washroom.
  • Are there lockers in the dorms?
    We provide lockers in the dormitories only. Every bed has an attached locker for guests to keep their valuables. It is advised that you carry a lock for the locker if needed. However, availing a padlock from the reception will be subject to availability and at an additional cost. It is advised that you carry a lock.
  • Is the hostel suitable for solo travelers?
    Absolutely! Our communal spaces and regular social events make it easy to meet fellow travelers. Our staff is also happy to provide safety tips and recommendations for exploring the area on your own.
  • Is it safe for female travelers? Are there any female only dorm category?
    Yes, we maintain a secure environment with 24-hour staffing and secure entry. However, please note that we don't offer female-only dormitories at this time.
  • Is the hostel pet friendly?
    We regret to inform you that our hostel does not currently accommodate pets. However, we are actively exploring options to welcome furry companions in the future.
  • Does the hostel assist with travel plans?
    Yes. We have an onsite travel desk online platform along with a central team person who can help arrange transportation, tours, and activities. You can also request travel assistance when making your initial booking online.
  • Can I make a group booking?
    We accept online direct bookings for up to 6 people. For larger groups, please visit our dedicated group booking page by clicking here where you'll find special rates and accommodation options for bigger parties.
  • Is smoking allowed inside the property?
    Smoking is allowed only in the designated smoking areas and not in any rooms or indoor common areas.
  • Does Young Monk Hostel Jibhi have a cafe?
    We are a café-hostel hybrid chain offering both comfortable hostel accommodations and casual dining experiences, catering to both in-house guests and walk-in customers.
  • Is breakfast included in the room rate?
    Yes, breakfast is included in the room rate. To enjoy this, please make sure to book a room that includes breakfast through our booking page.
  • Is a bonfire option available at the hostel?
    Yes, a bonfire is available at the hostel for an additional charge. Please inquire at the front desk or check our booking page for pricing and availability.
  • What else does Young Monk provide apart from the hostel and café?
    Yes, we offer two additional services in-house: Rental Store – Rent extra items like blankets, heaters, A/C units, and more, which must be returned after use. Convenience Store – Purchase one-time items such as laundry services, padlocks, toiletries, female hygiene products, and Young Monk merchandise.
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