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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

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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

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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)

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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

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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.

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