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Paragliding in Dharamshala will be an adventure that will give you a view of the landscapes of the Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar Range. This hill station is so unique and is surrounded by beautiful views and Tibetan culture which compels many paragliding lovers to come here. Whether a seasoned paraglider or a first-time flyer, Dharamshala paragliding offers the perfect mix of excitement and tranquillity, making your adventure unforgettable. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about paragliding in Dharamshala or locations very close by.
Location
Photo: Yaroslav Shuraev / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Dharamshala is situated in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh at the foothills of the Dhauladhar mountain range. The town has two divisions — Lower Dharamshala, a commercial and administrative centre, and Upper Dharamshala, which includes McLeod Ganj, the Dalai Lama’s familial residence. The take-off point for paragliding is usually in Bir, a tiny hamlet 65 kilometres from Dharamshala, considered one of the best places in India for paragliding. It usually ends in Billing, hence the term Bir-Billing paragliding route.
How To Reach
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By Air: The nearest airport to Dharamshala is Kangra Airport, also very popularly known as the Gaggal Airport. It lies 13 km away from the town centre. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to Dharamshala. Flights from major cities like Delhi or Chandigarh are available to the Kangra Airport.
By Bus: Dharamshala is well-connected by road, and regular bus services are available from major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Manali. The travel time from Delhi to Dharamshala by road would be about 12-13 hours, depending on the traffic and condition of the road. Many options are available from private and state-run buses, including budget services and luxury ones.
By Rail: The nearest central railway station to Dharamshala is Pathankot, 85 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Pathankot to Dharamshala. You may also board the toy train from Pathankot to Kangra, though it takes longer and offers a wondrous journey with scenic beauty.
Places To Visit In And Around Dharamshala
Here is the list of five popular places to visit in and around Dharamshala for an enchanting retreat.
1. McLeod Ganj
Photo: PRASHANT BHATI / Unsplash
Often translated into “Little Lhasa,” McLeod Ganj is a bustling town and the abode of the spiritual head of the Tibetans in exile, the Dalai Lama, and the seat of the Tibetan government in exile. It beautifully reveals a blend of both Tibetan and Indian culture. Travellers may also visit the Tsuglagkhang Complex, which has the abode of Dalai Lamas’, Namgyal Monastery, and the Tibet Museum. The town is further contrasted by its bustling markets for selling traditional Tibetan handicraft items and various cafes with global cuisines.
Timings: 24*7
2. Bhagsu Waterfall
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Bhagsu Waterfall is one of the most beautiful natural attractions on a short trek from McLeod Ganj. The waterfall location, surrounded by lush greenery, falls from a height of about 30 feet, providing an excellent retreat from the noisy town. The path leading up to the waterfall passes by the Bhagsunath Temple — an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The area surrounding the waterfall is ideal for picnics, meditation, and photography. It provides a haven to attract tourists and locals seeking natural refuge.
Timings: 24*7
3. Triund Hill
Photo: Jasmeen Virk / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Triund Hill is a popular trekking spot that catches on to the mind-blowing view of the Dhauladhar mountain range and Kangra Valley. This trek to Triund Hill goes into the medium category, with a well-marked track that winds through the lush forests of oak and rhododendron. On reaching the top, it gives a panoramic view of the surroundings accompanied by calmness, which is suitable for overnight camping. Starting with the crystal-clear night sky, it makes a fabulous view of stargazing, nearly free from city lights. Triund is ideal for both adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Timings: 24*7
4. Kangra Fort
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Situated about 20 kilometres from Dharamshala, the Kangra Fort is one of the oldest forts in India, dating back to the 4th century BC. It contains evidence of many battles and the glorious heritage of the region within its precincts. Occupying the top of a hill, this fortress commands a grand view of the surrounding valleys and rivers. Inside the Fort Complex, one can see and enter the ancient temple’s intricate architecture and learn about the provenance of the fort through detailed exhibitions and guides imparting information.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹150 for adults and ₹100 for children
5. Norbulingka Institute
Photo: Sridhar Rao / Wikimedia Commons
Situated at Sidhpur in Dharamshala, the Norbulingka Institute is an institution working on preserving Tibetan culture and arts. The place is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens, making for a very tranquil atmosphere. You can see traditional Tibetan arts and crafts at work, including thangka painting, woodcarving, metalwork, etc. Their other interests include a beautiful temple, the Losel Doll Museum, and a café that offers a variety of Tibetan delicacies. It is a must-visit for people who want to understand Tibetan culture and its preservation.
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50
Where To Stay
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Accommodation in Dharamshala ranges from budget hostels to luxury resorts. For a different experience, stay in one of the guesthouses in McLeod Ganj and immerse yourself in Tibetan culture. Several hotels are found in the Lower Dharamshala area of this town, offering all modern amenities and easy access to attractions around town.
Where To Eat
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Dharamshala is full of variety to satisfy every foodie’s taste buds. Mcleod Ganj is famous for its Tibetan cuisine, including momos, thukpa, and butter tea. Plenty of cafes and restaurants offer Indian, Italian, and continental delicacies as well. The known ones are Nick’s Italian Kitchen, Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen, and Tibet Kitchen.
Best Time For Paragliding In Dharamshala
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The best time to visit Dharamshala is from March to June and September to November. During this time, the sky is clear, and the temperature is moderate making it suitable for paragliding. It is better to avoid monsoon months from July to August, as constant rainfall and poor visibility create risks while paragliding. Winters are pretty cold from December to February but the snow-capped peaks have their beauty.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost of the Trip
The paragliding in Dharamshala cost would be between ₹2,500 and ₹4,000 per person, depending on the flight duration and operator. Budget travellers can expect to spend between ₹8,000 and ₹10,000 for a two to three-day trip that includes accommodation, food, and travel.
Tips For Travellers
- The slots for paragliding get filled very fast, especially during peak season. Booking your flight in advance is advisable.
- Wear comfortable clothing in layers and sturdy shoes which are suitable for trekking/flying.
- Your safety is critical in paragliding. Allow yourself ample scope for a safe and enjoyable experience by listening carefully to your guide’s instructions.
- Remember to take sunscreen, sunglasses, and a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your adventure.
- Clicking photos during paragliding in Dharamshala to store your memories.
Prepare for Paragliding in Dharamshala and experience the adrenaline rush and a peaceful encounter. This activity will leave you with memories to cherish throughout your lifetime, whether as an adventure enthusiast looking to quench your thirst or rejuvenate the connection one exercises with nature. Ready to take this unforgettable journey? Feeling the excitement of gliding effortlessly through the skies like a bird? Book your paragliding adventure with TripXL today.
Cover Photo: Tomas Sobek / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
