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Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Himalayas, Dharamshala offers a blend of natural beauty and a respite from the sweltering heat of May, making it the perfect getaway. Places to visit in Dharamshala in May are delightful because of the refreshing cool breezes, relief from the blooming landscape, and great weather, which creates the perfect scenario for exploration and relaxation. The surrounding greenery of the forests with snow-capped peaks creates a breathtaking sight in this town. Visitors can explore the spiritual and cultural heart of McLeod Ganj and have fun at the cascading Bhagsu Waterfall; Dharamshala has it all.
15 Places To Visit In Dharamshala In May For A Scenic Getaway
Here are some beautiful places to visit in Dharamshala In May for tourists to explore the beauty of Himachal Pradesh.
1. McLeod Ganj
Photo: Balraj sharma / Unsplash
McLeod Ganj is a vibrant and culturally rich place north of the main town of Dharamsala. It has truly earned the name “Little Lhasa,” given it hosts the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama and the noblest precincts of Tibetan Buddhism in India. Travelling to McLeod Ganj offers tourists a wealth of experiences to explore. The Dalai Lama Temple is a major attraction, drawing locals and travellers worldwide for worship and meditation. The bustling streets are lined with open shops where you can find typical Tibetan handicrafts, clothes, and jewellery, showcasing the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Major Attractions: Dalai Lama Temple, Tibetan Market, Namgyal Monastery
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In McLeodganj
2. Bhagsu Waterfall
Photo: Mayur Arvind / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Bhagsu Waterfall is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Dharamshala in May, and all tourists can make an adventurous visit. Located just 2 kilometres from McLeod Ganj, this spectacular waterfall descends from an altitude of around 30 feet, creating a pleasant environment best suited for relaxation and photography. Getting to Bhagsu Waterfall is relatively easy and leads through grassy knolls and wooded surroundings, making it popular among locals and tourists. The spiritual element of the visit is enhanced by the nearby Bhagsunath temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Major Attractions: Bhagsunath Temple, Cafes, Trekking to the Waterfall
Timings: 24*7
3. Triund Trek
Photo: Nikhil Singh / Unsplash
Triund Trek is the most favoured route around Dharamshala, offering a view of the Dhauladhar mountain range. This moderate 9 km trek from McLeod Ganj, ideal for a day-long adventure, leads travellers through various breathtaking landscapes. The ascent begins with dense oak, deodar, and rhododendron forests, gradually opening into vast meadows. The final stretch of this trek is pretty steep, and the view from the top includes a panoramic view of the grand Dhauladhar range, especially during sunset, when the peaks are bathed with golden light.
Major Attractions: Trekking, Camping, Dhauladhar Range Views
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Dalhousie To Make Your Trip Memorable
4. Namgyal Monastery
Photo: KaranKapoor1314 / Wikimedia Commons
Namgyal Monastery, often referred to as the Dalai Lama’s monastery, is the spiritual and cultural heart of McLeod Ganj. Established in the 16th century, it has served as a vital centre for education and meditation practice for Tibetan monks and scholars dedicated to preserving these ancient traditions. Renowned for its serene ambience, visitors often witness monks engaged in prayer and ritual practices, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of traditional Tibetan instruments. Within the monastery, a temple adorned with beautiful murals and statues of Buddhist deities offers a tranquil space for quiet reflection and prayer.
Major Attractions: Monastic Rituals, Prayer Wheels, Tibetan Culture
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
5. Kangra Fort
Photo: Abhijit Saggu / Wikimedia Commons
Situated atop the magnificent Kangra Valley, the Kangra Fort embodies the magnificence of traditional Indian architecture and the tenacity of its constructors. The bastion of the Kangra royal family withstood numerous invasions by the Mughals and Mahmud of Ghazni. Visitors are engulfed in the echoes of history as they enter through the magnificent gates, surrounded by time-tested stone walls and intricately carved stonework. The fort perfectly combines historical significance with the beauty of nature, providing breathtaking sweeping views of the valley.
Major Attractions: Historical Tours, Panoramic Views, Old Temples within the Fort
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kangra
6. St. John In The Wilderness Church
Photo: Souvik Sarkar / Wikimedia Commons
Near McLeod Ganj, St. John in the Wilderness Church, almost hidden in dense deodar forests, is a quiet place with so much history that it is a must to relate it to Dharamshala. Built-in 1852, the neo-Gothic church is considered one of the oldest structures in the area under the dedication of John the Baptist. The church is known for its fine stained-glass windows, donated by Lady Elgin, wife of the Viceroy of India Lord Elgin, buried in its graveyard.
Major Attractions: Stained Glass Windows, Lord Elgin’s Memorial, Neo-Gothic Architecture
Timings: 7 AM – 6:30 PM
7. Dal Lake
Photo: Aaron Burden / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Dal Lake lies close to the village of Tota Rani. It is a scenic location providing seclusion from the hustle and bustle of town within the innocence of nature itself. Lying amidst deodar trees and lush green vegetation, this lake is a perfect picnic spot for a day out with family or friends. The calm waters of Dal Lake create mirror images of the hills surrounding them, making it a serene and photographable landscape. The lake’s surroundings are ideal for picnicking or just taking lovely snaps; hence, it is one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala in May.
Major Attractions: Boating, Picnicking
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Paragliding In Dharamshala
8. Kangra Art Museum
Photo: Brahmavadini / Wikimedia Commons
Kangra Art Museum, situated in the middle of Dharamshala, provides the region’s rich heritage. The museum exhibits miniature paintings, sculptures, coins, pottery, and manuscripts from various eras, starting from the 5th century. It also shows the ancient period’s dressing and ornaments and the Kangra Valley’s embroidery, which expresses a rich culture. It is famous for the Pahari miniature paintings that show Hindu mythology, history, and nature of the region.
Major Attractions: Miniature Paintings, Traditional Artifacts, Local History Exhibits
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
9. Tea Gardens
Photo: UnpetitproleX / Wikimedia Commons
The tea gardens of Dharamshala are another area worthy of exploration and can be considered a reflection of the area’s agricultural and scenic roots. These tea gardens are scattered over the formidable rising area of the hills. Therefore, one gets to see the fine rows of tea bushes across the terrain, complemented by the view of towering Dhauladhar. Tours: The tourists can walk around the tea plantations and enjoy the fresh mountain breeze and the quiet natural surroundings.
Major Attractions: Scenic Views, Photography, Valley Views, Quiet Retreat
Timings: Accessible year-round during daylight hours
Suggested Read: Dharamshala Travel Guide
10. War Memorial
Photo: Dixit.rana0 / Wikimedia Commons
Situated in the backdrop of tall pine trees, the War Memorial is another one of the places to visit in Dharamsala in May. It is a quiet, peaceful place dedicated to paying respect to the Indian armed forces personnel. The memorial is three black marble walls with names of the martyrs; by seeing that, people can understand that freedom is cheap. The surrounding gardens are well-maintained with pathways, enabling visitors to stroll around the beautiful lawns. They also have well-designed flower gardens, allowing visitors to spend time alone.
Major Attractions: Martyrs’ Memorial Walls, Military Museum, Beautifully Landscaped Gardens
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
11. Dalai Lama Temple
Photo: Adam Jones / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dalai Lama Temple, also known as Tsuglakhang Temple is the epitome of vibrant Tibetan culture and one of the top places to visit in Dharamshala in May. It is the official residence of the 14th Dalai Lama and houses a beautiful temple, library, museum, and peaceful gardens. This quaint temple is a politico-religious centre adorned with architectural beauty and intricate designs. In addition to offering a glimpse of the rich culture of the region, the temple has a peaceful atmosphere and is a hotspot for meditation and religious rumination.
Major Attractions: Dalai Lama’s Residence, prayer wheels & Buddhist chants
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
Suggested Read: Dharamshala Monasteries To Visit On Your Next Vacation
12. Naddi View Point
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Naddi View Point is a paradisiacal abode nestled in the Naddi Village of Dharamshala. Here, you can soak in the scenic landscapes of the Dhauladhar Ranges, Pir Panjal Range, and the Kangra Valley. A haven for trekkers, Naddi View Point has rugged terrains dotted with lush green vegetation on both sides and offers spectacular views. It serves as a gateway for various treks including the trek to Kareri Lake, Triund, and Dharamkot. Naddi View Point, one of the serene places to visit in Dharamshala Himachal Pradesh is also an excellent spot for photography to capture mesmerising sunsets and snow-clad peaks.
Major Attractions: Naddi Village, trekking, and nature walks
Timings: 24*7
13. Dharamkot
Photo: Dave Kleinschmidt / Wikimedia Commons
Dharamkot, one of the idyllic tourist places to visit in Dharamshala in May is a little hippie village nestled in the lap of nature. Often referred to as ‘Yoga Village’, here you can spend time relaxing or meditating in peace. Blessed with awe-inspiring views of nearby Kangra Valley and the rolling Dhauladhar ranges, Dharamkot is a haven for travellers seeking a tranquil getaway. Moreover, this scenic place also has off-beat trails leading to some scenic spots including Bhagsu Waterfalls and Triund offering you moderate trekking opportunities. If you are looking for a laid-back experience, then Dharamkot is the place to be.
Major Attractions: Trekking, yoga & meditation centres
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh For Your Next Vacation
14. Library Of Tibetan Works And Archives
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Offering a glimpse of the bygone eras of Tibetan Culture, the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives is one of the famous places to visit in Dharamshala in May. Founded by Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, the library encompasses 600 Buddhist artefacts and 8,000 manuscripts that date back to the 12th century. Whether you are a history aficionado or someone simply interested in digging deep into the roots of Tibetan culture, explore the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives for an insightful tour of Dharamshala.
Major Attractions: Ancient Tibetan Manuscripts, Tibetan Art & Artefacts
Timings: Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM, closed on Saturday & Sunday
15. Masroor Rock Cut Temple
Photo: Akashdeep83 / Wikimedia Commons
Masroor Rock Cut Temple, an architectural marvel is situated 32 km from Kangra in Dharamshala. Featuring an Indo-Aryan style of architecture, the temple is a combination of 15 rock-cut temples. Masroor Rock Cut Temple is dedicated to Hindu Gods — Shiva, Vishnu, Devi, and Saura. The temple also houses a sacred pool and it is believed that taking a dip in the holy pool cleanses your soul from sins. Whether you want to seek spiritual solace, witness intricate carvings or soak in panoramic vistas, a visit to the iconic Masroor Rock Cut Temple ensures to check all your boxes.
Major Attractions: Monolithic Rock Temples, Hindu architecture & idols
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Dharamshala For A Memorable Vacation For All Travellers
Places to visit in Dharamshala in May include beautiful places offering scenic views and stunning ventures. Triund Trek and Bhagsu waterfalls to explore, a lovely Kangra fort and an exceptional Dal Lake to watch. Indeed, Dharmashla holds beauty for everyone to appreciate. So what are you waiting for? Plan a trip with TripXL and have a great time on your vacation in Dharamsala.
Cover Photo: Rignam Wangkhang / Wikimedia Commons
