A lush green hill station positioned against the backdrop of the beautiful Dhauladhar range, Dharmashala is every traveller’s delight. Situated at an average height of 1,475 meters above sea level, Dharmashala is surrounded by the snow-laden mountains of the Dhauladhar range. It is divided into two distinct parts – the upper region and the lower region both of which are competently beautiful. Both upper and lower Dharmashala are dotted with serene landscapes, churches, bungalows, and monasteries. The monasteries bring to life the glory of the Tibetan Culture and are must visit destinations when you are holidaying in Dharmashala. Dharmashala – The little Lhasa of India In 1960, Dharmashala became the temporary headquarters of the Nobel laureate, his holiness Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama who came to India after the Chinese conquered Tibet in 1959. The Dalai Lama was offered refuge in McLeodganj and beautified the town transforming it into a little Tibet. That’s how Dharmashala earned the title of the little Lhasa of India. The Dalai Lama runs the Tibetan government from exile and has made it the capital of the Central Administration of Tibet. Dharmashala, the home of the Dalai Lama, soon became full of other Buddhist monks and nuns who only infused the atmosphere with peace and tranquil. Tibet Calling! This majestic hilltop is surrounded by tall capering thick deodars, mighty oaks and other conifers adding the perfect green contrast to the white snow-capped peaks that surround Dharmashala from three sides. Picture perfect as Dharmashala was, with the infusion of the Buddhist culture, it became a very popular tourist destination among Indians and foreign tourists alike. Although the best time to visit this place is from March to June when the climate is nor too hot nor too cold, Dharmashala is always buzzing with tourists. Those who love travelling during the monsoons Dharmashala only becomes more beautiful as the rains wash the forests which are now become even livelier. However, you may need to watch out for landslides. The Bhagunath temple, located 11 km from Dharmashala, is the seat of the Tibetan Government in exile. The tranquillity of the temple is incomparable to any. The pools around the temple are considered holy by Hindus as well. A short walk from McLoedganj is the Dalai Lama temple complex, which houses the Namgyal Monastery. There is also the smaller shrine of Tsug-Lag-Khang. Opposite this shrine is where the Dalai Lama lives. If you are up for it, you can also pay him a visit in person which is what most people come seeking. Savour the glorious Tibetan Food at Dharmashala It is said that the real spirit of a place lives in its flavours. Across Dharmashala, you will find several stalls serving hot momos which are a must try. There are several others eateries all over Dharmashala where you can relish authentic Tibetan delicacies likeThupka, Tibetan breads, mouth-watering soups and rolls. The local Tibetans who live here call Dharmashala – Dhasa in rhyming with Lhasa. The place is a melting pot of Tibetan refugees, Nepalese business people, migrants from Bihar, the indigenous Gaddi Folk and the Kashmiris. The diversity also reflects in its food. New stalls serving South Indian, Italian, Israeli, Japanese, Korean and Belgian food are popping up all the time. Most restaurants serve a traditional English breakfast of pancakes and the turmeric pancake is something you cannot miss. Our expert guides have scoured the place and have a list of the choicest restaurants ready for you to cater to all your food cravings. Take back memories of Tibet with Amazing India Travels Get in touch with Amazing India Travels to know more about this wonderful place full of surprises and peace. Let us know what is on your mind and we will plan the perfect itinerary for you.