Besides Hinduism, there are various religions in India like Sikkhism, Christianity, Islam, Jainism and Buddhism. Where religion in Himachal Pradesh is concerned, the state is also influenced by all these religions, majorly Hinduism. The next religion which is popular in Himachal is Buddhism. Buddhist Culture in Himachal had started spreading in the early 8th century. With the passing of time, Buddhism got its roots deeper particularly in Lahaul, Spiti and Kinnaur. In the year 1959, Dalai Lama from Tibet found Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh as a place for dwelling Buddhism. Gradually over last 50 years Tibetan refugees settled in Dharamsala. They established their “Capital of Exile” at Mcleodganj, which is also known as “Little Lhasa”.
Dharamsala is a famous hill station in the district Kangra of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated in the beautiful Kangra Valley and surrounded by dense forest of Deodar and Pine trees. The place is very close to Dhauladhar range of snow capped mountains. That is why the sight becomes charming.
Tourists love to visit this town because of the beautiful local sightseeing, Buddhism culture, traditional shopping and fast food restaurants. Dharamsala is easily approached by national highway network and by air. Airport is about 12 Kms away known as Kangra Gaggal Airport.
Places of attractions in Dharamsala
There are lots of spots and places of attraction that make a memorable visit to Dharamasla. The town is divided into two sections – Lower Dharamsala and Upper Dharamsala. Kotwali Bazar and places of shopping around are referred as Lower Dharamsala. Upper Dharamsala is known for spiritual centre of Tibetan Buddhism; Mcleodganj and nearby places are included in this section. A few places of attractions one can visit and enjoy are as follows:
Bhagsunag Temple: This is one of the most ancient temples near Mcleodganj. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Bhagsu Waterfall: This water fall is near Bhagsunag Temple. This point is mostly enjoyed in summer and monsoon season by the tourist. They take bath in the chilled water to refresh them.
Tsuglagkhang Complex and Namgyal Monastery: This is first visited place of Dalai Lama in India. Besides being an abode of Dalai Lama, this complex is also known for Tibetan dance and music performances.
Gyuto Monastery: This is one of the most famous monasteries in Dharamsala. It is popular as tantric meditation centre in India.
Dal Lake: This Lake is situated in village Tota Rani, which is about 11 Kms away from Dharamsala. This greenish water lake is mostly enjoyed with boating by tourist in summer and monsoon.
Kangra Fort: It is about 20 Kms away from Dharamsala. This tourist attraction was built by the Royal Rajput Family of Kangra. The marvellous fort is designed with very good architecture, due to which people like to visit this place.
HPCA Stadium: This beautiful stadium with scenic beauty of mountains is well known for international cricket matches. The stadium is owned by Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association. The first international cricket match was played in the year 2013 between Indian and England Teams.
Masroor Rock Cut Temple: Masroor is place about 40 kms away from the town Dharamsala. It is famous for an old age rock cut temples. The graceful and excellent carvings of temples are admired by the tourists and art lovers as well.