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Dharamsala is perched
on the high slopes in the upper reaches of Kan gra
Valley . The town is divided into two distinct and widely
separated sections, Upper and Lower Dharamsala, which differ
almost a thousand meters in height.
Today, Dharamsala has become the synonymous to the Tibetan
government in exile and the home of Tibetan leader Dalai Lama.
Even if the Tibetan community dominates the town, still it has
retained the colonial lifestyle and British fervor.
Dharamsala over looks the plains and is surrounded by dense pine
trees and Deodar forests. A nearby snowline with numerous
streams and cool healthy atmosphere makes the surroundings very
attractive.
 The
colourful temple and Gompas, which reflect the culture of Tibet,
adds attraction for the visitor. The Kangra museum gives an
overview of the rich past of the region and on the other hand
there are institutes that have been established to preserve the
Tibetan art, cultures and traditions.
Kangra Art Museum, Dharmshala : This treasure trove of the
Kangra valley's arts, crafts, and rich past, displays artifacts
that date back to the 5th century. The museum also includes a
gallery of Kangra's famous miniature paintings and a
representative collection of sculptures, pottery, and
anthropological items.
War Memorial, Dharmshala : Set amidst the pine groves is a
war memorial, built on the entry point of the to Dharamsala to
commemorate the post independence war heroes of Himachal
Pradesh. A web of narrow paths and landscaped lawns lead towards
this monument.
HOT SPRINGS
Tatwani & Machhrial, Dharmshala : There are hot springs
situated at Tatwani, 25-km from Dharamsala but on the way, at
Machhrial, is a waterfall twice as big as the one near the
Bhagsunath temple.
Kunal Pathri, Dharmshala : These are the rock temples from
which the place derives its name. Kunal pathri is a 3 kms flat
walk from Kotwali Bazaar.
Dharmkot, Dharmshala : Just 11-km away from Dharamsala,
located on the crest of a hill lie this attractive picnic spot,
which presents a panoramic view of the Kangra valley and
Dauladhar ranges.
 Chinmaya
Tapovan, Dharmshala : Just 10-km from the town is the
tranquil ashram complex set up by the great exponent of the Gita--Swami
Chinmayananda. Situated on the banks of Bindu Saras, the ashram
includes a 9m high image of Hanuman, a Ram temple, a meditation
hall, a school and a health & recreation center.
Andretta,
Dharmshala : Situated just 13-kms away from Palampur, lies
this dwelling place of artist S.Sobha Singh. It houses a gallery
of some of his major works and a pottery center.
EXCURSIONS IN DHARMSHALA
McLeodganj: Originally home of the semi-nomadic Gaddi
tribe, McLeodganj is today the residence of His Holiness, the
Dalai Lama. This mid 19th century place was developed as a
British Garrison. The place was developed as an important
administrative point for the whole Kangra valley. Today the
place has developed as headquarters of the exiled Tibetan
Government. The impressive monastery has larger than life size
images of Buddha, Padmasambhava and Avaloketeshwara
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