Dharamshala is one of the charming hill-station in Himachal Pradesh surrounded by lush-green forests, green valleys, small villages, enchanting rivers, and ancient fort. Families who are planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh must visit Dharamshala for getting close to nature, cultural and adventurous experience. Here is a list of some of the exciting things to do while on a trip to Dharamshala with your family which you must include in your Dharamshala Trip.
1. Head to Bhagsunag Waterfall and Bhagsunath Temple in McLeodGanj

Bhagsunag Waterfall and Bhagsunath Temple is one of the perfect spot for families, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding snow covered mountain ranges, green valleys and dense forests. It will be an exciting refreshing escape for you and your family members. The trek to the waterfalls is manageable as it comprises of stone steps, which is easy to walk.
The Bhagsunath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiv, do visit with your family members to offer your prayers to the lord and seek blessings.
What are the Highlights?
- Enjoy a dip in the waters of the falls
- Have a snack at one of the stalls located near the falls, enjoying the enthralling views.
2. Explore the Dalai Lama Temple Complex

If you are visiting Dharamshala with your family members for a vacation, do include a visit to Dalai Lama Temple Complex, which is the residence of his holiness Dalai Lama. This temple complex offers a peaceful experience; you and your family members will love the spiritual atmosphere, attend prayer sessions and listen to the chanting of the mantras by the monks. It will be one of the best experiences for your child, as they will be able to know about the different cultures and spiritual practices involved.
What are the Highlights of the Dharamshala tour packages?
- Offer your prayers to the lord
- Engage in meditation sessions.
- Attend prayer sessions and listen to the chanting of the mantras.
3. Opt for a family-friendly Trek to Triund

For an adventurous experience, do include a family friendly trek to Triund, famous for offering mesmerizing views of the Dhauladhar range. The trek to the top of the peak comprises of undulating rocky terrain and dense forests on both side of the trail.
Important Tips to follow:
- Wear extra warm clothes
- Opt for guided trekking tour packages which camping, meals, trekking equipments, pick and drop and other activities.
4. Learn about the Tibetan Culture at the Norbulingka Institute

If you want to learn about the Tibetan Buddhism culture visit the Norbulingka Institute, it will be one of the best experiences for your child to learn about the culture. Attend workshop and engage in making traditional handcrafted items and enjoy a walk around the complex of this institute.
What are the Highlights?
- Appreciate the traditional thangka paintings and the handcrafted wooden items.
- Nearby is the Losel Doll Museum, where your family will enjoy having an insight into the Tibetan culture.
5. Explore the spectacular Kangra Fort

Do include a visit to the Kangra fort in your Dharamshala tour packages. This fort was built by the rulers of the valley and is one of the architectural wonders of the regions. It is in fact one of the oldest fort in India, and is located near Dharamshala in Kangra Valley, perched on top of a hill, overlooking the valley, comprising of dense forests, green hills, surrounding mountain peaks in the distant and the charming river flowing.
What are the Highlights?
- Visit the museum located near the entry gate of the fort
- Learn about the history of the region and the rulers of Katoch dynasty.
- Marvel at the fort’s strategic location and robust structure.
- Appreciate the surrounding gardens of the fort
- Admire the grandeur of the fort and its many entry gates to the top of the fort.
6. Enjoy walk around the Tea Gardens in Dharamkot

Let you child immerse in the beauty of the region by visiting the enchanting tea gardens in Dharamkot near Dharamshala. There are also many tea gardens located in Kangra Valley which you must definitelu visit to explore the lush-green tea gardens and learn about tea cultivation and even engage in tea tasting sessions.
What are the Highlights?
- Enjoy a walk around the tea garden with your family members.
- Buy the finest tea leaves, take back home as a souvenir
- Learn about tea cultivation
7. Take a walk around McLeodGanj with your family

Another exciting activity to include in your Dharamshala Trip is opting for a relaxing walk around in McLeodGanj with your family, visit the local market, check out the handmade items, murals, paintings and traditional Tibetan Buddhism items, and taste the local food of the region.
What are the Highlights?
- Visit the Tibetan museum in McLeodGanj for knowing about the Tibetan refugees in McLeodGanj
- Buy woolen and handcrafted items and traditional Tibetan jewelries.
- Do savor the local delicacies of the region, there are many restaurants that provide traditional Tibetan food.
8. Visit St. John in the Wilderness Church in McLeodGanj

There is an old church located in McLeodGanj called the St. John in the Wilderness Church built in 1852 dedicated to St. John, the Baptist. It comprises of neo-Gothic architectural style with stained glass windows and wooden bench inside the church. The church is surrounded by dense forests and offers the perfect place for families with kids to immerse in the beauty of the region and walk around the church.
What are the Highlights?
- Explore the church, know about the history of the church
- Admire its beauty
- Immerse in the serenity of the place surrounded by forest
9. Paragliding at Bir-Billing

Families with teenagers can opt for paragliding session if they wish for in Bir-Billing which is located near Dharamshala. This activity is only for the daring and courageous ones.
Important Tips to follow:
- Only opt for licensed tour operators, and who follows the safety rules and takes safety measures.
- You can also visit the Tibetan Colony in Bir.
10. Check out the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala

Do visit the cricket stadium located at the highest altitude in the world. If you are visiting Dharamshala and there is a cricket match going during that time, definitely make it a point to visit, your kids will love it. The picture perfect views of the stadium add to the allure.
What are the Highlights?
- Enjoy a tour of the cricket stadium
- Admire the views of the surrounding beauty from the cricket stadium.
Tips for a Perfect Family Vacation in Dharamshala:
- What is the Best Time to Visit? March to June when the weather is pleasant and for snow lovers December to February.
- What are the different modes of Transportation? You can travel by flight, taxi, bus or train.
- What are the stay options? Family friendly hotels, resorts, homestays etc are available
- What are health precautions to take? Stay hydrated all the time specially if you’re walking or trekking, take all the essential medicines required.