The best things to do near Dharamshala include visiting the Norbulingka Institute (a 2-minute walk from Sidhpur), Gyuto Monastery (2 km), the Dalai Lama Temple in McLeod Ganj (about 20 km), the Triund trek, the HPCA Cricket Stadium (6 km), and the Chamunda Devi Temple (14 km). Sidhpur is a quiet base in the lower Kangra valley that puts most major attractions within a short drive.
Dharamshala blends Tibetan culture, Himalayan trekking, colonial history, and Hindu pilgrimage sites in one compact region. Staying in Sidhpur, opposite the Norbulingka Institute, keeps you away from the McLeod Ganj traffic while still within easy reach of everything below. Here are the attractions worth your time, ranked by distance from The Divine Hima.
Attractions near The Divine Hima, by distance
| Attraction | Distance from hotel | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Norbulingka Institute | ~2 min walk | Tibetan art, gardens, temple |
| Gyuto Monastery | 2 km | Buddhist monastery, Karmapa’s seat |
| Chinmaya Tapovan (Sidhbari) | 4 km | Ashram, Hanuman statue, meditation |
| HPCA Cricket Stadium | 6 km | World’s most scenic cricket ground |
| Chamunda Devi Temple | 14 km | Shakti Peetha pilgrimage |
| McLeod Ganj & Dalai Lama Temple | ~20 km | Tibetan hub, cafés, shopping |
| Bhagsunag Waterfall & Temple | ~22 km | Waterfall, easy hike |
| Triund (trek base, McLeod Ganj) | ~22 km to trailhead | Day trek, Dhauladhar views |
Cultural and spiritual sites
Norbulingka Institute
Just across the road from The Divine Hima, Norbulingka is a centre for preserving Tibetan art and culture. Named after the Dalai Lama’s summer palace in Lhasa, it features Japanese-influenced gardens, a working studio for thangka painting and wood carving, and the serene Deden Tsuglagkhang temple. Allow two to three hours.
Gyuto Monastery
Two kilometres away, Gyuto Monastery is the seat of the Karmapa, a senior figure in Kagyu Tibetan Buddhism, and is known for its tantric study and monks’ deep-tone chanting. The main hall and its golden Buddha, set against the Dhauladhar range, are especially photogenic in the morning.
Dalai Lama Temple (Tsuglagkhang), McLeod Ganj
About 20 km up the hill, the Tsuglagkhang complex is the spiritual heart of the Tibetan community in exile and the residence of the Dalai Lama. The complex includes the temple, the Tibet Museum, and a peaceful kora (circumambulation) path.
Chamunda Devi Temple
Fourteen kilometres towards Palampur, this hilltop shrine on the banks of the Baner river is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and a major pilgrimage site in Himachal.
Outdoor and adventure
Triund Trek
The most popular day trek in the region, Triund is a roughly 9 km round trip from McLeod Ganj/Galu Devi, climbing to a ridge at about 2,850 metres with panoramic Dhauladhar views. It takes most walkers three to four hours up and is best attempted April to June or October to early November.
Bhagsunag Waterfall
A short, easy walk from Bhagsu village leads to this seasonal waterfall, busiest and most powerful just after the monsoon. The nearby Bhagsunag temple and café-lined path make it a relaxed half-day outing.
HPCA Cricket Stadium
Six kilometres away and set at 1,457 metres against snow-capped peaks, the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium is widely called one of the most beautiful cricket grounds in the world, well worth a visit even on a non-match day.
What to do in and around Sidhpur itself
Sidhpur rewards slow travel: stroll to Norbulingka, explore local art at The Divine Hima’s in-house gallery, sample Himachali cuisine and wood-fired pizza, and take in uninterrupted Dhauladhar views away from McLeod Ganj’s crowds. It’s an ideal base for families and travellers who want quiet over chaos.
Base yourself in the heart of it all
The Divine Hima sits opposite Norbulingka in Sidhpur, minutes from Gyuto Monastery and a short drive from McLeod Ganj. We arrange transport to all major attractions and trek starting points.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do in Dharamshala in one day?
With a single day, focus on McLeod Ganj: the Dalai Lama Temple, the kora walk, lunch at a Tibetan café, and Bhagsunag Waterfall. If you prefer staying near Sidhpur, combine Norbulingka, Gyuto Monastery, and the HPCA Stadium.
Is Dharamshala good for families with children?
Yes. Norbulingka’s gardens, the cricket stadium, easy walks to Bhagsunag, and the Tibetan markets are all family-friendly. Staying in lower Sidhpur avoids the steep, crowded lanes of upper McLeod Ganj.
How far is McLeod Ganj from Sidhpur?
McLeod Ganj is about 20 km from Sidhpur, roughly a 45–60 minute drive depending on traffic.
Can I do the Triund trek as a day trip?
Yes. Triund is a popular day trek of about 9 km round trip from the McLeod Ganj side. Start early, carry water, and avoid the monsoon months when the trail is slippery.
Related Dharamshala guides
- Best time to visit Dharamshala
- How to reach Dharamshala: flights, trains & road
- Where to stay in Dharamshala: best areas
- View our rooms at The Divine Hima
Written by the team at The Divine Hima, Dharamshala. Last updated: 24 June 2026.