Dharamkot
Credit:  Govind Bindra

Dharamkot is a hill station near Dharamshala at a height of 2109 m. It’s just situated on the high hills above Bhagsu village.

The weather in the mountains is usually cooler than in Dharamshala. Dharamkot is dominated by people who speak Punjabi and Haryanvi. It’s different from Tibetan culture in McLeodganj.

While Dharamshala and McLeodganj are famous destinations for visitors, Dharamkot attracts adventure and soul seekers from around the world. Being less crowded, the place is less commercialized. Vipassana meditation center and Tushita meditation center to practice Buddhism give a unique spiritual experience 

Unique restaurants and cafes offer delicious food and places for socializing. Israeli cafes, in particular, provide a one-of-a-kind experience. Many Israeli tourists visit the place to feel nature after completing mandatory military service. 

Mini Israel

Dharamkot is also known as the “Tel Aviv of hills.” Signage in the Hebrew language is common on the streets. Over time, many Israelis settle around the place and run their shops and cafes. Chabad House is the Jewish community center for Israeli Jews. Every year, Israeli gather here to celebrate the Rosh- Hashana ( Jewish new year)

Base camp

Gallu Devi Temple is a point in Dharamkot from which treks to Triund and Indrahar begin. It usually takes 4-5 hours to cover the 11 km.

How to Reach Dharamkot

road

By Road:

The most common way to reach Dharamkot is by road. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Delhi, Chandigarh, or other nearby cities. The nearest major bus stand is in McLeod Ganj, which is about 2 kilometers from Dharamkot. You can easily find buses or taxis from there.

train

By Train:

The nearest railway station to Dharamkot is Pathankot, which is about 90 kilometers away. From Pathankot, you can take a taxi or bus to reach McLeod Ganj, and then take a taxi to reach Dharamkot.

air

By Air:

The nearest airport to Dharamkot is Gaggal Airport in Kangra, which is about 18 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach McLeod Ganj, and then take a taxi to reach Dharamkot.