Mcleodganj: Originally the home of the semi-nomadic Gaddi tribe, Mcleodganj is today the residence of the Dalai Lama. Mcleodganj was originally developed as a British Garrison, to administer the Kangra valley; today the place has developed as headquarters of the exiled Tibetan Government. This Tibetan settlement has its own bazaar which offers all sorts of Tibetan knick-knacks, carpets, handicrafts and local food.

Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA): Located about a 30 minute walk from Dharamsala, the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts was the first institute created by the exiled Tibetan government. TIPA is both a cultural centre and a school, providing an insightful glimpse into the colorful Tibetan culture of music, dance and theatre. Norbulinka Institute: Tree-shaded paths, wooden bridges, small streams tiny water falls, coupled with a Japanese influence make Norbulinka an idyllic spot.

Bhagsunath: Located on the floor of the valley, near Dharamsala is the ancient temple of Bhagsunath. This temple is surrounded by numerous fresh water springs.

Dal Lake: Surrounded by Fir trees, this picturesque lake can be reached by road or a nature trail that winds through thick forest and Tibetan hill-farms. Dal lake is also the venue for an annual fair, held around September.

St. John in the Wilderness: A few km from Dharamkot, is a stone church with stained glass windows. Also at St. John is a memorial dedicated to British Viceroy, Lord Elgin who died at Dharamsala.

Fishing: The 20km stretch of the river Beas between Nadaun and the Pong dam offers ample opportunities in angling.

Treks and Sight Seeing, Triund: Located at a height of 2975m, a few hours from the snow-line, this spot offers spectacular views of the valley. Dharamkot is the starting point for a day-trek to Triund, as well as more challenging ones (upto 15 days).

Baijnath Temples: Said to be one of the refuges of the exiled Pandavas in the epic Mahabharat, the beautiful and ancient temples are a sight worth seeing.

Andretta: A quaint little colony, where artists of all kinds - painters, potters & writers find their refuge & sometimes build their habitats, training centres & galleries. Shobha Singh - the famous artist has one of his art galleries here.

Billing, near palampur: It has arguably the finest site for hang and para-gliding in the country

The Kangra Fort: Kangra was the ancient capital of the powerful hill state of Nagarkot. It stands witness to the ravages of conquerors from Mahmud of Ghazni to Mughal Jahangir. The town of Palampur came into being when Dr. Jameson, Superintendent, botanical Gardens, North-West Frontier Province, introduced the tea bush from Almora in 1849. The bush thrived and so did the town which became a focus of the European tea estate owners.

Bajreshwari Temple: Kangra is known for its legendary wealth, robbed in 1009 by Mahmud of Ghazni. Destroyed by the earthquake of 1905 it was rebuilt in 1920.

Jawalamukhi Temple: It is only 56kms from Dharamshala is the famous temple of goddess Jawalamukhi or the Flaming Goddess. It is built over some natural jets of combustible gas believed to be the manifestation of Devi Bhagwati Jawalamukhi. Mughal Akbar tried to quench the flames but failed, became a devotee thereafter.

Kayakalp: Kayakalp the famous Aurvedic centre for Herbal massages, is only 20kms away

Excursions to Tilokpur: Located at about 50 kms from Dharamkot are the cave temples of Tilokpur dedicated to Lord Shiva. These limestone caves offer fascinating formations of Stalactite and Stalagmites.

Nurpur: Named after Nur Jehan, the wife of Mughal Emperor Jehangir, Nurpur houses an ancient fort and the ruins of a Krishna temple. Traces of the Mughal era's craftsmanship can be seen in the beautiful carvings. For the interested there are forts at Kangra and Sujanpur as well.

Chamunda Devi Temple: Besides being a holy spot, the journey to Chamunda Devi offers some glorious views of the mountains.