3-Day Budget Himachal Pradesh Itinerary Focused on Dharamshala and Surroundings

Day 0: Travel to Dharamshala

Starting point to Dharamshala, India on May 20, 2025

10:00PM

Overnight bus/train to Dharamshala

Board an overnight bus or train to Dharamshala from your nearest city to arrive early morning on Day 1, saving daytime travel hours and accommodation costs.
INR1000, 8h0m

Day 1: Explore McLeod Ganj

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India on May 21, 2025

8:00AM

Visit Dalai Lama Temple Complex

Start your day with a visit to the serene Dalai Lama Temple Complex, a center of Tibetan Buddhism offering peaceful surroundings and insight into Tibetan culture. Open from 8 AM to 6 PM.
Free, 1h0m

9:30AM

Explore McLeod Ganj Market

Walk around the vibrant McLeod Ganj market for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and a glimpse of Tibetan culture.
Free, 2h0m

11:30AM

Bhagsu Waterfall and Bhagsunath Temple

Take a moderate trek to Bhagsu Waterfall and the historic Bhagsunath Temple, soaking in natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere. Open all day.
Free, 3h0m

3:00PM

Visit Norbulingka Institute

Explore this institute dedicated to preserving Tibetan art and culture with beautiful gardens and workshops. Open 9 AM to 5 PM.
INR100, 2h0m

5:30PM

Relax at Dal Lake

Enjoy a calm evening stroll around Dal Lake, a peaceful spot with scenic mountain views.
Free, 1h0m

Day 2: Local Culture and Heritage

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India on May 22, 2025

9:00AM

Visit War Memorial

Pay respects at the Kangra War Memorial honoring Indian soldiers with well-maintained gardens and monuments. Open 9 AM to 5 PM.
Free, 1h0m

10:30AM

Explore Tea Gardens

Take a short excursion to nearby tea gardens surrounding Dharamshala and experience lush greenery and fresh mountain air.
Free, 2h0m

1:00PM

Visit Cricket Stadium

Visit the iconic Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, known for its stunning location amidst mountains, open for tours and photo ops.
Free, 1h0m

2:30PM

Trek to Triund Hill

Begin a breathtaking 4-5 hour round trip trek to Triund Hill, offering panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range and Kangra valley. Start early to complete the trek in daylight.
Free, 5h0m

Day 3: Explore Nearby Villages

Dharamshala Region, Himachal Pradesh, India on May 23, 2025

9:00AM

Visit Guna Devi Temple

Travel to Guna Devi Temple, situated amid peaceful hills, famous for its religious significance and beautiful surroundings.
Free, 2h0m

11:30AM

Explore Norwood Tea Estate

Discover the historic Norwood Tea Estate with its lush tea plantations and stunning views, a perfect spot for nature lovers.
Free, 2h0m

2:00PM

Visit Masroor Rock Cut Temple

Visit this 8th-century rock-cut temple complex with unique architecture and carvings, approximately 40 km from Dharamshala. Open 9 AM to 5 PM.
INR50, 3h0m

5:30PM

Evening leisure in McLeod Ganj

Spend your last evening relaxing in McLeod Ganj’s cafés or markets before departure.
Free, 2h0m

Day 4: Return Journey

Dharamshala to Starting Point on May 24, 2025

6:00AM

Early morning departure

Board your transport early to return to your starting point.
INR1000, 7h0m