3-Day Cultural and Nature Itinerary in Dharamsala, India

Day 1: Local Culture & Heritage

Dharamsala, India on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Common Grounds Café

Enjoy a cozy breakfast offering fresh coffee and bakery items in McLeod Ganj. The café opens early at 8am and offers a peaceful ambience.
INR400, 1h

9:30am

Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex (Dalai Lama's Temple)

Explore the spiritual heart of Dharamsala with the Dalai Lama's temple complex, offering a unique insight into Tibetan Buddhism. The complex is open from 8am to 7pm.
Free, 1h30m

11:15am

Stroll at McLeod Ganj Market

Wander through vibrant shops selling Tibetan handicrafts, souvenirs, and local snacks in the bustling market area.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen

Savor delicious Italian dishes including wood-fired pizzas and pasta in a cozy and rustic setting, open all day.
INR800, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Tibet Museum

Learn about Tibetan history, culture, and the exile community at this well-curated museum, open from 9am to 5pm.
INR30, 1h

3:30pm

Walk to Bhagsu Rock and Waterfall

Take a short trek to the Bhagsu Waterfall amidst nature; a perfect spot for some refreshing moments, accessible all day.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Nick’s Italian Kitchen

Dine at this popular spot known for tasty Italian and continental dishes and pleasant atmosphere, open till 10pm.
INR900, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Nature & Art

Dharamsala, India on May 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Tibetan Kitchen

Start early with authentic Tibetan breakfast items such as momos and thukpa in McLeod Ganj, open from 7am.
INR300, 45m

8:30am

Visit Dal Lake

Spend the morning exploring the serene Dal Lake with its scenic walking trails and peaceful surroundings, open throughout the day.
Free, 2h

11:00am

Visit Norbulingka Institute

Explore Tibetan art, culture, and handicrafts including woodcarving and thangka painting at the Norbulingka Institute, open 9am to 5pm.
INR100, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Norling Restaurant (Norbulingka)

Enjoy fresh Tibetan and Indian meals within the tranquil Norbulingka gardens.
INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Return to McLeod Ganj for Leisure

Spend the afternoon relaxing at a local café or exploring hidden alleys and shops around McLeod Ganj.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Illiterati Café

Dine at Illiterati, known for great coffees, wood-fired pizzas, and a quirky literary vibe, open until 10pm.
INR850, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Monasteries & Markets

Dharamsala, India on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tibet Kitchen

Enjoy a nourishing Tibetan breakfast with fresh momos and butter tea at this local favourite.
INR350, 1h

9:30am

Visit Gyuto Monastery

Visit Gyuto Tantric Monastery, a significant center of Buddhist learning, open for visitors throughout the day.
Free, 1h30m

11:15am

Explore Dalai Lama’s Temple Surroundings

Walk around the peaceful temple gardens and nearby shops including Tibetan book stores and handicraft shops.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Café Middle Way

Enjoy healthy, delicious food with a focus on vegetarian options and fresh ingredients at this laid-back café near the temple.
INR650, 1h

2:00pm

Shopping at Dharamsala Market

Spend the afternoon exploring Dharamsala market for local woollens, Tibetan crafts, and souvenirs, open until evening.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Norling Café

Have tea or coffee while reflecting on your trip in this quaint café offering Tibetan snacks and desserts.
INR200, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Illiterati Café

For a final sumptuous meal, return to Illiterati Café for their well-loved continental menu with great ambiance.
INR900, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability