Dharamshala is located in the lower hills in the western state of Himachal Pradesh of India. Dharamshala is well knownas the entrance to the KangraValley. The snow-capped mountain range of Dhauladhar in its background adds to the scenic beauty of Dharamshala. Dharamshala is a natural healing resort.
This vital city of the Kangra valley was demolished by a devastating earthquake in 1905, after which it was rebuilt and the place became a lovely health center and an important tourist attraction. The city is alienated into two different regions, Upper Dharamshala and Lower Dharamshala. Lower Dharamshala is a shopping center, while Upper Dharamshala is known for its colonial lifestyle. After being forced into exile from Tibet in 1959, the Dalai Lama made Dharamshala his residence.
Geography
This place is now known as the ‘Land of Lamas’ due to the huge Tibetan settlements. McLeodganj has become an important religious center in the region where the teaching and religion of Tibetan Buddhism is promoted. Dharamshala has many monasteries and learning centers along with Hindu and Jain temples. Travelers visiting this place can buy beautiful Tibetan handicrafts, clothing, thangka (silk paint) and local souvenirs, such as market handicrafts in McLeodganj. According to the 2001 census, the city of Dharamshala has a total population of 19,034.