Tucked quietly above the bustling town of McLeod Ganj in Himachal Pradesh, Dharamkot is a peaceful mountain village that has earned the nickname “Mini Israel” for its laid-back vibes, foreign traveler community, and spiritual energy. Surrounded by deodar forests and perched on the Dhauladhar foothills, this charming destination offers stunning views, tranquil cafes, meditation centers, and easy access to popular treks like Triund and Laka Glacier.
If you’re planning a trip to Dharamshala, don’t miss the chance to explore the magic of Dharamkot — where nature, spirituality, and slow travel blend into one unforgettable experience.
🌄 Why Visit Dharamkot?
Unlike the more commercial parts of McLeod Ganj, Dharamkot remains peaceful, rustic, and rooted in nature. The narrow trails, forested paths, and mountain views offer a perfect setting for travelers seeking quietude and reflection. It’s an ideal base for digital nomads, solo travelers, and adventure seekers alike.
Here are a few reasons why Dharamkot is a must-visit:
- Stunning panoramic views of the Kangra Valley and Dhauladhar range
- A haven for yoga, meditation, and spiritual seekers
- Unique blend of local Himachali life and global traveler culture
- Home to excellent cafes serving Israeli, Tibetan, and Indian cuisines
- Gateway to famous treks like Triund, Snowline, and Indrahar Pass
🧘♀️ Spiritual & Wellness Retreats
Dharamkot has grown into a hub for those seeking inner peace. The Tushita Meditation Centre, located in the upper part of the village, is internationally known for its Buddhist courses and Vipassana meditation retreats. Many travelers visit Dharamkot to learn yoga, attend healing workshops, or simply unwind in nature.
Several yoga schools offer multi-day teacher training and drop-in classes, perfect for those on a longer journey.
🥾 Gateway to Adventure: Treks from Dharamkot
If you love trekking, Dharamkot is your launchpad to some of the best short and long treks in the Dhauladhar range:
- Triund Trek: The most popular day trek in the region, with sweeping views of snow-covered peaks
- Laka Glacier Trek: A more adventurous extension beyond Triund, ideal for a weekend
- Indrahar Pass Trek: A challenging and scenic high-altitude route into the Chamba Valley
- Dharamkot to Bhagsunag Waterfall Hike: A beautiful walk through pine forests and villages
These trails are well-marked and suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Manu Adventures India organizes guided treks from Dharamkot, complete with camping gear, meals, and safety support.
☕ Where to Eat & Chill in Dharamkot
Despite being a small village, Dharamkot boasts an impressive food scene. You’ll find cozy cafes with mountain views, serving everything from hummus platters and shakshuka to vegan desserts and masala chai. Popular hangouts include:
- Trek and Dine – a favorite among hikers
- Bodhi Greens – vegan food and smoothies
- Moonlight Café – local flavors with a view
- Morgan’s Place – pizza with a side of mountain magic
The best part? Most of these cafés also have work-friendly spaces for remote workers.
🛌 Where to Stay
Dharamkot has a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to boutique stays and homestays with mountain views. You can choose to stay closer to Upper Dharamkot for peace and nature, or near Lower Dharamkot for better connectivity to McLeod Ganj.
For a true Himalayan experience, opt for a forest homestay or eco-lodge that supports local communities.
🧭 How to Reach Dharamkot
- By Road: Take a taxi or rickshaw from McLeod Ganj (2–3 km uphill)
- By Train: Nearest station is Pathankot; then a taxi/bus to McLeod Ganj
- By Air: Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala) is about 25 km away
🌿 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re chasing peace, adventure, or creative inspiration, Dharamkot offers it all. With a unique blend of spirituality, global culture, local warmth, and raw natural beauty, this little village is one of Himachal’s best-kept secrets. Come for a weekend — stay for a month.
