Delhi to Dharamshala Distance: Your Ultimate Winter Guide

Dharamshala is a hidden gem located in the jaw-droppingly stunning Dhauladhar region. It is an ideal winter getaway known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and tranquil atmosphere. For those seeking a place to commune with nature, engaging with spirituality, or just wanting a break from the chaos of city life, Dharamshala will never disappoint. This Himalayan sanctuary is approximately 470 kilometers away from Delhi, making it suitable for a winter road trip.  

With this travel guide, we aim to cover all that one has to know when planning a journey from Delhi to Dharamshala: the starting point and the idols, where to rest during a cold holiday if you want to pamper yourself with leisure.  

Distance Between Delhi to Dharamshala

Dharamshala is a prominent hill station located just 470 kilometers away from Delhi (292 miles) making it an excellent place for a road trip. It usually takes anywhere from 9-11 hours to reach by car, depending on the road taken and traffic activities. However, if one travels by bus or a train, the duration of travel may differ.  

Traveling from Delhi to Dharamshala

1. By Car

Dharamshala is accessible by road. This is a preferred option mostly since it allows ease and one can enjoy the beauty along the journey. This route uses the National Highways 44 and 503 while covering some beautiful views and small towns.  

– Best Route: Delhi → Panipat → Ambala → Chandigarh → Una → Kangra → Dharamshala.

– Estimated travel duration: 9-11 hours.  

2. By Bus

For the sake of reference, many state-run and private buses currently run services between Delhi and Dharamshala, such as Volvo and sleeper buses.  

– Starting Point: Kashmere Gate ISBT, New Delhi, India.  

– Estimated travel duration: 10-12 hours.  

3. By Train

Not having its own railway station, Dharamshala can be reached via train to Pathankot a town that is almost 85 kilometers away from the town. After reaching Pathankot, you can take a taxi or use a local bus service to arrive at Dharamshala.  

4. By Air

The airport closest to the above region is Kangra Airport (also called Dharamshala Airport) that is located about 15 kilometers from the center of the town of Dharamshala. You can take a direct flight from Delhi which is the most convenient way to travel to this town.  

Attractions in Road Trip from Delhi to Dharamshala

The tourist journey from Delhi to Dharamshala is a worthwhile experience just like getting to the destination point of Dharamsala. Here are some of the points that the children should be taken to enroute:  

1. Chandigarh  

Chandigarh, also known as ‘The City Beautiful’, has a modern architecture with many gardens and eateries. While here, visit the popular attractions such as Rock Garden or Sukhna Lake for some good photo opportunities.  

2. Una  

A town located in Himachal Pradesh, this town is a very small settlement located at the foothills of the mountains and it also has got good scenic views.

Make a small stop at Chintpurni Temple, an important Shakti Peeth. 

3. Kangra Fort 

Kangra Fort is an important historical site and stands majestically close to Dharamshala in Kangra valley. The fort is also alluring because of the advanced sights that it provides of the valley as well.

4. Tea Gardens of Palampur 

On the way down you may visit the green tea estates in Palampur, which are often addressed as the ‘Tea Capital of North India.’  

Places to Eat in Dharamshala 

Dharamshala, bustling with energy and multiple options caters to different appetites of the people. These are some of the places you will want to check out:  

1. Illiterati Cafe & Bar: This cafe is ideal for those who enjoy reading as it offers fantastic views, offers live music, and on top of that serves exquisite pasta.  

2. Tibetan Kitchen: A place recognised for its genuine Tibetan food, don’t miss out on the momos and thukpa.   

3. Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen: A great place for pizza, pasta, and other Italian dishes.  

4. Morgan’s Place: Offers woodfired pizzas and has a cozy atmosphere.  

5. Woeser Bakery: A little mystery when it comes to coffee, cakes, and pastries.  

Booking Villas and Cottages in Dharamshala   

StayVista highlights the best of opulent and luxurious stays in Dharamshala making it an unforgettable winter vacation for you. Among other villas, here three of them did catch the attention.

1. Address by the Khul.  

This lovely villa has great views of the hills and valleys all around it. The place has modern style rooms with nice décor and wonderful balconies making it a lovely holiday destination.  

– Highlight: Connected to nature, serene environment, and plush facilities.  

– Ideal For: This kind of setting is suitable for families with kids and couples wanting peace.   

2. Stonehill Manor.

Stonehill Manor is a fantastic holiday spot that is both elegant and rustic. This villa features beautifully designed interiors, luscious gardens and overlooks the entire Dhaulaadhar range.  

– Highlight: Beautifully decorated interior spaces, large rooms and good location of local places.  

– Ideal For: Great for big groups and party goers.  

3. Dhauladhar House – Masur.

Dhauladhar House combines contemporary comfort with traditions of Himachali style. Situated in the peaceful hamlet of Masur, it is an excellent place to unwind for the people looking for quietness.  

– Highlight: Appealing sights, seating areas outside, and traditional Himachali culture.  

– Ideal For: Most suited for individual travelers and small families.  

Best Time to Visit Dharamshala in Winter.  

Winter (the months from October up to February) is one of the best periods to visit the plains of Dharamshala. There are blue skies, the atmosphere is clear and the snow covered mountains are worth the visit during this season.

Also, this is a superb moment to relish the winter delight of McLeod Ganj and other attractions such as Triund. 

FAQs Connected to Traveling from Delhi to Dharamshala  

1. How is the city of Dharamshala geographically located in relation to other places, including Delhi?  

If you choose NH44 and NH503, the journey covers a distance of about 470 kilometers.  

2. What is the distance between Delhi and Dharamshala?  

About 470 kilometers by road. It consumes between 9 and 11 hours.  

3. What are the other ways to travel from Delhi to Dharamshala without a car?  

One can take a bus from ISBT Delhi or train to Pathankot and then take a taxi or local bus towards Dharamshala.  

4. How long does it take to go from Delhi to Dharamshala?  

In a car, this may take about 9 to 11 hrs. The bus ride takes about 10 to 12 hrs. For a flight, it is about 1.5 hours.  

5. What is the procedure to reach Dharamshala from Delhi by railway?  

Go to Pathankot railway station. From there, one has to travel 85 kms by cab or bus to reach Dharamshala.  

6. What is the bus system for traveling to Dharamshala from Delhi?  

Buses for Delhi to Dharamshala route crosses destinations every day. These are started from Kashmere Gate ISBT. The distance covered is estimated to take around 10 – 12 hours.

7. Where to stay while visiting Dharamshala? 

For the best accommodation in the region, StayVista provides luxurious villas such as Address by the Khul, Stonehill Manor, and Dhauladhar House – Masur.

More Winter Travel Tips for Dharamshala.

1. Warm Clothing: Warm clothing is required for winters in Dharmshala where temperatures can be extremely low. Take several clothes, gloves, and woolen socks. 

2. Hotel Rooms Reservation: Early booking is necessary when you want to stay in a StayVista villa in the winter season since this is a very high traffic season. 

3. Request for Road Information: When going by vehicle especially in the winter season, there are chances of heavy snow or fog which may hinder or cause delays to travel. 

4. Avoid Excessive Cold Weather: During your travel when the weather is cold, do not forget to drink water or even bring water with you As it is possible to become dehydrated with ease. 

5. Shop for Handicrafts: Visit Dharamshala and buy some unique local souvenirs from monastic areas or other local markets. 

Conclusion

Dharamshala is a beautiful place that has a lot of activities, undisturbed places, and rich culture, an ideal combination especially in the winter as the weather will only bring delight. No matter if you are going with friends, family or by yourself, the experience of traveling from Delhi to Dharamshala will be priceless. You have to try StayVista’s amazing villas which are simply perfect for your winter escapade. 

The cold, cozy atmosphere of the mountains along with the snow and guest-friendly services, sounds tempting. Take a step further and book your stay in Dharamshala, thank us later.