Dharamkot vs. Dharamshala: Which Should You Visit? — The Bunksters

When planning a trip to the serene hills of Himachal Pradesh, two destinations often make it to the top of every traveler’s list — Dharamshala and Dharamkot. Both nestled in the lap of the Dhauladhar ranges, these hill towns offer captivating views, peaceful retreats, and rich cultural experiences. But if you’re short on time or wondering which destination suits your travel style best, let’s break it down for you.

As The Bunksters, based right in the heart of Dharamkot, we’ve hosted hundreds of travelers, backpackers, and digital nomads. In this guide, we’ll compare Dharamkot and Dharamshala to help you decide which one should be your next stop — or why you should visit both!

1. Vibe and Atmosphere

Dharamshala: Bustling Hill Town

Dharamshala is a vibrant town and the administrative headquarters of Kangra district. It’s split into Lower and Upper Dharamshala, with Upper Dharamshala (McLeod Ganj) being more popular among tourists. Here, you’ll find a mix of Tibetan culture, lively markets, temples, monasteries, and bustling streets. It’s great for those who want to be in the middle of the action.

Dharamkot: Peaceful Escape

Dharamkot, on the other hand, is a small and peaceful village just a short trek from McLeod Ganj. Surrounded by deodar forests and offering panoramic views of the Himalayas, it’s the perfect place to relax, meditate, or connect with nature. With fewer crowds and more tranquility, Dharamkot attracts yoga lovers, trekkers, and soulful travelers looking for inner peace and slow travel.

2. Things to Do

Dharamshala Highlights:

  • Visit the Dalai Lama Temple Complex
  • Explore the Tibetan Museum
  • Shop at the Tibetan market for handicrafts and souvenirs
  • Walk through the Bhagsu Waterfall (near McLeod Ganj)
  • Check out the HPCA Cricket Stadium, one of the world’s highest cricket grounds

Dharamkot Highlights:

  • Go trekking to Triund — a beginner-friendly but breathtaking hike
  • Attend yoga and meditation classes in various studios
  • Hang out in cozy cafes with artistic vibes
  • Explore lesser-known trails like the Gallu Devi Temple trek
  • Experience the peace of offbeat Himachal

3. Accommodation: Where to Stay

While Dharamshala offers a wide range of hotels and guesthouses, Dharamkot is home to unique hostels and homestays designed for solo travelers and groups alike.

Stay with Us — The Bunksters, Dharamkot

If you’re planning to stay in Dharamkot, The Bunksters is your go-to destination. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly dormitory rooms, cozy private rooms, or a great hangout spot, we’ve got it all.

We offer:

  • Clean and spacious dorms and private accommodations
  • A lively in-house café serving delicious food and drinks
  • A friendly, social atmosphere perfect for meeting other travelers
  • Beautiful mountain views right from our property

With The Bunksters, your stay in Dharamkot is more than just accommodation — it’s an experience.

4. Food and Cafes

Dharamshala: Diverse Cuisines

From Tibetan momos to South Indian dosas and Italian pasta, Dharamshala offers an extensive range of food options. But many places tend to get overcrowded during peak season.

Dharamkot: Bohemian Cafes

Dharamkot is known for its quaint, laid-back cafes serving vegan, Israeli, and organic meals. Think hummus platters, herbal teas, and banana pancakes while sitting in cozy cafes with Himalayan views. The Bunksters Café is one of the best places to chill with fellow travelers and enjoy local as well as global cuisine.

5. Accessibility and Connectivity

Getting to Dharamshala:

Dharamshala is easily accessible by road and has a nearby airport (Gaggal Airport). It is well-connected by buses from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Pathankot.

Reaching Dharamkot:

From Dharamshala or McLeod Ganj, Dharamkot is just a short taxi ride or 30-minute uphill walk away. The journey may be a bit steep, but the peaceful atmosphere you find at the top is worth every step.

6. Digital Nomad and Work-Friendly Environment

Dharamkot, with its slow pace and mountain views, is becoming a hot favorite among digital nomads. With good Wi-Fi and a growing community of remote workers, our hostel at The Bunksters is perfect for working remotely with peace and productivity.

Final Verdict: Dharamshala or Dharamkot?

  • If you love vibrant street life, temples, and culture, go for Dharamshala.
  • If you prefer peaceful vibes, nature, treks, and soulful solitude, Dharamkot is the place to be.

And if you ask us? Start in Dharamshala and unwind in Dharamkot — the best of both worlds.

Stay at The Bunksters — Your Home in the Himalayas

Whether you’re a backpacker, a solo traveler, or a group of friends, The Bunksters in Dharamkot is your perfect base. Come for the views, stay for the vibes.

Book your stay with us today and experience the best of Dharamkot!

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