Best Places to Visit in Kangra Himachal Pradesh

Imagine a place surrounded by big, snowy mountains, that is Kangra in Himachal Pradesh. It is like a magical land with old temples, beautiful valleys, and stunning views. Whether you like adventure or just want to chill, Kangra has something for everyone. In this blog, we are going to explore the best places to visit in Kangra, where you can enjoy nature and discover the cool things this place has to offer. Get ready for an awesome journey through the heart of Himachal, and find out why Kangra is so special.

Best places to visit in Kangra

If you want a relaxing and refreshing holiday, Kangra is the place to be. It is a great city in Himachal with awesome attractions that make your stay wonderful. Let’s check out the famous tourist places in Kangra Himachal.

Kangra Fort

As you enter Kangra town from the Shimla-Mataur national highway, the striking sight of the Banganga River cutting through the valley and the historical Kangra Fort perched on a flat mountain comes into view. This scene not only evokes a sense of awe and joy but also beckons you to explore the best places to visit in Kangra and take a step back in time.

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About 3 km from the town, the Kangra Fort, also known as Nagarkot, stands with historical significance. Its massive size and beautiful structure add to its allure. The entrance features a museum showcasing valuable old photographs, exquisite stone sculptures, carvings, and other artifacts from before the destructive earthquake of 1905. offering a glimpse into Kangra’s rich heritage and cementing its position among the top Kangra tourist places.

Masroor Rock-cut Temples

The Masroor Temple in Kangra, one of the notable tourist places near Kangra, is a unique ancient temple in North India, carved from a single rock around the 8th century AD. It is an impressive accomplishment, similar to the rock shrines of Ajanta and Ellora in the west.

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Dedicated to Hindu deities like Shiva, Vishnu, Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita, the complex has 15 temples in Indo-Aryan style. Facing the eastern Sun, with a rectangular pool in the courtyard, the reflection of the temple in the water creates a mesmerizing image. This rare temple complex is just 40 km away from Kangra.

Maharana Pratap Sagar

Maharana Pratap Sagar is one of the largest manmade lakes in the country, was created with the completion of the Pong Dam on the River Beas in 1975. The dam’s backwaters have transformed into a thriving wetland, attracting a diverse range of fish and becoming a haven for thousands of migratory birds each winter.

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Recognized as a bird sanctuary in 1983 and designated as a Ramsar Wetland site, Pong Dam is a popular destination for avid bird watchers and anglers. Easily accessible from towns like Nurpur, Jwali, Nagrota Suriyan, Talwara, Dharamshala, and Kangra, it stands among the famous places in Kangra, offering a bustling community of winter waterfowl, including bar-headed geese, northern lapwing, ruddy shelduck, northern pintail, black-headed gulls, and various other bird species.

Pragpur

Situated 2000 feet above sea level, the heritage village of Pragpur serves as an ideal base for exploring the Kangra Valley. Surrounded by places of historic, religious, and cultural significance, Pragpur offers a perfect setting for rural tourism with its favorable climate, accessibility, and rich flora and fauna.

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As one of the unexplored places in Kangra, Pragpur provides a unique experience with its cobbled lanes, mud houses, and slate rooflines influenced by Portuguese, British, Italian, and Rajput styles. Recognized for its unique conservation efforts, Pragpur has earned the distinction of being a heritage village, making it one of the notable tourist places in Kangra, Himachal. It features Mughal-style gardens, pleasure terraces, and expansive water reservoirs that enhance the allure of this picturesque destination.

Jwalamukhi

Jwala Ji Temple, dedicated to goddess Jwala Ji, is among a top religious place to visit in Kangra. This famous pilgrimage site is easy to reach from Kangra (35km) and Dharamshala (53km). The ancient temple, situated against a wooded area, has a special dome that was covered in gold by Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

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People believe that a forever-burning flame in a hollow rock inside the temple represents the goddess Devi. The temple gets lively during the Navratra celebrations, and you can stay at Himachal Tourism ‘Hotel Jwalaji’ in Jwalamukhi.

Dada Siba

Dada Siba, located 23 km from Dehra via Dhaliara and Chinor, houses an exceptional architectural and artistic gem—the Radha Krishna Temple, adding to the list of Kangra tourist attractions. Surrounded by lush fields and mango groves along the Maharana Pratap Sagar waters, the temple is renowned for its captivating wall paintings.

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The true beauty of the temple lies in its intricately colored marble relief panels, covering every inch of the sanctum with frescoes. The paintings showcase various styles, including Mughal, Sikh, and Pahari schools, creating a unique visual tapestry.

Kathgarh

Located 90 km from Dharamshala via Nurpur-Indaura, Kathgarh boasts a unique Shiva temple, making it one of the most intriguing places near Kangra. The temple features a human-sized linga vertically split into two parts, with the distance between them changing over time.

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The larger part is worshipped as Shiva, while the smaller part represents Parvati. According to a myth, this pillar at Kathgarh is believed to be the same pillar of fire that Lord Shiva manifested during a battle for hierarchical supremacy between Lord Vishnu and Brahma.

Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple

One of the best places to visit in Kangra is the Kaleshwar Mahadev temple, located 10 km from Pragpur and 18 km from Nadaun, on the banks of the river Beas. Famous for its sacred Panchtirthi waters, pilgrims gather to take a holy dip during Baisakhi (13 April) in Panchtirthi and the nearby river Beas. The temple complex, with its origins linked to the exile of the Pandavas as narrated in the Mahabharata, adds to the cultural and spiritual richness of Kangra.

Tatwani and Machhial

Tatwani is another one of the best places to visit in Kangra Himachal Pradesh, situated about 30 km away, known for its therapeutic hot water springs. As you make your way to the springs, you will pass through Machhial, a place with a stunning and sizable waterfall. These natural attractions enhance the scenic beauty of Kangra, making it one of the best tourist places near Kangra.

Baijnath Shiv Temple

Regarded as one of the best places to visit in Kangra, the stone temple of Baijnath stands as an architectural gem. It was reconstructed at its present site by two local merchants around 1204 AD. This shikhara-style temple is home to a divine Linga, counted among the 12 Jyotirlingas in the country. Believers hold that even Ravana, the king of Lanka and a devotee of Lord Shiva, meditated at Baijnath. During Shivratri, the temple is adorned with beautiful flower garlands, enhancing its beauty and grace, while the town hosts a fair that draws many devotees to the sacred site.

Bir Billing

Bir is a village situated in the western part of Joginder Nagar Valley in Himachal Pradesh, Northern India. Often hailed as the “Paragliding Capital of India,” and is among the best places to visit in Kangra. Bir is not only known for adventure sports but also recognized as a prominent hub for ecotourism, spiritual studies, and meditation. Additionally, Bir houses a Tibetan refugee settlement featuring several Buddhist monasteries and a sizable stupa. The paragliding activity operates between Billing, the takeoff site, and Bir village, the landing site, collectively known as “Bir Billing.”

Dharamshala

Dharamshala is a beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh, India, and one of the famous places in Kangra. surrounded by the peaceful Dhauladhar Range. It is famous for its spiritual vibes and is where the Dalai Lama, a Tibetan leader, lives in exile. Dharamshala is a mix of Tibetan culture, lively markets, and stunning views, making it a favorite spot for those who love peace and nature.

Triund

Triund, the crown jewel of Dharamshala and one of the famous places in Kangra, sits nestled in the Dhauladhar mountains. Offering stunning views of the mountain range on one side and the Kangra Valley on the other, Triund is a highly popular trekking spot. Tourists from India and around the world are drawn to its tranquil trek, suitable for various age groups.

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Passing through a beautiful mixed forest of oak, deodar, and rhododendron, the trek is relatively easy for the first five kilometers, with the last kilometer, known as the “22 curves,” requiring a bit more effort. Along the way, chai shops provide refreshments, and the effort is rewarded with an awe-inspiring panorama upon reaching Triund.

Mcleodganj

Mcleodganj is a hill station near Dharamshala. One of the famous places in Kangra, Mcleodganj is especially loved by trekkers. The culture here is a beautiful mix of Tibetan and some British influences. Also known as “Little Lhasa” or “Dhasa” (a short form used mainly by Tibetans), McLeodganj is a suburb of Dharamsala in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is noteworthy for hosting the headquarters of the Tibetan government-in-exile.

Kareri Lake

Kareri Lake, situated in the Dhauladhars, is renowned as a trekking destination and one of the notable tourist places near Kangra. This high-altitude lake, also known as Kumarwah Lake, remains frozen from early December to March–April. Overlooking the lake, there is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Shakti on a hilltop. Located approximately 9 km northwest of Dharamsala in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh.

Dal Lake

Dal Lake is a small and beautiful lake located 11 kilometers from Dharamshala near the village of Tota Rani in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. You can reach Dal Lake by taking a pleasant 2-kilometer walk westwards from MacLeodganj bazaar. Surrounded by green deodar forests, Dal Lake is famous for its scenic beauty and is also a pilgrimage spot.

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The area around the lake is like a natural paradise, covering about one hectare. There is a Lord Shiva temple on the lake’s bank, considered sacred and believed to be around 200 years old, where the sage Durvasa is said to have prayed to Lord Shiva. Dal Lake stands out as one of the best places to visit in Kangra, offering a peaceful and enchanting retreat.

Conclusion

As we conclude our journey through the best places to visit in Kangra, we have uncovered the diverse tapestry that this region weaves for every traveler. From the bustling charm of Dharamshala to the tranquil shores of Dal Lake, Kangra invites exploration with open arms. Whether you seek adventure in the heights of Triund or serenity at Kareri Lake, each destination has left an indelible mark on Kangra’s landscape. Have you been to any of these places? Share your stories with us in the comments below.

How to reach Kangra

Reaching Kangra involves various modes of transportation, and the best option depends on your starting point. Here are the general guidelines:

By Air:

The nearest airport to Kangra is Gaggal Airport (also known as Kangra Airport or Dharamshala Airport). It is well connected to major cities in India. Once you arrive at the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach Kangra.

By Train:

The nearest major railway station is Pathankot Railway Station, approximately 86 kilometers away from Kangra. Pathankot is well-connected to several major cities in India. From Pathankot, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kangra.

By Road:

Kangra has good road connectivity, and you can reach it by bus, car, or motorcycle. The town is connected to nearby cities and towns by state and private buses. If you prefer a more personalized journey, hiring a taxi or driving your own vehicle is also a convenient option.

Famous  foods  of  Kangra

Here are some of the must-try famous foods of Kangra

1. Kangra Dham: 

This elaborate feast is a true cultural experience, traditionally served on special occasions like weddings or religious festivals. Cooked by Brahmin priests called Botis, the Dham comprises several courses, including aromatic rice, various dals (lentils), spicy vegetable curries like Madra (red kidney beans), Palda (a curd-based dish), and sweet rice for dessert. It’s a delightful way to sample the diversity of Himachali vegetarian cuisine.

2. Kullu Trout:

This freshwater fish, found in the Beas River and its tributaries, is a prized delicacy in Kangra. It’s often cooked in a masala or grilled, and its tender flesh and subtle flavor are truly unique.

3. Chha Gosht:

This traditional Kangra dish features slow-cooked lamb or mutton with a rich and flavorful gravy. The meat is incredibly tender and melts in your mouth, while the spices add a warm and aromatic touch.

4. Kangra Kadhi:

This yogurt-based curry is a lighter and tangier alternative to Chha Gosht. It’s often served with rice or flatbreads like Chhapattis, and the combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible.

5. Siddu Ki Karhi:

This unique dish combines Siddu dumplings with a creamy tomato and yogurt gravy. The dumplings soak up the flavorful gravy, creating a delightful combination that’s both comforting and satisfying.

6. Mash di Dal:

This Himachali lentil dish is a protein-packed powerhouse. Made with black gram lentils and a variety of spices, it’s often served with rice or Chhapattis and is a great way to fuel your day.

7. Apricot Chutney:

Kangra is known for its delicious apricots, and this sweet and tangy chutney is a wonderful way to enjoy its flavor. It pairs perfectly with savory dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing snack.

8. Kangra Tea:  After all that delicious food, what better way to finish your meal than with a cup of piping hot Kangra tea? This aromatic brew is grown in the Kangra Valley and is known for its unique flavor and invigorating properties.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best  Places To Visit In Kangra