Dharamsala, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Dharamsala, India? If you're planning to go to Dharamsala, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Dharamsala
- Important essentials for Dharamsala
- Activities for Dharamsala
- Dharamsala in January: weather and what to pack
- Dharamsala in February: weather and what to pack
- Dharamsala in March: weather and what to pack
- Dharamsala in April: weather and what to pack
- Dharamsala in May: weather and what to pack
- Dharamsala in June: weather and what to pack
- Dharamsala in July: weather and what to pack
- Dharamsala in August: weather and what to pack
- Dharamsala in September: weather and what to pack
- Dharamsala in October: weather and what to pack
- Dharamsala in November: weather and what to pack
- Dharamsala in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Dharamsala, India
Based on the climate and weather in Dharamsala, India, the best time to go is April. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Dharamsala, India
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Dharamsala, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Dharamsala, India by month
January
January in Dharamsala is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dharamsala. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
If you visit the Tibet Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
If you decide to visit Bhagsunag Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof phone bag
Binoculars
Swimsuits
February
If you vacation in Dharamsala during February, you might find that it can be chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dharamsala. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to find the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you visit the Tibet Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
If you decide to visit Bhagsunag Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof phone bag
Binoculars
Swimsuits
March
If you go to Dharamsala in March, you will notice that it is balmy. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dharamsala. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you visit the Tibet Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
If you decide to visit Bhagsunag Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof phone bag
Binoculars
Swimsuits
April
If you visit Dharamsala during April, you may see that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dharamsala. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you visit the Tibet Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
If you decide to visit Bhagsunag Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof phone bag
Binoculars
Swimsuits
May
If you visit Dharamsala during May, you may see that it is really hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Skirts
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans contaminants:
this
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dharamsala. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the Tibet Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
If you decide to visit Bhagsunag Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof phone bag
Binoculars
Swimsuits
June
June here is really hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dharamsala. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to pick the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
If you visit the Tibet Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
If you decide to visit Bhagsunag Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof phone bag
Binoculars
Swimsuits
July
July in Dharamsala is extremely warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dharamsala. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to get the right type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you visit the Tibet Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
If you decide to visit Bhagsunag Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof phone bag
Binoculars
Swimsuits
August
August here is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dharamsala. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the Tibet Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
If you decide to visit Bhagsunag Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof phone bag
Binoculars
Swimsuits
September
Traveling to Dharamsala in September, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Light skirts
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dharamsala. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to find the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.
If you visit the Tibet Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
If you decide to visit Bhagsunag Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof phone bag
Binoculars
Swimsuits
October
If you visit Dharamsala during October, you will probably notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dharamsala. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
If you visit the Tibet Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
If you decide to visit Bhagsunag Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof phone bag
Binoculars
Swimsuits
November
If you vacation in Dharamsala during November, you are likely to see that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dharamsala. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you visit the Tibet Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
If you decide to visit Bhagsunag Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof phone bag
Binoculars
Swimsuits
December
December in Dharamsala is chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dharamsala. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to pick the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you visit the Tibet Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
If you decide to visit Bhagsunag Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Waterproof phone bag
Binoculars
Swimsuits
What to do in Dharamsala, India
Dharamsala, a picturesque city set in the foothills of the Himalayas, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. The city is widely known for its scenic natural beauty, spiritual and religious significance, and cultural diversity. The city boasts a range of tourist attractions that cater to travelers with different interests. Here is a list of the top tourist attractions in Dharamsala:
1. Dal Lake: A beautiful serene lake situated in the Kangra Valley, surrounded by lush greenery and mountains. It is a popular spot for boating, picnicking, and nature walks.
2. Namgyal Monastery: Namgyal Monastery is one of the most significant Tibetan monasteries situated in Dharamsala. It is the personal monastery of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
3. McLeod Ganj: McLeod Ganj is a beautiful hill station located in Dharamsala. It is also known as "Little Lhasa" because of its large population of Tibetan refugees.
4. Triund Hill: Triund Hill is a popular trekking destination and is perfect for nature lovers who seek the tranquility and serenity that the city has to offer.
5. Kangra Fort: Located in the town of Kangra, this ancient fort dates back to the 4th century BC, is a famous historical monument and a popular tourist attraction.
6. Tsuglagkhang Complex: Tsuglagkhang Complex is a religious center located in McLeod Ganj. It includes the Dalai Lama's residence, prayer halls, and a Tibetan museum.
7. Bhagsu Waterfall: Located 11 km from Dharamsala, this waterfall is a natural attraction surrounded by picturesque surroundings that offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
8. Masroor Rock Cut Temple: Masroor Rock Cut Temple is a group of temples located in the Kangra Valley. These temples are famous for their exquisite rock carvings and unique architecture, a must-visit for history and art lovers.
9. Kangra Art Museum: Kangra Art Museum is located in Dharamsala and displays a vast collection of traditional and contemporary art from different regions of Himachal Pradesh.
10. Naddi View Point: Naddi Viewpoint offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Dhauladhar mountain range, Kangra Valley, and McLeod Ganj.
In conclusion, Dharamsala is a must-visit place in India, with its beautiful surroundings, rich culture, and spiritual heritage, that has something to offer to every kind of traveler. The top ten tourist attractions mentioned above are just the tip of the iceberg, and you can discover many other hidden gems while exploring this beautiful city.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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