Dharamsala to Gaya Flights

  About Dharamshala

Dharamshala, also known as the abode of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, is a quaint hill station located in Himachal Pradesh. The hill station is also considered to be the second capital of the hilly state for its extensive development over the years. The hill station is a famous tourist attraction and sees a tremendous footfall of visitors every year. Thanks to the natural beauty, the presence of the Himalayan range surrounding the town and the cultural relevance, Dharamshala has become a sought-after travel destination. Some flights fly to and from Dharamshala. Reaching Dharamshala is convenient as there are several modes of transport to take you there.

Best time to visit Dharamshala

Winters in Dharamshala would be pleasant as the green expanses turn into pious white thanks to the snow. However, the extreme temperature could be a little tough for many to deal with. Especially since there is the possibility of frostbites and inability to deal with the cold weather. However, if you wish to experience the winters at Dharamshala, you should go between October to February. The months from November to December are practically lit as the hill town rings in several festivals and carnivals.

The summer season undoubtedly becomes the best time to visit Dharamshala as the weather is cool and pleasant. You can enjoy the bright yet subtle sun, cool breeze and hues of green while the Himalayas surround you. The months from February to June, basically from spring through summer, are the two best seasons to spend in Dharamshala. Considering how it is peak season, it is recommended that you make advance flight bookings to Dharamshala to get cheap flight tickets.

Monsoon is the most cumbersome season and should be avoided at all cost. The months between July to early September sees heavy rains which are not ideal for venturing out. Possibilities of landslides and other such concerns are quite high since it is a hill station. Hence, keep away from a plan to visit Dharamshala during monsoon.

Places to visit in Dharamshala

Monasteries

Dharamshala is a spiritual haven and home to the Dalai Lama. The hill station brims with positive and spiritual energy and has a plethora of monasteries to explore. The Tsuglagkhang Complex, situated on the Temple Road, was built back in 1959 when His Holiness the Dalai Lama first visited the country. The complex has a rich Tibetan culture on display with eclectic designs and Pagoda structures. You might even get to meet His Holiness during your visit. Aside from this popular destination, there are several other monasteries such as Namgyal, Gyuto, Nechung and more that you can explore. These monasteries have a calming effect as the green expanses are soothing. Plus, the vibrations of the meditation further give the environment a positive spin.

Dal Lake

While Dal Lake is better known for its presence in Jammu and Kashmir, part of the lake flows through Dharamshala too, further enhancing its beauty. The enchanting lake is another such popular attraction in Dharamshala. What makes the place exquisite is the way the lake is surrounded by towering Deodar trees and watched over by the snow-capped Himalayas.

Trekking to Bhagsu Falls

Bhagsu Falls is one of the fun tourist attractions for adventure junkies. You can trek up to the slope, seek blessings at the Bhagsunag Temple and sit below the Bhagsu Falls as well. Aside from the charm, the place is an important locale to visit in Dharamshala.

Kangra Fort

While the idea of being surrounded by the towering Himalayas is a reason good enough to want to visit Dharamshala, the place also has historical and spiritual significance. The Kangra Fort, located in the city, is one of the oldest forts in the country. The structure dates back to 4th century BC. It is believed that the fortress belonged to the royal family from the Kangra - Katoch Dynasty. As you visit the ruins site, you will notice how the fort's structure tells a tale about the history of the place. It is quite intriguing and exciting for enthusiasts. The locals would also tell you interesting stories about the place.

Naddi Village

The picturesque Naddi Village is located a little close to Dharamshala and is absolutely blissful all-round the year. The location of the village is a bit remote, but the views and lifestyle are cosy and too good for words. As you stay in this village, you will wake up to the pristine views of the snowcapped Dhauladhar range, the gorgeous Kangra Valley and the alluring greenery enveloping Dharamshala. The forests close to Naddi Village have trails of Deodar trees which further add to the beauty of the place.

War Memorial

During the Indo-China War that took place from 1947 through 1971, Dharamshala lost several soldiers. As a means to pay tribute to the brave martyrs of Kangra, the hill station built a War Memorial in the town. The setting of the memorial is enchanting with greenery surrounding the expanse while pine trees border the structure. There are quite a few cafes in the vicinity too that you can visit.

Things to do in Dharamshala

Triund Trek

Dharamshala is a haven for backpackers and solo travellers who like indulging in trekking and other adventure activities. With Bhagsu Falls, Triund Trek and Kangra Valley trek, there are far too many trekking opportunities for enthusiasts to undertake. Many trekkers opt to camp at the summit after the trek as the sunrise is a sight that must be experienced. The Himalayas look exquisite and reflect the beauty of the hill station.

Seek blessings at the Jwala Devi Temple

Although the Jwala Devi Temple is 56 km away from the main city of Dharamshala, it has been one of the biggest tourist attractions of Kangra. To reach the temple, it is advised to go through Dharamshala. As the name suggests, the temple is a shrine to Jwala Devi, who has quite a spiritual stance. It is believed that the temple flames light up miraculously. Also, the temple has been in the Kangra Valley for centuries now.

Stroll through the Tibetan Art Museum

The Tibetan culture is quite compelling and something you'll find in plenty as you walk through the streets of Dharamshala. Located in the McLeodganj district, the Tibetan Art Museum is one such place that would take you through a journey of what encompasses the Tibetan culture. The Dalai Lama Temple is also close to the museum. You can walk through the museum passages and know more about their past, culture, lifestyle, spiritual stance and more.

Food and restaurants in Dharamshala

The cuisine that you'll find in Dharamshala is mainly Indian, Tibetan and Chinese. The place does offer some authentic Tibetan cuisine and must be tried. The best place to relish the Tibetan cuisine would be at the Tibet Kitchen. Delicacies like Aloo Pingsha, momos, thupka, tingmo and mutton petse are some of the dishes that you should gorge down during your visit. Since the place is quite paradisiacal for backpackers and travellers from around the world, several quaint cafes are serving Continental food as well. You can find them at the Moonlight Cafe and Carpe Diem Cafe, to name a few.

Nick's Italian Kitchen is also an excellent place to indulge in some Italian cuisine. They will have the Indian flavours merged with Italian essence, but it would be worth trying. For dessert, you can always pay a visit to the Woeser Bakery. From coffee cakes, chocolate lollipops to tarts, the bakery has a quintessential palette of desserts at affordable rates. Even Lhamo Croissant is a good place to binge sweets and baked products.

How to reach Dharamshala (Transportation)

By Air

You can reach Dharamshala Dharamshala by air as the Kangra Gaggal airport is only 10 kilometres away from the city centre. The hill station is a prominent tourist destination and sees quite a lot of traffic, especially during peak season. There are only two dedicated airlines for Dharamshala which connect from Chandigarh and Delhi. Alliance Air and SpiceJet are the two notable airlines with flight connectivity to and from Dharamshala. Tourists usually opt for train or road to reach the hill station and hence, sees less air traffic. The airport is located in the beautiful expanse of the Kangra Valley which gives passengers a pristine view of the Himalayas as well as the valley. Taxi cabs and other rental services are available at the airport that will reach travellers to the city.

By Rail

Rail is considered to be a convenient route for travellers. Since a lot of travellers choose Delhi or Chandigarh as the route to reach Dharamshala, Pathankot becomes the closest railway station. It is 120 km away from Dharamshala and has great connectivity with the main city. From Pathankot, there's another domestic route to Dharamshala that can be taken. The railway line to Jogindernagar from Pathankot is narrow but a known route. This line passes through Himachal Pradesh's Mandi District. The closest station to Dharamshala is Chamunda Marg, which is just 30 minutes away.

By Road

Dharamshala has brilliant road connections. There are various domestic routes to Dharamshala from Delhi, Chandigarh and Shimla. From government-run transport to Volvo buses with sleeper facilities, a slew of services is available which will reach you to Dharamshala. Since they travel to Uttarakhand daily, you can book your tickets to Dharamshala on the day of the journey as well.

  About Gaya

Located in the state of Bihar is Gaya, popularly known as Bodh Gaya, for its spiritual significance. The city of Gaya is a popular pilgrimage in the state and attracts Hindus and Buddhists from around the world.

One of the key reasons behind Hindus visiting the Gaya is to make funeral offerings to give the deceased's soul solace. Known as Pind Daan, the puja is only performed here in Gaya and is said to have strong religious values. The Pind Daan puja is conducted by the family of the deceased to bring their ancestor's souls to peace. The rituals are said to help the ancestors and their wandering souls find some peace and harmony in the nether worlds, after death. To perform this puja, people come from around the world as the beliefs are strong.

Hills surround the city of Gaya as the Himalayan range continues to sprawl across the expanses of Bihar as well. The Vishnupad temple, located at the heart of the Gaya city, holds tremendous religious significance. It is believed that the temple was originally built by Maratha princess Ahliyabai, back in the 18th century. Much like the city, even the hills that surround Gaya are known to be sacred and places of sanctity. The temple city has important shrines located in different directions from the centre of the city.

Gaya is also of spiritual significance to Buddhists as it is believed that Gautama Buddha attained Enlightenment in this small town of Bihar. Bodhgaya has a vast expanse of Buddhist temple constructed with various spiritual significance. The city of Gaya holds importance for the Hindus and Buddhists for two impactful incidences are related to the place.

With the demand the city of Gaya has, the flight connectivity for domestic routes as well as international routes is quite high. There are numerous flights available from within the country and international destinations. The spiritual haven attracts Buddhists and Hindus every year to perform prayers and seek blessings. Ensure to book hotels well in advance during peak season as you might have trouble finding accommodation.

Best time to visit Gaya

Pitrapaksh month, also known as the period of ancestors in Hinduism, is considered to be the ideal time to visit Gaya. During this time, pilgrim activities are performed by families to help the souls of their ancestors to attain salvation. The Pitripaksh month falls in the monsoon season. The months September and October are observed as Pithru months, and during this season, various pilgrims arrive to seek blessings and help their ancestors. Another favoured month is during Buddha Purnima, which falls in the summer months of April-May. Buddhist monks and followers arrive at the Gaya to observe the teachings of Gautama Buddha and to seek his blessings. In terms of weather, Bodhgaya sees a spike in temperatures during summer, especially May. However, since the month is observed as Buddha Purnima, tourists don't mind the excess heat.

Places to see in Gaya

Mahabodhi Temple complex

South from the Brahmayoni hill is the temple of Bodh Gaya. The site is said to be a pilgrimage to the Buddhists and has the Mahabodhi Temple Complex. The site is often visited by His Holiness the Dalai Lama as it is the land where their guru, Gautama Buddha, attained Enlightenment. Not just Buddhists but even Hindus flock over to the temple complex as it has a calm and serene vibe that helps people find peace. Buddhists, as well as Hindus, venerate Bodh Gaya.

Vishnupad Temple

The ancient Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located beautifully along the banks of the Falgu river. Legend states that Lord Vishnu observed Gaya as the place of attainment of salvation for wandering souls. Whoever wishes to seek moksham on behalf of them and their ancestors, should make Pind Daan and perform some rituals for the same.

Kushinagar

Kushinagar is believed to be a civilisation built by Lord Rama's son King Kush with Kushvati as the capital. Although many Hindus believe that the pilgrimage town is the capital of the Kosala Kingdom, which was led by King Kush, the Buddhists think otherwise. According to their traditional beliefs, Kushvati was a name given to the land even before the Ramayana happened. In this village, you will find some important structures that are pivotal to Buddhism.

Some of the incredibly beautiful structures in Kushinagar involve the Parinirvana Stupa, Nirvana Chaitya, Ramabhar Stupa and Matha Kuar Shrine. The entire complex is actually believed to be the shrine of Gautama Buddha after he attained Enlightenment. The Parinirvana Stupa is a fancy structure that represents the 'dying Buddha' as the statue is in a reclining position. The statue is placed on top of a large brick with pedestals. The temple is sacred and pious and what drives Buddhists to the city of Gaya.

The Matha Kuar Shrine is yet again a huge statue of Lord Buddha which has been carved out of one block, to represent the Buddha being seated under the Bodhi tree in a 'bhumi sparsh mudra'. Every attribute about these structures hold a deeper meaning and should be explored.

Bakraur

Bakraur or Bakrour is another village located closely towards the east of Bodh Gaya. It is believed that Sujata, residing in this village, offered Guatam Buddha milk and rice before he reached Enlightenment. A statue has been erected to honour Sujata for catering to the Buddha.

Deo Surya Mandir

The Hindu temple of Deo Surya Mandir is a shrine of the Sun God. Located in the small town of Deo, the temple is often decorated for Chhath Puja, and devotees who visit the temple during the same are blessed.

Things to do in Gaya

You can take this as an opportunity to trek up the Bragmayoni. The highest hill, called Brahmayoni, is at the height of 450 ft above the Gaya plains. It is said that on this very hill, Buddha preached the Adittapariyaya Sutta (fire sermon) to a thousand ascetics. Enlightened by Buddha's teachings, the former fire-worshipping monks accepted the new discourse set by him. The hill has spiritual relevance in Buddhism and is often visited by Buddhist monks and believers.

Food and Restaurants in Gaya

Even though the place is a spiritual haven for pilgrims, there are some quaint cafes and fusion food joints that cater to all kinds of travellers. While you are in Bodh Gaya, you can spend a day relishing the simple but sublime food provided by the temples. There are various restaurants close to the temples which have basic but soul-satisfying food. Other restaurants and cafes that you can explore in Bodhgaya are Be Happy cafe, Zera Coffee Company, Fusion Food Factory, Taj Darbar Restaurant, Gautam Lassi Corner, Rose Apple Cafe, Tirupathi South Cafe, Mohammed's restaurant and more. These places offer appetising food that isn't necessarily void of flavour. Plus, the ambience of the joints is also quite good and definitely memorable. You can also spend some time investing in street food as there are a plethora of options in that department.

How to reach Gaya (Transportation)

By Air

Gaya is a spiritual centre and hence is well-connected to domestic as well as international cities. The Gaya Airport has regular flight connectivity from Yangon, Delhi, Kolkata and Varanasi. While you can opt for these domestic routes to reach Gaya, for travellers from Mumbai, Chennai and other metropolitan cities in the West and South, Delhi and Kolkata are the best choices. As for tourists from abroad, there are international routes from Thailand, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Japan, Myanmar, Vietnam and many more countries, that are directly connected to the Bodhgaya airport. Travellers often go to Gaya for Pind Daan and hence, book flights in advance. Not to mention, the international crowd often heads to the city to seek Enlightenment at the Buddhist monastery.

The city does not have luxury stays as such. However, there are some decent hotels in Gaya that you can book ahead of your visit. Another alternative for travellers opting flight is to book flight tickets to Patna and transit from there. Often this domestic route is considered as it is easier to reach Patna from different parts of the country.

By Rail

Many trains from metropolitan cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Patna have regular trains passing through Bihar. You can book your tickets to Gaya and opt for the railway as an option. The connectivity within Gaya is also quite good as there are rickshaw and buses available. Taxi cabs and tuk-tuk rides are also prevalent, making the intercity travelling a tad bit easier. If you book your hotels in Gaya before travelling to the city, you will receive shuttle services from the accommodation.

By Road

The bus services to Gaya are aplenty from significant cities in Jharkhand Uttar Pradesh and more states. In fact, there are daily transport facilities from cities such as Patna, Hazaribag, Ranchi, Jamshedpur, Dhanbad, etc. You can book AC or non-AC buses that will take you to the city. The travel service providers ensure to offer services to Gaya for its spiritual significance and demand.