Dharamkot - Hippie Village in Lap of Himalayas

Most of us feel that sitting idle or spending leisure time is actually spoiling our learning and growth, though it isn’t true, as leisure time rejuvenates our nerves and makes us more productive. This time I was looking for a hippie destination in the the Himalayan mountains- Just like Kasol but not Kasol. After a bit of searching on Google my curiosity eventually helped me discover this hippie village. It's a 10 hour journey by bike from Delhi. I managed to do it in one day, arriving in the evening.

Dharamkot, is a small village located 7 Kms from Himachal Pradesh’s Summer capital Dharamshala. It's only 2 Kms from the Tibetan settlement of Mcleodganj. Dharamkot has recently gotten popular among Indian tourists and is known as a the Hippie Village in the Hills.

Unlike its counterpart Kasol, this place is not as popular, hence it's unspoiled and worth visiting.

Here in Dharamkot you will find travelers from all nations round the world, though the largest contingent are young Israelis. Yes you heard it right, you may find more Israeli tourists here than even Indian tourists!

The unique thing about Dharamkot is the vibe; you will find an endless number of cafes and daily events to keep you busy. Live music, dance classes, yoga sessions, pottery making, guitar classes and so much more. These events and activities are scattered around Dharamkot and Bhagsu, which is just north of Dharamkot on the same road.

Here is the list of places to explore in Dharamkot

Walk to Flag point

You'll be surrounded by Buddhist prayer flags all around. This spot will give a spiritual vibe and deep sense of peacefulness. You can immerse yourself in this land of the lama.

Tip- Ask for the pathway towards Naddi village in order to find this place.

Dharamkot Studio

This is a popular pottery studio where you can try your hand at producing pottery items. Classes are available. They also sell pottery items produced locally.

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Gallu Waterfall Trail

It requires almost an hour walk to reach this hidden gem. The journey itself is as beautiful as the destination.

Tip- Avoid visiting the waterfall during rains.

 

Along with these spots Dharamkot is also a gateway for popular treks like Triund hill top, Snowline and Indrahar pass .

 

Here is the list of cafes in Dharamkot where I loved to spend my time

Shiva Café 

This café requires bit of hiking, as it is located on the Bhagsu Waterfall Trail. This place is worth visiting as the view, and especially the sunset, from this location is exceptionally beautiful!

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Sunset café 

Just like Shiva café, this café also requires a bit of hiking and the pathway is narrow, but the view from this café is simply mesmerizing!

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Radha Krishna Café 

There's an amazing view of the Dhalaudhar ranges from this cafe'. Seat yourself on the floor in the outside area for the most amazing experience.The best part is that you really do not have to walk at all as this café is located on main Dharamkot road itself.

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Family Pizzeria 

This is one of the oldest and most popular cafés in Dharamkot. I am really not trying to exaggerate...I actually ate the best pizza of my life at this place!

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Trek "N" Dine cafe

For those of you with a sweet tooth, you really can't afford to miss the Bhagsu Cake and Chocolate Ball available at the Trek "N" Dine cafe in Dharamkot.

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How to reach Dharamkot

By Road- Regular overnight tourist buses are available from Delhi or Chandigarh to McleodGanj. From McleodGanj onwards you may either walk or cover 2 Kms. of distance by private cab.

By Air- Nearest airport is located in Gaggal (Known as Dharamshala airport) which is located 19 Kms from Dharamkot. Remaining distance needs to be covered by private cab (estimate cost for cab would be Rs.1000/-).

Best time to Visit

Winters are usually too cold here hence ideal months to visit Dharamkot are April till June followed by September till Mid October. You may also consider July, August if you like intense rainfalls.

Winter trekking is only for the experienced and hardy. It's much too cold for most of the rest of us; therefore, I recommend April till June followed by September till Mid October. You may also consider July and August if you like, or don't mind, intense rainfalls. Tip- Be sure to carry at least a warm or woolen jacket.

What else you should expect here

There is no ATM, chemist shop, salon or even a fuel station in Dharamkot Village, hence ensure to fill your fuel tank at Dharamshala (if you are travelling by your own vehicle). You will find ATMs, chemist shops and salons at Mcleodganj which is just 2 Kms downhill. You can also find Tibetan herbal medicine shops in McLeodGanj.

There's a liquor shop located right in Dharamkot, which keeps you from having to drive down the mountain.

Where to Stay

You will find a variety of Hostels and Home Stay's starting from Rs.250/- a day. Popular travel hostels include Bunker, Zostel, Alt Life and Shalom backpacker, though i would strongly recommend Zula Cafe and Traveller's Home (A small home stay) for a cozy accommodation located in a peaceful environment, surrounded by lush green trees.

You may book your accommodation using below mentioned link

https://www.airbnb.co.in/rooms/46365242?source_impression_id=p3_162418194

You may refer to this URL for booking related assistance  Travel Apps

Travellers may feel free to approach me at 9910326647 or prateeksapra.p@gmail.com for further assistance.

About the author

Prateek Sapra is based out of New Delhi. A crazy nomad who loves to explore unexplored and offbeat destinations. He believes that every destination has a message that communicates with him. With each trip, he tries to convey the message he receives from each destination to his readers. "Be what you are. There's no need to be like others" This is what he lives by and hopes that he can inspire others to live their best lives too. Happy exploring!