Dharamsala is home to the 14th Dalai Lama, a land with numerous Tibetan monasteries and temples, and a momo vendor at very corner for a quick bite. Owing to its spectacular view of the Great Himalayas, dramatic landscapes, and unadulterated beauty, this location became a lightning rod for filmmakers and photographers alike. Several significant scenes from Bollywood movies like ‘Jab We Met’, and ‘Veer Zaara’ were shot in and around this region. Listed below are the top 5 things you must do in Dharamsala at least once.

One of the first things to do on every adventurer’s list is trek up to the Triund Hill, a popular overnight camping spot located at the foothills of the Dhauladhar mountain range. It is advisable to book tents in advance, carry waste bags and plenty of water, since the last stretch of this trek can become very tiresome. However, the plush valleys and snow capped mountains in the distance will make it totally worth your while. And let’s not forget the bonfire, the stargazing, and the gorgeous sunrise that greets you the morning after. 

A hop, a skip and a hike away lies Bhagsu falls, a perfect outing for a family with children, as long as you reach there early in the morning to beat the crowd. Later you can move on to Shiva café to chow down some sandwiches and maggi. You’ll be surprised how many servings you can eat after a hike like this one.

To visit the Kareri Lake, you can choose to trek through the jungles and take a bus after, or simply drive up till the Kareri village. Either way there’s no escaping the steep and exhausting trek till the lake. It is best to book tents to camp overnight at the top of the hill, be prepared with warm clothing, and enjoy the splendid panoramic views. You’ll also come across a café, just before reaching the top in case you need to soothe your hunger pangs, after the long trek.

Put your powers of persuasion to the test, at the Kotwali Bazaar and Mcleodganj Market, as you try to get the best deals for a variety of souvenirs. There are many exquisite artifacts to choose from – delicate ornamental accessories, customary jewelry, mandala paintings, Tibetan handcrafted carpets, and woolen apparels. You’ll be spoiled for choice! 

Never done paragliding before? Paragliding in Bir-Billing is the first thing you must do as it is one of the best locations for the activity. Bir-Billing hosted the cross country Paragliding Pre-World Cup in 2014, and the Paragliding World Cup in 2015. This place also offers parasailing and hang gliding opportunities. Don't miss out on the opportunity - hold your nerve and say yes to the thrill of flying!