Kangra, the holy land of Himachal Pradesh, is home to many temples, ancient history, and mystery. An unexplainable serenity and divinity surround the place. The fantastic view of the historical monuments, waterfalls, hills, and breathtaking architecture stands straight with might. Kangra is a green hill town located at the foothills of the Dhauladhar Range, with the river Beas gushing through it. Being a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, it has several majestic places to visit. Here we go with the top 14 amazing places to visit in Kangra.
Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kangra
Kangra is one of the most beautiful and famous places in Himachal Pradesh. Kangra should always be on your list, surrounded by so many striking places. The mesmerizing atmosphere of this place is enough to calm any troubled person in a moment. There are so many places to visit in Kangra, and we know it is hard to find the best ones, so here we have made a list to make your work easy so you can choose the best places to visit in Kangra on your tip to Himachal Pradesh.
1. Kangra Fort
The Kangra Fort has witnessed much over the years, including luxury, wealth, war, and conquests. Perhaps the oldest fort and the largest fort in the Himalayan region, this one is regarded as one of the most famous places to visit in Kangra. The ancient Trigarta Kingdom, mentioned in the Mahabharata, is thought to be the fort’s origin. While this historical building was extensively damaged during an earthquake in 1905, it is still one of Kangra’s top tourist spots. From the top of the fort, you can view the surrounding areas in their entirety.
- Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Entry Fee: ₹ 150 for Indians; ₹ 300 for foreign nationals
2. Brajeshwari Temple, Kangra
One of the most famous temples in Kangra is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths in India. According to the legends, Goddess Durga appeared in the dreams of the Pandavas and instructed them to build a temple in her honour. The Pandavas of the Mahabharata built the original Brajeshwari Temple. In 1905, the government rebuilt the ancient temple destroyed in an earthquake. The temple is also known as Kangra Devi Mandir and is dedicated to Goddess Brajeshwari, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The architecture and divine vibe make it one of the most impressive.
- Timings: Open all day long except from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
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3. Baijnath Temple, Kangra
In the ancient temple of Baijnath, Lord Shiva is worshipped as Baijnath, Vaidyanath, or the Lord of Health and Healing. Having been built in 1204 A.D., the temple assumes much religious significance as pilgrims believe they can pray here and find relief from all their troubles. This shrine has Nagara-style architecture and stands against the Dhauladhar Range. Lord Shiva worshipped here as well as Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. The temple is one of the few in India dedicated to the deity and the demon.
- Timings: 6:00 am to 9:00 pm
4. Indrahar Pass, Kangra
Indrahar Pass is one of the most famous places to visit in Kangra. It is a high pass located in the Dhauladhar Range Himalayas on the border between Kangra and Chamba districts at an altitude of 4300 meters. This scenic mountain pass has deep gorges, glistening streams, serene lakes, and verdant deodar forest trails. This trek begins from McLeodganj and offers a majestic view of the Kangra Valley and Dharamshala town. It is often regarded as one of the most breathtaking treks in the Himalayan region. For trek-lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers, this popular destination in Kangra offers much more and many mesmerizing views.
- Best Time to Visit: From May to mid-October
Also Read: Marvels of Narkanda – Best Places to visit in Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh
5. Jwala Devi Temple, Kangra
Jwala Devi Temple is a significant and historical religious place for Hindus. This holy temple is famous as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas where Goddess Durga manifested in the form of a flame; that’s why it is also known as the Jwala Ji. There is a natural cave where this eternal flame keeps burning. Pilgrims from all over India come here to witness this incredible sight. According to the devotees, the sacred flames burn day and night without external stimuli or fuel. Situated in the town of Jawalamukhi, in the lower Himalayan area of the Kangra district.
Being one of the oldest Hindu temples in the lower part of the Himalayas, the view from this temple will mesmerize you. Its sacred environment and natural beauty attract tourists from all over the world. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Kangra that you must not miss on your tour to Himachal Pradesh.
- Timings: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm (summers); 6:00 am to 9:00 pm (winters)
6. Chamunda Devi Temple, Kangra
Another famous temple in Kangra is Chamunda Devi, which is believed to be a manifestation of the Mother Goddess but in a raging form. It is believed that Lord Hanuman and Lord Bhairava guard the idol in the temple. This shrine is one of the best places to visit in Kangra because, besides its religious significance, it offers a magnificent view of the Dhauladhar Range.
- Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
Also Read: Hidimba (Hadimba) Devi Temple- The Most Beautiful Place In Manali
7. Masrur, One of the famous places to visit in Kangra
Masrur is one of the famous tourist places to visit in Kangra, known for its architectural might of the ancient rock-cut temples. The temples are supposed to be from the 8th century and carved out of a monolithic rock adorned with Shikharas. This type of architecture is believed to be of Nagara style, which resembles that of the Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu, and the famous Elephant caves in Mumbai. The tourists visiting this area will get engrossed in the architectural grandeur of the ancient eras while enjoying the mesmerizing view of the surroundings.
- Location: Nagrota: Surian Link Road
- Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
8. Kangra Art Museum, Kangra
Those fascinated by history must visit the famous Kangra Art Museum. Among its treasures are Tibetan and Buddhist artworks, including many impressive pieces of art reflecting tribal culture here, which date back to the 5th century. Kangra’s renowned miniature painting gallery is one of the many attractions of this place. This place is one of the famous tourist places of Kangra for those who really want to know more about the Kangra’s history.
- Location: Dharamshala
- Timings: 10:00 am to 1:30 pm, 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays
- Entry Fee: ₹ 10 for Indians; ₹ 50 for overseas participants
Also Read: Breathtaking Places for a Solo Trip near Delhi for a Thrilling Experience
9. Palampur, Kangra
Palampur, with its lush green tea plantations and the finest quality of tea, is a majestic hill station in Himachal Pradesh that attracts visitors from around the world. Known as the Tea Capital of northwest India, the region is dotted with pine forests and gurgling mountain streams, as it lies in the shadow of the Dhauladhar Range. A popular destination in Kangra, the area has several Victorian-style mansions and castles. When you visit this quaint green destination, visit the Tashi Jong Monastery and the tea gardens.
10. Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Kangra
Another popular Shiva temple in Kangra, the Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple, has Lord Shiva as its reigning deity. The temple construction began during the Pandavas’ rule and was continued by the Katoch dynasty’s King. The Shiva Lingam of this temple remains below the ground level, and every monsoon, the Vyas river rises and reaches the lingam, and then the water recedes.
11. Mcleodganj, Kangra
Within a short distance from Kangra is Mcleodganj, where you can visit the divine abode of the famous Tibetian Spiritual Guru Dalai Lama. This culturally rich town flourishes among lush green landscapes and lofty hills, offering encaptivating views to its visitors. Mcleodganj ranks among the top 10 places to visit in Kangra for a day trip for its monasteries, like Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang Complex, home to the Dalai Lama. Make sure you visit the beautiful Dal Lake while you’re here, which becomes the perfect picnic spot in the middle of nature.
- Distance from Kangra: 24 km (approx.)
Also Read: Explore The Best Hill Stations To Visit Near Delhi For Perfect Summer Vacation
12. Andretta, Kangra
Andretta is one of Kangra’s most popular tourist attractions, serving as a haven for artists, art enthusiasts, and tourists. Tourists flock to this charming village thanks to the artists’ colony that has existed here since the 1920s. Take home your creation as a souvenir of your visit if you try your hand at pottery. You can visit some amazing places here, such as the Andretta Pottery and Craft Society, Norah Richard’s Centre for the Arts, Norah Richard’s House, and the Sobha Singh Art Gallery.
- Distance from Kangra: 43 km (approx.)
13. Bhagsu Waterfall, Kangra
Among the most mesmerizing places to explore in and around Kangra is the sparkling Bhagsu Waterfall with its rocky backdrop. During the monsoon season, the site gets engulfed in lush greenery, making it a memorable sight. One of the place’s main attractions is the Bhagsu Nag Temple, an ancient temple near the waterfall dedicated to Lord Shiva. The natural and calm environment beauty of this amazing place makes it one of the best places to visit in Kangra.
- Distance from Kangra: 25 km (approx.)
- Timings: 8:00 am to 7:00
14. Triund, One of the Most Exciting Places to visit in Kangra
An ideal place for trekkers, Triund is a scenic hill station in Kangra situated 2,828 meters above sea level. The Kangra Valley can be seen on one side from this spot, and the Dhauladhar Range on the other. Due to the ease of trekking in Triund, the place is popular with tourists of all ages. It offers panoramic views as you walk through beautiful deodar, oak, and rhododendron forests. No one of an adventurous nature should miss a trail like the Triund trail. Campers can enjoy the clear, blue skies at Triund.
- Distance from Kangra: 25 km (approx.)
- Things To Do: Trekking, Camping, Hiking
Also Read: Weekend Treks From Delhi That Offers A Memorable Adventure
Final Words
So these were our best choices for the top places to visit in Kangra. You will find the rich Himachali culture widespread here. It is not just the beauty of the place but also its people, traditions, and impeccable hospitality. Why do tourists flock to Himachal and especially spots like Kangra every year? Whether it is spiritual seeking or just a vacation to be well spent, places like Kangra have never failed to amaze those who stop by. If you plan a trip to Kangra, look at the places to visit in Kangra given above.