Palampur

Palampur is a short drive (2-3 hours) from Dharamsala and is one of the best places for the lovers of tranquility. Abundant with tea estates, trekking trails, campsites and quaint monasteries, it sees lesser crowd compared to Dharamsala. While Tashi Jong Monastery is one of the highlights of Palampur, you can also go hiking in the Dhauladhars, set camp in the pine forest around, visit the tea estates, gorge over some homemade thukpa and Tibetan food at one of the eateries around or do nothing other than stargazing. Perfect if you wish to avoid the weekend crowd of Dharamsala and Mcleodganj in summers.