Dharamshala, located in Himachal Pradesh’s scenic Kangra district, has taken a major step toward promoting digital tourism with the launch of its official tourism website, VisitDharamshala.com. The initiative was officially inaugurated by Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama at a soft-launch ceremony held at his residence in McLeodganj. The event marks a new chapter in showcasing the region’s natural charm, spiritual significance, and cultural richness to the world.
The launch of the website, spearheaded by the Dharamshala Hotel and Restaurant Association, is expected to enhance global visibility for the region and make it easier for travelers to plan their visits. The platform offers a single online destination for visitors to explore top attractions, book verified accommodations, and learn about local traditions.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Association President Ashwani Bamba, Chairman Onkar Nehria, District Tourism Officer Vinay Dhiman, and members of the executive committee. Also present were local entrepreneurs, adventure tour operators, representatives of Waste Warriors, and other guests who support sustainable tourism initiatives.
Speaking at the event, the Dalai Lama praised the website as “a milestone effort that will further strengthen Himachal’s tourism footprint on the global map.” He noted that the initiative would help connect more people with the beauty and peace that Dharamshala represents.
Later, during a press conference, Association President Ashwani Bamba explained that VisitDharamshala.com was designed to serve as a comprehensive travel guide for tourists visiting the region. The website provides authentic travel information, real-time weather updates, and hotel booking services across Kangra district—from the snow-covered Dhauladhar ranges to the serene Pong Dam Lake.
Bamba emphasized that the platform was built with a focus on responsible and eco-friendly tourism, aiming to protect the environment while supporting local livelihoods. “Our goal is to promote tourism that benefits both visitors and the communities living here,” he said.
To ensure credibility, only verified hotels, guesthouses, and service providers will be listed on the website. This step, Bamba added, guarantees that tourists have access to reliable information and quality accommodations. Over 100 verified hotels, including 3-star and 4-star properties, are already featured on the site. Room bookings are confirmed directly through respective establishments to maintain transparency and authenticity.
The platform also offers detailed insights into local attractions, including monasteries, temples, lakes, waterfalls, and adventure sports like trekking and paragliding. Visitors can also explore Dharamshala’s unique Tibetan cuisine, handicrafts, and cultural experiences, helping them connect more deeply with the local way of life.
District Tourism Officer Vinay Dhiman said the new platform represents a digital transformation for Dharamshala. He noted that the state government’s recognition of Kangra as a “tourism district” would further help attract domestic and international travelers. With its three Shakti Peethas and two major monasteries, the district offers a blend of spiritual tourism, natural exploration, and cultural discovery.
Dharamshala’s charm lies not only in its breathtaking mountain views but also in its spiritual and cultural harmony. With the presence of the Dalai Lama, the town has long been regarded as a global symbol of peace and spirituality. The launch of VisitDharamshala.com is expected to strengthen this identity by combining tradition with technology—making the town more accessible to travelers from across the world.
Bamba highlighted that the website is designed to serve as more than just a booking portal. It is a storytelling platform that introduces visitors to the real Dharamshala—its monasteries, vibrant bazaars, meditation centers, and art forms. “This portal will become a bridge between visitors and the essence of Dharamshala’s culture and nature,” he said.
The initiative is also expected to bring economic benefits to local residents. By promoting homestays, eco-tourism projects, and adventure activities, it will open up new livelihood opportunities for communities in and around Kangra Valley. Local entrepreneurs and tourism operators see the platform as a tool for creating sustainable growth while preserving the region’s fragile ecology.
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In recent years, Dharamshala has seen a rise in both domestic and foreign tourists, drawn by its peaceful environment and Tibetan heritage. However, unregulated tourism has also raised concerns about waste management and ecological impact. This is why collaboration with organizations like Waste Warriors—which participated in the event—is being seen as crucial. The association plans to integrate environmental awareness campaigns and clean tourism drives through the website to promote responsible travel habits among visitors.
As the event concluded, the Dalai Lama expressed optimism that the digital project would deepen global awareness of the values that Dharamshala represents—peace, coexistence, and respect for nature. He blessed the initiative, calling it an example of how small regional efforts can create positive global influence.
With this digital milestone, Dharamshala hopes to stand out as a model for sustainable and smart tourism in the Himalayas—a place where nature, spirituality, and modern technology come together to offer travelers an unforgettable experience.
In the words of District Tourism Officer Dhiman, “VisitDharamshala.com will serve as a digital bridge connecting visitors with the region’s natural beauty, spirituality, and hospitality.” The launch marks not just a new website, but a renewed vision for Himachal’s tourism—rooted in culture, powered by innovation, and guided by harmony with nature.
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