22 Things to Do In Kangra
Show on map
- Filter (22)
- Temple (6)
- Hills & Valleys (3)
- Village (2)
- Forts & Palaces (2)
1. Kangra Fort
2 km from city center
Forts & Palaces
Kangra Fort, perched atop a hill between the Manjhi and Banganga rivers in Himachal Pradesh, is reputedly the largest and oldest fort in the Indian Himalayas, with legends dating back over 2,000 years. Built by the Katoch Rajputs around the 4th century BC, its stone ramparts, watchtowers, and intricate gateways reflect a mix of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, while within its walls lie anc (Read More)ient temples and ruined palaces witnessing countless historical battles and sieges
2. Masrur
13 km from city center
Temple
The Masrur Rock-Cut Temples, also known as the Himalayan Pyramids, are a rare monolithic rock temple complex located near Kangra in Himachal Pradesh. Carved out of a single sandstone rock in the 8th century, these temples are dedicated primarily to Lord Shiva, along with Vishnu and other deities, showcasing North Indian Nagara-style architecture. The main shrine is flanked by smaller temples, all (Read More)reflecting intricate carvings and mythological scenes, though many remain unfinished due to historical disruptions.
3. Shaktipeeth Shri Brijeshwari Devi Temple
0 km from city center
Temple
Brajeshwari Temple in Kangra is a significant Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Brajeshwari (a form of Shakti), perched on the picturesque Kangra Valley slopes. Believed to date back to the 8th century, the temple blends ancient Rajput and Mughal architectural elements, featuring intricately carved pillars, arches, and a silver-plated idol of the goddess. Despite suffering damage during the 1905 e (Read More)arthquake, its serene atmosphere and spiritual ambiance continue to draw pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike.
4. Baijnath Temple
36 km from city center
Temple
Baijnath Temple is one of the most popular temples in Himachal Pradesh, and here, Lord Shiva is worshipped as the 'God of Healing'. Baijnath or Vaidyanath is an avatar of the great Lord Shiva, and in this avatar, the great lord rids his devotees of all miseries and pain. As a result, this temple holds ultimate significance to all Lord Shiva devotees and is considered to be extremely sacred. In fac (Read More)t, the water of this temple is believed to be of medicinal value and has the potential to cure several illnesses and diseases. This draws thousands of devotees from all around the world every year.
5. Kareri Lake
25 km from city center
Lake
Kareri Lake is a high-altitude freshwater lake located around 9 km from Kareri village in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Formed by the melting snow from the Dhauladhar range, the lake lies at about 2,950 meters above sea level and is known for its clear waters and alpine setting. It serves as a base for treks to Minkiani Pass and nearby highland routes, attracting trekkers for its modera (Read More)tely challenging trail through forests, rocky ridges, and streams. The lake is accessible from Dharamshala, about 25 km away, and the trek typically begins from Kareri village, which is connected by road. The area remains snowbound during peak winter and is best visited from April to June and September to November.
6. Palampur
23 km from city center
Hills & Valleys
Nestled amidst the lush green landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, Palampur is a charming town renowned for its picturesque beauty, serene ambiance, and pleasant weather. Located in the Kangra Valley, Palampur is often referred to as the "Tea Capital of North India" due to its vast tea gardens and plantations. Visitors are drawn to Palampur for its scenic beauty, offering panoramic views of snow-capped (Read More) mountains, meandering rivers, and verdant valleys. Situated approximately 35 kilometers from Dharamshala, Palampur is easily accessible by road, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.
Top Hotels In Kangra
7. Chamunda Devi Temple, Kangra
52 km from city center
Temple
Chamunda Devi Temple in Kangra is a revered hilltop shrine dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, situated approximately 7 km from Kangra town along a forested path. Famous for its ancient idol and vibrant local festivals like Janmashtami and Navratri, the temple attracts devotees and spiritual tourists alike. The uphill trek of about 15–20 minutes from the parking area is shaded and well-paved, making it (Read More) accessible to most visitors. Pilgrims experience traditional rituals, aarti ceremonies, and sweeping views of the Kangra Valley from the temple courtyard. The site typically sees the highest footfall during festival periods and is open daily from early morning to late evening.
8. Chinmaya Tapovan
12 km from city center
Sightseeing
Situated in Sidhbari, known as the abode of the Siddhas, Chinmaya Tapovan at the foot of the Dhauladhar ranges in the Kangra Valley is an ashram established by Swami Chinmayananda that teaches about the Gita. It is located on the banks of Bindu Saras, offering panoramic views of the snow-covered Dhauladhar ranges, a dense pine forest, and small streams. The premises consist of a Ram temple, a 9-me (Read More)ter high image of Hanumana, Satsang halls, a meditation hall, a school, and a health and recreation center. Within the ashram are 100 rooms that can accommodate 300 people and a spiritual bookstore and medical dispensary.
9. Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Pragpur
31 km from city center
Temple
Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple in Pragpur is a small yet ancient Shiva shrine set within the heritage village’s cobblestone lanes, adding spiritual charm to its colonial-era ambiance. Built on a raised platform, the temple features traditional stone architecture with a simple shikhara and hand-carved motifs. Despite its modest size, it attracts devotees and history lovers for daily rituals and occasiona (Read More)l festivals. Located close to Pragpur’s historic bungalows and cafes, the temple makes for an enriching and easy cultural stop during a walk through the town.
10. Tashi Jong Khampagar Monastery
34 km from city center
Buddhist Temple
Tashi Jong Khampagar Monastery, located near Bir in Himachal Pradesh, is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in India, built in the 1970s by the Sakya lineage. Its serene setting on a hilltop offers panoramic views of the Kangra Valley, enhanced by Tibetan prayer flags and peaceful chanting sessions. The monastery complex includes a large stupa, assembly halls, monks’ quarters, and veg (Read More)etable gardens, all reflecting traditional Tibetan architecture and community life. Visitors can participate in meditation retreats, witness daily ritual practices, and explore the attached Tibetan handicraft center for artisanal souvenirs. Open daily, it provides a tranquil cultural and spiritual experience without any entry fee.
11. Jwala Devi Temple
25 km from city center
Temple
Shri Jwalamukhi Mata Temple, located in Kangra district, is one of the 51 revered Shaktipeeths in Hindu tradition, dedicated to the goddess of flame. The temple’s defining feature is the naturally burning eternal flames that emerge from fissures in the rock, believed to represent the goddess herself. With origins tracing back over 2,000 years, its rituals—especially the daily aartis—draw pilgrims (Read More)and devotees from across India. Set within a compact complex, the temple is accessible via a short walk from the parking area and is open year‑round, with peak footfall during Navratri and Kartik Purnima.
12. Dadasiba
27 km from city center
Hills & Valleys
Dadasiba (or Dada Siba), in Kangra district, is a historic village once the seat of the Siba princely state (est. c. 1450), annexed by the British in 1849. The main attraction is the hilltop Radha‑Krishna temple built in the 1830–50s by Raja Ram Singh, renowned for its vivid frescoes crafted from sandstone and marble brought from Jodhpur and Jaipur. Surrounding the temple are remnants of a royal p (Read More)alace and traditional havelis, offering insight into the region’s architectural legacy and princely history. Around 76 km from Kangra town and reachable via Pragpur, the village also includes the Baba Bharthari temple and an ITI campus, blending cultural and educational significance. Best visited from April to June when weather is pleasant and murals are clearly visible.
Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Kangra
13. Bir & Billing
43 km from city center
Situated in the picturesque Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Bir Billing is a charming town nestled in the Joginder Nagar valley. Renowned globally as a paragliding hotspot, Bir is also revered as a haven for meditation and spiritual studies. Influenced by Tibetan culture due to the settlement of a Tibetan community, the town exudes a unique blend of tranquility and adventure. A day trip from (Read More)Dharamshala located 70 kms away, Bir boasts a rich cultural tapestry, evident in its monasteries and vibrant marketplaces.
14. Trekking in Kangra
36 km from city center
Trekking in Kangra offers a diverse experience across the Kangra Valley and Dhauladhar mountain range. Popular routes include Kareri Lake, Triund, Indrahar Pass, and the lesser-known Hampta Pass, each varying in difficulty and lasting from one day to several days. Trekkers pass through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and traditional villages, encountering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks (Read More) and deep valleys. Local guides and trekking agencies provide support for permits, logistics, and acclimatization planning. Best seasons are April–June and September–November, when the weather is clear and trails are accessible.
15. Kangra Art Museum
16 km from city center
Museum
Kangra Art Museum, located within the Kangra Fort complex, showcases the distinctive Kangra style of Pahari miniature paintings dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum’s quiet galleries display delicate artworks depicting scenes from Hindu epics, pastoral life, and courtly love, offering insight into regional aesthetics. It also houses stone sculptures, ancient coins, and fort-related (Read More)artifacts that contextualize Kangra's historical and cultural heritage. A visit takes around 30–45 minutes and is best paired with an exploration of the fort’s architecture and panoramic viewpoints.
16. Pragpur Village
32 km from city center
Village
Pragpur Village is India’s first designated Heritage Village, retaining its charming colonial-era architecture with cobblestone streets, stone homes, and restored havelis dating back to the early 1800s. Located in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, it offers a serene ambiance ideal for leisurely walks, exploring quirky cafés, and visiting artisan boutiques selling local crafts. The village’s low-k (Read More)ey cultural events and traditional monsoon-fed streams add to its slow-travel appeal without feeling like a crowded tourist spot. With easy access from Dharamshala and a walkable center, Pragpur makes a delightful one-day or weekend stop for heritage lovers and offbeat travelers alike.
17. Judge's Court, Pragpur
31 km from city center
Stay Experience
Judge’s Court in Pragpur is a beautifully restored colonial-era courthouse that has been converted into a boutique heritage hotel, blending historical ambiance with modern comfort. Set within a charming stone building adorned with vintage furnishings and local artwork, the property offers rooms, a cozy café, and lush courtyard gardens. Guests can enjoy guided heritage walks, traditional Himachali (Read More)meals, and cultural performances, all curated to reflect the region’s past. Its central location in Pragpur makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions like cobbled lanes, havelis, and artisan workshops.
18. Mcleodganj - Dharamsala
17 km from city center
Hills & Valleys
Mcleodganj, a suburb of Dharamsala, is around 20 km from Kangra and serves as a spiritual and cultural hub nestled in the Dhauladhar range. Known as the seat of the Tibetan government-in-exile and home to the Dalai Lama, it attracts visitors for its Tibetan monasteries, serene environment, and vibrant local markets. Popular attractions include the Namgyal Monastery, Bhagsu Waterfall, and the Tibet (Read More)an Museum. The area is also a starting point for treks like Triund and Kareri Lake. Its unique blend of Buddhist culture, scenic views, and backpacker-friendly vibe makes Mcleodganj a must-visit from Kangra.
19. Haripur
16 km from city center
Village
Haripur, located about 25 km from Kangra town in Himachal Pradesh, is a serene hill settlement nestled near the Dhauladhar foothills. The area is known for its scenic landscapes, apple orchards, and traditional Himachali architecture, offering a peaceful retreat off the usual tourist trail. Visitors can explore nearby temple shrines, enjoy nature walks through terraced fields, and soak in the tran (Read More)quil rural ambiance. Open year-round, Haripur is best enjoyed in spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the orchards are in bloom.
20. Indrahar Pass Trek
24 km from city center
Trekking
The Indrahar Pass Trek, located in the Dhauladhar range of Himachal Pradesh, is a captivating journey that typically takes about 5 to 6 days to complete. The trek usually begins from McLeod Ganj, with the route leading through lush forests, picturesque villages, and stunning alpine meadows. Trekkers ascend to the pass at an elevation of approximately 4,342 meters (14,250 feet), offering breathtaki (Read More)ng views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The best time to embark on this trek is from May to October, when the weather is favorable and the landscapes are vibrant with greenery and wildflowers.
21. Taragarh Palace
33 km from city center
Forts & Palaces
Spread over a 15-acre forested land with surrounding tea gardens in the Kangra Valley, Taragarh Palace falls into the category of the most beautiful yet unexplored areas of Himachal Pradesh. The glorious palace is situated at the height of 1000 meters at the foot of the Dhauladhar Mountains from where one is likely to get a splendid view of the peaks covered in snow. This picturesque residential p (Read More)roperty snuggled in the Himalayan foothills belongs to the royal family of Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier known as Alhilal meaning the land of the crescent moon, the palace was bought by the royal family of Jammu and Kashmir in 1951. The present royal family runs it like a hotel at present.
22. Pong Dam
25 km from city center
Dam
Built on the Beas River in Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh, Pong Dam Lake is an earthfill reservoir constructed for generating hydroelectricity and for irrigation purposes. Constructed in 1975, the dam is based on the foothills of the Shivaliks. Also known as the Beas Dam, Maharana Pratap Sagar and Pong Reservoir, the region boasts of rich wildlife and is a breeding ground of commercially via (Read More)ble fish.
Places To Visit In Nearby Places
FAQs on Kangra
What are the top sightseeing places in Kangra?
The top sightseeing places in Kangra are Kangra Fort, Baijnath Temple, Brajeshwari Temple, Kareri Lake, Indrahar Pass Trek, Dhauladhar Range.
How can I commute within Kangra?
All the intra city tours are possible only with a cab because of the steepness of the paths at places and the ease of travel as well. Make sure to book yours beforehand with a hefty bargain, or if you're taking your own vehicle, make sure to have the tank full for the journey.
Read More
Read More
Can you suggest an itinerary for Kangra?
Day 1- Arrive in Kangra by air or by road in the evening. Check-in at the hotel in Kangra. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 2- Breakfast at the hotel Visit the most famous attraction of the Kangra- the Kangra fort. The ruins of the majestic fortress are a paradise for history buffs and also offers the panoramic view of the whole Kangra valley Then visit the Jwala Devi temple, famous for its eternal flame that has been burning continuously for thousands of years without any source of fuel. Then visit the Baijnath temple, where nature and human architecture amalgamate perfectly to treat the human eye and stimulate the human mind. Visit the Kangra Art museum, which showcases the Tibetan artefacts. Back to hotel.
Day 2- Check-out from the hotel after breakfast.
Head to Dharamshala, visit various places in Dharamshala, such as Tibetan monasteries, Dharamshala cricket stadium and places in McleodGanj.