Overview
When the Dhauladhar mountain calls our heart says “Let’s go for a road trip” Be it by a self-drive or a car rental service, a road trip to Dharamshala is no less than an adventure. The choice of road trip determines whether you feel the serenity of the pines or the stress of the hairpin bends.
Dharamshala presents a blend of Tibetan spiritualism and British-era charm, which can be best explored with a private vehicle. It gives you the freedom to stop whenever a view steals your breath. The winter capital of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala was the home of Dalai Lama and Tibetan government in-exile, making it a major center for Tibetan culture, spirituality, and Buddhism.
To make the tour most convenient, hire a car rental in Dharamshala with Kullu Manali Packages, a leading travel company in Himachal Pradesh.
Car Rental Options
Vehicle
Why choose this?
Best for
Sedan car (Maruti Dzire, Toyota Etios)
It’s the most comfortable than a hatchback for the 3 hour climb from Pathankot to Naddi.
Small Families & Couples
SUV car (Toyota Innova Crysta & Toyota Innova)
Superior legroom and better suspension. If you are a group of 4 to 6, an SUV makes your trip smooth and hassle-free.
Groups & Comfort
Tempo Traveller
Best suitable for extended families or corporate retreats. It keeps everyone together making the trip memorable.
Large Groups
Force Urbania
The absolute best-in-class comfort for a large group of 9 to 13 people, with individual AC vents and premium upholstery.
Premium Group Tour Choice
Exclusively Curated Dharamshala Road Trips
Our Dharamshala Car Rental Packages are best suitable for a memorable journey through the city. Below are listed some best tours for your next road trip:
The Spiritual Excursion – This route typically focuses on the “Little Lhasa” experience, while indulging in Buddhist philosophy and colonial charm. In the morning, you can spend time spinning the prayer wheels and visiting the Tibet Museum. Later explore the cedar forests, St. John Wilderness church, Namgyal Monastery, and Gyuto Tantric Monastery. Evening can be planned with the visit to Bhagsunag Temple and a short walk by the Bhagsu Waterfall.
Dharamshala & Kangra Tour – Experience a blend of modern sports, ancient history and lush nature. The morning is planned for a visit to HPCA Cricket Stadium, War Memorial, Kangra Tea Gardens, Kangra Fort, and finally end the trip at Norbulingka Institute.
Travel Tips for Dharamshala Road Trip
Avoid night drives – Although roads are well-maintained, fog and sudden rain can reduce visibility to near zero. So, aim to reach your hotel by 7:00 PM.
The AC in hills rule – Be aware of the fact that most drivers turn off the air conditioning while climbing steep inclines to prevent engine overheating.
Connectivity – Ensure you download offline maps for Dharamshala and Kangra. While 5G network is available in the main towns, signals can drop anytime of the journey.
Local Expertise – Choose a suitable car rental with a driver in Dharamshala. The drivers are well-versed with routes and navigate the narrow one-way streets of Mcleod Ganj that can be a nightmare for city drivers.
Things to remember for planning a road trip
Standard car rentals are based on 8 hours or 80 kms. Any excess is charged per kilometers or per hour.
If you are planning to take a car in Himachal Pradesh, ensure the vehicle has an All-India Tourist Permit.
Most tourist sports have dedicated paid parking. These small fees are usually not included in your rental quote.
Always verify that the vehicle has a functional spare tire and a first-aid kit before heading out.
FAQs
Is it better to rent a car or use local transport?
For short distances within Mcleod Ganj, prefer walking or take autos. Though, for a Dharamshala & Kangra trip, a car rental is essential as sites are spread 10 to 12 kms apart.
Are there any hidden charges I should know about?
Driver batta and night halt charges are common, if the trip extend past 10:00 Pm. Always clarify if fuel and state taxes included in the lumpsum.
How far in advance should I book?
In peak months (April to June and December), book at least 2 weeks in advance. For the rest of the year, 48 hours is usually sufficient.