Dharamshala goes digital: Dalai Lama launches VisitDharamshala.com to boost Himachal tourism

The Dalai Lama launches VisitDharamshala.com — ushering Dharamshala into a new digital tourism era with a vision for responsible and sustainable travel.

The peaceful hill town in Kangra district took a major leap into the digital age on Friday, November 7, 2025, with the launch of its official tourism website, VisitDharamshala.com. Adding grace and significance to the moment, His Holiness the Dalai Lama inaugurated the portal from his residence in McLeodganj, marking a historic milestone for tourism in Himachal Pradesh.

“A Milestone Effort,” Says the Dalai Lama

Describing the launch as a key step in promoting sustainable and accessible travel, the Dalai Lama said the website is “a milestone effort that will further strengthen Himachal's tourism footprint on the global map.”

The portal aims to make Dharamshala — already known as the spiritual capital of Tibetan Buddhism — more accessible to travellers worldwide through a comprehensive digital platform that unites nature, culture, and community.

One-Stop Platform for Global Travellers

The initiative, spearheaded by the Dharamshala Hotel and Restaurant Association, has created a single online gateway where tourists can explore verified hotels, check real-time weather updates, discover attractions, and plan adventure activities — all in one place.

Association president Ashwani Bamba explained that the website’s purpose extends beyond tourism. “Our goal is to promote responsible and eco-friendly tourism while also providing livelihood opportunities for local communities,” said Bamba.

He added, “To ensure transparency and reliability, only verified hotels, guesthouses, and service providers will be featured on the platform.”

Blending Tradition with Technology

The website features detailed guides on monasteries, temples, waterfalls, lakes, and treks, along with authentic insights into Kangra’s cuisine, crafts, and culture. Tourists can book rooms directly from over 100 verified accommodations, including major 3-star and 4-star hotels, with confirmations routed straight to the establishments.

At the launch ceremony, key attendees included Chairman Onkar Nehria, District Tourism Officer Vinay Dhiman, members of the association, and representatives from local entrepreneur groups and environmental organisation Waste Warriors.

Empowering Local Communities

Bamba emphasised that the digital initiative aims to bring inclusive growth to the region. By integrating eco-tourism and sustainability, VisitDharamshala.com seeks to ensure that the benefits of tourism reach local communities while preserving the area’s fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

District Tourism Officer Vinay Dhiman highlighted Dharamshala’s growing recognition as a “tourism district” and said, “VisitDharamshala.com will serve as a vital digital bridge connecting visitors with the region's natural beauty, spirituality, and hospitality.”

A Step Toward Sustainable and Smart Tourism

With snow-capped Dhauladhar peaks, serene monasteries, and lush tea gardens, Dharamshala has long been a favourite destination for global travellers. The new digital platform ensures that the town’s rich heritage and pristine environment are now just a click away.

The launch of VisitDharamshala.com symbolises the city’s transition into a new era of smart tourism — one that blends tradition with technology while championing eco-conscious travel.

(With inputs from PTI)