Shimla vs Dharamshala: What to Choose Shimla or Dharamshala?

Shimla versus Dharamshala, where should I go? This is a commonly asked question asked by people visiting Himachal  for the first time. The question becomes more important if you have limited time to spare and you want the best experience.

 A choice between these two Himalayan hill towns – Shimla and Dharamshala, is a difficult one. You need to understand the basic similarities and differences between the two before choosing one.

Shimla versus Dharamshala: An Overview

Bound by the majestic Himalayas, both Shimla and Dharamshala have made their mark on the international tourism map.

In order to choose between Shimla and Dharamshala, you need to know about the different travel-related aspects:

So, let’s discuss in detail which destination should you choose- Shimla or Dharamshala, and why?

Shimla versus Dharamshala: Which is Easily Accessible?

Shimla and Dharamshala are both very well-connected towns.

The road conditions are pretty good in most of the prime and centrally located areas, so you can enjoy the long drives against the backdrop of the mighty Himalayas. Just make sure you avoid rash or drunk driving and be careful with over-speeding your vehicle.

If you ever forget the way or are confused, you will always have a smiling Himachali to guide you. I remember the first travelled solo to Dharamshala, I lost directions to my stay.  A girl helped me out and walked with me early morning for 1 km till I found the exact address.

So, Shimla Versus Dharamshala, which is more easily accessible? Both are equally accessible and connected to other parts of the country.

Shimla versus Dharamshala: Which has better Places to Visit & Things to Do?

Let’s take a look at what each destination has to offer:

Shimla Places to Visit

Shimla is known not only for its amazing weather but also for its beautiful architecture. Once the summer capital of the British Empire, Shimla City shows clear reflections of the colonial past.

If you love architecture, Shimla is the place to be. Neo-Gothic and Victorian are the two most prominent architectural styles visible in Shimla’s historic buildings.

The Christ Church is the second oldest Church in North India

 Places to visit in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj

This winter capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh also happens to be the Dalai Lama’s residence and the headquarters of the Central Tibetan Administration (the Tibetan government in exile).

Located only a few kilometres away from Dharamsala is McLeod Ganj. Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj are visited together. Here is a quick overview of the places to visit in Dharamshala and McLeodganj.

So, Shimla versus Dharamshala, which has better spots to visit? The answer is both have really good places to visit. If you are looking for quiet time in the hills, just staring at the Himalayas, Dharamshala and McLeodganj is a slightly better choice.

Shimla versus Dharamshala: Which has Better Food Options?

Shimla and Dharamshala both have incredible eating options. I am from Shimla and can’t stop bragging about our amazing pastries but I also equally love the Thupkas and momos of Mcleodganj.

Best Places to Eat in Shimla

Shimla has a variety of food options. The town has some of the best bakeries & they make the best pastries! Here’s my overview of the best places to eat in Shimla

Best Places to Eat in Dharamshala

Although Dharamshala has a number of Indian restaurants, Mcleodganj has the best eating options. McLeodganj has a large Tibetan population and therefore, a lot of Tibetan influence is clearly visible.

A number of foreign nationals visit McLeodganj, as a result of which a number of multi-cuisine restaurants have cropped up in McLeodganj and Dharamshala. All in all, Dharamshala-Mcleodganj has some of the best places to eat.

You can find Italian, Israeli, Japanese and many other cuisines in the cafes here. The street food s great too. I bet you can’t stop at just one plate of the steaming chicken momos at Mceodganj!

So, Shimla versus Dharamshala, which has better food? Although both serve great food, Dharamshala has slightly more diverse food options.

Shimla versus Dharamshala: Which has better Accommodation Options?

There is no dearth of accommodation options both in Dharamshala and in Shimla. However, if a comparison is to be made i.e. Shimla Versus Dharamshala, which has more budget accommodations available? then the answer is Dharamshala.

Dharamshala has relatively cheaper accommodations. A lot of solo travellers prefer Dharamshala, therefore, there are more backpacker hostels, especially in Mcleodagnj and Dharamkot area. This, however, doesn’t mean that there are no luxury accommodation options in Dharamshala. There are plenty of those too.

Shimla, on the other hand, is preferred by group travellers and family travellers, and the accommodations available are mostly guest houses and hotels.

While most people would want to stay in the city centre in Shimla, you need to remember that the hotels or stays near the Mall or the ridge are very expensive. It is, therefore, very important to book in advance, to get lower prices.

Some of the best budget accommodations in Shimla and Dharamshala are here

So, Shimla versus Dharamshala, which has better accommodation options? Both have great accommodation options, however, Dharamshala- McLeodganj is more backpacker-friendly.

The picturesque HPCA Cricket Stadium, set against the mighty Dhauladhars is a must-visit in Dharamshala.

Shimla versus Dharamshala: Which has better internal transportation?

There are plenty of internal transport options available in both towns. You can choose public transport or can hire a bike if you wish to explore the mountains your own way.

So, Shimla versus Dharamshala, which has better internal transport? Both places have advantages in some areas and disadvantages in others.

Shimla versus Dharamshala: Which is Safer?

Shimla and Dharamshala are therefore both safe destinations for travellers. So, whether you are travelling with your partner, your family or friends or you are just going solo, you need not worry about safety.

Is Shimla Safe?

Shimla, the ‘queen of hills,” is one of the safest places for all kinds of travellers. Locals are friendly and helpful and will guide you properly if need be.

One thing you need to be careful about when you are in Shimla City is – the monkeys. Monkeys of Shimla are known for their notoriety. So, stay away and do not feed them.

A lot of people ask whether Shimla is safe for couples- especially unmarried ones? The answer is Yes. Shimla is a popular destination for couple travellers and there is no safety issue for couples. Make sure you book a decent hotel and carry your valid ID proofs.

As it holds true for other destinations, you should definitely watch out for notorious elements or suspicious behaviour if you encounter any. Also, make sure you are not hanging around deserted places all by yourself at odd hours.

Is Dharamshala Safe?

Dharamshala and Mcleodganj are both safe travel destinations. Not only are they safe but beautiful. The majestic Himalayas form a riveting backdrop and you can’t help but stare at the natural wonder this place is.

If you aren’t convinced, take a look at this “Is Dharamshala Safe?” blog. It will answer all your questions regarding the safety of Dharamshala.

So, Shimla Versus Dharamshala, which is safer? Both are equally safe.

Shimla versus Dharamshala:  Which is more pocket-friendly?

The tourist hill towns of Shimla and Dharamshala are a little more expensive than other places. Accommodations and internal transport (especially private taxis) constitute the bulk of total expenditure.

Both Shimla and Dharamshala are almost equally expensive. Shimla is slightly more expensive when compared to Dharamshala in terms of food, stay and transportation, especially during the peak season.

So, if you are planning a budget trip to Shimla or Dharamshala make sure to follow these 3 important tips

So, Shimla Versus Dharamshala, which is more pocket-friendly? Dharamshala is a little more budget-friendly than Shimla.

Shimla versus Dharamshala: The Final Verdict

Shimla and Dharamshala are similar in many ways and yet are so different. Whether you are looking for some Himalayan adventure or just want to spend some quiet time with a book and a cup of hot tea, staring at the mountains, both are perfect.

I hear a lot of people complaining about how commercial Shimla and Dharamshala, especially Shimla have become over the years. I will agree that its true but that in no way means that you need not visit the place. You just need to be open and willing to explore the real Shimla and Dharamshala away from the crowds.

So, Shimla Versus Dharamshala, which place you should choose?  You can choose any one of them and better still, visit both of these towns.

You won’t be disappointed. Just make sure you don’t stick to the regular destinations and explore nearby places as well.

Happy Wayfaring!