Bir Billing is the paragliding capital of the world and invites adventure seekers from across the globe. There is also a sizeable community of Tibetan refugees there, along with several Tibetan monasteries that one can visit.

The residence of the Dalai Lama, Tsuglakhang is home to the replica of the original Tsuglakhang temple at Lhasa. It houses the Namgyal Monastery and several shrines in its premises, along with statues of Lord Buddha, Guru Rinpoche ( an 8th century Buddhist master) and Chenrezig (a revered Bodhisattva).

Tsuglakhang would also appeal to art lovers as it boasts some of the most splendid artworks of the region. Tourists can also set on the meditation trail of Ling Khor that takes you to many small shrines, a gigantic chorten and several stupas.

Kangra Toy Train links Pathankot and Joginder Nagar and meanders through a maze of hills and valleys, offering its passengers a spectacular view of picturesque surroundings. A ride in the toy train is a thrilling experience and one can feel the joy of savouring the beauty of the Kangra Valley. The work on this 163-km-long line started in 1926. 

Apart from a research department that carries out modern clinical research on traditional methods of Tibetan medicinal cure, Tibetan Medical And Astro Institute offers free treatment to the destitute and the needy. It also houses astrology, astronomy and pharmacy departments. Over 200 types of medicines are traditionally made at Tibetan Medical And Astro Institute.

Kangra is a hub of art and culture of the state and the best of the exhibits have been displayed in the Kangra Art Museum. Located in Kotwali Bazaar, the museum is home to various arts and crafts of the Kangra Valley, including a gallery of miniature paintings. Some of the artefacts date back to the 5th century and tourists can browse through a rich collection of pottery, sculptures and paintings. You can also spot royal dresses and shamianas, along with coins, carvings, manuscripts and jewellery. To get glimpses of the work of contemporary artists and photographers, tourists can visit the well-stocked library below.

A popular hill station in the Dharamkot area of McLeodganj, Triund is the starting point for various trails that go up the Triund Hill. Some of these trails lead to the Inderahara point on the great Mt Dhauladhar. Throughout the trek, views of the entire Dhauladhar range and the vast, lush green meadows offer a surreal experience that attracts several trekkers looking for a moderate-to-easy trek for the weekend. The trek, which begins from Dharamkot is 18 km long and is marked with a well defined trail. It is advisable to hire a guide/ trek operator if this is your first experience of trekking as the trails run through thick forests of rhododendron and deodar, which despite their beauty can be a little disorienting. The entire journey takes a maximum of six hours depending on your pace and there is a vast flat area that can be used to pitch a tent and acclimatise if you intend to head further up.

From the top of Triund Hill, one can witness the spectacular Dhauladhar range rising over the area. The best months to visit are January, if you're looking for snowfall, and March-May for spectacular and clear views of the vast forest and the mountain ranges. It lies about half an hour away from Dharamsala.

The tranquil Dal Lake is one of the most picturesque spots of Dharamsala that looks like an emerald set amidst craggy mountains. The lake is fringed by a lush forest of deodar trees that make for a serene picnic spot. The best time to visit the lake is during the month of September, when a popular fair is organised. Celebrated to honour the presence of Lord Shiva, the festival draws a large number of members of the Gaddi tribe. Tourists can also pay respects to the noted Shiva temple located on the banks. Visitors can enjoy a scenic boat ride in the lake and explore the natural surroundings.

A modern-day ashram located at the foothills of the majestic Dhauladhar mountains, Chinmaya Tapovana is one of the most frequented pilgrimage spots in the country. Standing on the banks of Bindu Saras, the ashram is a serene spiritual spot where tourists can pay their respects to the 9-m-high idol of Lord Hanuman. You can also visit the Ram temple in the premises, along with a meditation hall and a recreation centre. Tourists can picnic out at the lush forest of pine tress, located a stone's throw from the ashram. Chinmaya Tapovana was set up by Swami Chinmayananda as a natural and spiritual retreat.