Many visitors consider renting a car in Dharamshala. Before you decide, here’s what these mountain roads are really like — from someone who drives them every day.
Almost every week, someone asks me the same question:
“Should we rent a car and drive ourselves in Dharamshala?”
The short answer is: it depends.
The honest answer needs a little explanation.
The honest answer needs a little explanation.
Dharamshala is beautiful, calm, and welcoming — but its roads are very different from what most visitors are used to. Before you decide, here’s what you should know.
What Most First-Time Drivers Don’t Expect
On Google Maps, the roads look simple. In real life, they’re not.
- Roads are narrow, often just wide enough for one vehicle
- Sharp blind curves appear suddenly
- Steep climbs and descents are constant
- Local traffic includes buses, taxis, scooters, cows, and pedestrians
For someone used to flat highways or city driving, this can feel overwhelming within the first 10 minutes.
I’ve seen many tourists stop mid-road, unsure whether to reverse, move forward, or wait.
Parking Is the Real Challenge
Driving is one thing. Parking is another story entirely.
In areas like:
- McLeod Ganj
- Bhagsu
- Dharamkot
Parking spaces are limited, unmarked, and often on slopes. During peak season, finding a legal and safe parking spot can take longer than the drive itself.
Many visitors don’t expect this — and that’s where stress begins.
Weather Changes Everything
Mountain weather changes quickly.
- Sudden fog in the evening
- Rain making roads slippery
- Occasional landslides after heavy showers
Even confident drivers can feel uneasy when visibility drops or traction changes. Locals adjust instinctively because we face these conditions regularly.
When Self-Driving Can Make Sense
To be fair, self-driving isn’t always a bad idea.
It can work if:
- You’re an experienced hill driver
- You’re visiting in clear weather
- You’re staying mostly in one area
- You’re comfortable driving manual cars on slopes
If you check all these boxes, you may enjoy the independence.
When Hiring a Local Taxi Is the Better Choice
For most visitors, especially first-timers, a local taxi makes the trip easier.
Why?
- No stress about directions or road conditions
- No parking worries
- You can enjoy the views instead of focusing on bends
- Local drivers know when to leave early or wait
- Route changes are handled calmly
Many guests tell me later that once they experienced one day without driving themselves, they didn’t want to go back.
A Common Situation I See
Tourists rent a car, drive for a day or two, then call asking for a taxi “just for sightseeing” or “just for airport drop.”
That usually tells me everything.
Local Advice:
If your trip is short or packed with sightseeing, don’t spend it worrying about roads. Let someone else drive while you enjoy the mountains.
So, Is It Safe?
Yes — Dharamshala is safe.
But safe and comfortable are not always the same thing.
But safe and comfortable are not always the same thing.
If you want control and challenge, self-driving may suit you.
If you want peace of mind and a relaxed trip, a local driver makes a big difference.
If you want peace of mind and a relaxed trip, a local driver makes a big difference.
Either way, understanding the reality of these roads helps you make the right choice — and enjoy your time here the way it’s meant to be enjoyed.
Tags:#Himachal#Travel#Travel Tips