In the gorgeous hill town of Dharamsala a luxurious address beckons travellers to explore the surrounds of this beautiful Himalayan retreat. Additionally, for those looking for a grand venue, to host celebratory events, weddings, intimate celebrations, and meaningful social gatherings the Hyatt Regency Dharamshala Resort has introduced a spanking new addition to its amenities and services.

Blending harmoniously with its natural Himalayan vistas, the elegant new Sedar Courtyard is a stunning setting which accommodates up to 400 guests for all manner of outdoor event be it a wedding ceremony or a swanky social do. Hyatt Regency Dharamshala has created a special niche for itself with its 82 elegantly appointed accommodations, including guestrooms, Regency Club rooms, suites, and luxurious two to five-bedroom residences. It’s the hill town's leading hotel of choice, enjoyed for its distinctive dining venues and the beautiful Shanti Spa. The indoor venue Srivatsa accommodates up to 100 guests and features a dedicated pre-function area that is ideal for welcome receptions, networking sessions, engagement ceremonies, private dinners, and corporate gatherings. Another great alternative is Sedar Deck, with its tranquil serene forest setting; it can accommodate up to 50 guests, and is a lovely intimate space for private celebrations, sundowner events, executive dinners, and small wedding functions.

The Hyatt Regency Dhramshala is a great jump-off point for explorations of the twin towns of McLeod Ganj and Dharamsala, steeped in natural beauty and spirituality. Also known as ‘Little Lhasa’, Mcleodganj is the bastion of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, led by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. Frequent visitors to the hill town are the likes of Hollywood actor Richard Gear, a friend of His Holiness and resolute advocate for Tibetan rights. Gere became a follower of Tibetan Buddhism under the Gelugpa tradition and forged a spiritual connection with the Dalai Lama when he first met him in Dharamshala in the early 1980s. A highlight of your own visit can be meeting the Dalai Lama during one of his public assemblies when he is in town. His office tries to schedule outdoor public blessing lines on the mornings of Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. During these blessing sessions, individuals have an opportunity to very briefly greet His Holiness and receive his blessings. It can be a very moving experience for many. Visiting the beautiful Tsuglagkhang Monastery is a must for your bucket list. The atmospheric spiritual vibe and serenity of the venue is something you won’t forget in a hurry.

There are lines of stalls rising towards the Dalai Lama Complex, where you can pick up inexpensive local souvenirs, Tibetan shawls, masks, flags, and jewellery. In town you can savour some of the most delicious Tibetan cuisine at various café and restaurants, aside from momos, thukpa and spicy noodles.

At the bustling Mcleodganj bazaar, popular for souvenir hunting and local wines, you can spin the sacred prayer wheel like other devotees at the Kalchakra Temple. Further along the way to Forsythe Ganj, if you have the time, do visit the serene spot, which is home to the Church of St John in the Wilderness. Built in 1852 it is famed for its beautiful Belgian stained-glass windows and neo-Gothic interiors. In the cemetery at the back lie the mortal remains of Lord Elgin, British Governor- General and Viceroy of India.

The 2-km walk to the Hindu temple of Bhagsunag is quite pleasant. It offers an idyllic way to enjoy the natural beauty of the township and soak in another aspect of its spiritual leanings. There is a pretty waterfall nearby where you can even enjoy a lazy time in the clear water in the pool.

Adventure sports enthusiasts love to explore these Himalayan vistas even more closely on the Triund trekking trail. If that’s too much for you can do a short trek to the picturesque village of Dharamkot and its splendid views of the Dhauladhar Range. Also known as ‘Little Israel’, Dharamkot features the Chabad House, the Jewish community centre and offers culinary treats like Hummus with pita bread and falafel.

An unforgettable cultural experience awaits you at Norbulingka Institute as you soak yourself in the atmospheric serenity of this centre created for the preservation of Tibetan art, crafts and culture. You can watch artisans at work and even shop for handcrafted souvenirs or have a quick meal at the café in these verdant environs.

The twin towns have many hidden gems still to explore. So, ensconce yourself in the luxuries of the Hyatt Regency Dharamshala and get ready to create many new memories of this pretty hill town…