The Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, also known as the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium or HPCA Stadium, is more than just a sports venue—it’s a breathtaking blend of cricket and nature that captivates tourists and cricket enthusiasts alike.
Perched at an altitude of 1,457 meters above sea level, this high altitude cricket stadium is renowned as the world’s most beautiful cricket stadium, offering stunning views of the snow-capped Dhauladhar range and a unique experience that combines sports tourism in Himachal with the charm of the Dharamshala hill station.
Brief History
In 2003, under Anurag Thakur’s leadership, the HPCA envisioned a top-tier cricket stadium in Dharamshala to elevate the sport in Himachal Pradesh.
Inaugurated in 2005 by the Dalai Lama, who even played a friendly match with cricketing legends like Sourav Ganguly and Steve Waugh, the stadium quickly gained recognition.
Over the years, the stadium has become a key venue for domestic (Ranji Trophy), franchise (IPL), and international cricket (2023 World Cup), solidifying its reputation as a world-class facility.
Why Is Dharamshala Cricket Stadium Famous ?
The Dharamshala Cricket Stadium is celebrated for its unparalleled beauty and unique features, making it a standout among scenic cricket stadiums in India. Here’s why it’s a must-visit:
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Stadium with Himalayan Backdrop: The snow-capped mountains backdrop cricket stadium offers mesmerizing views of the Dhauladhar range, often described as playing cricket in heaven. The Himalayan backdrop creates a surreal ambiance, especially when the peaks are blanketed in snow.
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High Altitude Sports Ground: At 1,457 meters, it is the highest cricket stadium in the world, affecting ball travel and swing bowling due to lower air pressure.
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Tibetan Architecture Stadium: The HPCA Stadium architecture incorporates vibrant Tibetan-style elements, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the hill station of Dharamshala, home to the Dalai Lama.
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Winter Rye Grass Cricket Ground: The stadium is the first in India to use winter rye grass on its outfield, ensuring the pitch remains lush even in cold temperatures below 10°C.
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Intimate Setting: With a seating capacity of approximately 23,000, the compact stands create an electrifying atmosphere, allowing fans to feel close to the action.
These features make the HPCA Stadium a bucket-list destination for cricket tourism in India, blending the thrill of the game with the tranquility of nature.
Visiting Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
Whether you’re a cricket fanatic or a traveler seeking picturesque cricket venues, the Stadium is open to tourists even on non-match days, offering a chance to soak in its scenic charm.
Here’s what you need to know to plan your visit:
How to Reach Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
The Stadium location is approximately 6 km from McLeod Ganj and 11 km from Kangra Airport (Gaggal), making it easily accessible. Here are your travel options:
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By Air: Fly into Kangra Airport, about 15 km from the stadium. Taxis are readily available for the scenic 30-minute drive through the hilly terrain.
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By Road: You can take overnight Volvo buses from Delhi (480 km) or Chandigarh (247 km). Local cabs from McLeod Ganj to the stadium cost around ₹ 400–600, while buses to Dharamshala Bus Stand (3 km away) cost as little as ₹ 25.
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By Rail: The nearest railway station is Pathankot, 85 km away. From there, hire a taxi or take a local train to Kangra, followed by a cab to the HPCA Stadium.
The scenic drive to Kangra Valley’s cricket stadium (HPCA Stadium) winds through breathtaking landscapes, revealing stunning views of the Dhauladhar mountains along the way.
Things to Do Near the Stadium
The Cricket Stadium is surrounded by some of the best places to visit in Dharamshala, making it a perfect addition to your Kangra Valley sightseeing itinerary:
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Dalai Lama Temple (Tsuglagkhang Complex): Located in McLeod Ganj, 6 km away, this spiritual hub offers a glimpse into Tibetan culture and the Dalai Lama connection Dharamshala.
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Bhagsu Waterfall: A scenic spot 8 km from the stadium, ideal for trekking and photography.
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Triund Trek: A scenic 9-kilometer hike starting from McLeod Ganj rewards trekkers with breathtaking Himalayan vistas.
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Dal Lake: A serene spot near McLeod Ganj for relaxation, just 7 km away.
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Norbulingka Institute: A center for Tibetan art and culture, 10 km from the stadium.
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St. John in the Wilderness Church: Located just 5 km away, this historic church offers a serene and tranquil experience for visitors.
For a full day, combine Stadium tour with these attractions, and dine at the HPTDC Restaurant in Palampur for a taste of local cuisine.
Tips for Visiting the Cricket Stadium
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Check Weather: The Dharamshala weather can be unpredictable, so carry light jackets and stay hydrated, especially at high altitude.
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Arrive Early: Visit before 5:00 PM on non-match days to enjoy the photo opportunities and avoid sunset limitations.
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Book Tickets Early: Use online platforms for booking tickets to avoid last-minute hassles.
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Explore Nearby: Combine your visit with nearby attractions for a fulfilling day.
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Health Precautions: The high altitude cricket stadium may cause dizziness for some; take it slow and consult a doctor if needed.
Nearby Hotels and Resorts
Staying near the Cricket Ground is easy, with several options catering to different budgets:
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The Pavilion Dharamshala: A luxurious HPCA-run resort 6 km away, offering eco-friendly cottages with stadium views (binoculars recommended!).
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Norbu The Montanna: Just 3.3 km from the location, this accommodation offers a swimming pool, gym facilities, and an on-site dining option.
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Storii By ITC Hotels, Amoha Retreat: A high-end retreat 11 km from the stadium, nestled in the Kangra Valley with stunning views.
To get the most competitive rates, we recommend booking ahead of time - this is especially important during Dharamshala’s IPL season and major tournaments.
Why Dharamshala Cricket Stadium Is a Must-Visit
Beyond being just a cricket ground, Dharamshala’s international stadium beautifully combines sporting passion with nature’s splendor.
Its Dhauladhar mountain views, Tibetan architecture stadium, and modern cricket facilities make it a unique destination. Whether you’re marveling at the mountain view during a quiet tour or cheering during matches, the experience is unforgettable.
The cricket stadium with scenic beauty has earned accolades from players, commentators and tourists, with many calling it the most beautiful Test ground in the world, surpassing even Cape Town’s Table Mountain backdrop.
For Himachal Pradesh, the HPCA Stadium Dharamshala is a jewel, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and sport. Plan your visit to this scenic cricket grounds in India and immerse yourself in the magic where mountains meet cricket.
