Over the years of traveling across India’s sacred geography – from the ghats of Varanasi to the temples of Somnath – I’ve realized something profound: faith in India isn’t just practiced; it’s lived.
And for every spiritual destination I’ve explored, there’s always been a quiet, comforting dharamshala waiting nearby – a place where simplicity, devotion, and community meet.
Dharamshalas are more than just budget lodgings; they’re institutions of faith and hospitality. They were originally built to provide pilgrims a safe place to rest, eat, and rejuvenate during their journeys. Today, many of them have evolved into well-managed accommodations offering clean rooms, vegetarian food, and peaceful surroundings – all at very reasonable prices.
In this article, I’m sharing the 14 best dharamshalas across India, located near major religious places. These recommendations come from personal stays, verified local insights, and experiences gathered from fellow travelers I’ve met along the way.
Table of Contents
1. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Dharamshala – Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
When I visited Varanasi, staying close to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple was a priority. I found this dharamshala just a short walk from the temple, offering both convenience and serenity.
Highlights:
- Just 300 meters from Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Clean, air-conditioned rooms with traditional decor
- Affordable rooms from ₹700–₹1,200 per night
- On-site kitchen serving sattvik meals
Traveler Tip: Book early during Dev Deepawali or Shivratri — the dharamshala fills up quickly.
2. Somnath Trust Dharamshala – Somnath, Gujarat
During my coastal trip to Gujarat, I stayed here to experience the divine atmosphere near the Somnath Jyotirlinga. The dharamshala is managed by the Somnath Temple Trust – ensuring cleanliness, security, and spiritual ambiance.
Highlights:
- Walking distance from the temple and beach
- 24-hour check-in, with hot water and canteen facilities
- Price: ₹500–₹1,000 for double occupancy
- Lush green surroundings and ample parking
Traveler Tip: Try to attend the evening aarti – the sea waves crashing nearby add to the divine experience.
3. Shri Mahakal Dharamshala – Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
My stay in Ujjain felt almost timeless – waking up to temple bells and the scent of incense. The Shri Mahakal Dharamshala is ideally located close to the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
Highlights:
- 400 meters from Mahakal Temple
- Simple rooms with attached baths and AC options
- Cost: ₹600–₹1,200 per night
- Nearby eateries serve authentic Madhya Pradesh thalis
Traveler Tip: Opt for early morning darshan before sunrise to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter temple visit.
4. Shree Badrinath Dharamshala – Badrinath, Uttarakhand
At an altitude of 10,000 feet, Badrinath offers one of the most breathtaking backdrops for spirituality. The Badrinath Dharamshala provides a warm shelter amid the Himalayas.
Highlights:
- Located just 500 meters from the main temple
- Managed by temple committees and local trusts
- Charges: ₹700–₹1,500 per night (seasonal variations)
- Hot water available via solar heating
Traveler Tip: Carry woollens even in summer – nights are freezing! The dharamshala staff are extremely helpful with altitude acclimatization tips.
5. Jagannath Temple Dharamshala – Puri, Odisha
My journey to Puri taught me what devotion truly looks like – thousands of pilgrims lining up daily. The Jagannath Dharamshala is one of the best-managed accommodations in this holy town.
Highlights:
- 5-minute walk from Jagannath Temple
- Spacious rooms with sea view options
- Price: ₹800–₹1,500
- In-house kitchen offers mahaprasad-style meals
Traveler Tip: Visit between October and February for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
6. Shirdi Sai Baba Sansthan Dharamshala – Shirdi, Maharashtra
Shirdi is perhaps India’s most organized pilgrimage site, and the Sansthan-run dharamshalas are clean, efficient, and very affordable.
Highlights:
- Within temple complex
- Dormitories and deluxe rooms available
- Prices: ₹250 (shared) – ₹1,000 (private rooms)
- 24-hour canteen and medical services
Traveler Tip: Register online via the Sai Sansthan website to save time and get better room choices.
7. Shri Dwarkadhish Dharamshala – Dwarka, Gujarat
Staying near Dwarkadhish Temple was a dream come true. The temple trust dharamshala made it even better with its traditional design and proximity to the sea.
Highlights:
- 200 meters from Dwarkadhish Temple
- Affordable rooms ₹400–₹1,200
- Clean bathrooms and ample parking
- Rooftop views of the temple and Gomti Ghat
Traveler Tip: Don’t miss the evening flag ceremony at the temple – it’s mesmerizing.
8. Kedarnath Temple Dharamshala – Kedarnath, Uttarakhand
Kedarnath’s altitude and harsh weather make good accommodation a blessing. During my pilgrimage, the temple committee’s dharamshala was both reliable and peaceful.
Highlights:
- Located near the temple base area
- Dormitory and private rooms available (₹500–₹1,200)
- Warm bedding and solar-heated water
- Open May to November only
Traveler Tip: Book well in advance – space is limited due to weather restrictions.
9. Rameshwaram Temple Dharamshala – Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu
During my South India circuit, Rameshwaram stood out for its serene spirituality and ocean breeze. The temple’s dharamshala offered simplicity and genuine hospitality.
Highlights:
- 300 meters from Ramanathaswamy Temple
- Rooms from ₹400–₹1,000
- Vegetarian canteen with authentic Tamil food
- 24-hour security and luggage storage
Traveler Tip: Visit Dhanushkodi, just 20 km away – it’s a surreal experience at the edge of India.
10. Vaishno Devi Bhawan Dharamshala – Katra, Jammu
Climbing to Vaishno Devi is a spiritual test of endurance. Thankfully, dharamshalas along the route provide rest, comfort, and safety.
Highlights:
- Base dharamshalas available at Katra and Bhawan
- Rooms from ₹500–₹1,200
- Lockers, blankets, and hot water available
- Managed by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board
Traveler Tip: Book rooms through the official Shrine Board website – they also arrange helicopter passes.
11. Golden Temple Niwas (SGPC Dharamshala) – Amritsar, Punjab
When I stayed at the Golden Temple complex, I realized why this is one of the most soulful places in India. The SGPC Dharamshala (Niwas) reflects the Sikh values of service and equality.
Highlights:
- Located inside the temple complex
- Free basic accommodation; donations welcome
- Free langar meals served 24/7
- Peaceful rooms with basic amenities
Traveler Tip: Keep your luggage minimal and respect silence in prayer halls – this is both lodging and a sacred space.
12. Shri Omkareshwar Dharamshala – Madhya Pradesh
Situated along the banks of the Narmada River, Omkareshwar’s dharamshala is ideal for those seeking calm amidst nature and faith.
Highlights:
- 200 meters from Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
- Rooms from ₹400–₹900
- Clean, airy, and riverside view rooms available
- Hot water via solar heaters
Traveler Tip: Take the local boat ride across the river – it’s a tranquil way to experience the temple.
13. Guruvayur Devaswom Dharamshala – Guruvayur, Kerala
My time in Guruvayur was a blend of temple music, rituals, and the scent of jasmine. The Devaswom-managed dharamshala offers modern comfort with traditional warmth.
Highlights:
- Walking distance to Guruvayur Temple
- AC and non-AC rooms from ₹800–₹1,500
- 24-hour reception and vegetarian food stalls nearby
- Authentic Kerala thalis available nearby
Traveler Tip: Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but can explore surrounding areas rich in culture and Ayurveda.
14. Pashupatinath Dharamshala (for Indian pilgrims) – Kathmandu, Nepal
Though outside India, this dharamshala deserves mention for Indian pilgrims visiting the Pashupatinath Temple. I stayed here during a road trip from Sunauli border – it felt like home away from home.
Highlights:
- 10 minutes from Pashupatinath Temple
- Maintained by Indian religious trusts
- Rooms from ₹600–₹1,200
- Indian vegetarian meals served daily
Traveler Tip: Carry Indian currency in smaller denominations; it’s accepted in most places.
Why Choose Dharamshalas Over Hotels
After years of traveling across India’s spiritual circuits, I can confidently say dharamshalas offer something money can’t buy – a sense of belonging.
Here’s why I often choose them over hotels:
- Affordability: Rooms are often 50–70% cheaper than nearby hotels.
- Location: Usually located within walking distance of temples or ghats.
- Cultural Experience: You witness rituals, chants, and community meals – not room service bells.
- Safety & Cleanliness: Many temple trusts maintain high standards.
- Spiritual Energy: Waking up to bells and prayers gives you peace no resort can match.
Tips for Booking Dharamshalas in India
- Book early during festivals like Maha Shivratri, Janmashtami, or Navratri – rooms fill up fast.
- Carry valid ID proof (Aadhaar/Passport) as most are now regulated.
- Respect local customs – remove shoes before entering, avoid loud music, and dress modestly.
- Carry basic toiletries as some dharamshalas provide only essentials.
- Donations, not tips: Always contribute to the trust fund rather than tipping individuals.
Sample Itinerary for a 10-Day Spiritual Circuit Stay
If you want to explore multiple dharamshalas in one trip, here’s a personal itinerary I followed once:
| Day | Destination | Dharamshala | Approx. Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Varanasi | Kashi Vishwanath Dharamshala | ₹1,200 |
| 3-4 | Ujjain | Shri Mahakal Dharamshala | ₹1,000 |
| 5-6 | Somnath | Somnath Trust Dharamshala | ₹1,200 |
| 7 | Dwarka | Dwarkadhish Dharamshala | ₹900 |
| 8-9 | Shirdi | Sai Sansthan Dharamshala | ₹800 |
| 10 | Rameshwaram | Temple Dharamshala | ₹1,000 |
Total Cost (approx.): ₹6,000–₹7,000 — covering 6 major spiritual cities with comfortable accommodation and unforgettable experiences.
Conclusion: Staying Where Faith Meets Simplicity
Each dharamshala I’ve stayed in across India taught me something new – humility in Amritsar, devotion in Ujjain, peace in Badrinath, and community in Shirdi. These are not just buildings; they are living extensions of India’s faith traditions.
If you’re planning a spiritual or cultural trip across India, skip the fancy hotels and book a stay at one of these 14 dharamshalas. You’ll wake up to temple bells, eat soul-satisfying sattvik meals, and feel part of something larger – a living culture of devotion that has thrived for centuries.
In the end, a dharamshala is not just a place to rest your body – it’s a place where your soul pauses, reflects, and finds its way home. 🙏
