The HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most scenic cricket grounds in the world, with the Dhauladhar mountains behind it. It hosts internationals and some Punjab Kings IPL matches. Hill roads are narrow, so on match days the area around the stadium is a no-vehicle zone and Kangra Police runs a parking-and-shuttle plan. This guide covers how to get there, parking, shuttles and what to carry.
Kangra Police issues a traffic plan before each big match. Check the latest one for your date.
HPCA Stadium at a glance
| Location | Dharamshala, Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh |
| Owner | Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) |
| Nearest airport | Kangra (Gaggal), about 12 km |
| Near the stadium | No-vehicle zone on match days |
| Shuttles | HRTC shuttle buses from designated parking grounds |
How to reach Dharamshala stadium
- By air: Kangra Airport at Gaggal is about 12 km away (roughly 30–40 minutes by taxi), with flights from Delhi and Chandigarh.
- By road: buses and taxis come from Delhi, Chandigarh and Pathankot. On match days, follow police signs to your assigned parking area.
- By train: the nearest broad-gauge railhead is Pathankot, then continue by road.
Parking and shuttle buses
- Vehicles coming from Chamunda, Kangra, Gaggal and McLeodganj are each given specific parking locations in the police plan.
- HRTC shuttle buses carry spectators from the farther parking grounds, such as Dari Ground and Zorawar Stadium.
- Temporary shuttle stops have been set up at Trends Mall, Dharamshala and near the exit gate of the Police Ground.
- Don’t try to drive to the stadium gate, as the surrounding roads are closed to vehicles.
What to carry and what’s banned
- Not allowed: backpacks and large bags, power banks, professional cameras, laptops, outside food and water bottles.
- Usually allowed after a search: small ladies’ clutches or belt pouches (A4 size or smaller).
- Evenings get cold in the hills even in April–May, so carry a light jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive to the HPCA Stadium on match day?
Not up to the gate. The area around the stadium is a no-vehicle zone. Park at your assigned ground and take the HRTC shuttle.
Which airport is nearest to Dharamshala stadium?
Kangra Airport (Gaggal), about 12 km from the stadium.
Related guides
Sources: Kangra Police IPL traffic plans (as reported by The Tribune). Easy Guide India is not affiliated with HPCA.