Dharamshala Stadium: History, Pitch, Matches and a Fan’s Guide to Visiting

The Dharamshala Stadium became famous for its views, not for its large scores or exciting finishes. Located on the slopes of the Dhauladhar Range, which are covered with snow, this ground is commonly referred to as the most scenic cricket ground in India. It has been used for Test matches, World Cups and IPL games that are still being discussed by cricket enthusiasts. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the Dharamshala Stadium: its background, the pitch, some of the most memorable matches played at the ground, how to reach the ground and what you can expect when attending a game.

As match schedules and stadium capacities are subject to change, and different sources may provide conflicting information, please refer to official statements from the HPCA and BCCI when planning your visit.

What Is the Dharamshala Stadium?

The official name of the ground is Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, commonly referred to as HPCA Stadium. Most fans refer to it as the Dharamshala Stadium. The stadium is located in Dharamshala, which is in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, India. The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association owns and manages the stadium. It serves as the primary home ground for both the state’s men’s and women’s cricket teams. Additionally, the Punjab Kings have utilized the stadium as an alternative home venue during the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Although cricket was played at the Dharamshala Stadium before its official opening date of 2003, there were several years after that until international cricket came to the stadium. What sets this stadium apart from other large city-based stadiums is the unique blend of high elevation, chilly temperatures, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains that give the stadium a completely different feel than those located in major metropolitan areas.

Key facts about the stadium

Item	Detail
Official name	Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium
Location	Dharamshala, Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh
Established	2003
Altitude	About 1,457 m (roughly 4,780 ft) above sea level
Capacity	About 23,000 (some sources say 21,000 to 25,000)
Owner and operator	Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association
Home teams	Himachal Pradesh; Punjab Kings for select IPL matches
Backdrop	Dhauladhar mountain range

The capacity of the stadium varies depending on which source you look at. However, since the stadium has undergone multiple renovations over time, I would say that 23,000 is an average capacity figure, rather than a definitive one.

Images of Dharamshala Stadium

A Short History of the Dharamshala Stadium

During its first ten years of operation, the ground hosted both domestic cricket and IPL games. It was approved by the ICC to hold ODI and T20I matches in January 2012, and the first men’s ODI match was held on January 27, 2013 with India playing England. That game was won by England, and the preparation for the game was intense due to the fact that there had been snow during the previous few weeks.

The Dharamshala Stadium has been a regular on the international schedule since. The first T20 International (T20I) was played there in October of 2015, group games for the 2016 World T20 were hosted at the ground and it was given Test match status in 2017. Since then, the stadium has hosted a major Test match against England, ODI matches as part of the 2023 ODI World Cup, and other limited-overs internationals.

Milestones at the ground

Year	Milestone
2003	Stadium established
2012	ICC approves it for ODIs and T20Is
2013	First men’s ODI, India v England (27 January)
2015	First men’s T20I, India v South Africa (2 October)
2016	Hosts matches at the World T20, including the first women’s T20Is
2017	First Test, India v Australia; India win
2017	ODI against Sri Lanka in December, where India are bowled out for 112
2019	India v South Africa T20I washed out without a ball bowled
2023	Hosts matches in the ODI World Cup, including India v New Zealand
2024	Test against England; India win by an innings
2025	T20I, India v South Africa (14 December)
2026	ODI, India v Afghanistan (13 June)

That timeline clearly illustrates the speed at which the Dharamshala Stadium evolved from a regional facility to an established international facility.

Also Read: Narendra Modi Stadium | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | Wankhede Stadium | Arun Jaitley Stadium

Big Moments at the Ground

A few matches define the ground’s reputation.

The 2017 Test. India won against Australia in the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and took home the series. This was the first ever Test held at this stadium, and fans recall the atmosphere just as much as they do the outcome of the match.

The 2016 World T20 controversy. India and Pakistan were scheduled to face off in a Super 10 game at this venue; however, due to security issues, the location was changed to Kolkata. In addition, the ground did host a group stage match as well as a Super 10 game between Australia and New Zealand. New Zealand ultimately emerged victorious from that contest.

The 2023 World Cup. The Dharamshala Stadium was home to many matches during the tournament and most notably, India vs. New Zealand on October 22, 2023. That match is still being discussed because of Virat Kohli’s almost-century.

The 2024 England Test. The stadium was used once again for the final Test match in India’s home series against England. It also marked a significant milestone as players were reaching their 100th Test appearance.

Dec 2017 collapse. A low-scoring ODI against Sri Lanka, where India were dismissed for 112, remains one of the ground’s most surprising results.

The Pitch and Conditions

The Dharamshala Stadium’s pitch is generally fast, bouncy and carries well. This is quite uncommon in India. New balls tend to offer some assistance to bowlers, particularly during cooler periods. At higher altitudes, there is also less air resistance than elsewhere, so if you strike the ball firmly enough, you should get good distance. The Dharamshala Stadium has a reputation for being able to hit many sixes off of each over; this translates into T20 matches.

The weather is an important factor. Matches played during the early part of the season can be very cold; evening matches usually produce dew and wind, and there is a high risk of rain. Early morning cloud and cold are beneficial to fast bowlers, while conditions become more favorable for batsmen as the day progresses.

• Seamers: Look for early swing and seam in the opening overs.
• Spinners: They get less turn here than on typical Indian tracks, though cutters can work later in the game.
• Batters: Fast outfields and thin air reward clean hitting.
• Chasing teams: Dew can make the ball slippery in night games, which often helps the side batting second.

Before you try to guess what will happen during a game at the Dharamshala Stadium, you need to check the weather forecast. Weather has a greater impact on games played in Dharamshala than it does in other parts of India.

The Ground by Format

Every format has its own history here.

 First matches by format

Format	First match at the ground
Men’s ODI	India v England, 27 January 2013
Men’s T20I	India v South Africa, 2 October 2015
Women’s T20I	India v England, 22 March 2016
Men’s Test	India v Australia, March 2017
IPL	Early IPL seasons, with Punjab Kings as the home side

Throughout its history, the Dharamshala Stadium has been used for Ranji Trophy and other domestic games, and most of the local players had their first opportunity to compete in this facility.

The IPL at Dharamshala

The Dharamshala Stadium is a popular choice for the Punjab Kings (formerly known as Kings XI Punjab) to play some of their home games. Because of its fast-paced surface and reputation for long-distance hitting, it has become a favorite location for T20 cricket. However, weather issues during the beginning of the season can cause problems. Over the last few years, floodlighting and other facilities at the stadium have been improved. This improvement has allowed Dharamshala Stadium to remain relevant within the IPL circuit, even though other locations are being utilized much more frequently.

Location: Dharamshala Stadium

How to Get There

Ground is located in the hills and therefore planning is essential. Although flight options from the nearest airport (Gaggal) are limited and can be expensive on game days; many fans choose to drive to Dharamshala from either Chandigarh, Delhi or Pathankot where there is the nearest major rail station.

 Approximate distances to the stadium

From	Approximate distance	Typical travel mode
Gaggal airport	About 13 km	Taxi
Pathankot railway station	About 85 to 90 km	Taxi or bus
Chandigarh	About 240 km	Road
Shimla	About 250 km	Road
Delhi	About 480 km	Overnight bus or road

The above data are approximate. Travel times vary greatly depending on road conditions (i.e. mountain traffic) and weather. At times, landslides or snow will cause delays in road travel; therefore, give yourself additional time when planning your journey. Most fans traveling to the Dharamshala Stadium plan their arrival for one day prior to the game to minimize potential problems with getting there on time.

Tips for Match Day

A few practical points can make the day smoother.

1. The BCCI, the HPCA and their authorized partners will make announcements about ticket sales for every game. Only purchase your tickets through the official channels.
2. Bring along some warm clothing. No matter how hot it is during the day, once night falls, the weather will turn cooler, and the stadium itself is an outdoor venue.
3. Arrive early. Security checks and narrow access roads slow entry.
4. Check the weather. Rain and fog can delay play.
5. Only bring what is acceptable. There are limits on the size of bags and on outside items brought into the stadium. Be sure to review the Match Day Notice.
6. Plan on how you will leave. The roads that lead out of the hills are often busy with traffic after a football game; therefore, make sure to reserve your transportation before you go.

Why the Dharamshala Stadium Matters

In addition to the results, this ground provides something Indian cricket rarely gets: a mountain backdrop that creates an entirely different atmosphere for the game. Players will always talk about the view, and photographers will always be drawn to it. The Dharamshala Stadium also allows a smaller state to host international-level cricket, thereby giving local players opportunities and supporting the local economy.

Many people have said that because of its location and weather, it is hard to schedule games. Also, there are not as many games played on this field compared to other fields located in larger cities. However, if a game is scheduled here, then it usually will be one that you will remember for a long time.

Also Read: Heritage Bank Stadium | Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium | Eden Gardens Stadium

Conclusion

The Dharamshala Stadium, in most people’s recollections, is more than just a cricket field. Due to its high altitude, uncommon pitch, and beautiful mountains surrounding it, the stadium has established its own identity, and a long list of matches – from 2017 Test matches to World Cup matches and recent international games- suggests how far the place has come since 2003.

However, if you plan to visit Dharamshala Stadium, it is better to check the match schedule, order your tickets in advance, wear warm clothes, and take some time for a sightseeing tour around Dharamshala.

Frequently Asked Questions