Away from the crowds surrounding Dharamshala’s famous cricket stadium, a quiet café in the village of Khanyara offers a different kind of Himalayan experience. Nature Pool Café has reportedly welcomed Indian cricketers, including Yashasvi Jaiswal and Nitish Kumar Reddy, with a relaxed setting featuring a freshwater pool, mountain scenery and simple comfort food.
For travellers looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, this lesser-known destination offers a glimpse of Dharamshala’s quieter side.
Nature Pool Café: A Peaceful Escape Near Dharamshala
Located in Khanyara, on the outskirts of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, Nature Pool Café is a family-run eatery known for its natural surroundings.
Unlike conventional cafés in busy tourist districts, the setting centres on the outdoors. Visitors can relax beside the freshwater pool, enjoy views of the surrounding hills and spend time away from the bustle of the main town.
The café’s informal atmosphere makes it appealing to travellers who prefer simple food, open spaces and a slower pace of sightseeing.
Why the Café Has Attracted Indian Cricketers
Dharamshala regularly attracts cricket players, supporters and sports professionals, particularly during major fixtures at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium.
Nature Pool Café has reportedly been visited by Indian players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Nitish Kumar Reddy. Its quieter location offers a contrast to the attention and activity associated with professional cricket.
While celebrity visits add to the café’s appeal, its natural setting is also a reason ordinary visitors may want to explore it. Travellers should treat reports of player visits as background rather than expecting to encounter cricketers during their visit.
What to Eat at Nature Pool Café
The café focuses on familiar, affordable comfort food rather than elaborate restaurant dining. Its reported menu includes:
- Momos: A popular snack for a casual mountain-side meal.
- Maggi: A familiar favourite for travellers exploring the hills.
- Chai: A warm drink to enjoy while taking in the surroundings.
- Local snacks: Simple options for a relaxed break during sightseeing.
The appeal lies as much in the setting as in the food. Visitors can enjoy a casual meal while listening to the water and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.
A Freshwater Pool, Rock Art and Bonfire Evenings
One of the café’s distinctive features is the freshwater pool nearby. Visitors can sit close to the water and enjoy the natural surroundings, while the rocks decorated with paintings add character to the setting.
Evenings may offer the opportunity to gather around a bonfire, depending on the café’s arrangements and prevailing conditions.
However, the water requires caution. Water levels and currents can become dangerous during the monsoon, so visitors should avoid entering the pool or nearby streams when conditions are unsafe.
What Else Can You Explore Near Khanyara?
A visit to Nature Pool Café can be combined with other experiences around Dharamshala and the Kangra Valley.
Kharota Valley
Kharota Valley offers scenic mountain surroundings and opportunities for leisurely walks. It can be a suitable addition for travellers seeking quieter landscapes away from the busier tourist areas.
Aghanjar Mahadev Temple
Located in the wider Dharamshala region, Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is an option for visitors interested in local religious heritage and peaceful natural surroundings. Check local access and travel conditions before visiting.
Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium is one of Dharamshala’s best-known attractions, particularly for cricket enthusiasts. Its mountain backdrop makes it a distinctive stop on a wider sightseeing itinerary.
How to Reach Nature Pool Café
Nature Pool Café is located in Khanyara, a village outside Dharamshala. Visitors can travel from Dharamshala by taxi or local transport, depending on availability.
Before setting out, travellers should confirm the café’s precise location, current opening hours and road access. Those planning to visit during or immediately after heavy rainfall should check local weather and water conditions.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and autumn can be pleasant periods for exploring the Dharamshala region, although weather conditions vary with altitude and season.
- Spring: Suitable for enjoying the surrounding greenery and outdoor scenery.
- Summer: A popular period for sightseeing and cricket-related travel.
- Autumn: Often attractive for mountain views and quieter outdoor excursions.
- Monsoon: Requires extra caution because heavy rain can make roads, rocks and natural water bodies hazardous.
Visitors should prioritise safety over accessing the pool, particularly when water levels are high.
Final Thoughts
Nature Pool Café offers a different way to experience Dharamshala beyond cricket matches, crowded markets and familiar tourist attractions. Its natural surroundings, simple food and relaxed atmosphere make it an interesting stop for travellers exploring Khanyara and the wider Kangra Valley.
Although its association with Indian cricketers adds to its appeal, the café’s main attraction is the opportunity to slow down and enjoy a quieter corner of Himachal Pradesh.
For visitors planning a trip, checking local conditions and confirming the café’s operating details beforehand can help make the experience more enjoyable.
