Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, known as HPCA stadium, with its beautiful location and modern amenities, offers a unique and unforgettable experience, making it a must-visit for cricket enthusiasts.
HPCA Stadium: A Cricketing Gem Amidst the Himalayas
The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, abbreviated as HPCA Stadium, is a picturesque cricket stadium situated in Dharamshala, in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India.
Established in 2003, it is renowned as one of the most beautiful cricket grounds globally, with the snow-capped Himalayan mountains forming a majestic backdrop.
The stadium has a seating capacity of 23,000 and is operated by the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association. The town of Dharamshala is internationally recognized as the home of the Dalai Lama.
A Venue of Historic Matches and Remarkable Performances
The HPCA stadium has hosted several notable matches, including its first One Day International (ODI) between India and England on January 27, 2013, which England won.
The first test match at this venue was held from March 25 to 29, 2017, between India and Australia, with India securing a comfortable victory.
The stadium has witnessed several remarkable performances, including centuries by players like Steve Smith, Ian Bell, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma in various formats of the game.
Adam Gilchrist became the first player to score a century in the IPL at this venue in 2011, an innings that included a 122m six off Charl Langeveldt.
Architectural with Modern Amenities
The HPCA Stadium seamlessly blending modern design with the natural splendor of its surroundings. The stadium boasts a seating capacity of 23,000, coupled with the breathtaking panorama of the Dhauladhar mountain range.
The roofing system is designed to withstand the harsh weather conditions typical of the region, while the well-maintained pitch and outfield offer an excellent playing surface for cricketers.
The stadium complex also houses a high-altitude training center, a swimming pool, and indoor courts for various sports, making it a hub for nurturing sporting talent in the state.
The pavilion complex is equipped with ultra-modern facilities, including a gymnasium, an indoor practice area, and a media center, facilitating smooth conduct of international matches.
The stadium is also equipped with large LED screens that offer a clear view of the live action, ensuring that spectators do not miss a single moment of the thrilling cricket encounters.
Moreover, the stadium is designed with accessibility in mind, with facilities to accommodate differently-abled spectators, ensuring a pleasant experience for all cricket enthusiasts.
The Home Teams
The HPCA Stadium has been a nurturing ground for many cricketing talents, serving as the home ground for the Himachal Pradesh state cricket team.
This team competes in domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy, where they have showcased remarkable performances over the years.
In the glamorous world of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the stadium has been a fortress for the Punjab Kings (formerly known as Kings XI Punjab).
The HPCA stadium has been a breeding ground for several cricketing stars who have gone on to make a mark on the international stage.
A stalwart of Indian cricket, Yuvraj Singh has delivered some of his career-best performances at this venue, including a blistering innings in the IPL.
In other moments, the Indian cricket team skipper, Virat Kohli, has had several memorable innings at this ground, showcasing his masterclass in batting.
Meanwhile, the legendary Australian cricketer made history at this venue during his stint with the Kings XI Punjab in the IPL, including a memorable century that showcased his explosive batting style.
Getting There: A Journey to the HPCA Stadium Beauty
The HPCA Stadium is well-connected through various modes of transportation, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey for cricket enthusiasts.
The nearest airport is the Gaggal Airport, also known as Kangra Airport, situated approximately 15 kilometers from Dharamshala.
The nearest railway station is Pathankot, which is about 85 kilometers from Dharamshala. Regular train services connect Pathankot to various parts of India.
The stadium is well-connected by road, with state-run and private buses operating regularly between Dharamshala and nearby cities.
Once in Dharamshala, visitors can opt for local transportation options like auto-rickshaws and taxis to reach the stadium. These local transport options offer a convenient and economical way to travel around the city.
For those driving down to the stadium, ample parking space is available in the vicinity of the stadium, ensuring a hassle-free experience for visitors.
Address: Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamshala (हिमाचल प्रदेश क्रिकेट एसोसिएशन स्टेडियम, धर्मशाला), Tehsil, HPCA Cricket Stadium, Distt-Kangra, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215, India
Did You Know? The HPCA Stadium Trivia
The HPCA stadium is situated at a unique altitude of 1,457 meters above sea level, offering a cricketing experience with a picturesque backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
It was recommended for hosting international cricket matches by Dav Whatmore, the former Director of the National Cricket Academy in India.
World Cup 2023: A Stage Set for Cricketing Excellence
The ICC Men’s ODI Cricket World Cup 2023 is set to kick off on October 5th, the HPCA Stadium. Situated at a height of 1,457 meters above sea level, this stadium will host 5 ODI World Cup Matches. The sale of the tickets for matches being held in Dharamsala will begin on September 1.
As the World Cup 2023 approaches, one can anticipate a vibrant and electrifying atmosphere at this venue, with fans from around the world converging to witness cricketing history amidst the majestic Himalayas.
