There is nothing like catching a match in the mountains if you follow cricket religiously. Located in the verdant hills of Himachal Pradesh, HPCA Stadium is also one of the most scenic cricket grounds you can find across the globe. Aside from all of that beautiful scenery, this stadium features its own very specific pitch behavior, weather conditions and match atmosphere that can literally change the outcome entirely.
So what is it that makes this venue special? Feel free to skip ahead through everything – pitch report, boundary size and IPL 2026.
An Overview of Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, popularly known as Dharamshala Cricket Stadium is located at hill station of Dharamshala Nestled amidst Dhauladhar mountain ranges, it is one of the few places that can get you such a mesmerizing viewing experience.
This venue was built in 2003 and had international matches of all formats; Tests, ODIs, and T20s. It also continues to serve as a host venue for the Indian Premier League over the years, especially with Punjab Kings rooted there.
One of the highest international cricket grounds, at around 1,457 meters above sea level, this is key to how matches play out here.
| Category | Details |
| Stadium Name | HPCA Stadium |
| Also Known As | Dharamshala Cricket Stadium |
| Established | 2003 |
| Owned By | Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association |
| Location | Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India |
| Seating Capacity | Around 23,000 spectators |
| Home Team (IPL) | Punjab Kings |
| Famous For | Scenic Himalayan backdrop, high-altitude cricket ground |
HPCA Stadium, Dharamshala Cricket Stadium Pitch Report & Pitch Behavior
Enough about the things that don’t matter, let’s talk about what really does, the pitch.
The pitch at the HPCA Stadium is considered to be conducive for fast bowlers early on in matches. Its altitude and climate make it swing more than other Indian venues.
Key Pitch Characteristics:
- Early OversSwing and bounce is offered up by the seamers.
- The ball intended to return quickly on to the bat since the new ball used to stay accelerated; once it got a tad delicate, batsmen started settling regardless of whether the pitch held nothing for their feet.
- Death Overs: Can get pretty high-scoring given more of which boundaries are shorter in some parts
Dharamshala provides a perfect contest between bat and ball unlike the flat tracks offered by some cities like Mumbai or Bangalore. It will be like heaven for bowlers, especially fast bowlers who can move the ball – Jasprit Bumrah would love it here.
Scores of 160-180 are competitive in T20, although in evening matches chasing sides tend to benefitting dew.
Read More: Arun Jaitley Stadium Pitch Report || Ekana Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
HPCA Stadium, Dharamshala Cricket Stadium Weather
How much does weather affect the games in Dharamshala?
The conditions in the hills can change quickly. Evening can become chilly, although summers are good – not the IPL latter afternoons though.
Weather Insights:
- Temp: 15-28°C during cricket season
- Humidity: Moderate
- Rain Chances: Interruptions, with monsoon being more frequent
Swing bowling is sometimes aided by cloud cover – making the first few overs all the more dangerous for batters. If you are watching a day-night match, dew is expected to play a part in the second innings.
HPCA Stadium Photos Gallery
HPCA Stadium Records & Stats
HPCA Stadium has seen incredible matches and brilliant performances in the past.
International Highlights:
- ODI High Score: 364/9 (vs West Indies, India)
- Lowest ODI Score: Around 112
- Best bowling figures: 6-wicket hauls in ODIs
T20 Records:
- Average 1st innings score: 150–170
- Highest T20 score: Around 200+
- The most successful chasing: Teams batting second have a little more success
You have Vinay Kumar, you have people like your Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma coming in, which means batting is placing an importance on adapting as it has always been dominant here with this sort of bowling.
HPCA Stadium Capacity
The HPCA stadium can host up to almost 23,000 spectators.
Although it cannot be compared to stadiums such as Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, what the capacity lacks in size, it certainly brings trance. The compact design means fans feel more at the center of the action, creating an electric atmosphere during major matches.
HPCA Stadium Boundary Length
Boundary dimensions are very important, particularly in T20 cricket.
At Dharamshala:
- Straight boundaries: Around 70-75 meters
- Square boundaries: 60-65 meters
Thus batters can target the shorter square boundaries, especially in the powerplays & the death overs. For instance, it’s not always so easy to hit through the line early in innings due to bounce and movement.
Hence, it is both difficult initially and rewarding later.
Also Read: Wankhede Stadium Mumbai || M. Chinnaswamy Stadium
HPCA Stadium IPL Match 2026
IPL 2026 match locations – multiple matches at Dharamsala, consistent with its tradition as a secondary home ground for Punjab Kings
Fans can expect:
- High-energy T20 clashes
- Seam-friendly conditions early in the season
- Packed stands with breathtaking views
The pitch usually changes behaviour as the match progresses, and coupling that with the weather around here means matches often become thrillers.
HPCA Stadium, Dharamshala Cricket Stadium IPL 2026 Ticket Price
Expected Price Range:
- General Stands: ₹800 – ₹1,500
- Premium Seating: ₹2,000 – ₹4,000
- VIP/Corporate Boxes: ₹5,000+
HPCA Stadium Location
- City: Dharamshala
- State: Himachal Pradesh
- Country: India
FAQs
1. Is HPCA Stadium good for batting or bowling?
It offers a balanced pitch, but fast bowlers get early assistance due to swing and bounce.
2. What is the average score in T20 matches here?
The average first innings score is around 160–170.
3. Does dew affect matches in Dharamshala?
Yes, especially in evening matches, making chasing easier.
4. Which IPL team plays at HPCA Stadium?
Punjab Kings often use it as their home ground.