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Mcleodganj in Himachal Pradesh is a one of the most divine places to visit in India, quite literally. It is a perfect blend of old Tibetan monasteries and institutes, surreal camping sites, and great trails for trekking. The beauty of the region is truly unmatched and in the last decade or so, it has turned into a hotspot for tourists not only from India, but from all over the world.
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There a number of things to do and a number of tourist places in Mcleodganj to visit in this fabulous hill city and here are some of them
A 16th century monastery, the Namgyal monastery is known for its heavenly location and for the number of old scriptures that are preserved in there. It happens to be the largest Tibetan monastery outside Tibet and thus deserves special mention. It is the personal monastery of the 14th Dalai Lama and the monks who reside here still follow the traditional, old school method of worship. The monastery is also known as the Namgyal Tantric College and at present it houses 200 monks who receive various forms of education pertaining to Buddhist texts and scriptures, philosophy and the Tibetan language, along with other language practices. Visitors can visit between 10 am to 5 pm.
This temple complex is located just above Dharamshala and is where the Dalai Lama currently resides. The place attracts devotees from all over the world and most of them come to see the beautiful statue of Lord Buddha, Guru Rinpoche and Chenzireg. The temple houses many specimens of Tibetan art like pottery, handwritten scrolls, thankas, and handmade garments. The architecture is completely Tibetan and it also houses the Namgyal Gompa, where the monks engage in debates on spiritual matters from time to time. The famous Kora ritual is also performed here, which entails walking in a clockwise direction. The temple complex is open from 6 am to 6 pm from November to March and 5 am to 7 pm from October to April.
This museum in Dharamshala, is authorized by the Central Tibetan Administration Department of Information and International Relations, and is located very close to the current residence of the Dalai Lama. The museum is built entirely following traditional Tibetan architecture, and is thus a sight to behold. The white Tibetan style of engineering is to be seen here. The museum is filled with documents and artifacts pertaining to Tibetan history and exhibitions are also held here frequently from time to time. The Tibetan children also receive schooling at one of the sections of the museum. The museum is open for visitors from 9 am to 6 pm but remains closed on Mondays, 2nd Saturday and 4th Saturday.
The Triund Trek is an easy and relaxing trek that anyone can opt for and it is totally worth the while because the trekkers get to witness magnificent vistas on their way. The trek is relatively simple and no prior experience is needed but a good pair of walking shoes is a must, especially when you are trying to visit during the colder months. The trek starts from Dharamkot or Mcleodganj and the entire stretch is about a 7 km walk. The trekkers get to view stunning sights of the valley and there is also the Snowline Café along the route which is a great place to sit and enjoy a sip in the middle of the trek. One can also camp there in the evenings and then start the downward trek the next morning.
Dharamkot is a hippie village located above Mcleodganj and it is still one of the lesser crowded regions because not a lot of tourists visit this place. It is mostly known as a yoga village and one can come here to meditate in peace and quiet, with the majestic views of the Kangra Valley to give them company. The Dhamma Shikhara Vippasana Meditation Center and the Tushita Buddhist centers are located here. It is a small retreat town where many authors come as well to work on their writings or people just come here to take a backseat from their hectic life. The Indraprahar Pass Trek and the Triund Trek pass go close by and so it is also popular as a trekking destination. It takes just a day trip to go to Dharamkot from Mcleodganj. It is a popular picnic spot in Mcleodganj.
Built in 1852, this magnificent church is sure to appeal to your senses for so many reasons. The church is located a little off route in the wilderness in the forests around Mcleodganj. It is a neo- gothic church that was built in dedication to St. John the Baptist. The church has wonderful Belgian glass windows. The church grounds also happen to the final resting place of Lord Ergin, who was a Viceroy in India during the colonial period.
Not to be confused with the Dal Lake in Kashmir, the Dal Lake is a picaresque lake that is located in the Kangra district of Mcleodganj. The lake is surrounded by deodar trees which are reflected in the water, as are the distant mountains, and they create the most surreal ambience. Boating is allowed on the lake during the summers but legend has it that although there are many fish in the lake, they are never caught or eaten because the waters are said to be cursed. A grand fair is held on the banks of the lake in the month of November each year and they are visited by all the people from the nearby regions, especially by the people of the Gaddi tribe who come to worship Lord Shiva. One can also trek to Naddi from here and enjoy the magnificent sunset from Sunset Point.
This is another picaresque lake in the region and also a very popular trekking site. The waters of the lake are fed by the melting snow from the Dhauladhar range. The Gujjars and Gaddis of the region mostly visit this lake. Located at an altitude of 2934 meters, this is one of the most popular sightseeing places in Mcleodganj. As the lake is fed by the melting waters of the snow, the lake is quite shallow and the visibility is very high. One can see life forms and various kinds of fish at the bottom of the lake. The lake is frozen during the winters and it creates a completely magical ambiance with the quiet and secluded spot.
The institute is so named after the residence of Dalai Lama in Lhasa and it is one of the prime institutes of Tibetan learning. The institute is located about 7.5 km away from Mcleodganj and is a must-visit. The institute is built in traditional Tibetan style, there are numerous ponds in the vicinity, the surrounding gardens are beautifully landscaped and the distant Dhauladhar range creates a stunning ambiance. There could not be a better location for an institute of learning. The institute also provides care to qualified and needy Tibetan refugees. There are numerous documents of learning and other important artifacts pertaining to Tibetan culture that are preserved here, along with many rare books. One can visit the monastery from 9 am to 5:30 pm.
The café and book shop is as interesting as its name and is one of the best ways to unwind in Mcleodganj. It is also heavily frequented by the foreign tourists. The café is a perfect blend of books, café and good food, and there are a number of live events and musical gigs held frequently. The café is easy to locate and one can have a clear view of the mountains in the distance and there could not be a better place to spend some alone, quality time.
Shopping in Mcleodganj is truly an experience in itself and you are sure to go broke once you hit the marketplaces here. The street shops sell everything under the sky but the most popular items are undoubtedly the Tibetan handicrafts. Statues of Buddha in various kinds of metals are top picks. The Tibetan handicrafts mostly include woodwork, and there are handmade wall hangings, thankas, paintings, rugs and carpets. It is also one of the best places to buy woolen wear, and jackets, caps and stoles are sold in huge numbers, which are inexpensive but of very high quality.
Traditional Tibetan jewelry made from silver are another popular buy. One can also buy handmade bags and shoes. Something that is very original to the place is the Singing Bowl and if you are in luck, the shop owner may also teach you how to play it. Those who are interested in Tibetan culture will find many rare books on Tibetan culture and history. When you are returning, do not forget to stock up on the tea, because you will find some of the best tea you have drank here in your life. There are also prayer wheels, Tibetan figurines and knickknacks, masks, shawls with Buddha motifs, and other things to buy which will make you come back for more.
There are quite a few budget options in Mcleodganj, and there are guesthouses and hotels in plenty as it is now become quite a popular destination. You may book rooms through the Oyo app based on your preference and the Mountain View rooms are always in demand. If you want to experience the authentic way of life here, you may also opt for a homestay in Mcleodganj. Hotels close to the bus stop are also in demand, especially if one is traveling from Shimla or Nainital.
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April 15, 2024 
