McLeodganj Travel Guide

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One of the most travelled hill station of North India, located at a distance of 9 km from Dharamsala. McLeodganj is known as the headquarters of the Tibetan Government in Exile and home of the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, who is also believed to be the reincarnation of Buddha.

McLeodganj - Little Lhasa
Mcleodganj is an example of the Tibetan settlement, often described as the abode of Dalai Lama, tourists travel to McLeodganj in search of spirituality, relaxation and the opportunity to meet the holy figure. Situated in the captivating beauty of Kangra valley, McLeodganj is and ancient town quite old and famous. The living deity (Dalai Lama) spreads the message of spirituality at the time of Tibetan New Year that fall somewhere in the month of March. Apart from the Buddhist attractions, McLeodganj is also traveled by the tourists to discover the theory behind the Tibetan astrology and to take up the natural healing therapy facilitated by the Tibetan Medical center, based on ancient systems of healing. Tibetan medical and astrology institute also provides training and publishes an annual lunar calendar, which is based on the Tibetan system of astrological calculations. Tourist can order for individual horoscope also.

How To Reach
Air
The nearest airport is at Gaggal, which is 15 km away from McLeodganj or Dharamsala. Autos or taxi can be hired from the airport to reach McLeodganj.

Rail
The nearest railheads (narrow gauge) are at Kangra and Nagrota, 20 km away from McLeodganj. Whereas the nearest broad gauge railhead is at Pathankot.

Road
McLeodganj has good network of roads that connects to Delhi and major cities of Himachal Pradesh. State transport runs there deluxe as well as semi-deluxe buses on the routes to Manali, Mandi, Kangra, Pathankot and Delhi.

Internal Transport
Buses ply between lower Dharamsala and McLeodganj on a regular basis, though it takes long time to reach McLeodganj. Shared jeeps are also available, which will give you cramped but faster journey. Tourists can also hire private taxi to move in and around the city.

Accommodations
A variety of options are available for the visitors to make his/her stay comfortable and enjoyable. There are big, medium and small range of hotels available in McLeodganj. The Himachal Government also runs their hotels that offers accommodations at very reasonable cost.

Places of Interest
Bhagsunag
This ancient temple is located at a distance of 2 km from McLeodganj. Famous for its ancient temple and waterfall, the place can be easily reached by taking a sunny walk, down the thickly populated Deodar forests.

Dharamkot
Another tourist destination located at walk-able distance from McLeodganj, Dharamkot is a famous picnic spot, from where a perfect view of Kangra valley can be noticed.

Namgyalma Stupa
Namgyalma Stupa is a famous monument built in the memory of Tibetans, who lost their lives fighting for a free Tibet. Surrounded by prayer wheels, the Stupa houses a statue of the Sakyamuni Buddha that attracts devotees from all over the world.

Excursions From McLeodganj
Kangra (18km)
Kangra offers panoramic view of the Kangra valley. Tourist can visit this place to have the glimpse of century old temples, paintings, fort and monasteries.

Tatwani & Machhial ( 20 km)
Tatwani & Machhial is a famous excursion site. Tourists travel to this site to enjoy the breathtaking view of the waterfall, besides its scenic splendor the waterfall is much renowned for its medicinal value.

Triund ( 9 km )
Triund is famous for its picnic and trekking spot. There is a forest rest house atop the ridge, which can be booked in advance.

Palampur
Surrounded by sprawling green tea estates with forests of pine and deodar on higher slopes, the city of Palampur attracts huge number of tourists across India and world for adventure sports and sightseeing. Just 35 km away from Palampur, Billing-Bir is a famous attraction known for hang gliding and para-gliding.

Dharamshala
Situated at a lower edge of McLeodganj, Dharamshala is a small hill station of Himachal Pradesh with great variations, not only in levels and temperature but also in character. It provides a range of interesting experiences and activities for the visitor. Tourists can take a long walk through thickly populated pine forests of Dhauladhar ranges.

Other Attractions of McLeodganj
Tibetan Medical And Astro Institute
Established in 1961, the Tibetan medical institute is a huge complex, where fundamentals of traditional Tibetan medical practice are taught. The institute comprises of dispensary, patient-unit and a surgical ward.

Shopping In McLeodganj
Kotwali Bazar is famous for shopping in McLeodganj. While travelling in McLeodganj spare some time for shopping. Tourist can bargain very well for carpets, metal-ware, jewelry, jackets, hand-knitted cardigans and gloves. Apart from the local outlets these things can also be purchased from the Tibetan Handicraft Office, which is situated opposite the State Bank of India. Besides handicraft and woollen items, one can also shop for books based on Tibet religion and culture.