Best Things To Do In McLeod Ganj, India

1. Tsuglagkhang

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A significant place of worship is the home of Dalai Lama. Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world and tourists throng to this place to have a glimpse of Namgyal and Nechung Monastery, the various stupas and temples, the museum and the library, situated in the complex. The beautiful statue of Lord Buddha and statues of Chenrezig and Guru Rinpoche, along with imprints of Tibetan art and culture are the major attractions of the center. The innovative structure of the Tibet Museum built in the Tibetan style throws light onto the Tibetan culture and the struggles faced by them. Except for Dalai Lama’s residence, tourists can visit other parts of the complex. One can even get a chance to meet Dalai Lama, if you are lucky.

Tsuglagkhang

Address: 2 km (1.2 miles) from McLeod Ganj

Opening times: Monday - Friday: 10 am - 6 pm, Saturday: 10 am - 6 pm, Sunday: 10 am - 6 pm, Public Holidays: 10 am - 6 pm

Website: Tsuglagkhang

2. Namgyal Monastery

The Namgyal Monastery is a religious centre, situated next to the residence of Dalai Lama within the Tsuglagkhang complex. Overlooking the mountain ranges of Dhauladhar, the monastery is in the midst of lush forests of pines, oaks and cedars. Buddhist shrines and beautifully decorated prayer wheels are the attractions of the monastery. The monastery is a pleasant change from the usual tourist attractions. A peaceful environment with a scenic view pervades the monastery, where you can sit and meditate amidst all the right vibes. You might see Buddhists debating there.

Namgyal Monastery

Address: 2 km (1.2 miles) from McLeod Ganj

Website: Namgyal Monastery

3. Church of St. Johns in the wilderness

One of the prominent churches in Himachal Pradesh, the neo-gothic architecture built in 1852 offers you a chance to experience the remnants of the days of the British hill station. Dedicated to John the Baptist, the church is located near Dharamshala on the way to Mcleod Ganj. It is also the final resting place of Lord Ergin, governor general and viceroy of India during the British Raj. Although the Kangra earthquake destroyed the church’s bell tower, the rest of the church stands undamaged. The church is surrounded by Deodar plantations, with a picturesque graveyard lying in the same grounds. The enchanting glass windows painted by a Belgian artist were reportedly gifted by Lady Elgin, the wife of Lord Elgin.

Church of St. Johns in the wilderness

Address: Road to Naddi Village from McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala

Website: Church of St. Johns

4. Triund Hill

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It is an ideal destination for trekking with breathtaking views of the entire Kangra Valley all the way to the top. The top - about 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) above sea level - is just the icing on the cake. Stay overnight for a great view of the night sky, then wake up in the morning with the snowy peaks of the Himalayas staring you in the face. If you don’t have a clear day you may not be able to see the Snow Mountains, but the mesmerizing view of the valley will leave you stunned. The trek is easy but takes 7 hours with kids. You can stay up there in tents.

Triund Hill

Address: Situated a few kilometers from Dharamshala, the trek can be done from either McLeod Ganj or Dharamkot, which is 2 km (1.2 miles) ahead of McLeod Ganj. The first half of the trek is a gradually inclined walk, with the last 2 km (1.2 miles) involving a vertical climb all the way till Triund.

Website: Triund Hill

5. Bhagsunath Temple

Built by King Bhagsu, the ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Snake God is located at a height of 1,770 m (5,807 ft) above sea level amidst beautiful pools and lush greenery. This religious center is a significant place of worship and has an air of spirituality about it. According to folklore, King Bhagsu from Rajasthan came to the glaciers in search of water for his parched state. He was challenged by the ‘Nagdevta,’ the residents of this region. In the ensuing battle, the King was defeated; however, his plea for water to his fraternity was granted and the place came to be known as Bhagsunath. The temple attracts a huge number of devotees and tourists throughout the year.

Bhagsunath Temple

Address: 3 km (1.86 mi) from McLeod Ganj

Opening time: All days of the week 5 am - 12 pm, 4 pm - 9 pm

Website: Bhagsunath Temple

6. Bhagsu Falls

Set amidst lush greenery and fascinating sceneries, the amazing waterfall is a simple 30 minute trek from Bhagsunath Temple. The early morning sun rays and chilly air make the trek fascinating. After reaching there, you can enjoy the waterfall and forget about tiredness. It is a place where one can soak in the beautiful views of the Himalayas. Don’t miss out on Shivas cafe. The cafe is very artistically designed and has stunning views. There is another trek from there onwards, leading to Triund, but it is difficult and requires a guide.

Bhagsu Falls

Address: The Bhagsu Falls are situated 2 km (1.2 miles) away from McLeod Ganj

Website: Bhagsu Falls

7. Dharamkot

Dharamkot presents a beautiful view of the Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar range of mountains. Dharamkot is also popular for the meditation centers; the famous Tushita Meditation Centre, which is a centre for the study and practice of Buddhism in the Tibetan Mahayana tradition, the Vipassana Meditation Centre, and the Dhamma Shikara. A complete contrast to the Tibetan world that one experiences in McLeod Ganj, the festival-fair organized every year further adds to the vividness of Dharamkot. The village offers trekking, and one can trek to the villages of Naddi and Triundi, which are 3 km (1.8 mi) and 7 km (4.3 mi) away from Dharamkot, respectively.

Dharamkot

Address: Just 3 km (1.8 miles) to the north of McLeod Ganj

8. Dal Lake

This beautiful lake next to the Tibetan Children’s Village just 3 km (1.8 mi) from the Mcleod Ganj town is a nice stopover. Named after the Dal Lake of Srinagar, this lake is surrounded by deodar trees and the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva makes it sacred. The lake has varieties of fish and boating in the lake is an amazing experience.

Dal Lake

Address: Just 3 km (1.8 mi) from the Mcleod Ganj town

Website: Dal Lake

9. Kangra Fort

Located at a distance of 20 km ( 12.4 mi) from Dharamsala, the 4th-century B.C fort depicts Kangra’s rich cultural heritage and its glorious past. It is one of the oldest forts in the country and is mentioned in the war records of Alexander. Despite numerous invasions by the Mughal rulers, it still stands tall after centuries.

Kangra Fort

Opening times: All days of the week 9 am - 6 pm

Price: INR 300 (USD 4.65) per person with audio guide

10. Divine Buddha Handicrafts and city shopping

Divine Buddha Handicrafts is a perfect place for shopaholics. The things found in this shop are mind blowing and you can purchase splendid things from here. You can also shop for Thangka paintings, Tibetan carpets, jewelry, artifacts, handicrafts, books on Tibet and more in Mcleod Ganj.

Divine Buddha Handicrafts

Address: Temple Road, Mcleod Ganj

Beauty and peace

Mcleod Ganj is just a paradise on earth. The mesmerizing landscapes, majestic hills, lush greenery, monasteries, temples, meditation centers, and Tibetans art and culture will coax you to come here again and again. Words are not sufficient to express the beauty of this place, you have to visit to realize its intrinsic charm.