Getting Around ‘Little Lhasa’: A Travel Guide to Mcleodganj

Clothed in the thick of rhododendron and oak trees, Mcleodganj is a hill station near Dharamshala. Setting an example of peaceful coexistence with the perfect blend of Indian and Tibetan cultures, this quaint town boasts of soothing weather conditions, stunning backdrops, adrenaline-pumping treks and a vibrant cultural scene.

A trip to Mcleodganj, lovingly called ‘Little Lhasa’, is a deep dive into peace, harmony and alluring nature.

Best Time to Visit Mcleodganj

The best time to travel to Mcleodganj is from September to June. Heavy rainfall in July and August might result in landslides in the region. Hence, it is suggested to avoid the monsoons season when planning a visit.

It starts to snow towards the end of the year, starting from November, with heavy snowfall continuing until February.

Places to Visit in Mcleodganj

(i) Trek to Triund through the Rhododendron and Oak forest to catch a glimpse of the entire Kangra Valley. The orange-hued evening sky is a sight in itself and camping under the stars a good idea to catch up with nature.

(ii) Bhagsu Falls is perhaps the most famous tourist spot, where water cascades down from a height of 30 feet. The famous Bhagsunath Temple is located just half a kilometre away and is often frequented by tourists as part of their visit to the waterfall.

(iii) Pay a visit to the palatial Namgyal Monastery, the personal temple of the 14th Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader. Here you can witness the Tibetan Buddhist culture at play while soaking in the peaceful vibes surrounding the place.

(iv) Visit Tsuglagkhang, an area of significance for the Buddhist faith. This houses a monastery, various stupas and temples, a museum, a library, a bookstore and a cafe. The Tibetan Museum has a remarkable collection of brilliant forms of Tibetan art, which includes historical documents, pottery, handicrafts and paintings.

(v) For a captivating sight of the Himalayas, you can go to the Dal Lake. Located just 3 kilometres from the Mcleodganj town, this small yet picturesque lake surrounded by rugged mountains and towering deodar trees is a marvellous place to be at.

Where to Eat in Mcleodganj

(i) If you’re craving for some wood-fired pizzas and yummy pasta, visit Unity Bistro & Pizza House in Upper Bhagsu Nag.

(ii) Purely Tibetan in interiors and ambience, Four Seasons at Jogibara Road is a great place to enjoy authentic Tibetan food.

(iii) Try out favourites – Tibetan bread, Spinach Omelette and Honey Lemon Ginger Tea at the Peace House Cafe at Bhagsu Road.

(iv) Relish the best Indian and Chinese food available in town at the Ashoka International Restaurant.

Where to Shop in Mcleodganj

(i) Thangka paintings will catch your eye as you walk down the Jogiwara Road. These bright paintings are made on a canvas lined with silk. Also, you can find Tibetan and Italian clothing here.

(ii) Get your hands on some uniquely handcrafted items like Buddhist figurines, miniatures of Indian gods, wooden masks, brass statues and crystal and gemstone jewellery on Temple Road. You can also take back prayer flags and prayer wheels, along with Tibetan artefacts as reminders of your trip to Mcleodganj.

(iii) Kotwali Bazaar is lined with many street shops selling items of daily use, exotic carvings, Tibetan rugs and carpets.

Fast emerging as India’s favourite summer destination, Mcleodganj is worth exploring for its welcoming weather and unique culture. So, come here to spend your days soaking in the beauty of the hills and getting a taste of the Tibetan way of life.