10 Best Places to visit in Mcleodganj

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10 Best Places to visit in Mcleodganj
     

Known for the lush greenery, pure air, awe-striking landscapes Mcleodganj is a pearl in the Kangra district of heavenly Himachal Pradesh. The peace of pristine nature, the devotion of Tibetans and their very own colourful traditional celebrations is what makes Mcleodganj  a luring destination for every backpackers out there!

Mcleodganj is a must-visit dreamlike holiday goal for trekkers, adventure-lovers, privacy cum romance seeking honeymooners, also for peace-loving parents who are desperately in need of a break from their daily chores, clear their mind off family drudgeries and breath some fresh
air, unlike what’s provided in the polluted cities we live in today. If you are lucky enough to be at Mcleodganj this lifetime, Do not miss the 10 places mentioned below. Here is where you start admiring the magic in God’s creations!


1.Bhagsunath Temple and Bhagsu waterfalls


A little away from the crossroad linking Dharamsala and Mcleodganj is the quiet village Bhagsu which is the abode of lord Bhagusnatha, a temple dedicated to Lord Mahadev and a lot of kind-hearted people whose smile never fades, prayers never end. A 2 km trek up the hill can get you to the angelic waterfalls. Soak yourself in the nipple-piercing ice-cold water and fill your eyes with the beautiful view of majestic valleys the other side. Treat your tired- from- trek- tummy at ‘The Shiva cafe’ on reaching the topmost point of the waterfalls wherein you can find life on delicious Maggi, a hot cup of chai rejoicing the chilling weather and drowning in the hippie culture by the waterfalls-side. 

Shiva Cafe

Tips: 
  • Carry your trekking shoes if you don’t wanna slip on the steeps.
  • Maybe monsoon is not the season to visit any waterfalls.

2.Triund


A wonderland for all the trekkers and group of friends to escape the reality and immerse oneself into the visual treat of scenic landscapes and rocky terrains, Triund is a crown for Dharamsala. It’s a simple short hike from the Galu temple in Dharamkot, though you can challenge your hiking abilities choosing the rough path from Bhagsu waterfalls to reach this pretty hilltop. The view of the Kangra valley up from the hill is a ‘must-see before life ends’ kinda scene! You can camp up there, under the blanket of stars and feel the warmness of nature in freezing nights.


  
Tips:
  • Carry your blankets and shawls, only if you don’t have the superpowers of the Frozen Princess.
  • Hiking shoes are a must!

3.Dharamkot

A quaint hippie village is a go-to place for peace, rejuvenation and resurrection from a dead life! Also known as the yoga village has several small yoga centres and trekking spots where you can lose yourself in the goodness of nature and find your true self in the blissful weather! 
Few of the colourful layers of houses are for rent and crowds & giggles are only from the
cafes that are, a stone throw away from the peaceful home Dharamkot for solitude lovers!



Tips:


  • Dharamkot is not for your party animal but soothing soul!
  • It’s a place to explore the culture and meditate away your worries. 


4.Namgyal Monastery


The Dalai Lama’s temple is 5kms away from Mcleodganj and its the largest Tibetan monastery outside of Tibet. Inducing divine serenity with a touch of spirituality the Namgyal Monastery throws its visitors into a mood of sheer charm and splendour. Peace,hope and what-not, a visit here changes your perception towards life. Also being a tantric school and home for elderly souls of Shimla, the monastery brings in a vibe of god’s own home of love, care and peace!

    

Tips:

  • Do not miss being here!
  • Remember the first tip.


5. Dal Lake


This mid-altitude greenish hued lake is home to a variety of fishes and boating here is just the ‘mood’ which you came for! Situated close to the 200 years old Durveshwar Mahadev temple the lake is a sanctorium, which is why the fishes in this lake are never killed or ate, every year around September the Gaddi tribe joins together to celebrate the temple festival in marking the presence of Lord Shiva here! Misty clouds and whispering deodar trees creates the lovely ambience for an introspective stroll or hand on hand walk with your loved one a moment to remember, which is why  Dal lake is in the list of the best place to visit in Mcleodganj.






6.Saint John’s Church

Built around 1852, the church becomes one of the remnants from the British era nestled among the deodar trees in the wilderness. Dedicated to John, the baptist, it is also the resting place of Lord Elgin General- Governor and Viceroy of British India. The authentic neo-gothic architectural style and the Belgian stained glass window, which was gifted by Lady Eglin, make this holy place a major tourist attraction. Be it the elegant altar- wood or the beauty of brass handles, the church is definitely one of a kind that stood strong amidst the Kangra earthquake, though the bell tower had to be replaced! It’s all about the aesthetics in the woods and the ambience it surrounds that makes this Church an emotional catharsis.





7. Minkiani Pass

Yet another trekking point, covering the Dhaulardhar range 12 km from Mcleodganj, Miniakiani pass is the favourite for most backpackers. The travellers can enjoy the panoramic view of the northern region and get in the first-hand contact with region-specific birds and other wildlife attractions. The journey through this pass is like that song you put on repeat mode. It’s a feeling that should be felt in person! It’s better to say no to the Minkiani pass trekking during monsoon as it becomes not-so-trekker-friendly! 



    8. Masroor Rock-cut Temple

Mind-Blowing intricate craftsmanship by ancient artists in sculpting a monument from monolithic rock piece is just speechless. As the name suggests, it is a 15 temple complex built around the 6th or 7th century but got damaged during the 1905 earthquake. The temple displays a perfect blend of man’s creation and nature’s beautification. Shrine Pool of the temple is kept pristine and its believed a dip in this pool washes away your sins, making it a pilgrimage spot. The Masroor rock-cut temple is a vision to behold and the journey to this destination is pure joy in itself!



Tips:

  • An entry fee of Rs.25/- will be charged
  • Photography is prohibited inside the temple, so keep your cameras safe inside your vehicle parked in the parking lot.
  • Not a place to take your uninterested-crying baby, as silence is all the temple asks for!


9.Norbulingka Institute


A museum of Tibetan culture and tradition, Norbulingka Institute quenches the thirst and curiosity in people about Tibetan culture. Built-in their traditional style, the colourful institute with beautiful gardens and well-maintained fountains, preserves ancient Tibetan paintings, statues and techniques in creating them. They also house and create a source of income for qualified Tibetan refugees and conducts workshops in enlightening about their art and craft to the interested visitors keen for knowledge. 

The Hummingbird Cafe inside serves the best deliciously healthy food and the momos there is
much recommended from my side! The cafe is decorated in Tibetan style with paintings depicting Tibetan folklore!


You can also shop from their flagship store wherein you find everything authentic Tibetan.

Tip:
      A one day tour to visit the lesser-known facts of Kangra valley is held by the Institute with one among them as a guide. Interested tourists can take this chance to explore the place better.


10.The Tibetan Market

How can we go back without a souvenir in hand? 
Shopaholics will fall in love with Mcleodganj market where you find a variety of Tibetan handmade products. Keep in mind you carry cash and not the card. Singing bowls, Buddha statues, Handmade diaries, Prayer wheels, Silver jewellery, Tibetan rugs and carpets are few of the must-buys from the market. Also, dive into the world of mouthwatering Tibetan street food which makes you feel, coming back for more! The market lives as an embodiment of Dharamsala’s rich culture and skilled craftsmanship.





Tip:


  • Bargain, but also keep in mind this is their only source of income.

Haven’t you packed your bags yet?
Beat the heat in the Britisher's Summer capital of India, Mcleodganj. Unleash the child in you, let him run wild in the green grass and explore, experience and enjoy the touch of Tibetan love in very Indian style.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………...


Location: McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India

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