Mcleodganj, also called the ‘Little Tibet’ or ‘Little Lhasa’ is a charming hill station in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. This place also happens to be the headquarters of the Tibetan government-in-exile and home of the Dalai Lama. Since many Tibetans have made McLeodganj their home, the town’s culture is a mix of both Tibetan and Himalayan. People from all parts of the world come looking for spiritual enlightenment and to experience the natural beauty of this enchanting town. So if you are yearning for a rejuvenating escape in the midst of nature, McLeodganj is the place for you. Our below list of many places to visit in McLeodganj will help make your visit truly memorable.
Table of Contents
Quick Overview Of Mcleodganj
Location: Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh (HP)
Weather: Generally cold but temperatures drop to –8°C in winters
Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport (DHM)
Nearest Railway Station: Kangra Mandir
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
Why People Visit: Spiritual Solace, Paragliding, Trekking and Camping
Nearby Places To Visit: Dharamshala, Sidhbari, Tatwani, Palampur, Kangra, and Machhrial
Book Now: Triund Trek and Mcleodganj From Dharamshala
Discovering The Best Places To Visit In Mcleodganj
McLeodganj is not just about spirituality, it is more of an amalgamation of natural beauty and cultural immersion. With our list of fascinating places to visit in McLeodganj, you can get the taste of both sides.
1. Tsuglagkhang Complex
Tsuglagkhang Complex, located right in the middle of McLeodganj is where the heart of Tibetan culture and spirituality lies. This is where the Dalai Lama resides. There is a monastery, two temples, a museum, bookstore, cafe, and a library inside the complex. Since Tsuglagkhang complex is the most important religious center, it is not just visited by Buddhist monks but also by travelers frequently.
Opening Hours: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm
Duration of Visit: 1-2 Hours
2. Namgyal Monastery
Though Namgyal Monastery comes under the Tsuglagkhang Complex, this place needs a special mention as it is the place for learning and liberation. The Monastery is a sacred place and center for learning Tibetan Buddhism and culture. All are welcomed to join the meditation sessions, public teachings and short-term courses on Buddhist philosophy. Since there are nearly 200 monks residing here, the sound of monks praying and debating is constant. For those who want to understand and learn more about the Buddhist teachings, this is a great place to visit in McLeodganj.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Duration of Visit: 1-2 hours
3. Triund Hills
Triund happens to be one of the top places to visit in Mcleodganj for adventure seekers. It is located at an elevation of 9350 feet (2,828 meters) that offers breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar range and lush valleys. Triund Hills trek also happens to be on the top ten list of the best treks in Himachal Pradesh. A six hour trek to the hills should definitely be on one’s bucket list if you are visiting Mcleodganj.
Opening Hours: Open throughout the year
Duration of Visit: 4-6 Hours
4. St. John’s Church
St. John’s Church is a beautiful 19th-century neo-gothic church that stands right in the middle of dense deodar forest. It was built by the Britishers in the year 1852 from hand-cut granite. The stained-glass windows and lovely timber furnishings give it an old-world charm. It is a complete contrast to the Buddhist influence in the area. This is one of the oldest churches in the region, it has even withstood the 1905 earthquake.
Opening Hours: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
Duration of Visit: 1 hour
5. Dal Lake
Just 3 km from the Mcleodganj town is this picturesque lake surrounded by deodar trees. There is a small Lord Shiva temple on its bank that makes the lake quite sacred. This mystical ambiance and ethereal views of the surrounding mountains offers excellent opportunities for photography. Boating in the lake with your loved ones is one of the top experiences here. One of the top places to visit in Mcleodganj with family.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Duration of Visit: 2 to 3 hours
6. Bhagsu Waterfall
Bhagsu Waterfall is a 30 ft. cascading waterfall that attracts tourists and trekkers round the year. It takes a 20-minute hike through pine forests to reach the magnificent falls. The soothing sound of running water and the refreshing sight of the falls is perfect for relaxation and meditation. So the next time you are in McLeodganj, pack a picnic lunch and head straight to the Bhagsu Waterfall. Don’t miss the Bhagsunag Temple and local cafes on your way up.
Opening Hours: 24/7
Duration of Visit: 1 to 2 hours
7. Dharamkot Village
Head straight to the village of Dharamkot for some spellbinding views of the Dhauladhar range. McLeodganj has a lot of Tibetans, however in Dharamkot you will find plenty of Israeli tourists, no wonder it is called the mini Israel. Since two popular meditation centers (the Dhamma Shikhara Vipassana Meditation Centre and Tushita Buddhist Meditation Centre) are here, people come here seeking peace. Yoga, trekking and hiking are popular activities to do here.
Opening Hours: Any time of the year
Duration of Visit: 1-2 days
8. Tibetan Market
Your trip to McLeodganj is incomplete if you haven’t visited the Tibetan market. Shops lined on either side of the road sells great Tibetan carpets, clothing, Buddha statues, artifacts, jewelry, and handicrafts. These are the best things to take back home as souvenirs. Local Tibetan delicacies like momos, thukpa, and butter tea can be tasted at the numerous cafes and restaurants. Tibetan markets are definitely one of the best places to visit in McLeodganj.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm
Duration of Visit: couple of hours
Also Read: The Most Beautiful Places To Visit In North India
Conclusion
Mcleodganj will leave a lasting impression on all as it has something for everyone. From spiritual solace to adventure, from the serenity of the mountains to warm hospitality of the locals, everything about this little Himalayan town is magical. Next time you plan a Himalayan vacation, make sure to visit this little town. If you have already visited, do let us know what you think about this charming hill station.
FAQ’s
3 days is good enough to see all the major attractions in Mcleodganj. Add another 2 days to this if you wish to explore nearby places as well.
Yes, McLeodganj does receive snowfall. Snowfall in Mcleodganj is at its high mainly during mid-December to end of January.
There is no particular dress code to follow while visiting McLeodganj. However while visiting the Tsuglagkhang Complex, everyone is expected to dress modestly. Make sure that your shoulders and knees are covered.
