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Mcleodganj

Mcleodganj - Little Lhasa

Mcleodganj is also known as upper Dharamshala is small town in Dharamshala in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. The presence of Tibetan refugees has also given its name of “Little Lhasa”. The headquarters of The Tibetan Government in Exile is located here.

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Mcleodganj is an extremely beautiful place with wonderful picturesque surroundings.  The arrival of the Dalai Lama in 1959 saw a great influx of Tibetan refugees. It soon developed as an important centre for trade and commerce. The Tibetans built several cultural, educational and religious institutions in and around Mcleodganj which enabled them to preserve their culture.

Activities in Mcleodganj

Some of the popular activities which can be done during a visit to Mcleodganj:

  • Tsuglagkhang Complex: The Dalai Lama's residence is Tsuglagkhang. It is one  of the most important places of worship, attracting both believers and tourists  from all over the world. This complex includes a monastery, various stupas and  temples, a museum, a library, a bookstore, and a cafe. Except for the Dalai  Lama's residence, the entire compound is open to the public. If one is  fortunate, one may even be able to meet His Holiness. Among the many things to  do in Mcleodganj, this is without a doubt the best.

  • Trekking: A four-hour uphill trek past Bhagsu to Triund and the  snow line is not for the faint of heart, but it is rewarded with breathtaking  views of Himalayan peaks. The view from 9,432 feet is breathtaking on a clear  day. The evening sky from Triund is a sight in and of itself, and a compelling  reason to spend the night here.

  • Local Markets: One of the best places to visit in Mcleodganj is the  local market. The markets are vibrant and colorful, and you will fall in love  with them. Some of the most popular markets in this hill station are Jogiwara  Road, Kotwali Bazaar, and Mcleodganj Central Square. The Kotwali Bazaar has  Tibetan rugs and unusual sculptures, while Jogiwara Road is the place to go for  souvenirs. Among the many items available in these markets are Thangka tapestry  paintings, wooden carvings, and handicrafts.

  • Yoga and Spa: Many yoga learning centres offer meditation and yoga  classes to travellers. These activities are popular among spiritual tourists  and solo travellers. Mcleodganj is also well-known for its Ayurveda healing therapies and spa treatments that promote total body and mind regeneration.  Relaxing spa therapies are one of the rejuvenating things to do in Mcleodganj.

    Make a trip to Himachal a priority  with so many fun and exciting things to do in Mcleodganj. In this picturesque hill station, you will undoubtedly have the time of your life with your family  and friends.

Mcleodganj accommodations are  affordable and allow you to enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals as well as  the scenic splendour of the charming hill station.

These stays, which cater to your  every need, make your vacation rejuvenating and truly memorable.

  • Hotel Woodville Inn
  • Hotel Holiday Hill
  • Aliza Inn and Suites
  • Junglaat Ecorganic Stays and Experiences

You can see different food items in  nearby Mcleodganj during your visit. One can chose the item of his interest and taste while searching for a food in the town.

Some of the most popular restaurants and cafes in Mcleodganj:

  • Tibet Kitchen
  • Four Season Cafe
  • Jimmys Italian Kitchen
  • Clay Oven Restaurant
  • Takhyil Peace Cafe
  • It is named after David McLeod, the Lieutenant Governor of Punjab. It was a popular hill station with the British during the colonial rule. The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso was offered refuge in 1959 when he came to India after the Chinese conquest of Tibet.

  • Lord Elgin, Viceroy of India during 1862-63 fell in love with the place and now lies buried in the graveyard of St. John's Church-in-Wilderness. It is also said that Lord Elgin loved the place so much that he wanted it to be the summer capital of India. His proposal was however rejected but it continued to be a health resort and a resting place for many Britishers till independence.
  • Mcleodganj is also referred to as ‘Little Lhasa’ the vivid character of the city today attracts many famous people, including country heads, filmmakers and diplomats to Mcleodganj, Dharamshala from all over the world.

  • Today, tourism is a popular and important industry of Mcleodganj. Some of the important places of interest in Mcleodganj are Tsuglagkhang or Tsuglag Khang, the Dalai Lama\'s templethe Namgyal Monastery, the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, Gompa Dip Tse-Chok Ling (a small monastery), the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, Gangchen Kyishong, Mani Lakhang Stupa, Nechung Monastery, Norbulingka Institute, and Chinmaya Tapovan.

  • Places of excursions include Dharamsala, Palampur, Kangra, Tatwani and Machhrial. It is famous for Tibetan handicrafts, garments and thangkas. The nearest airport is Gaggal near Kangra and the nearest broadgauge railway station is Pathankot.