McLeodGanj, The Little Tibet

McLeodGanj is a suburb of Dharmshala in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is known as “Little Lhasa” or “Dhasa” because of its large population of Tibetans. Elevated at 2,082 meters, it is situated on the Dhauladhar Range. The highest peak “Hanuman ka Tibba”  lies right behind it.

The scintillating beauty of  the gigantic Himalayas, the valleys, tranquilizing freshness of the surroundings, gurgling of lakes and the sanctity of the revered Dalai Lama’s presence, McleodGanj is a must-visit place in Himachal Pradesh.

Fascinations- Because of its soul-soothing environment and the bliss and bounties of nature, McLeodGanj has always attracted people. In the past, the Viceroys and Governor General of British India were fascinated and enchanted by this place.Lord Elgin was so hypnotized by this place that it is said that he wanted to make it the summer capital of British India. He also breathed his last in Dharamshala in the vicinity and was buried the St George in the Wilderness Church.

• Tibetian Sites- The most important Buddhist site in the town is Tsuglagkhang or Tsuglag Khang, the Dalai Lama’s temple. It has statues of Shakyamuni, Avalokitesvara and a statue of Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche).Other Buddhist and Tibetan sites that are of interest are Namgyal Monastery, the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, Gompa Dip Tse-Chok Ling, the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, Gangchen Kyishong, Mani Lakhang Stupa, Nechung Monastery, and Norbhulingka Institute.

• Tibetan Culture- Because of the large number of Tibetans living here, this place is in close contact with Tibetan culture. People come here from across the globe to study and get acquainted to the richness of Tibetan culture, arts, crafts etc. Buddhism also pulls people to McLeodGanj. The followers and believers of Gautam Buddha come here to know about his preaching and lessons in detail.
• Dharamshala International Film Festival- The international film festival organized here, every year is a great attraction. This annual feast witnesses a myriad of movies (combination of movies from India and abroad). Film critics, media personnel and personalities from the film industry arrive here for this festival.

• The Dal Lake- A small lake located around 3 km from McLeodGanj,Sprawled across an area of  1 km. This beautiful lake is bounded on all sides by thick forests of deodar, oak and pine trees. In its vicinity is another temple dedicated to the revered sage Durvasa.   The aura is mind blowing and nature is at its charming best.
  

  Dal Lake

Hypnotizing sites in McLeodGanj :-Dharamkot- The village of dharamkot is perched amidst the tall pines and rhododendron forests, and offers a majestic view of Dhauladhar Range. It has a Tushita retreat centre which gives courses in meditation.Tsug La Khang (Dalai Lama’s Temple)- This temple is the nerve centre of McLeodGanj. It is home for the Namgyal Monastery and shrine rooms.  The largest shrine has a life like beautifully carved statue of Buddha, accompanied by two smaller statues of Chenresig and Guru Rinpoche.  Around the temple hill there is a long stretched meditaion trail- Ling Khor, with small shrines, stupas and a massive chorten.

• Triund- Triund is a 9,000-foot ridge right behind Dhauladhar range. It is the culminating point for the 9km-long trek for a day or overnight stay. The entire view is spectacular. The snow-capped mountains, suburbs of Himalayas, the scenic beauty of Kangra Valley, the chilly breeze running down your spine and the adventure of trekking. It is an impeccable destination. Flawless and enthralling!

• Namgyalma Stupa- It is a memorabilia of all the brave men who lost their lives for the cause of Free-Tibet. It is situated the core of McLeodGanj and is surrounded by prayer wheels. It is one of the most visited and respected places of Tibetan visitors and inhabitants.

• Tibet Museum- Besides Tsu La Khang is a small but very intriguing museum exhibiting the rich and glorious past of Tibet.

• Masroor Temple- The fifteen exquisitely carved monolithic rock temples are the major attraction this place. Dating all the way back to 8^th century, the carvings of these temples are similar to Ellora temples.The deity worshipped are Goddess Laxmi and Sita and Lord Ram.

• Bhagsu Waterfall-At a distance of 2 km from McLeod Ganj, this water fall lies behind Bhagsunag temple and is an enchanting view.Other places that are worth visiting in McLeodGanj and its vicinity are Norbulingka Institute, Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Library of Tibetan Works and Archives and many more. McLeod Ganj is beautiful place and has an aura of peace or Buddhism to be precise. It is a serene location and will drive the tiredness and sickness out of you.

How to reach McLeodGanj:-

BY FLIGHT:-There are no regular flights from other major cities of the country to Mcleod Ganj. Nearest airport is Gaggal Airport.Mcleod Ganj 3 km away Gaggal Airport (DHM), Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh .

BY TRAIN :-Mcleod Ganj does not have an train station. Nearest option is Amb Andaura.Mcleod Ganj 65 km away  Amb Andaura (AADR), Amb, Himachal Pradesh

BY BUS:-You can easily get regular buses to Mcleod Ganj from other major cities of the country.Bus Station(s):Mecleod Ganj.

Accommodation at Malappuram:- There are hundreds of hotels both budget and luxury class for all kinds of visitors. There are both Government and corporate guest houses available as well. Several lodges and dharmasala are available at a very affordable price. Food is very affordable for all kinds of visitors.

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