McLeod Ganj is located in the vast Himalayas, in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Himachal Pradesh is a seductively diverse state with the best mountain stations in India, and Mcleodganj is popular with everyone. It has been home to the Dalai Lama and thousands of Tibetan refugees since his exile in Tibet. Mandatory for all travelers on a bucket list. The easiest way to get to this heavenly abode is to take a night bus from Delhi, which is also accessible by air. The nearest airport is Kangra Airport, 20 km from McLeodganj. There are many accommodation options when you get there. Face it, here are ten reasons you can’t miss McLeodganj:
Best Reasons to Visit McLeodganj:
1. Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts
Another must-see in McLeodganj is the Tibetan Performing Arts Institute, which beautifully showcases Tibetan culture through music and folk dance. The obligatory community event is the local community opera. In addition, a nine-day traditional Tibetan opera festival called the “Shoton Festival” is held every year in the middle of summer.
2. Dal Lake
This beautiful lake is located next to the Tibetan Children’s Village, just 2.8 km from McleodGanj. The lake, named after Srinagar Dal Lake, is surrounded by deodar trees and is made sacred by the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The lake has fish species and boating is a wonderful experience.
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3. Kangra Fortress
The 4th century BC fort is located 20 km (12.4 mi) from Dharamsala and showcases Kangra’s rich cultural heritage and glorious past. It is one of the oldest fortresses in the country and is mentioned in Alexander’s military records. Despite many invasions by Mughal rulers, it is still high after many centuries. Kangra Fortress is the reason to see McLeodganj.
4. Divine Buddha Crafts and Urban Shopping
Divine Buddha crafts are an ideal place for shopkeepers. The things in this store are mind-boggling! And you can buy wonderful things from here. Thangka can buy paintings, Tibetan rugs, jewelry, artifacts, handicrafts, books on Tibet and much more at Mcleodganj.
5. Tsuglagkhang Temple
A significant place of worship is the home of the Dalai Lama. Buddhist travelers and tourists from all over the world go to this place to get a glimpse of the Namgyal and Nechung monasteries in the complex, the various temples, the museum, and the library. The beautiful statue of Lord Buddha, as well as the statues of Chenrezig and Guru Rinpoche, as well as imprints of Tibetan art and culture, are the main attractions of the center. The Tibetan Museum’s innovative structure, built in Tibetan style, sheds light on Tibetan culture and the conflicts they face. Apart from the Dalai Lama’s residence, tourists can visit other parts of Tsuglagkhang Temple. Luckily, you can still get a chance to get to know the Dalai Lama! With statues of Lord Gautam Buddha, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) and Chenrezig (Avalkiteśvara), this includes Tsughlagkhang Temple, Namgyal Monastery, the Tibetan Museum, a bookstore, a café and a library, as well as several shrine rooms. The church opens from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.
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6. Church of St. John in the Wilderness
One of the most popular and ancient temples in Himachal Pradesh, the Neo-Gothic architecture built-in 1852 offers an opportunity to experience the remnants of the days of the British hill station. Dedicated to John the Baptist, the temple is located near Mcleodganj on the road to Mcleod Ganj. It is also the last resting place of Lord Ergin, Governor-General and Deputy Governor of India during the time of the British Raj. Although the Kangra earthquake destroyed the bell tower of the temple, the rest of the temple stands intact. The church is surrounded by Deodar plantations, with a picturesque cemetery in the same area. The glass windows painted by the Belgian artist were allegedly gifted by Lady Elgin, the wife of Lord Elgin. The church attracts a huge number of believers and tourists throughout the year. Freshwater springs and green areas surround the fact that the springs are sacred, carrying healing powers and healing properties, which is strange but wonderful!
7. Namgyal Monastery
Namgyal Monastery is a historic religious center next to the residence of the Dalai Lama, in the Tsuglagkhang complex. Overlooking the Dhauladhar Mountains, the monastery is set amidst lush forest pines, oaks, and cedars. Buddhist temples and beautifully decorated prayer wheels are the monuments of the monastery. The monastery is a pleasant change compared to the usual tourist attractions. With a picturesque view, a peaceful environment permeates the monastery, where you can sit and meditate in the midst of any clean atmosphere.
8. Triund Mountain
Perfect excursion destination with breathtaking views of the entire Kangra Valley all the way to the summit. The top is about 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) above sea level. Stay overnight to have a great view of the night sky and then wake up in the morning as the snowy peaks of the Himalayas stare in your face. If you don’t have a clear day, you may not see the Snowy Mountains, but the hypnotic view of the valley is dazzling. The tour is simple but takes 7 hours with the kids. You can stay up there in tents.
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9. Bhagsunath Temple and Bhagsu Waterfall
Built by King Bhagsu, the ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Serpent God is located at 5807 feet above sea level, between beautiful pools and lush vegetation. This religious center is a significant place of prayer and exudes a spiritual atmosphere. Legend has it that King Bhagsu of Rajasthan came to the glaciers in search of water in a dehydrated state.
Falling and falling alone is enough of a mission. Soak up the extraordinary and scenic view as you stroll along the trail, and once you witness the breathtakingly beautiful waterfall, you realize it’s all worth it. Immerse yourself in bone-freezing cold water, follow it with a rest on the rocks, and take in some rays and panoramic views from the top.
10. Dharamkot
Dharamkot offers beautiful views of the Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar Mountains. Dharamkot is also popular for its meditation centers, the famous Tushita Meditation Center, which is the center of study and practice of Buddhism according to the Tibetan Mahayana tradition, the Vipassana Meditation Center, and the Dhamma Shikara. The complete contradiction with the Tibetan world that we experience in McLeod Ganj, the annual festival fair, further enhances the clarity of Dharamkot. The village offers tours and walks to the villages of Naddi and Triundi, which are 3 km and 7 km from Dharamkot, respectively.
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Best Time to Visit Mcleodganj
The best time to visit McleodGanj is between October and February, especially during the winter season, and between March and June during the summer season. The region has pleasant summers with temperatures around 25 ° C and cold and cool winters between -1 ° C and 9 ° C. Storms are not quite recommended as there is heavy rainfall in the region every year. It is best to avoid heavy rains due to the months of July and August.
Hope you enjoyed these top 10 reasons that make Mcleodganj’s famous places to visit even more tempting and desirable. It’s incredible to see the epic monuments in person that played a crucial role in the development of the entire civilization. But there are more of Mcleodganj’s famous landmarks that can impress those who are not history geeks and love to enjoy the places in the present. I hope you liked this article, and you can head on to other blogs for knowing more about this interesting city. Feel free to ask us in the comment sections below as well.
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