Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader, is believed to have his abode in Namgyal Monastery which is also the largest Tibetan temple. The monks residing here in the monastery carry out practices for the well-being of Tibet and work as a centre of learning and meditation on the Buddhist philosophical exposition. A visit to the monastery is among the top things to do in Mcleodganj.
Tsuglagkhang is the place where the Dalai Lama resides. It is one of the most significant places of worship which attracts devotees from all over the world and serves tourists as well. This complex has a monastery, various stupas and temples, a museum, a library, a bookstore and a cafe. Except for Dalai Lama's residence, every other part of the complex is open for tourists. Among the several other things to do in Mcleodganj, this one definitely tops the charts.
Far off from the hustle and bustle of cities, a trek to Triund offers you an escape into the majestic Himalayas and is one of the prime things to do in Mcleodganj. It is a place perfect for trekking with amazing trails offering scenic views of the entire Kangra Valley. A trek to Triund is short and simple. It can be done from either McLeodganj or Dharamkot, which is 2 km ahead of McLeodganj.
The Bhagsu Waterfall is perhaps the most famous tourist spot that is located in Dharamshala and attracts tourists from all across the country who wish to revel in the glories of nature and spend some quiet moments in peace and serenity. The Bhagsunag Waterfall is located on the main road which connects Mcleodganj and Dharamshala and is an ideal location for picnicking with family and loved ones.
Illiterati Books & Cafe is one of the most popular and sought after cafes of Mcleodganj. A perfect blend of books, coffee and amazing food, the cafe is crowded by guests and tourists all day long. Visiting the cafe is one of the prime things in Mcleodganj. Sometimes they also hold live music gigs and along with the perfect ambiance, the place looks just divine.
This museum is located inside the Tsuglagkhang complex and has a collection of brilliant forms of Tibetan art, which includes history documents, pottery, handicrafts, paintings etc. It provides an insight into Tibetan culture and also the various struggles faced by them lately. The structure of the Tibet Museum is influenced by Tibetan architecture which is unique and innovative. Touring the museum is one of the prime things to do in Mcleodganj, especially among the history buffs.
St. Johns in the Wilderness is a neo-gothic architecture was built in 1852 and is one of the most important churches in Himachal Pradesh. Located near Dharamshala and on the way to Mcleodganj, this church was built in dedication to John the Baptist. It is also the final resting place of Lord Ergin, governor general and viceroy of India during the British Raj.
Dharamkot is situated at a distance of 9 km from Mcleodganj. It is a beautiful and scenic beauty which is frequently visited by tourists from all over the world. It is located in the district of Kangra in Himachal Pradesh. Since the place is surrounded by deodar trees and landscapes, it adds to the beauty of the site. It is a frequently visited picnic spot due to its natural beauty.
Located at the height of 1,775 metres above the sea level near the village of Tota Rani in the Kangra district of Mcleodganj in Himachal Pradesh, the Dal Lake is a small yet picturesque lake. With its name taken from the famous and breathtaking Dal Lake of Srinagar, the lake is surrounded by rugged mountains and towering deodar trees and is a marvellous place to be at.
Market browsing is one of the prime things to do in Mcleodganj, to take back souvenirs from the dainty hill town. It is famous for its culture, crafts, etc. and tourists flock in from different parts of the world to experience it and be a part of it. You will find goods at many of the craft shops near the Dalai Lama temple. Shops include Potala Handicraft Shop, Jewels of Tibet, Village Boutique and Divine Buddha Handicrafts.
The Norbulingka Institute is a centre for practicing and fostering Tibetan art and crafts. The structure itself is a fine specimen of Tibetan style of architecture and design. The Losel Doll Museum here, tends to be one of the favorites here, which has beautiful dolls depicting the Tibetan cultures and livelihoods.
Mcleodganj is synonymous with Tibetan Food and tasting the succulent Tibetan food is one of the most essential things to do in Mcleodganj. And one of the best places to go to is the Tibet Kitchen. It offers various varieties of momos, thukpa, and other variants. The place keeps buzzing with crowd who come in to have a bite of the delicious food with a beautiful view outside.
Surrounded by lovely pools and lush greenery, the Bhagsunath Temple is a shrine of great importance that is located about 3 kilometers from Mcleodganj. Also popularly known as Bhagsunag Temple, the temple is one of the oldest ancient temples that can be found in Mcleodganj. The temple attracts a huge number of devotees and tourists throughout the year, who visit it to experience tranquillity and peace in the midst of nature's beauty.
The Minkiani Pass can be reached while trekking from Dharamsala to Chamba. This pass offers a panoramic view of the peaks of the northern region besides being rich in flora and fauna. Ideal for both amateur and professional trekkers, the activity is one of the most popular in the region. Experiencing this trek is one of the topmost things to do in Mcleodganj.
The name literally translates into 'White Range' and the panoramic views and snow clad ranges here do all the justification to the name. The mountains provide a flattering view of the Kullu Valley is thickly laid with Pine and Deodar trees covered with snow. The highest peak of the ranges is called Hanuman ji ka Tibba.