Mcleodganj-Overview
Mcleodganj is one of my favourite hill stations in northern India. Situated on the lap of the mighty Himalayan mountains at the Kangra district in the state of Himachal Pradesh, the place is the suburb of Dharamshala. Mcleodganj is the ideal spot to many tourists like me as the place has a diverse culture.
The place is a nice fusion of Tibetan with some British influence. The place is famous for its monasteries, museums, temples, waterfalls, lakes and many more things. Apart from all these things the place is also an ideal destination for all backpackers as the place is the base camp to many famous Himalayan treks.
The place is also called “little Lhasa” or “Dhasa” (which is a short form of Dharamshala mainly used by Tibetans) and it is said to be named after Sir Donald Friell Mcleod.
Here I will talk about my trip to Mcleodganj during my last summer vacation.
A few mesmerizing experiences from Mcleodganj
Mcleodganj is the best option to perform both spiritual and adventurous activities at the same time. Here some of my unique experiences from this place:-
1.Triund Hill Trek
As an adventure enthusiast Triund hill was my first attraction of my Mcleodganj trip. The trek is considered as the easiest and stunning treks in this region. Triund is located at the Dhauladhar ranges in the Himalayas at an altitude of 9350 feet approximately. The trek took me through the Tibetan culture with splendid Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags, wheels and lamas. The place also offered some panoramic views of the Dhauladhar ranges namely, Mun, Rifle Horn, Arthur’s seal and slabs.
2.Dal Lake
This was my second visit of my Mcleodganj tour. This famous lake is nestled at a height of 1775 feet and situated at a distance of 3 km from Mcleodganj bus stand. This Lake was one of the famous sightseeing attractions for me. The lake is surrounded by deodar trees and it is a home to various species of fish. The inexplicable beauty of this place trapped me for a long time.
3.Masroor Temple
Masroor Temple, also regarded as the Rock-cut Temple was another exciting spot for me in this whole tour. The temple is mostly known for its Indo-Aryan style of architecture, with a combination of 15 rock-cut and is dedicated to Hindu Gods Shiva, Vishnu, Devi and Saura. The temple is also known as the Himalayan Pyramid. This is a popular archeological site of this place.
4.Tsuglagkhang Complex
As compared to the other places this place is the most well-known and mostly visited place in Mcleodganj. This Tsuglagkhang Complex attracts tourists from all over the world. And as a tourist it was a must do sight for me. The complex is said to be the home of the 14th Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso.
There are three buildings along with the Dalai Lama’s residence. The other three buildings include Tsuglagkhang Temple, Namgyal Monastery and the famous Tibetan Museum. All the three places were open for me and even to other tourists except the Dalai Lama’s residence.
Out of the other three the Tibetan Museum was the best experience for me as it showcases Tibetan form of art and culture through its fine workmanship. All over this place gave me the ultimate peace.
5.Bhagsu Waterfalls
This place was another famous attraction of Mcleodganj. It is located in the Bhagsu village and can only be reached by trekking. The main reason to visit this place is due to the presence of Shiva temple nearby which attracts many tourists. The place is also paradise for every photographer like us as the lush greenery offered some stunning photographs. The place is also a good choice for a picnic.
6.Naddi view point
Naddi view point was the last spot to me in the entire Mcleodganj tour. This place offers a breathtaking view of Kangra valley at Dharamshala town and a best location to view massive Dhauladhar range from close distance. People who come here usually come for trekking and stay here for 7-8 hours or even a day.
How to reach Mcleodganj
By Air
The nearest airhead is the Gaggal Airport at Dharamshala. From there taxis and buses are available in huge numbers towards Mcleodganj.
By Train
There is no airhead at Mcleodganj and the nearest broad gauge rail station is the Pathankot Railway Station. Cabs are available easily from there towards Mcleodganj.
By road
Mcleodganj has a sound connectivity with many north Indian cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Dharamshala etc. Various private and state operated buses are available from these cities towards Mcleodganj.
Mcleodganj-best time to visit
Mcleodganj is open throughout the year but the ideal time to come here is in the month of March to May i.e during summer and before winter in the months of September and October.
