Dharmasala

Mcleodganj: A Melange of Cultures

The Dalai Lama calls it his home away from home. Break away from the mundane city life to experience the essence of Tibetan culture in this quaint hill town.

The pristine white Dhauladhar range runs along the Kangra Valley. In reality, these are the outer Himalayas. Snuggled in this outer range of Himalayas, is the beautiful hill town of McleodGanj, also known as Upper Dharamshala.

McleodGanj shot to fame as the “home away from home” for religious leader Dalai Lama. He sought refuge in India and in 1960, settled in Dharamshala. From here, he continues to head the Tibetan Government in exile.

Though McleodGanj is home to a mixed population of Indian, Nepalese, Tibetan and foreign expats, it is predominantly inhabited by the hill tribe - Gaddis. To taste a melange of cuisines from Indian to Tibetan and Israeli to Italian, to learn meditation and yoga, to get away from the mundane city life and to experience Tibetan culture are all good reasons to visit this quaint little town. Don't forget to visit the Tibet Museum, Norbulingka Institute, Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, and the Namgyalma Stupa too.

Good to Know :

Location: McleodGanj & The Tibet Museum - 17 km from Sterling Dharamshala.

Norbulingka Institute - 2 km from Sterling Dharamshala.

Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts - 13 km from Sterling Dharamshala.

Namgyalma Stupa - 17 km from Sterling Dharamshala.

Other Attractions

Triund Trek: For a Star-Studded Experience

3hrs

Trek to this uncrowned jewel of Dharamshala, nestled between the Dhauladhar mountains and Kangra valley.

Bhagsu: A Delight for the Wandering Soul

3hrs

There’s more to Bhagsu than what meets the eye. There are interesting places to explore in the vicinity, including an ancient temple.

Gyuto Monastery: The Tantric Road to Spirituality

3hrs

Tantric Buddhism has many secret rituals that are passed on from the master to the disciple. The Gyuto Monastery is a place where this tradition is kept alive.