Mcleodganj is a hill station near Dharamshala, popular among trekkers. Its culture is a beautiful fusion of Tibetan with some British influence McLeodganj (also spelt McLeodGanj or Mcleodganj) is a suburb of Dharamsala in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India.
It is known as “Little Lhasa” or “Dhasa” (a short form of Dharamshala used mainly by Tibetans) because of its large population of Tibetans.The Tibetan government-in-exile is headquartered in McLeod Ganj. It has an average elevation of 2,082 metres (6,831 feet). It is situated on the Dhauladhar Range, whose highest peak, “Hanuman Ka Tibba”, at about 5,639 metres (18,500 feet), lies just behind it.
How to Reach:
By Air
Gaggal airport is the nearest airport from Mcleodganj, located at a distance of only 10 km from nearby Dharamshala. This airport is connected to Delhi through frequent flights. Contact no.:01892-232374
By Train
The nearest broad gauge railway station is Pathankot Cantt.(Chakki) at a distance of 91 km from McleodGanj and 88 km from Dharamshala and nearest narrow gauge railway station is Kangra mandir railway station. Further, you can hire a taxi, or direct buses. Station Superintendent Pathankot: 01862-22041
By Road
Mcleodganj can be reached from Dharamshala (10 km from Mcleodganj) as well. Every medium of transport well connects both the cities. From New Delhi, the distance is approximately 500 km to Mcleodganj.You can take overnight Volvo buses or can hire a taxi direct to the destination. Bus Stand Pathankot: 01862-226966
Places To Visit In Mcleodganj and Dharamshala:-
1. Namgyal Monastery:-Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader, is believed to have his abode at Namgyal Monastery in Mcleodganj which is also the largest Tibetan temple outside Tibet. The serenity and ambience that this place creates in the minds of its visitors are enough to attract even those who are not inclined towards this religion. The Namgyal Monastery is often referred to as "Dalai Lama's Temple" as it is the personal monastery of the 14th Dalai Lama.
The foundation of Namgyal Monastery was laid down in the 16th century by the second Dalai Lama and was set up for the monks to help Dalai Lama in religious affairs. 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. Also known as Namgyal Tantric College, it currently houses 200 monks who work towards protecting the practices, skills, and traditions of the monastery. The study of the languages Tibetan and English, texts of Sutra and Tantra, Buddhist philosophy, sand mandalas, ritual chanting, and dances are all included in the study of Buddhism.
2. Dal Lake:-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. Quaint and calm, the lake invites nature-lovers to watch different kinds of fishes in their natural habitat.
3. Naddi village:- After visiting Dal Lake, tourists can go to Naddi village which is located further 1km from the attraction. The place is well known for its natural beauty and scenic setting and is an ideal place for people seeking both adventurous and peaceful experience. Naddi village offers an amazing view of the valley with chilling sunset and relaxing experience at Eco point.
4. Dharamkot:- The little hippie village of Dharamkot is located near Dharamshala and Mcleodganj and is less visited by tourists. Popular as the Yoga Village, it is home to the Dhamma Shikhara Vipassana Meditation Centre and Tushita Buddhist Meditation Centre. It is also the base for some popular treks in the region like Triund trek and Indrahar Pass trek.
5. Norbulingka Institute:- 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 main objective of setting up the Norbulingka Institute is to preserve the Tibetan culture through various paintings, statues and sculptures.
6. Kalachakra temple:- The presence of the Kalachakra Temple in Mcleodganj signifies the continued practice and preservation of Tibetan Buddhist traditions despite facing challenges.
7. Gyuto Monastery:- One of the oldest and important monastery, Gyuto Monastery was established by the disciple of the first Dalai Lama in 1474 in eastern Tibet. It was re established near Dharamsala after Chinese invaded Tibet and forced Tibetans to flee to India.
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