McLeod Ganj – A dream land in India. The land of Spirituality and serenity- the land of Dalai Lama From being predominantly an abode for Tibetian Buddhists and a place to spend the summer, McLeod Ganj is now grown popular among the backpackers & hippies.
The place is 5 kilometers from Dharamshala. Most of the people refer it as upper Dharamshala. It takes nearly 20 Minutes from Dharamshala to reach McLeod Ganj in 20 minutes. There are lots of Shared taxis, jeeps and public buses available for commuting between Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj.
Here are some of the awesome things to do in McLeod Ganj
1. A Visit to Namgyal Monastery
McLeod Ganjis known as the little Lhasa of India because of the Tibetan communities that have been inhabiting there for a very long time. Namgyal Monastery and the Tibetan Museum in the temple complex are the places where you can get a foretaste of Tibetan Buddhism.
You can see the monks performing well practised slow steps to the tune of the trumpets. The sounds of the chants and serenity of the place is mesmerizing. It will take you to a different world.
2. Captivate the Splendid Views of Dhauladhar Himalayas at Triund
Triund is one of the most popular short (snow) treks in the Himalayas, the trek is suitable for evenbeginners to enjoy the magnificent views of the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas. The mountain is covered with long dense pine trees & the valley of Kangra that stretches to the utmost horizon.
If you plan to take this trek, make sure that you are carrying sleeping bags or tents with you.
3. Spend Time in the Hippie Village of Dharamkot
Dharamkot is a small village popular as Hippie Villagebecause of the hippie culture and the lazy relaxing cafes all around. If you enjoy small walks through meadows, hikes and treks, a village vibe, a bit of meditation then you would love this place. Dharamkot is bit away from the Mainstream places. It will give you more of village like feeling. Dharamkot is the base for several hikes Triund, Illaqua, Indrahar Pass, etc.
4. Watch the Sunset in Naddi
Naddi is another village ahead of Dal Lake – hold on, its not the Dal Lake of Sri Nagar. Though named after the one in Sri Nagar, this is an enchanting lake surrounded by forest lined with tall treesforest lined with tall trees.
Naddi is a perfect place for a walk in the evening for a pleasurable sunset.
5. Take a Half-Day tour to the Highest Cricket Stadium in the World
McCleod Ganj hosts the highest cricket stadium in the world – HPCA (Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association). If you are a cricket lover, you would never want to miss it for sure. The HPCA stadium opened in 2013 that is surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of Dhauldhar Mountains that create a magnificent framework up close.If you are a cricket lover, you would never want to miss it for sure, even if you are not too much into sports, the captive views of its surroundings will mesmerize you.
Besides, these places you can also spend some quality time at Bhagsu Waterfalls, Church in the Wilderness, Tsuglagkhang Complex(the place where the Dalai Lama resides), Bhagsunag Temple.
McCloed Ganj is the place where serenity resides, where you get close to nature and close to yourself. So, Next time, when you feel the need to take an escape from everyday life. Book your Package to McCloed Ganj and give a rejuvenating treat to yourself