McLeodganj, Dharamshala (Kangra-Himachal)
McLeodganj, named after David McLeod, teh governor general of Punjab (British-India), is house of the exiled Tibetan Government and is blessed by the presence of H.H. Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama (See my post on Dalai Lama’s Residence). This place is also sometimes called Little Lhasa.
This place is so peaceful and energizing, that you will never feel like leaving it. There are lot of Tibetans and Europeans (mostly Israelis) in here. Nearby Villages are populated with Europeans. I have heard that there are villages nearby McLeodganj, where lot of Drugs and illegal stuff is available. I don’t know if it is true or a rumor.
I like this place so much that I have been there so many times. Luckily, my father designed couple of shops and restaurants at this place. This helped me make dozens of trips to McLeodganj in past 5-6 years.
It is situated near Dharamshala. Infact, sometimes, it is also called Upper Dharamshala. There is a small road, from where, McLeodganj is only 2 Km from main Dharamshala market. This road is very steep and reaches the Dalai Lama Temple. The other way is lot
longer, but safer. This road reaches the other end of McLeodganj.
But this route, the longer one, is much better as you get a chance to see more scenic views. A very nice place on way is the St. John’s Church. This church, located in Forsythganj, popularly called Church of St. John in the Wilderness, is the final resting place of Lord Elgin, a British viceroy of India (19th Century).
This church is in a really peaceful place hidden under trees. Its view from road is so magical that you can’t resist visiting it.
The main street of McLeodganj is crowded and loaded with Tibetan shops. You will find
almost every Tibetan handicraft item and Tibetan/Buddhist souvenirs. Besides, everywhere you will see people in traditional maroon dress of Buddhists everywhere.
One must visit this place for peace of mind. There are lot other places to visit nearby. If you read this blog, you will find that most of my posts are from Dharamshala, and McLeodganj.
Do check out…
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ok
here’s the thing
if you want to go anywhere
in the world
this town is the place
you will be forever changed because
this town is like being in heaven
Vikram, I really enjoy your blog! I was fortunate to visit McLeodGanj last November and I found it to be a wonderful and special place (I also thought the countryside and surrounding villages beautiful and the people so very friendly). I am looking forward to my next visit to your fine country, you’ve given me some great ideas of places to visit. Wishing you safe and pleasant travels, and looking forward to reading of your adventures, Angela
Hi Angela,
Thanks for your comment. If you need any information about hill stations easily accessible from delhi, please feel free to contact me
its is very beautiful place i realy like this plase
Heaven on earth. I visited Mcleodganj and the Kendriya Vidyalaya at Dharamshala Cantt. Really unbelievable that such tranquility still exists in the world. Stay at the Center Point Hotel was very comfortable and economical.
Best part of our visit was the surprise meet with H.H.THE DALAI LAMA. My friend and myself were standing to cross the road in front of Dhauladhar Hotel (sorry if mistaken spelling) on the deserted road (On Buddha Purnima Day) looking at a bus which had blocked the road. Suddenly we heard siren of a police escort Jeep, thinking it must be some of our eagoed Politician we tried to ignore the cavalcade. But curiosity took the better of us and we took a glance. My God, It was H.H.THE DALAI LAMA, in the front seat of the accompanying car.
Imagine not a soul on the road, we just were about 5 feet away from H.H. just bowed our heads to him and he blessed us. The smiling Face, the Peace transmitted by his grace. It made us feel as if we have achieved everything for which God sent us into this earth.
it is really good place what a beauty. i m very thankful vinay chudhari who guide me for thtplace
Beautiful