Located in the beautiful Kangra Valley in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, McLeodganj is a small town steeped in Tibetan culture and history. Known as Little Lhasa, it is the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama and the center of the Tibetan independence movement. With its breathtaking natural beauty, serene spiritual atmosphere, and unique Tibetan culture, McLeodganj is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Northern India. In this detailed guide, we shared the list of top places to visit in Mcleodganj which includes exciting treks, Tibetan monasteries, hidden gems, nearby villages, Kangra Tea Estates, stunning viewpoints and religious temples –
Best Places To Visit In Mcleodganj
1. Masroor Rock Cut Temple
Often referred to as Ellora of Himachal, Masroor rock-cut temple is a complex of 15 rock-cut monolithic temples located in Masroor, near McLeod Ganj in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the least explored temples in Himachal. The temple craved beautifully from the rock facing towards heaven. All 15 rock-cut temples have built-in Nagara-style architecture. In front of the temple, there is a large sacred pond that remains filled with water throughout the year.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, Lakshman, Goddess Sita and Lord Shiva. The premises of the temple provides spectacular views of the Dhauladhar mountain range.
- Location – Masroor, Lahalpur, Himachal Pradesh
- Entry Fees – Free
2. Bhagsu Falls and Temple
Situated in the proximity of Bhagsu Temple, Bhagsu falls is one of the best places to visit in Mcleodganj. It is famous for its surrounding natural beauty, swimming, hiking, trekking and peaceful atmosphere.
It is a popular picnic spot for those who seek a break from bustling life.
Along with the alluring beauty of the waterfall don’t forget to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva at Bhagu Temple. It houses the unique and rare Panch Mukha Lingam. You can reach the waterfall by taking a short hike from the Bhagsunag Temple.
- Location – Bhagsu, Nag, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.
- How to reach – The waterfall is located just 3 KM away from the Mcleodganj and 2 KM from the main market area of Bhagsunag Village.
3. Namgyal Monastery
Founded by the 3rd Dalai Lama, Namgyal monastery is situated inside the complex of Tsuglagkhang or Dalai Lama Temple. It is the largest Tibetan complex outside Tibet.
It houses 200+ monks who preserve rare skills, meditation, rituals, tantric practices, ancient Buddhist sculptures and cultures. There you can learn about Tibetan art and culture. So, if you’re one of those who love to explore spirituality through meditation then this place should be on your itinerary. They invite tourists for meditation.
- Best time to visit – Any time of the year.
- Timing – 5 AM to 8:30 PM
4. Dalai Lama Temple Complex
The heart of McLeodganj, the Dalai Lama Temple Complex is a must-visit for anyone interested in Tibetan Buddhism. It is the adobe of the Dalai Lama. The complex houses the temple of compassion and the Namgyal Monastery, and visitors can observe the monks performing their daily prayers and rituals.
After stepping inside the complex you’ll feel utter peace and a sense of calmness even if you don’t believe in any religion. The sheer charm, stunning architecture and picturesque views Dhauladhar mountain range make it the best place to visit in Mcleodganj.
5. Triund Peak
A popular trekking destination & also famous as the crown jewel of Dharamshala, Triund Hill offers visitors breathtaking views of the Kangra Valley and the Himalayan mountains. The trek to the top of the hill is moderate and takes about 4-5 hours, but the views from the top are worth the effort.
Triund is the must-visit place for those who love adventure and sheer natural beauty. The night camping under the sky full of billions of stars would be a memorable moment for any adventure lover. And the view of sunrise & sunset is just out of the world. It is the most popular weekend trek in the Himalayas.
- Distance from Mcleodganj – 4 KM
- Trek type – Easy to moderate
- Trek distance – 5 to 6 KM
- How to reach – Gullu Devi temple is the base point for the Triund trek. After reaching there you’ll see the trekking trail which traverses through the dense oak forests and steep side of Laka ridge. If you want to set a camp on the top then don’t forget to rent a tent.
6. St. John’s Church
A beautiful 19th-century church located in the forest, St. John in the Wilderness is a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking solitude and relaxation. The church is also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities. Surrounded by the picturesque valley of Mcleodganj, this Anglican church is built in neo-Gothic architecture and dedicated to John the Baptist. Due to its peaceful location, it is a perfect place for peace seekers.
- Distance from Mcleodganj – 700 meters via NH503
- Timing – 7 AM to 7 PM
7. Dal Lake
A serene and picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery, Dal Lake is a popular spot for picnics, boating, and fishing. You can also hike to the nearby waterfall and enjoy the stunning views of the valley. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
If you’re going to the Naddi viewpoint (Sunset point) then this is the perfect place to stop over and relax. And the picturesque surroundings of deodar trees make it a favorite spot among nature lovers.
- Best time to visit – Any time of the year. For boating summer is the best, for snow lovers winter is the best and September is the month when you can witness the amazing fair that takes place here.
- Distance from Mcleodganj – 3 KM
8. Minkiani Pass
Minkiani pass is an adventurous trek situated at an altitude of 4343 meters above sea level on the Dhauladhar range. This pass offers amazing views of the Dhauladhar range, Pir Panjal, and Zanskar ranges. It is one of the most offbeat treks in Himachal and is popular among wildlife lovers, birdwatchers and photographers.
This adventurous trail passes through Kareri lake which is one of the best places to visit in Mcleodganj. Traversing through lush green meadows, gorges, snow-capped mountains and villages you have a great camping experience.
- Best time to visit – December to April
- Trek level – Moderate
9. Tibetan Market
A bustling and vibrant market, Tibetan Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, home decor items, religious items & books, Tibetan artifacts, gift and traditional handicrafts. It is the best place to witness the rich culture and skilled craftsmanship of Himachal. You can also sample local food and street food, and interact with the friendly local vendors. Thupka, momos, and thenthuk are the best local street food items.
- Location – Jogiwara road, Mcleodganj.
- Things to buy – Buddha statues, singing bowls, prayer wheels, decorative knickknacks, jewelry, bags, purses, handmade paper and diaries.
10. Indrahar Pass
Offering splendid views of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal mountain ranges, Indrahar pass is one of the best places to visit in Mcleodganj. It is an easy-to-moderate trek and is perfect for beginners. The trek varies between altitude ranges of 2500 to 4300 meters. This pass forms the border between the Kangra and the Chamba district.
- Trek Length – 35 KM
- Best time to visit – May to October is the best time to visit Indrahar pass as during this time whether stay pleasant.
11. Dharamkot Village
Dharamkot is a small village located just a short drive from McLeodganj, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The village is known for its laid-back atmosphere and is a popular spot for hiking, meditation, and yoga. There you’ll find the Dhamma Shikhara Vipassana Meditation center and Tushita Buddhist Meditation center therefore it is famous as the Yoga Village of Himachal. There are several guesthouses and cafes where visitors can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Distance from Mcleodganj – 3 KM
12. Kareri Lake
Situated at an elevation of 2934 meters, Kareri Lake is a freshwater lake known for its magnificent views and amazing treks. The lake is formed by the water of snow by the Dhauladhar mountain ranges therefore the water is crystal clear. To reach the lake you need to take a trek that starts from Kareri village (9 KM from Mcleodganj). Overall, it is the best place for trekking, photography and camping.
- Best time to visit – March to June and September to November.
- Trek Difficulty – Easy to Moderate
13. Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts
Founded by the 14th Dalai Lama (Tenzin Gyatso), the Tibetan Institute of performing arts is built to preserve the Tibetan heritage, dance, music and all entertainment culture of Tibetans. There you can enjoy the amazing Tibetan folk dance, music society, martial arts and drama. The main highlight of this place is the week-long Shoton festival which falls on the 16th of August (last day of the sixth month in Tibetan Calendar).
- Best time to visit – Throughout the year
- Location – Dharamkot road, P.O, Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh
14. Maharana Pratap Sagar Lake
Maharana Pratap Sagar Lake is a man-made lake built across the Beas river. It is also known as the Pong reservoir or the Pong Dam lake. Situated in the backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountain ranges, it is a perfect place to spend a peaceful time. For adventure, there are many activities including fishing, boating, paddling, sailing, water skiing, canoeing, and fishing.
- Best time to visit – March to June
- Distance from Mcleodganj – 98 KM
- Entry Fees – NA
15. Naddi Village & Naddi View Point
A charming and traditional Tibetan village located just a short hike from McLeodganj, Naddi Village offers a glimpse into the lives of the local residents. There you can explore the village and its temples, meet the friendly locals, and enjoy the stunning views of the valley.
After exploring the village it’s time to catch stunning views of the Dhauladhar mountain ranges from Naddi View Point. It is the most famous viewpoint in Mcleodganj to capture stunning sunrise & sunset. On the way to the viewpoint, there are stalls serving local food, snacks and beverages.
- Distance from Mcleodganj – 4 KM
- Best time to visit – Any time of the year especially winter when the region got covered in snow.
16. Kangra Tea Estate
Kangra Tea Estate is a sprawling tea plantation located in the Palampur, Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Known for its high-quality tea and stunning scenic beauty, this estate is a must-visit for tea connoisseurs and nature enthusiasts alike. It is a perfect place for a day trip to Mcleodganj.
There is no entry fee to visit the Kangra Tea Estate. You can purchase tea directly from the estate’s factory, where they can sample a variety of blends and take home their favorite ones.
Kangra Tea Estate offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tea culture, making it a must-visit destination near Mcleodganj for anyone looking for a tranquil and refreshing escape. Whether you’re a tea lover or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Kangra Tea Estate is the perfect place to indulge your senses and unwind.
- Distance from Mcleodganj – 31 KM
- Best time to visit – The best time to visit Kangra Tea Estate is from March to June and from September to November when the weather is pleasant and the tea gardens are in full bloom. Visitors can take a guided tour of the estate and learn about the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to processing and packaging.
- How to reach – To reach Kangra Tea Estate, the nearest airport is located in the city of Dharamsala, which is approximately 20 kilometers away. From there, visitors can take a taxi or local bus to reach the estate. Alternatively, Kangra Tea Estate can also be reached by road from major cities in Himachal Pradesh and neighboring states.
17. Bir Billing
The Paragliding Capital of India, Bir Billing is a popular paragliding and adventure sports destination, Bir-Billing is located just a short drive from McLeod Ganj. There you can enjoy a variety of adventure activities, including paragliding, trekking, hiking, mountain biking, and camping, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Billing is the place from where you take off for paragliding while the Billing is the landing place and both of them are famous as Bir Billing. Bir is also home to Tibetan refugee settlements therefore there you will see many Tibetan monasteries and a large stupa.
- Distance from Mcleodganj – 72 KM
- Best time to visit – Except monsoon any time of the year would be best time to visit Bir Billing as during monsoon flying comes to a halt due to unpredictable weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mcleodganj famous for?
McLeodganj is famous for its association with Tibetan culture and the Dalai Lama. The town is home to the Dalai Lama Temple Complex, which is the spiritual heart of the community and a must-visit for anyone interested in Tibetan Buddhism. McLeodgGanj is also known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the Himalayan Mountains, forests, and waterfalls.
Is Mcleodganj worth visiting?
Absolutely! McLeodganj is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of Tibetan and Indian cultures. With its stunning natural beauty, peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, and charming local markets, there’s something for everyone in McLeodganj. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a laid-back escape, you won’t be disappointed!
Are 2 days enough for Mcleodganj?
Two days is enough to get a taste of what McLeodganj has to offer, but there is so much more to explore if you have more time. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and there are many other interesting places to visit nearby. If you have the time, consider spending a week or more in the area to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and attractions.
What are the hidden places to visit in Mcleodganj?
While McLeod Ganj is a small town, there are still many hidden gems to discover. Some of the best hidden places to visit include:
- Library of Tibetan Works and Archives
- Gyuto Monastery
- Norbulingka Institute
- Tsechokling Gompa
Is there snowfall at Mcleodganj?
Mcleodganj is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and the surrounding areas may receive some snowfall during the winter months. However, the town itself typically does not receive heavy snowfall. Visitors interested in experiencing snow should consider visiting nearby areas such as Dharamshala or Bir-Billing.
In conclusion, McLeod Ganj is a beautiful and serene hill town located in the Kangra Valley, offering visitors a wealth of exciting and unique experiences. From exploring the vibrant markets and peaceful monasteries to indulging in adventure activities and appreciating the region’s rich cultural heritage, McLeod Ganj is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. So, pack your bags and head to McLeod Ganj to experience one of the best holiday destinations in Northern India!