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McLeodganj, situated in the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas, is a picturesque hill station with a rich heritage of Tibetan culture. It is the home of the 14th Dalai Lama and therefore also has religious importance among the masses. The town has both adventurous and cultural attractions within the area where one can go to pine forest tracts, and monasteries, and even relish the delectable Tibetan delicacies. Be it a visit to Bhagsu Waterfall, a meditation session, or shopping for Tibetan handicrafts, Mcleodganj offers a pleasant experience in the backdrop of beautiful scenery and history.
Top 13 Things To Do In Mcleodganj
Here are some of the top activities to experience in Mcleodganj, ensuring a memorable visit.
1. Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex (Dalai Lama Temple)
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
One of the best things to do in Mcleodganj is pay a visit to this temple. It is a religious shrine for Tibetan Buddhists and also the residence of the Dalai Lama at Mcleodganj and is also known as Tsuglagkhang Complex. This complex also houses the Namgyal Monastery, ancient temples, and museums with items that depict the Tibetan cultural heritage. The spiritual ambience with monks chanting, a session of meditation, and the large statues of Buddhas attract tourists to this place. Religious and calm, this complex is worth visiting for visitors exploring Mcleodganj.
Best Time To Visit: Morning For Prayer Sessions
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Himachal In November
2. Explore Bhagsu Waterfall
Photo: Ravi Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Bhagsu Waterfalls is a splendid 30-foot fall and is located at Bhagsunag temple in Mcleodganj. The moderate walking trail of this fall offers beautiful views and a pool formed at the tail of the waterfall where visitors enjoy taking a dip. Nature lovers and photographers should visit this place during the monsoon season as the waterfall is at it is fullest. It has no entrance fee and therefore is among the most frequently visited places by both locals and tourists who want to take a break and enjoy nature.
Location: Near Bhagsunag Temple, Mcleodganj
3. Trek To Triund Hill
Photo: Ashish Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Triund Hill trek from Mcleodganj is one of the most beautiful treks which provides magnificent views of the Dhauladhar mountains. This fairly strenuous hike takes 4-5 hours to climb through pine woods and alpine pastures. The last phase of the trek is at the summit where trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the Kangra valley and snow-clad mountains. Some facilities are provided for camping here and you can watch the sunset and sunrise as well.
Cost Per Person: ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 (includes guide and camping gear)
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4. Visit Namgyal Monastery
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Namgyal Monastery at Mcleodganj is the private monastery of the Dalai Lama and a major seat of learning and practice in Tibetan Buddhism. Established in the 16th century, this temple has beautiful wall paintings, wooden carvings, paintings on cloth, and manuscripts. People can watch prayers and teachings with monks and thus get acquainted with some aspects of Tibetan Buddhism. It is an old monastery with no entry charge but visitors are encouraged to make donations to help maintain the place and to also sponsor educational activities.
Duration To Explore: 1 – 2 hours
5. Explore Tibetan Museum
Photo: Sumitsurai / Wikimedia Commons
If you are wondering what to do in Mcleodganj, visit the Tibetan Museum. The Tibetan Museum in Mcleodganj is a display of Tibetan culture through items, photographs, documents, and other things. It gives knowledge of the history of Tibetans, their exile, and their fight for freedom. Some of the items that have been displayed are traditional dresses, religious items, and performances giving historical information. It is an informative tour that should be taken to get an insight into the Tibetans and their effect on Mcleodganj.
Duration To Explore: 1 – 2 hours
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6. Attend Meditation Classes
Photo: Colette Gemmell / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Among several things to do in Mcleodganj are cultural activities which include meditation classes that are taught by the Buddhist monks and qualified trainers. These sessions are aimed at teaching participants about mindfulness and the use of meditation to help clear the mind as well as relax the body. Courses exist from the basic level to the more complex level to cover all learners who may have differing levels of learning and expertise.
Duration: 1 – 2 hours (session)
Cost per Person: ₹300 – ₹500 per session
7. Shopping At Mcleodganj Market
Photo: Sridhar Rao / Wikimedia Commons
Mcleodganj has a bustling market which is famous for Tibetan handicrafts, ornaments & accessories, and apparel. There are booths where you can purchase carpets, thangkas which are religious paintings on textiles, and other hand-made products. The market is very active and has many shops and stalls and therefore it attracts many tourists who are interested in buying authentic traditional Tibetan products and experiencing the beauty of this culture.
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
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8. Attend Tibetan Cultural Performances
Photo: Janmejay Singh / Wikimedia Commons
One of the top things to see in Mcleodganj is the cultural troupes of Mcleodganj performing Tibetan folk dances and songs and even stage plays. These events represent the rich heritage of Tibetan culture and its ability to adapt and endure, as seen in folklore and rites. You can watch a theatrical show or dance performances which are often held in Mcleodganj to honour the Tibetan culture. Often the entry fee depends on the event, though the schedules may be present at the local tourist information offices or cultural associations.
Duration: 1 – 2 hours (performance)
Cost Per Person: ₹200 – ₹500 (depending on event)
9. Visit St. John In The Wilderness Church
Photo: Praveen Singh Bisht / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The St. John’s in the Wilderness Church is a church in Mcleodganj which comes under the Anglican Church and was constructed during British rule. Located amidst tall deodar trees, it has elements of neo-Gothic style architecture with stained glass windows and roofs. On the inside, tourists can witness memorial plaques and a cemetery from the British era. The church’s calm environment and historical background appeal to history lovers. The entry is free and there are tours in which you can learn about the colonial history of the city and its religious significance.
Duration To Explore: 30 minutes to 1 hour
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10. Try Tibetan Cuisine
Photo: Ancheta Wis / Wikimedia Commons
Tibetan food is available in almost all the local restaurants of Mcleodganj. It includes food items like momos, thukpa, butter tea, and more. Cultural food outlets such as restaurants and cafes offer freshly prepared local cuisine with traditional cooking methods. The restaurant setting depicts the traditional designs of the Buddhist culture. Many restaurants also provide cooking sessions where people can learn how to make some authentic Tibetan cuisines.
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Cost Per Person: ₹200 – ₹500
11. Yoga Retreats
Photo: VikasKinha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Yoga classes are provided in Mcleodganj by professional trainers at some beautiful places like retreats and workshops. The concept of these yoga camps is physical, mental, and spiritual health. These retreats involve multiple yoga asanas and meditation techniques. The retreat and yoga packages include the cost of a stay, organic meals, and extras such as spiritual tours. The fee structure depends on the program length and the services offered with beginner and advanced programs for people seeking a total yogic experience.
Duration: 3 – 7 days
Cost Per Person: ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 (depending on retreat)
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12. Explore Dal Lake
Photo: Vikrant / Wikimedia Commons
Dal Lake, which is in the vicinity of Mcleodganj, is a calm lake with a backdrop of mountains and lush greenery with pine trees. Visitors can enjoy boating with paddle boats and picnic at the shore. Tourists can unwind here with a breathtaking view of the Dhauladhar hills. This place with natural surroundings takes visitors away from the crowded life of towns and is suitable for nature lovers or people who are in search of solitude.
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Cost Per Person: ₹200 – ₹500 (boat rental)
13. Visit Dharamkot
Photo: Photos Worldwide / Wikimedia Commons
Dharamkot is another small village located a short distance from Mcleodganj and is famous for the bird’s eye view of the Kangra valley and the Dhauladhar range. The village has some short trails through cedar and pine trees that take visitors to the viewpoints located over the valley. People can walk through cafes that offer an organic diet and practice yoga & meditation under the guidance of trained professionals. The surroundings of Dharamkot are tranquil and scenic, and that attracts many people who come in search of spirituality & seclusion and also those who love nature.
Duration: 5 – 6 hours
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Mcleodganj is a beautiful town situated in the majestic hills of Himachal Pradesh. The spiritual ambience of its monasteries makes it a popular place for someone looking for inner peace and for history enthusiasts. With the things to do in Mcleodganj, visitors enjoy shopping, serene walks, and learning about Buddhism. To feel the spirituality of Mcleodganj and explore its natural beauty, you can book your next trip with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Adam Jones / Wikimedia Commons
