Planning and Mcleodganj Dharamshala trip and wondering what to do in Mcleodganj? Don’t worry we have shortlisted the best things to do in Mcleodganj and some of the best places to visit in Mcleodganj so that you you don’t have to.
The beautiful town of McLeodganj is ensconced among iridescent vegetation and spectacular hills near upper Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. A prominent spiritual figure from Tibet, the 14th Dalai Lama, lives there. Many people from around the world visit this place to experience the exquisite meld of Tibetan culture with some British impact and trek in the wilderness of mammoth lush mountains.
Let us go through some of the things to do in McLeodganj and explore the beauty of the “Land of Lamas”.
Best Things to do in McLeodganj – Activities & Places You Must NOT Miss
Café Hopping
#1 Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen
A must visit place in Mcleodganj, this restaurant’s whole menu is Italian, as the name suggests. You’ll be delighted no matter what you eat, from the flawlessly made pizzas to the delectable pasta at this restaurant. Alfredo chicken white sauce pasta, and baked potatoes are the most loved dishes. After a hearty Italian meal, ordering the most famous chocolate mousse from Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen will do your meal honor.
Cost for two: ₹ 500 (Approximately)
Address: Bhagsu road 1st Floor, Bhagsu Road, McLeodganj
Google Rating: 4.3 (2383 Google reviews)
#2 Tibet Kitchen
They serve genuine Tibetan cuisine, true to the name of the restaurant. It is situated on one of McLeodganj’s busy streets. You’ll adore everything they make, from flawlessly prepared Thukpa to incredibly delicious momos. Anytime you are in McLeodganj, visit this café and try their steamed momos.
Cost for two: ₹ 350 (Approximately)
Address: Jogiwara Road, House #1 Main Square, McLeodganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Google Rating: 4.3 (3600 Google reviews)
#3 Namgyal Cafe
Namgyal is the best place on Earth to have wood-fired pizzas. This cafe’s interiors are too lovely. They have a gorgeous rack filled to the full with riveting books and everything from masala chai to coffee. The spot has magnificent views and is located within Om Hotel on Nowrojee Road. Enjoy your meal here while taking in a lovely view of Namgyal Monastery.
Cost for two: ₹ 400 (Approximately)
Address: Second Floor, Temple Rd, Opp. Municipal Parking, McLeodganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Google Rating: 4.3 (450 Google reviews)
Go On A Shopping Spree
A wide range of handcrafted items is available in McLeodganj’s shops to satisfy the diverse tastes of the tourists. While some Tibetan handicrafts and antiques feature religious imagery and spiritual motifs, most are inspired by nature. The market of McLeodganj is not limited to handicrafts. You can also shop for trendy clothes, jewelry, Tibetan carpets, handbags, semi-precious stones, etc. You can shop –
- Tibetan mats and carpets,
- Silver and stone jewelry,
- Kangra tea,
- Thangka paintings,
- Handicrafts,
- Carvings in metal and wood, etc.
Central Square, Jogibara Road, Kotwali Bazar, and Temple Road, are amongst the best markets in McLeodganj.
Adventure Sports
Adventure sports like trekking, rock climbing, bungee jumping etc are of the most favourite things to do in Mcleodganj. mcleodganj hosts many all season and winter treks of India. You must try at least one of them during your Mcleodganj tour.
#1 Triund Trek
Triund trek is a 9 km trek at the height of 2850m which provides expansive views of Bhagsu Village, McLeodganj, Dharamsala Valley, and the distant Shivalik Hills and Kangra Valley plains.
It’s a moderately difficult trek, and its starting point is Dharamkot. Triund is a vast, grassy area that resembles a pasture.
Just above the eyes, one can see the formidable Dhauladhar ranges. It’s a short, steep hike to Triund. Strolls under oak and rhododendron trees make up for the tiring climb. The trail is a birdwatcher’s paradise because of the variety of songbirds that may be found in the trees nearby.
Check out this Triund Trek Package by Travgenix to know more.
#2 Laka Glacier Trek
Laka Glacier is a 13 Km long trek situated at 10,600 ft. above sea level and is a must experience thing to do in Mcleodganj in December. It is a beautiful trek since it is delicately tucked away in the Kangra Valley and encircled by the mighty Dhauladhar peaks. It has become well-known as a trek suitable for beginners because of the easy to moderate terrain and the ease with which you can reach it from McLeodganj and Dharamshala.
You will have an exciting experience on this trek, and when you reach the destination, you will be greeted with panoramic views of mountain ranges blanketed in snow.
This Laka Glacier Trek Package by Travgenix will further help you with a detailed itinerary.
#3 Kareri Lake
Kareri Lake trek is 13 Km long at a height of around 9,650 ft. It is an easy to moderate trek. Kareri is a freshwater lake surrounded by luxuriant vegetation and mountains, situated in Himachal Pradesh.
The Kareri trek will feel like a tour to heaven as it is home to exotic flowers, verdant pasturelands, and colossal conifers. It sets in the magnificent Dhauladhar range. For those who enjoy the outdoors and are passionate about the environment, the Kareri trek is a must-do activity.
Check out the details for 3 Days and 2 Nights Kareri lake Trek package by Travgenix to learn more.
#4 Indrahar Pass Trek
The Indrahar Pass Trek is a mind-blowing trek with stunning scenery, glittering streams, deep gorges, quiet lakes, and deodar forests throughout the journey. The Indrahar Pass, which separates the districts of Kangra and Chamba, exposes a section of the Dhauladhar range and offers a beautiful view of the hamlets below. Additionally, it reveals the serene waters of Lake Mankiani and Lake Kareri.
It is a 35 Km moderate to difficult trek due to the trail’s numerous steep ascents and dark boulder rock tracks. The trek spans from an elevation of 2,875 m to 4,425 m. You’ll find fascinating natural beauty as you take in the splendor of the Kangra valley at Triund, camp nearby Lahesh Caves, and get a bird’s-eye view of the Dhauladhar range at Indrahar Pass.
Travgenix professional travel experts have curated a detailed 4 Days and 3 Nights Itinerary for Indrahar Pass trek package to provide a memorable, adventurous experience to their travelers.
Get Your Thrill On other Adventure Activities
#1 Rock climbing
This thrilling encounter in the distant Himalayas will undoubtedly thrill you and may even give you the chills. But do not worry; qualified professionals with years of experience will assist you in this daring sports activity.
#2 Paragliding
Paragliding is one of the best ways to take in the Himalayas’ stunning splendor. Imagine moving over the stunning landscapes while getting closer to the sky and having rich vegetation beneath your feet. It is the ideal experience for every thrill seeker.
#3 Boating in Dal Lake
You must partake in boating in Dal Lake while you’re there. It is one of those outdoor pursuits that is both thrilling and relaxing. You’ll be engrossed and in amazement as you paddle over this lake amidst crickets chirping and lush flora.
Visit Monastries
#1 Namgyal Monastery
The Namgyal monastery, which dates back to the 16th century, is renowned for its magnificent setting and many old scriptures that have been saved there. It is the largest Tibetan monastery outside Tibet. It is the 14th Dalai Lama’s private monastery. Visitors are welcome from 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM.
#2 Tsuglagkhang Complex
The Dalai Lama currently dwells at this temple complex just above Dharamshala. Beautiful statues of the Buddha, Chenzireg, and Guru Rinpoche, as well as other works of Tibetan art, including pottery, thankas, scrolls, and handmade clothing, can be found at the temple.
Visitors are welcome to explore the beauty from 5.00 AM to 8.00 PM.
#4 Nechung Monastery
Nechung Monastery is regarded as the home of Tibet’s protector deity and the State Oracle for His Holiness, the Dalai Lama and visitors can adorn the structure’s beauty between 5.30 AM to 8.00 PM. It is very significant to Buddhist doctrine and Tibetan history. The Nechung Monastery is a part of the Tsuglagkhang Complex and is situated just beneath the Tibetan Library in Gangchen Kyishong.
Conclusion
McLeodganj lies in the suburb of Dharamshala and is a great place for every age group. If you are adventurous, there are plenty of treks and activities. If you want to relax with your family, then there is nothing better than the verdant hills of McLeodganj. This place also offers much to people interested in culture and art. So what are you waiting for?
Book a trip to McLeodganj now with Ttravge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which month is best for McLeodganj?
March to June in summer and December to February in winter are the best month to visit this beauty.
Is one day enough for McLeodganj?
It hinges on what you want to do there. If you only want to explore the streets and monasteries of McLeodganj, then it is enough. Otherwise, it is advised to plan for three days and two nights for a memorable experience.
What attire is appropriate in McLeodganj?
As temperatures can change quickly in terrains like these, it is best to dress in layers.
