Things to do and Main places to visit around Mcleodganj || One of the popular hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh, India
Mcleodganj in Himachal Pradesh is one of the popular destination for tourists, travellers and explorers. We have shared about Mcleodganj many times in past, but this time we are sharing again after request from one of our followers who is planning to visit Mcleodganj during summer vacations. This Photo Journey will share some details about interesting things to do in Mcleodganj and surrounding areas. Also about main places around Mcleodganj worth visiting.
It's very difficult to define Mcledoganj to folks, because it's very different place as compared to other popular tourist destinations in India. It's a small town around high hills of Dharmshala and main inhabitants are Tibetans. There is a small market with interesting stuff to buy and variety of cafes/restaurants serving multiple cuisines. Clam streets of Mcleodganj never fail to surprise you at every corner & turn. This place becomes very crowded when Dalai Lama is around. Dalai Lama residence is in Mcleodganj and there is a museum adjoining this house.
There is a spiritual soul of the town which can be sensed in every part of the town. Lot of travelers come to Mcleodganj to know more about this culture & religion. Many of the folks who come to Mcleodganj, they start following the religion and at times stay there for a long time.
Many of the folks in this town follow Buddhism and hence many of the shops offers appropriate stuff. One can find very interesting things in these shops, but be aware that inflated rates are quoted in most of these shops. So the tip is to see what you want to buy, inquire about it different shops, try to judge a reasonable cost and negotiate :). A meditation bowl which is quoted at 1500 Rs can be bought for 450Rs (from personal experience).
Lot of foreigners can be seen walking around the streets of Mcledoganj town. They get indulged in different activities of their choice and there are plenty of ways in Mcledoganj to do what you want to do and the way you want to be.
There is a beautiful church in Mcledoganj which looks different in all the seasons. Second photograph of this Photo Journey is also the same church which you see above. St. John church is must visit place. It's at walkable distance from the town and the road is beautiful for a quick walk under high deodar trees.
Fashion on street is something that you would not be able to compare to any other parts of the country. There are various fashion stores in the town and stuff is available at quite reasonable price, but don't expect very good quality. Things are designer but made for temporary use by foreigners. Most of these shops are full of tourists. Again, the rule of negotiation applies here as well.
Mcledoganj streets have very interesting options to eat and explore. There are different types of cafes and restaurants with unique styles. It would be difficult for you to locate Indian food in Mcleodganj, but other options are in abundance - Thai, Chinese, Tibetan, Italian, Continental, Japanese etc.
Triund is an interesting trek from Mcleodganj and can be planned in a day. One can hire camping equipment from market and stay at Triund for a night.
Bhagsunag Waterfalls are also quite popular but don't have high expectations. It's a small waterfall for which you need to trek a bit. A good place to hang around with friends when planning to be around Mcleodganj.
Cricket stadium in Dharmshala is one of the most beautiful stadium in the country and one can plan to have a visit there. Dhauladhar mountain ranges with snow cover look amazing from this stadium and a perfect place for you take a selfie with stadium and snow covered hills in the background :).
A drive from Mcledoganj to Naddi through Dal lake is worth exploring. Naddi is another beautiful place in the lap of nature. There are few resorts around Naddi, which are best for folks who want to have a peaceful vacation.
Palampur is another interesting destination around Mcleodganj. Palampur is known as Tea Capital of North India. It's a 1.5 hours drive to Palampur from Mcledoganj, through Dharmshala & Chamunda Devi.
Barot is another destination around this part of Himachal Pradesh, which is a small village having beautiful landscapes and awesome weather. This can only be planned if you have one extra day in hand. There is 3.5 hours drive from Mcleodganj through Palampur, Baijnath & Bir Billing. And it's recommended to spend one night in home stays of Barot.
There is a beautiful Monastery which comes on the way from Mcleodganj to Barot.
There is a famous temple in Baijnath, which is made up of stones and dedicated to Shiva. A drive from Palampur to Baijnath is exceptional.
One of the best paragliding adventure can be experienced at Bir Billing, where Paragliding world cup happens. A beautiful place at a very high hill in this vicinity.