Hill Stations In India

Himachal Pradesh Mcleodganj Hill Station

History

Mcleodganj is a famous hill Station situated in Himalayas. The place is also famous for its sacred feeling of second home. The temple of Budha is situated opposite to the abode which is presently  the holy guru Dalai Lama and a visit would be worthy. Tibetan monastery along with nunnery is situated around it. The (TIPA) or Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts is only 1 km away from the region of Mcleodganj and conserves a lot of musical, theatrical and Dance in the form of Tibetian tradition.

People from every corner of the world gather at Mcleodganj to gather teachings and blessings from the Holiness called Dalai Lama. Indian and Western scholars and tourists come to Mcleodganj for seeing the renewal of an ancient and fascinating civilization. The high altitude along with the cool weather contributes to the re-creating of the Tibetan environment. Dharamsala pulsates along with the sounds and sights of ancient Tibet. Though even life has become more modern,its characteristics is basically Tibetan. There are Shops that are scattered down the thin streets of Mcleodganj which sell traditional arts of Tibet along with the aroma of the dishes and handicrafts of Tibet stay behind in the atmosphere.

History

McLeod was merely established as the British garrison in the middle of the 1850. It served as the administration centre under colonial government awaiting the distressing earthquake in the year 1905. It stayed behind until 1960, at this point of time Dalai Lama and his followers claimed asylum in the region followed by the invasion of the Chinese in Tibet. Ever since this period of time, McLeod became a chief centre for studying of Tibetan and Buddhism culture. All kinds of holy courses and activities are and on offer. Lots of tourists come there to help on community schemes which focus on the immigrant community.

How To Reach

By Air

Near by airport is Gaggal which is almost at a distance of 10 km from the town of McLeodganj. Flights are available three times a week from Delhi and Kulu to Gaggal.

By Rail

Nagrota and Kangra are the nearby railway stations that travel to McLeodganj. The town of Pathankot (90 km), the nearby broad gauge station, is linked to all chief cities in the nation through the railways.

By Bus

The deluxe bus services available regularly from the city of Delhi ending at McLeodganj that is about 530 km far from Delhi. The charge is approx Rs 1,000. State bus services of the State connects McLeodganj with the adjoining cities.

Places To Visit

Bhagsunath Temple

An ancient temple, Bhagsunath Temple is situated at a distance of 3kms east of Macleodganj. The temple is a quiet temple with numerous pools located in the vicinity of the temple. This temple is also considered as one of the most sacred temples by the devout Hindus. Here the annual fair which is held in September is quite a popular one. However, Bhagsunath is also a popular and attractive tourist spot located at the outskirts of Mcleodganj.

Tibetan Medical And Astrological Institute

The Tibetan Medical and Astrological Institute has a museum, a library, research unit and also a college where Tibetan medicine and astrology is taught. Apart from that there is also an exhibition on the materials which are used in Tibetan medicines and it is also displayed very well.

Library of Tibetan Works And Archives

Tibet’s rich literary heritage is well preserved and displayed in the repository of the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives. In fact it also holds the glory of containing about 40% of the original manuscripts of Tibet which is accompanied by an excellent general reference library which is open to all.

Weather And Best Time To Visit

Weather

The temperature over here ranges from 22oC to 38oC during summers from March to June. During the winter season from October to February the weather becomes too cold. In fact snowfall and sleet are some of the most common factors during December and January and most of the areas are found to be covered with snow during this period of the year. However, the fact is that the rainfall is quite few during the monsoon seasons in the months of July and August.

Best Time To Visit

This place can be visited throughout the year except the winters especially December and January.

Language And Culture

Language

Hindi, English, Panjabi and Pahari are the main languages over here. These languages are well spoken and understood by those who are involved in the trade of tourism.

Culture

In the present day context Mcleodganj is one of the most popular tourist spots in the world. It draws the attention of the tourists through the attractive mountain ranges, lakes, temples and monastery which attracts a lot of tourists from throughout the world. Mcleodganj also reflects a glimpse of British Fervor and colonial lifestyle and it is well noticed in the villas and the churches.

Accommodation

The Dhauladhar

Balanced against the mighty Dhauladhar ranges, a commanding view is offered by the Himachal Tourism Hotel Dhauladhar of the mountains and the Pong Dam reservoir which is located in the heart of the town. This place is also easily accessible from any direction needed.

Address: The Dhauladhar, Kotwali Bazar, Dharamsala (H.P.)

The Bhagsu

The Bhagsu Hotel of Himachal Tourism, which was inaugurated in October 1978 is located at a short distance from the residence of His Holiness, The Dalai Lama and the Namgyl Monastery which is 7 km uphill from the Dharmsala.

Address: The Bhagsu, Mcleodganj, Dharamsala (H.P.)

Festivals And Activities

Festivals

Halda Festival

The Halda festival is the 1st festival of the year in these parts, this celebration is the means to welcome the new year with a bang. This is one of the very special festivals which continues on for two days and includes family gathering, drinking and dancing.

Himachal Winter Carnival

During the winter season in February, the Himachal Winter Carnival is celebrated. This is one of the most attractive events to attend full of happiness and merriment. During the festival several local winter sports of the area are held and the fact is that even the tourists are also give equal chance to compete in the festival which makes it a true and better cultural experience.

Lohri Or Maghi

Among the other important festivals of Mcleodganj, Lohri, or Maghi festival is also one of the most important ones. It is basically an agricultural festival which is held during the mid January for the purpose of promoting prosperity and fertility.

Activities

Tushita Meditation Centre

The Tushita Meditation Centre is one of the Buddhist spiritual places that offers a 10-day residential retreat in the philosophy  of Buddhism which also includes courses for advanced students as well.

Sangye's Kitchen Cooking Courses

The Sangye’s Kitchen offers a different set of menu each day and therefore it is essential for anyone to have advance booking for the purpose of appearing in the course.

Walks

McLeod also have some interesting short walk spots as well. One can easily have a 2km stroll to Bhagsu and also a 3km walk which goes nearest to Dharamkot, offering an uplifting look over the valley and to the north towards Dhauladhar Ridge.

Hotels

Hotel Nishaad Resorts Dharamshala

Nishad Resorts complex is located at the key location and provides you one of the best holiday experiences you have ever had.

Address: Hotel Nishaad Resorts, village Naddi, above Dal Lake, Dharamshala Cant., Pin-176216, India , Asia

Hotel Valley View Crest Dharamshala

The Hotel Valley View Crest Dharamshala is one of the most beautiful hotels which is situated just underneath the Dhauladhar ranges offering an outstanding view with and cool and peaceful atmosphere at the Dharamshala of Himachal Pradesh.

Address: Hotel Valley View Crest, Strawberry Hills, Near Dal Lake, Satobari Road, Upper Dharamsala, 176216, District, Kangr, Himachal Pradesh, India Asia

Get Around

There is an available and easily accessible bus rout between McLeodganj and the New Bus stand in Lower Dharamsala. Although it takes a long time in the journey but the bus service runs on a regular basis. Apart from that there is also the availability of shared jeeps for easy travel between the McLeodganj and Kotwali Bazaar. Although the journey is a bit cramped but the fact is that it is a much faster means of travel. Alongside these one can also get the chance of a hike up to McLeodganj along Jogibara road and it takes an hours journey.

Get Out

Palampur

Palampur is a town situated 40 kms from Dharamshala. It is a charming little town surrounded by tea plantations and the eye soothing snowy peaks along with the beautiful fruit orchards.

Dalhousie

With its popular scenic beauty and the pleasant climate Dalhousie is one of the most popular hill stations of Himachal Pradesh.

Jammu

As renowned city of temples and with the attractive and soothing surroundings Jammu is one of the best places for a secluded atmosphere. Situated at the foot hills of the great Himalayan mountain range Jammu is the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir.

Shopping

The Bazaars

The local street shops and the bazaars are the best places to look for rare finds. Along with that here you can also find several forms of Tibetan handicrafts and New Zealand wool carpets, herbal incense and the collection of Tibetan books and meditation music.

Nowrojis

Located near the entrance to Mcleod Ganj, Nowroji's is a great place to look for souvenirs and handcrafted goods for your trip home. Finds here include Tibetan carpets, wooden masks, beads, Buddhist paintings, jewelry and metal votives.

Location Map

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