Mcleodganj is a suburb located in the Dharamsala region of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is known as “Little Lhasa” or “Dhasa” because of the large population of Tibetans. And also known as the headquarters of the Tibetan government in exile. Mcleodganj has a rich history and cultural significance. The natural beauty of Mcleodganj attracts a lot of people to come here.
History of McLeodganj
McLeodganj was named after Sir Donald Friel McLeod, Lieutenant Governor of Punjab, who established the settlement in the late 1840s. The area was first settled by the indigenous Gaddi tribe and later by the British colonial forces. In March 1959, Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, came to India in 1960, along with thousands of Tibetan refugees. After the failed rebellion against the Chinese government, the Indian government offered him asylum in Dharamshala. Since then, the area has become a center of Tibetan culture and political activism. Over some time, McLeod Ganj developed into an important tourist and pilgrimage site and since then the population has increased considerably.
Zostel McLeodganj
Zostel McLeodganj is a popular hostel located in the city and Zostel is considered to be a chain of hostels in India. And people are benefiting a lot from this. It offers affordable and comfortable accommodations for budget travelers. It is situated in a beautiful location surrounded by lush green forests and offers spectacular views of the Dhauladhar mountain range. The hostel has a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere and is a popular choice among backpackers, solo travelers, and budget-conscious travelers alike. And also features a common area where guests can socialize, relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The common area has a TV, books, board games, and a kitchenette where guests can cook their meals.
Alt Life Dharamkot
Alt Life Dharamkot is a wellness retreat center located in Dharamkot village near McLeod Ganj. The Retreat Center offers a range of wellness programs and activities that promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Dharamkot is an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate. Alt Life Dharamkot offers a variety of programs including yoga, meditation, sound healing, holistic healing, and detoxification programs. These programs are led by experienced coaches and therapists. It offers comfortable accommodations in the form of comfortable cottages and rooms. Which are designed to provide a comfortable and peaceful stay to the guests. The rooms and cottages are equipped with all the necessary amenities including hot water, Wi-Fi, and comfortable beds.
Famous Attractions in Mcleodganj Dharmshala
The Tuglagkhang Complex is the spiritual center of McLeod Ganj and is home to the Dalai Lama’s residence and temple. This temple also has a museum and a library. Namgyal Monastery is the private monastery of the Dalai Lama and is known for its beautiful mural paintings and prayer halls. Triund Trek is a popular trek and can be completed in about 4-5 hours. Bhagsu Nag Temple is a Hindu temple located in the nearby Bhagsu village.
The Norbulingka Institute is a cultural center that promotes traditional Tibetan arts and crafts. The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts is a cultural institute that preserves and promotes traditional Tibetan music, dance, and theatre. McLeod Ganj is also famous for its streets and markets. Here you can find some Tibetan traditional clothes and jewelry. And food scene in Mcleod Ganj is diverse and includes traditional Tibetan and Indian cuisine as well as international options.