Travel Diaries I Dharamshala

Mcleodganj – The Little Lhasa in India

McLeod Ganj is a village in the suburbs of Dharamshala, in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. The legend says that village is named after its founder, Lord David McLeod, the English lieutenant governor of Punjab. I had heard about this place from quite a few people and was in my to-visit list. So last weekend finally it happened!  After every trip, I have the feeling that I didn’t plan it – it just happened. And that’s what makes my trip look more beautiful and gives a motivation to en it down :)

We started our odyssey from Delhi to Dharamshala in a Tata Bus. We had the option of a higher class bus ( Volvo) or a lower one (General Roadways ). Since we wanted an economical but a decent trip, we chose Tata bus (one way ticket is 550 Rs. Approx.). It is about 12 hour overnight journey. The bus dropped us at Dharamshala from where we took a bus to Mcleodganj (9 kms of distance). Flat 10 Rs. Per person :) The journey uphill instantly refreshed me. Pristine natural beauty, lush green Dhauladhar mountain range, balmy weather… I already felt a lot better.

The most peculiar characteristic of the place is that it is largely inhabited by Tibetans, the moment you reach Mcleodganj all you observe is smaller lanes, Monks (of all ages) clad in dark maroon clothing. We were damn hungry and tired too. After a quick breakfast at Mcleodganj, we started walk towards Bhagsu. People said it’s just 2 kms walk and a good one with scenic views. Well, I didn’t find it JUST 2 kms. It was an uphill walk more than 2 kms. Later, we realised we had taken a wrong route. There was a shortcut from McLeodganj to Bhagsu :) ( Which we took while coming back)

BhagsuNaag

There are few locations worth seeing here, more than locations it the thrill that place offers like they say most fun is garnered on the journey not always destination :)

Bhagsunag village is a place worth visiting while one is on a trip to McLeodGanj. At an altitude of 6,960 feet above sea level, the main reason why tourists are attracted to this village is because of the Shiva temple and the 30 feet waterfall that is located here. The walk to the waterfall is pleasant and refreshing. We spotted monks in groups at the falls and while walking, just chilling and chatting, quite a sight!!!

It is quite a walk to reach the waterfall but is simply worth it :). The sight is quite captivating! I felt like taking a dip in the fall but the place was surrounded by guys enjoying splashes semi naked! These are the moments when I feel gender inequality exists! :D The time spent near the waterfall was heavenly. Water has that effect I guess.

Shiva Cafe

A little above the waterfall is the famous Shiva Cafe. The arduous walk from the waterfall to this cafe will make you scream in glory when you reach the point where you know that the cafe is RIGHT THERE! The beauty of this cafe is clearly in its location and setting. Splendid mountain and waterfall views and the good music they play adds the charm. Though didn't like the food that much, overpriced and low on quality.

German Bakery

Later in the evening strolled in the streets and the narrow lanes. A nice peaceful walk. Ate at the famous German Bakery. Awesome ambience and excellent food! The USP is it’s the unique Menu and the ambience and music. We ordered dishes which “sounded” good and they turned out to taste good too :)

 

McLeodGanj

Monastery

Day 2 we came back to McleodGanj since we had a bus to catch in the evening from here. Visited the Dalai Lama Temple.  Also fondly known as Tsug la Khang, the Dalai Lama’s temple, is the life-blood of the village. It houses the Namgyal Monastery and shrine rooms. Wished to see Mr. Dalai Lama too but he wasn’t there :)

Namgyal Cafe

Ate lunch at Namgyal Cafe. Awesome Pizza and good set up, though would rate the cafe low in customer service. We had to wait for quite a while for someone to take the order. And they weren’t very nice and warm when asked about the serving time.

Our Bus was to depart at 7.30 pm so we chose to see Naddi Sunset Point and Dal Lake. Autos are easily available which take you there, wait for 30 minutes and get you back. We were lucky to reach Naddi while the sun was setting. Sunsets and Sunrises are one of nature’s most beautiful offering according to me :)

Naddi Sunset Point

While we did see the Dal lake before reaching the sunset point, I wouldn't recommend anyone to see it. Just go pass it. There is nothing but a pond filled with dirty & pungent water. I don’t know why they have named it Dal Lake, infact Dal Lake is wonderful and amazing lake in Srinagar, Kashmir.

Also saw St John’s Church though it was closed :(.  The church is really small but boasts of great history.

So we boarded the bus back to Delhi in time. It is indeed a good retreat, away from the hustle bustle of a metro life. Bhagsu clearly took my heart away!

Let's see where the next travel takes me

Keep Smiling ! 

Swati :)