- From Pathankot
- ≈ 90 km (about 2.5–3 hrs by road)
- Best time
- March to June and September to November
- Altitude
- ≈ 1,457 m
- Good for families
- Yes
About Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj
Dharamshala spreads across the slopes of the Dhauladhar range in Kangra district. Upper Dharamshala, McLeod Ganj, has been the home of the 14th Dalai Lama since 1960 and is the centre of Tibetan life in India. The Tsuglagkhang complex, Bhagsunag waterfall and the café-lined streets of McLeod Ganj are the main draws; fitter visitors hike to Triund ridge for views of the snow peaks. Lower Dharamshala has the scenic HPCA Cricket Stadium.
Highlights
Tibetan culture
The Dalai Lama's temple and monasteries.
Dhauladhar views
Triund ridge and snowy peaks.
Café culture
Momos, bakeries and bookshops.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
March to June and September to November
How to Reach
By road: about 90 km from Pathankot via Nurpur and Shahpur, around 2.5–3 hours. By train: Pathankot is the nearest broad-gauge station; the narrow-gauge Kangra Valley Railway also runs from Pathankot. By air: Kangra (Gaggal) Airport is about 13 km from Dharamshala.
Local Food
Tibetan momos and thukpa, cafés in McLeod Ganj, Himachali dham at local restaurants.
Stay Options
Hotels and homestays in McLeod Ganj, Dharamkot, Bhagsu and lower Dharamshala.
Places to see
Top attractions in Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj
Must-visit places in and around Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj.
- 01
McLeod Ganj
Tsuglagkhang Complex
The Dalai Lama's temple and residence complex in McLeod Ganj.
- 02
≈ 2 km from McLeod Ganj
Bhagsunag Waterfall
Waterfall and old temple a short walk from McLeod Ganj.
- 03
≈ 9 km trek from McLeod Ganj
Triund
Popular ridge trek with views of the Dhauladhar.
- 04
Lower Dharamshala
HPCA Stadium
One of the world's most scenic cricket grounds.
Things To Do
Visit Tsuglagkhang
Dress modestly; walk the kora around it.
Trek to Triund
Start early; carry water.
Bhagsunag waterfall
Best after the monsoon.
Watch the sunset at Naddi
A viewpoint above McLeod Ganj.
Suggested Itinerary
- 1
Morning
Drive from Pathankot; HPCA Stadium.
- 2
Afternoon
McLeod Ganj and Tsuglagkhang.
- 3
Evening
Bhagsunag and cafés, return or stay.
Photo Gallery
Travel Tips
Traffic in McLeod Ganj is heavy on weekends — park and walk.
Carry rain gear in July–August.
Respect monastery rules; ask before photographing monks.
