McLeod Ganj
Little Lhasa of India
Altitude: 1,750–2,080 m · Best: March to June, September to November
About McLeod Ganj
The heart of McLeod Ganj is the Tsuglagkhang Complex, housing the Dalai Lama's temple, a museum, and a peaceful prayer hall. The town's energy is a unique blend of Tibetan exile culture, Indian hospitality, and an international backpacker scene. From here you can walk to Bhagsu waterfall, hike to Triund, attend meditation retreats, or sip chai at a rooftop cafe while watching clouds drift below snow-capped peaks.
How to Reach McLeod Ganj
Buses and shared taxis from Dharamshala bus stand (about 9 km by road, 20-30 min). Direct overnight buses from Delhi drop at McLeod Ganj bus stand. The Dharamshala-McLeod Ganj ropeway was suspended after a landslide in August 2025 -- check locally whether it has reopened.
Book a taxi transfer →Things to Do
Hotels in McLeod Ganj
HPTDC Hotel Bhagsu
Hotel
Himachal Tourism's long-running McLeod Ganj hotel, set in deodar-shaded lawns a short walk from the Dalai Lama temple and the main market.
Green Hotel
Hotel
A long-standing budget favourite on Bhagsu Road with simple balcony rooms looking out over the valley, minutes from the main square.
Hotel Tibet
Hotel
A Tibetan-run hotel in the heart of McLeod Ganj with a well-known in-house Tibetan restaurant and easy access to everything on foot.
Backpackers Inn McLeodganj
Guesthouse
A friendly, budget guesthouse on Jogiwara Road with private rooms, balconies with valley views and a rooftop restaurant.
The Belvedere Himalayan Retreat
Hotel
A comfortable Leisure Hotels property tucked just off Mall Road, a short stroll from the Dalai Lama temple, with mountain-facing balcony rooms.
WelcomHeritage Natraj
Hotel
A newer upscale retreat by WelcomHeritage, around 200 metres from the Dalai Lama's residence, with a heated pool, library and Dhauladhar views.
Chonor House
Hotel
Boutique guesthouse run by the Norbulingka Institute on Temple Road, where each room is decorated with Tibetan murals and handmade furnishings.
Glenmoor Cottages
Homestay
Owner-run stone cottages in oak and deodar forest above McLeod Ganj's Mall Road, a quiet hideaway within walking distance of town.
Fortune Park Moksha
Hotel
ITC-group hotel at Satobari near Dal Lake, with balcony rooms, a pool, a spa and wide valley views, about 5 km from McLeod Ganj.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is McLeod Ganj safe for solo travellers?
How many days are enough?
McLeod Ganj Travel Guides
Best Restaurants in Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj (2026)
From Tibetan momos and thukpa to Himachali dham and wood-fired pizza, here are the best places to eat in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj, organized by cuisine, budget and area.
Groceries & Daily Essentials in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj (2026)
Where to buy vegetables, drinking water, toiletries, medicines and kitchen basics in McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu, Dharamkot and Dharamshala town -- shop timings, what costs more up the hill, and what shuts in winter.
Shopping in McLeod Ganj: What to Buy, Fair Prices & Fakes to Avoid (2026)
What to buy in McLeod Ganj and Dharamshala, from thangkas, singing bowls and Tibetan carpets to Kangra tea and woollens, with approx. fair prices, bargaining tips, the fakes to watch for and the best places to shop.