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• 21 Amazing Things To Do In Mcleodganj For A Super-Cool Retreat In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Snuggled in the Shivaliks, Mcleodganj is a one of its kind destination. Vibrant monasteries, stunning backdrop, quaint cafes, and thrilling adventure activities have made it one of the favorite summer holiday destinations in India. There are a lot of super fun things to do in Mcleodganj. From treks to strolls, hot beverages to delicious food, spiritual places to boat rides – the list has it all.

But before we go ahead with the list of the best things to do in Mcleodganj , let us quickly scan through some essentials that will help you plan your trip to Mcleodganj. Pick the ones that you like the most and slide away for an exciting trip right away!

21 Best Things To Do In Mcleodganj

Now that we have information on when to go to Mcleodganj, let us check out the amazing things to do in Mcleodganj and around. Keep scrolling down and read along!

• Dal Lake – Feel The Serene Blue Waters
• Sightseeing –  Enjoy The Exotic Beauty
• Local Markets – Collect The Bizarre Things
• Camping – Love The Nature
• Kora Circuit – Feel The Tranquillity
• Star Gazing – Stars Will Charm You
• Yoga Sessions And Spa Therapies – Relax Your Muscles
• Cooking Lessons –   Learn The Delicacies
• Tibetan Institute Of Performing Arts – Know The Ancient Culture
• Cafés And Restaurants – Relish Delicious Food
• Triund – Experience The Bounty Mountains
• Kareri River Trek – Be Close To Nature
• Bhagsu Trek – Dive In Natural Beauty
• Tsug La Khang – Witness The Eternal Power
• Tibetan Museum – Gain Knowledge About Art & Craft
• Dhauladhar Range – A Spectacular View
• Indrahar Pass Trek- Experience The Thrill
• Kangra Valley Trek – Encounter The Lush Green Cover
• Namgyal Monastery- Storehouse Of Tibetan Culture
• Nechung Monastery – Witness The History Of Tibet
• Norbulingka Institute – Witness The Educational Power

1. Dal Lake – Feel The Serene Blue Waters

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Set amidst the lush green Deodar forests, the beautiful Dal Lake of Mcleodganj offers boating options to tourists. The peaceful & beautiful setting of the lake makes boating in Dal Lake one of the most popular fun things to do in Mcleodganj with kids. The opening hours is 7 am to 8 pm of this.

Time Required: 2-3 hours

Must Read: Triund Trek: A Trekking Paradise For Experts & Beginners To Explore

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2. Sightseeing – Enjoy The Exotic Beauty

Mcleodganj is known for its monasteries, museums, temples, waterfalls, lakes, and Tibetan settlements. While considering the best places to visit in Mcleodganj , tourists can take a half-day city tour.  Mcleodganj sightseeing tours include Namgyal Monastery, Tsuglagkhang (the residence of Dalai Lama), Bhagsu Falls & Bhagsunath Temple , and Tibetan Museum.

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3. Local Markets – Collect The Bizarre Things

Like any other destination, shopping in Mcleodganj has its own charm. Kotwali Bazaar, Jogiwara Road, & Mcleodganj Central Square are well-known shopping areas in the district. While the street shops of Kotwali Bazaar are most popular for Tibetan carpets, rugs, & exotic sculptures, the Jogiwara Road holds a reputation of the go-to place for souvenir shopping. The Mcleodganj Central Square is known to have the city’s oldest shop – Nowrojee and Son – that opened in 1860. The entire market area is famous for its wooden carvings, Thangka tapestry paintings, and handicrafts.

Suggested Read: 11 Most Convincing Reasons To Visit Mcleodganj This Summer

4. Camping – Love Nature

For those who don’t want to go for typical sightseeing, there are other offbeat things to do in Mcleodganj. Camping is one of the fun things that attracts tourists each year. Camping in this heavenly place is like a vacation amidst nature’s beauty. It allows the traveler to enjoy the peaceful time and the gorgeous view of the Himalayan peak. Enjoying camping under the stars with a warm bonfire is one of a kind experience.

Time Required: 1 to 2 Days

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5. Kora Circuit – Feel The Tranquillity

Pilgrims and enthusiastic tourists often explore the Kora Circuit, one of the major Mcleodganj tourist attractions. The downslope road around the Tsuglagkhang Complex is a prayer-flag-draped path. At approximately 1.5 km from the begin of the prayer-draped path, one can see the collections of prayer wheels, chortens, and photos of Tibetans who had self-immolated from 2009. The circuit is serene with stunning views, but the track is steep and sometimes quite bumpy.

Suggested Read: 28 Best Places To Visit In Mcleodganj That’ll Make You Fall In Love With This Gem

6. Star Gazing – Stars Will Charm You

The clear sky over the snow-capped peaks makes star gazing one of the most interesting things to do in Mcleodganj. The activity is delightful for travellers of all kinds – solo travelers, couples, & families – and must not be missed.

Time Required: 3-4 hours

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7. Yoga Sessions And Spa Therapies – Relax Your Muscles

There are many yoga learning centers that offer meditation and yoga sessions for travellers. These kind of activities are popular among spiritual tourists and solo travellers. Om Yoga Centre, Himalayan Iyengar Yoga Centre, Universal Yoga Centre, and Tushita Meditation Centre are popular Mcleodganj tourist attractions for those who seek peace and relaxation of the soul.

Mcleodganj is also known for the myriad Ayurvedic healing therapies and spa treatments for the complete rejuvenation of body and mind. One such famous place is the Ayurvedic Rejuvenation Centre. Located near Bhagsu Nag, this Ayurveda centre has professional experts and doctors who offer the best-in-class spa treatments. Relaxing spa therapies is one of the refreshing things to do around Mcleodganj.

Suggested Read: Trip To Mcleodganj & Triund Trek: A Reunion Of Four Childhood Friends

8. Cooking Lessons –  Learn The Delicacies

Lhamo’s Kitchen and Sangey’s Kitchen offer cooking sessions of authentic Tibetan cuisine for travelers. And believe me, this is one of the most interesting things to do in Mcleodganj. You will get to know the traditional recipes of all the famous dishes from soups to noodles. Afterall learning a new skill is a good deal anyday. The opening and closing hours of this place is from 7 am to 9 pm.

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9. Tibetan Institute Of Performing Arts – Know The Ancient Culture

Once in Mcleodganj, don’t miss the cultural shows on Tibetan culture – folk dance and music – in Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts. This cultural center showcases occasional Tibetan cultural stage performances including traditional Lhamo – the local folk opera. One such performance continues for 6 hours. Of these shows, the annual Shoton Opera Festival – a 9-day long celebration of Traditional Tibetan Opera – is the most popular one.

Entry Charges: INR 50 per person Time Required: 2-3 hours

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10. Cafés And Restaurants – Relish Delicious Food

The cool and funky cafes and eating joints in Mcleodganj are really cozy and happening. They serve unworldly coffee, steaming hot momos, and thukpa. Relaxing in one of such charming cafes is one of the most preferred things to do in Mcleodganj, especially for solo travelers.

Best Restaurants:

• Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen
• Common Ground Café
• Hummingbird Café
• Namgyal Café
• Tibet Quality Bakery
• Lobsang Four Season Cafe

Suggested Read:  15 Best Mcleodganj Homestays Ideal For Your Next Vacay In The Hills

11. Triund – Experience The Bounty Mountains

One of the best things to do in Mcleodganj is trekking. Triund, a 9000 feet range is a 9km trek trail that will leave you with a breathtaking experience. This easy trek will offer you enchanting views of the entire Kangra valley. The short trek can be done from either McLeodganj or Dharamkot. The evening sky will give you all the feels and reason for planning an overnight stay.

Suggested Read: 20 Best Hotels In Mcleodganj For Pampering Your Wanderlusting Soul!

12. Kareri River Trek – Be Close To Nature

One of the most adventurous treks in Himachal, Kareri river trek is a pleasant weekend trek. This trek will take you through the alpine grasslands and subtropical forests. The trek can be completed in 2 days and has a moderate difficulty level. It will be a treat for your eyes to witness the whole region from the top and also the rare flora and fauna as you continue your trek. The best time to go for the trek is the summer season.

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13. Bhagsu Trek – Dive In Natural Beauty

Trek to the Bhagsu waterfalls is one of the exciting activities to do in Mcleodganj. It starts from Mcleodganj and you have to cover a distance of approximately 12 kms. The difficulty level is moderate and is best recommended for beginners. The Bhagsu trek will take you to a small waterfall near Bhagsu village and passes through Dharamkot, Galu, and Naddi Village. Walking through these places will offer you beautiful views.

Time Required: 6 hours

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14. Tsug La Khang – Witness The Eternal Power

Tsug La Khang is one of the best places to visit in Mcleodganj . The place is well-known as it is the sanctuary of the Dalai Lama. It consists of Namgyal Monastery and also several shrine rooms such as the statues of Chenrezig, Buddha, and Guru Rinpoche. Art lovers should definitely visit the place to see great pieces of art. Visiting the temple is one of the most important things to do in Mcleodganj.

Time Required: 1-2 hours

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15. Tibetan Museum – Gain Knowledge About Art & Craft

Located inside the Tsuglagkhang complex, the Tibetan Museum is unique in all aspects. It is a combination of the conventional and contemporary Tibetan architecture and one of the best places to visit in Mcleodganj . You can find various things here like the Tibetan historical documents, Thangka images, pottery, manuscripts and other handicraft items. Art admirers can also purchase paintings, handicrafts or shop souvenirs.

Suggested Read: 10 Hill Stations Near Mcleodganj: For A Retreating Stay And A Beautiful Trip

16. Dhauladhar Range – A Spectacular View

The gorgeous sunset at Dhauladhar Range is something you should definitely experience. Spend an evening at the summit when you are done with the adventure activities and relax yourself and absorb the natural beauty. You can see the different shades of the sunlight and feel the cool breeze. This magical experience will be a natural therapy to soothe all your senses.

Suggested Read: 8 Adventure Sports In McLeodganj You Must Try For A Good Adrenaline Rush

17. Indrahar Pass Trek- Experience The Thrill

If you are a trek lover and wondering what to do in Mcleodganj then you must surely do Indrahar Pass Trek in Mcleodganj which begins from Mcleodganj in the Kangra valley and culminates at Chamba. During the trek, people can gather beautiful views of mountain ranges like Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal. The trek will lead you to dense deodar, green meadows and dense forest cover. You will also get to have a look at ancient lands of Gaddi Shepherds. People get to experience the beauty of nature as well as the glimpse of wildlife.

Time Required: 4-5 days

Suggested Read: My Friends Trip To Mcleodganj Was A Sweet Escape I Always Wanted

18. Kangra Valley Trek – Encounter The Lush Green Cover

Experience the panoramic views of Dhauladhar range by opting for Kangra Valley Trek which must be included in some of the things to do in Mcleodganj .  Travellers get to witness the ancient temples, scenic beauty of lakes, some of the undiscovered Hindu towns with snow-laden valleys. This trek starts from Mcleodganj and ends by passing through Kareri village and Kereri lake. You can do the trek from March to October which is regarded as the best time.

Time Required: 3-4 days

Suggested Read: Trip To McLeodganj: Where Adventure Lovers Experience Scenic Treks

19. Namgyal Monastery- Storehouse Of Tibetan Culture

If you are in a dilemma of what to do in Mcleodganj then you can choose to visit Namgyal Monastery for sure and must include things to do in Mcleodganj . The monastery is one of the biggest Tibetan monasteries which was supposed to be the home of the Dalai Lama. Monks impart the knowledge about sacred arts, philosophy, debate and meditation. Experience the eternal environment along with the beautiful statues of Buddha which are admired by the tourists.

Time Required: 1-2 hours

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20. Nechung Monastery – Witness The History Of Tibet

One of the many things to do in Mcleodganj includes a visit to the Nechung Monastery which will give you a broad view of Buddha and the Tibetan State. You will get to witness some of the eerie things including imaginative murals in the inner courtyard. The uncanny paintings of thrashed humans are another strange thing that you will get to see along with deities with skulls of garlands. There are some animals and dragons also in the monastery.

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21. Norbulingka Institute – Witness The Educational Power

Planning your trip and wondering what to do in Mcleodganj ? The Norbulingka Institute is a must-visit in Mcleodganj as you will get to see traditional Tibetan art forms. The Institute is one of the fascinating and beautiful places where the artisans work on statue making of metal, woodcarving, embroidery and thangka paintings. The Institute is known for producing art objects, accessories along with high-quality home furnishings. You can visit the place between 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

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How To Reach Mcleodganj

• By Air: Gaggal Airport (18 km from Mcleodganj) is the nearest airport.
• By Rail: Pathankot Junction (90 km from Mcleodganj) is the nearest railway head.
• By Road: Mcleodganj Bus Terminal is well connected by buses from all major cities.

Best Time To Visit Mcleodganj

Mcleodganj is a year-round destination. The summers, i.e March to June, are pleasant and perfect for trekking and sightseeing tours.

Mcleodganj receives heavy rainfall from mid-July to August, at times accompanied by landslides. So, people tend to avoid visiting Mcleodganj during these months. However, the post-monsoon lush green surroundings make September and October in Mcleodganj very beautiful. Tourists come to explore the place in the month of December and Mcleodganj in December is a perfect trip for you if you love explore the magic of snowfall.

Winters, i.e November to February, are cold in Mcleodganj. The snowclad mountains make this destination perfect for a honeymoon trip to Mcleodganj during winters.

Further Read: 3 Girls, INR 3000 And One Wonderful Trip To McLeod Ganj! #HacksIncluded

With so many fun and exciting things to do in Mcleodganj, make sure you plan a trip to Himachal , soon. You will surely have the time of your life at this beautiful hill station with your family and friends. Mcleodganj offers an entire revitalizing therapy along with the natural beauty which will relax all your senses. With so many beautiful places to visit in Mcleodganj, people just dive in close to nature experiencing some cool breeze over the face along with the chirping of the birds.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Mcleodganj

Will it be safe to travel to Mcleodganj from our own private vehicle during COVID situation?

Yes, travelling with your own private vehicle will not be a risk during COVID situation as you will not touch or come in close proximity with anyone else.

Which is the best season to try adventure activities in Mcleodganj?

The best time to visit Mcleodganj is the summer season during the months of March, April, May and June.

Which is the nearest railway station if we travel to Mcleodganj by rail to indulge in some trekking or other activity?

Pathankot Junction is the nearest railway station around 90 kms from Mcleodganj. After which you can take a cab and then enjoy your staycation in Mcleodganj by indulging in various activities.

What we can do in Mcleodganj?

Some of the must-do things in Mcleodganj to make the most of your trip are: 1. Boat ride on Dal Lake 2. Trek to Triund 3. Visiting Bhagsu Falls 4. Shopping at the local market

Is there any snowfall in Mcleodganj?

Yes, Mcleodganj do experience snowfall during winter months. The usual snowfall time in Mcleodganj is from the months of December to February.

Is Mcleodganj a hill station?

Mcleodganj is a popular hill station located in Himachal Pradesh. It is frequently visited by tourists, holidayers, backpackers, and pilgrims throughout the year.

Is Mcleodganj safe for girls?

Mcleodganj is absolutely safe to travel destinations for girls. The town has become a popular hotspot and a safe place for girls to head alone owing to its small size.

How far in Mcleodganj from Dharamshala?

Mcleodganj is located at a distance of 6.2km from Dharamshala and the distance can be easily covered in 30 minutes by road. You can hire a taxi or board a bus to reach here.

How far is Mcleodganj from Ludhiana?

Mcleodganj is located at a distance of 200km from Dharamshala and the distance can be covered in approximately 6 hours.

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Tsuglagkhang / Dalai Lama Temple Complex

#1 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 2 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand and 4 km from Dharamshala, Tsuglagkhang Monastery is a Buddhist Monastery situated in McLeod Ganj suburb of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the must-include places in Mcleodganj holiday packages . Tsuglag Khang, also known as Dalai Lama's Temple complex, is the home for His Holiness Dalai Lama. It is among the world-renowned religious centers and is thronged by Buddhist pilgrims throughout the year. Tsuglagkhang Monastery is a beautifully built structure. This is more like a temple along with being a residential complex for His Holiness and his followers. The complex houses the Photang (Dalai Lama's residence), Tibet Museum, Tsuglagkhang Temple, and Namgyal Gompa. The monastery deals with the training of monks for rituals associated with holy shrine, whereas the temple is a chief place of worship. A beautifully decorated statue of Lord Buddha along with beautiful .....

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Tsechokling Gompa

#2 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 200 m from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand and 9 km from Dharamshala, Tsechokling Gompa, also known as Tse Chok Ling Gompa is a religious monument constructed on a steep hillside in McLeod Ganj. Tsechokling Gompa is amongst the popular monasteries in the region and is highly regarded for its cultural significance. This peaceful Gompa was built in 1987 to replicate the original Dip Tse Chok Ling Gompa in Tibet, destroyed in the Revolution. Home to a small order of Gelukpa monks, the prayer hall enshrines a statue of Sakyamuni in a magnificent jeweled headdress. The monks who lived in the Gompa made two huge drums covered in goatskin and painted beautifully. The Gompa is famous for the fine Mandalas.

Bhagsunag Waterfall / Bhagsu Falls

#3 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 3 km from McLeod Ganj & 7 km from Dharamshala, Bhagsunag Falls, also known as Bhagsu Falls, is a beautiful waterfall situated at Bhagsu village behind Bhagsunath Temple near McLeod Ganj in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the popular McLeodganj places to visit , and among the best waterfalls in Himachal . Cascading down from a height of 20 m, this is a mid-size waterfall. During monsoon, this waterfall turns beautiful alongside a mountain that features slate graffiti. This area is covered with snowfall during winters. Tourists love to swim across the cold water which gives a pleasant and refreshing experience as part of McLeodganj sightseeing packages . Trekking is also a good and much enjoyable option here. The Bhagsu village is a popular picnic spot and .....

Bhagsunath Temple

#4 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 2 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand & 6 km from Dharamshala, Bhagsu Nag Temple also known as Bhagsunath Temple is one of the popular ancient temples located in McLeod Ganj. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the local deity Bhagsu Nag. Bhagsu Nag Mandir is an ancient temple believed to have been built by King Bhagsu from Rajasthan. The present Bhagsu Nag temple was constructed by 1st Gurkha Rifles in early 19th century and worshipped majorly by 14 Gurkha platoon villages in Dharamshala . Adjacent to the temple building are a series of pools where Buddhist monks and visitors enjoy baths. An annual fair is conducted in the month of September at this temple which attracts tourist from the entire region. This temple is situated on the way to Bhagsunag Waterfall.

Triund Hill

#5 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 8 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand and 13 km from Dharamshala, Triund is a beautiful hill situated in the Dhauladhar Mountains of Himachal Pradesh. Witth an altitude of about 2842 m, it is one of the popular trekking places near Delhi , and among the must-visit places during McLeodganj tour . Triund is an 8 km trek from the McLeod Ganj Bus Stand. It is one of the best trails of short treks in Himachal state and among the top McLeodganj tourist places for adventure buffs. This is a small and easy trek, which can be done either from McLeodganj or Dharamkot, which is 2 km ahead of McLeodganj. The trail is 6 km from Dharamkot and passes through Galu Devi temple. From this temple, it takes around 3 hours to reach Triund. The initial half of the trek is a gradual incline .....

Namgyalma Stupa, Near Dharamshala

#6 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 3 km from Dharamshala and 6 km from McLeod Ganj, Namgyalma Stupa is an old Buddhist structure situated at Uparli Barol. It is one of the famous places to visit as part of Dharamshala Tour . Namgyalma Stupa is a dome-shaped construction that contains the remains of Buddha, which the Tibetans consider to be a sacred place of worship. It holds a huge shrine of Sakyamuni Buddha. The Namgyalma Stupa was constructed in the remembrance of the Tibetan soldiers who fought for the freedom of Tibet. This structure is similar in design to the structure built during the 3rd century BC by King Ashoka. Among the most prominent places of sightseeing in Dharamshala , the Namgyalma Stupa is carved from sandstone and is made with a vision of being long-lasting. It is a belief among Tibetans that anything that falls on the Namgyalma Stupa gets ..... Distance (From Mcleod Ganj): 6 Kms Trip Duration (From Mcleod Ganj - Including Travel): 1 Hour .....

Gyuto Karmapa Temple / Gyuto Monastery, Near Dharamshala

#7 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 8 km from Dharamshala and 13 km from McLeod Ganj, Gyuto Monastery is a Buddhist Monastery located at Sidbhari on the main road to Palampur. It is one of the famous Bhuddhist Monasteries in Himachal and among the best Dharamshala places to visit . The Gyuto Monastery is one of the most famous monasteries and specializes in the study of Tantric meditation, Tantric ritual arts, and Buddhist philosophy. It was founded in Tibet in 1474 by the main disciple of the first Dalai Lama, Jetsun Kunga Dhondup. After the communist Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959, the monastery was re-established in India. It is the abode of Karmapa, the Head of Kagyu Tibetan Buddhism. Karmapa means the one who carries out Buddha activity or the embodiment of all the activities of the Buddha. Also called TCV School, the main chamber of the monastery has a majestic statue of the Buddha and with the backdrop ..... Distance (From Mcleod Ganj): 13 Kms Trip Duration (From Mcleod Ganj - Including Travel): 1-2 Hours .....

Chamunda Nandikeshwar Temple, Near Dharamshala

#8 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 17 km from Dharamshala, 10 km from Palampur, 24 km from McLeod Ganj and 24 km from Kangra, Chamunda Devi Temple is a renowned Hindu Temple located at Padar on the banks of Baner River in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. This ancient temple dates back to the 16th century. The temple is dedicated to Chamunda Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The word Chamunda has been derived from two words, Chanda and Munda. As per the mythological legends, goddess Kali killed two notorious demons Chanda and Munda in a fierce battle at this place in ancient time. Hence, the goddess is known and worshipped as Chamunda. The temple houses sacred image of Chamunda Devi. In the corner of the temple, one can see small stone with footsteps of Goddess. Besides the main shrine, there is a marble staircase that takes down to the cave of Lord Shiva with a Shiva Linga. Chamunda Devi Mandir is believed to be the abode of Shiva and Shakti. Due to this reason, it is also known as ..... Distance (From Mcleod Ganj): 24 Kms Trip Duration (From Gyuto Monastery (9 km) - Including Travel): 1-2 Hours .....

Norbulingka Institute / Norbulingka Monastery, Near Dharamshala

#9 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 7.5 km from Dharamshala Bus Station and 12 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand, Norbulingka Institute is an educational and training institute situated at Dharamshala in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Norbulingka Institute was founded in 1988 for preserving Tibetan culture, literature and art. It was established by Dalai Lama and is named after Norbulingka, the summer residence of the Dalai Lamas in Lhasa, Tibet. It has been built in traditional Tibetan style located amidst gardens and ponds. The main sections of the institute are the Academy of Tibetan Culture, Literary and Cultural Research Centre as well as the Centre of the Arts. The institute also has the Seat of Happiness Temple set amidst the Japanese inspired Norbulingka gardens. It is especially known for more than 1000 murals of Buddha, frescoes of all the Dalai Lamas and drawings from the life of the 14th Dalai Lama. The institute primarily works towards preserving Tibetan traditions and ..... Distance (From Mcleod Ganj): 12 Kms Trip Duration (From Mcleod Ganj - Including Travel): 1-2 Hours .....

#10 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 3 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand and 9 km from Dharamshala, Dal Lake is a small mid-altitude lake situated near the village of Tota Rani on Mcleodganj-Naddi road in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the prominent McLeodganj tourist attractions . The beautiful Dal Lake stands at an altitude of 1,775 m and is one of the popular sightseeing attractions to visit as during McLeodganj trip . The greenish lake is home to various species of fish. It is the best base camp for trekkers in Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj. It is situated on the crest of a hill and affords a panoramic view of the Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar Ranges. Boating facility is also available at this lake. This oval-shaped lake is surrounded by deodar trees and is considered to be a sacred spot as there is a small Shiva Temple on its bank. According .....

Guna Devi Temple

#11 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 8 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand and 13 km from Dharamshala Bus Stand, Guna Devi temple is a famous Hindu temple located at Guna near McLeod Ganj in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. The temple is situated at an altitude of 2310 m in Kangra Valley. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is a pilgrim center of the Gaddi shepherds, a semi-nomadic tribe from Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. Sri Guna Devi Mandir is completely surrounded by forests of oak and deodar. People from neighboring villages including Kangra, Dharamshala come here for pilgrimage. This small complex displays wonderful and closer views of Dhauladhar Mountains. The regular one day trail to Sri Guna Devi temple starts from Naddi village above Dal Lake, 4 km from McLeod Ganj. From Naddi, a 2 km moderate trial amidst houses of Naddi village lead to Baal village after crossing a bridge over a small stream. Further 2 km from Baal village .....

St. John Church

#12 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 1 km from McLeod Ganj and 8 km from Dharamshala, St. John Church, also known as St. John In The Wilderness, is an Anglican church situated at Forsyth Ganj on the way to McLeod Ganj amidst beautiful deodar trees. The church was dedicated to Saint John the Baptist and was constructed in 1852. The Church is a historic monument and one of the oldest churches in the region. It is built in Neo-Gothic architectural style and features Belgian stained-glass windows that were donated by Lady Elgin, wife of Lord Elgin. The church was built with grey stone and is one of the few buildings still in existence in the town from the British era. The British style of architecture is extremely evident in the edifice of the church, with elegant wood of the altar and the brass handles of the oil lamps. These lamps have now been replaced with electric lamps. In 1905 an earthquake destroyed the bell tower of this church. A new bell was built in 1915, which was brought from England. .....

Illaqa / Lahesh Cave Trek

#13 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 12 km from McLeod Ganj and 17 km from Dharamshala, Lahesh Cave is a Camping ground which is used by shepherds in the summers when they take their sheep to the high altitude meadows here. It lies at an altitude of 3500 m above sea level. Lahesh Cave is a 12 km trek from the McLeod Ganj Bus Stop. This is an easy to moderate trek, which can be done either from McLeod Ganj or Dharamkot, which is 2 km ahead of McLeod Ganj. The trail is 10 km from Dharamkot and passes through Galu Devi Temple, Triund and Illaqa. Triund is the base camp for the trekkers who continue the trek to Lahesh Cave, Indrahara Pass to Bharmour. Along the way there are many small Tea shops where one can refresh during the hike. After a 2 km ascent from Triund, traversing through a ridge will lead to Illaqa or Laka which has a temporary shepherd camp. The path is rock-strewn and uneven, some spots were treacherous too. Illaqa is a flat stretch of land on the Moon Peak Mountain which divides the .....

Indrahar Pass Trek

#14 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 16 km from McLeod Ganj and 21 km from Dharamshala, Indrahar Pass is a mountain pass in the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas near the town of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. Located at an altitude of 4,342 m above mean sea level, Indrahar pass forms the border between Kangra and Chamba districts. The trekking trail to Indrahar pass is very popular and the trek starts from Galu Devi temple above Dharamkot village near Dharamsala, which is 2 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stop. The Indrahara Pass trek is considered a moderate to difficult trek. The trek passes through the camping grounds of Triund, Illaqa, and Lahesh Caves. Guna Devi to Triund is a 6 km steep but marked trail. Triund is the base camp for the trekkers who continue the trek to Lahesh Cave, Indrahara Pass and Bharmour. Along the way there are many small Tea shops where one can refresh during the hike. Trek up to Triund is very popular and busy with .....

Nechung Monastery, Near Dharamshala

#15 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 2.5 km from Dharamshala and 3 km from McLeod Ganj, the Nechung Monastery is located just below the Tibetan Library in Gangchen Kyishong and is one of the sightseeing attractions of McLeod Ganj. The monastery is part of Tsuglagkhang Complex. Nechung Monastery is considered as the seat of the State Oracle and protector-deity of His Holiness Dalai Lama and Tibet. It has a great importance in Tibetan history and Buddhist religion. Nechung has acted as spiritual guide to the Tibetan Government since the 18th century. The physical medium is called Nechung Kuten. When the medium enters into a trance-like state, the protector-deity takes possession of his body and gives advice and predictions to the Dalai Lama and Tibetan leaders in exile. The original Nechung Monastery in Lhasa had 115 monks in 1959 and was razed to the ground during the Revolution. However, six monks managed to escape to India to continue the complex traditions of the Nechung Institution. Tibetan ..... Distance (From Mcleod Ganj): 3 Kms Trip Duration (From Mcleod Ganj - Including Travel): 1 Hour .....

Kareri Lake, Near Dharamshala

#16 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 32 km from Dharamshala and 39 km from McLeod Ganj, Kareri Lake, also known as Kumarwah Lake, is a high altitude lake located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Trek to Kareri Lake is one of the top things to do in Dharamshala . Kareri Lake is situated at an altitude of 3100 m and is a fresh water lake. Snow melting from the Dhauladhar range serves as the source of the lake and a stream, Nyund is the outflow. Since the source is fresh melting snow and the lake is shallow the lake bed can be seen clearly. It is one of the must-include places in Dharamshala holiday packages . Kareri Lake is best known for being a trekking destination in the Dhauladhar range. The trek starts from Ghera village, which is about 22 km from McLeod Ganj. Ghera is accessed either by shared jeep from Dharamsala or on foot from Naddi. It has a ..... Distance (From Mcleod Ganj): 39 Kms Trip Duration (From Mcleod Ganj - Including Travel): 3-4 Days .....

Aghanjar Mahadev Temple, Near Dharamshala

#17 of 17 Places to Visit in Mcleod Ganj

At a distance of 9 km from Dharamshala and 16 km from McLeod Ganj, Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is situated in the Khaniyara village at the foothills of Dhauladhar. This temple is believed to be five hundred years old. The Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that once upon a time when Arjuna, one of the Pandavas from the Mahabharata, was on his way to the Kailash Mountains, Lord Shiva appeared at this spot and blessed him with the boon of victory over the Kauravas. There are several idols of Lord Shiva and a Lord Hanuman statue. The temple is surrounded by forests, mountains and a little waterfall is situated behind the temple with continuous flow of water. There is also a small cave with Shivlinga near the temple. This Shiva temple and its surroundings offer a great relief. This is a beautiful place to relax and capture the beauty of nature and surrounding mountains. Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM Distance (From Mcleod Ganj): 16 Kms Trip Duration (From Norbulingka Institute (3 km) - Including Travel): 1 Hour .....

Most Asked Questions on Mcleod Ganj

McLeod Ganj can be visited throughout the year, However, September to November and again from April to June is the best time to visit McLeod Ganj when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing.

McLeod Ganj usually takes 1-2 days to visit the most important attractions. McLeod Ganj can be mixed with near by wonderful destinations like Dharamshala, Dalhousie, Manali and Shimla by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of McLeod Ganj trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. McLeod Ganj tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 5900 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 9200 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in McLeod Ganj like Tsuglagkhang, Tsechokling Gompa, Bhagsunag Waterfall, Bhagsunath Temple, Triund Hill, etc. Dharamshala which is 10 km from McLeod Ganj and can be visited along with McLeod Ganj.

McLeod Ganj usually experiences with occasional snowfall during peak winter between the months of December and February. It depends on weather condition and the dates may vary and the level of snowfall may vary as well.

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Mcleod ganj related pages.

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10 Places to Visit in McLeodGanj (+ 4 nearby)

Are you looking for the best places to visit in McLeodGanj, Dharamshala? Then you have come to the right place!

McLeodGanj, in the state of Himachal Pradesh, is the home of the 14th Dalai Lama , the spiritual leader of Tibet. It’s often called “Little Lhasa” and people from all over the world flock here to learn more about Tibetan culture and Buddhism.

Set in Kangra Valley, in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains, McLeodGanj is a spiritual retreat where many travellers stay for a longer time, making it one of the best cultural destinations in India .

I visited the place twice and spent a total of five weeks here during my first Summer in India (after fleeing the South of India because of the torrid heat).

But no matter if you spend a day, a month or a year in McLeodGanj, this post features the 10 best places to visit during your stay here.

Best places to visit in McLeodGanj

Something that confused me a little before heading here, is whether I had to go to Dharamshala , McLeodGanj , Bhagsu or Dharamkot .

It’s good to know that McLeodGanj, Bhagsu and Dharamkot are within walking distance of one another and that this is where most tourists stay as the Dalai Lama Temple is nearby. Dharamshala is a city 9 km (5.6 mi) from McLeodGanj, and it’s not as nice as the other places.

So, let’s dive right into it now that that’s more clear! You will find the best places to visit in McLeodGanj in this post along with everything you need to know to plan your visit.

1. Dalai Lama Temple

One of the things India is famous for is that it is the home of the 14th Dalai Lama.

The spiritual leader of Tibet was fearing for his life after the failed Tibetan uprising of 1959 and that’s when he fled to India. He first lived in Mussoorie for a year and moved to McLeodGanj after that, where he’s been living ever since.

Not only does the Dalai Lama live in McLeod, but the Tibetan government in exile is also set in Dharamshala.

Most people come to McLeodGanj to visit the Dalai Lama Temple ( Tsuglagkhang Temple ), which is one of India’s most famous landmarks . You can visit it for free, and you can also attend the Dalai Lama’s teachings here.

Attending the Dalai Lama’s teachings

If you want to attend one of the Dalai Lama’s teachings , it’s good to know that these are in Tibetan. They will be translated into multiple languages on FM channels, though, and you can buy a portable radio in the shops of McLeodGanj in advance.

Another thing you should know is that you can’t bring phones or cameras inside and that there are no lockers in or around the temple.

I made the mistake of bringing my phone with me and had to ask around multiple shops before I could find one that was willing to keep it for a while.

2. Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts

Paying a visit to the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) is a fun way to immerse yourself in Tibetan culture. This institute was founded by the 14th Dalai Lama and hosts Tibetan cultural shows full of traditional dances and music.

So make sure to check TIPA’s calendar and attend one of these when you’re in McLeodGanj.

3. Kalachakra Temple

Located in the heart of the city, the colourful Kalachakra Temple is another beautiful place worth visiting in McLeodGanj. It was built in 1992 and you will find traditional Tibetan paintings, fresco decorations, a Buddha and a mandala here.

Don’t forget to spin the prayer wheels too while you’re here. It’s believed to help purify the obstacles in life among other things.

4. St. John’s Church

St. John’s Church was dedicated to the Jewish prophet John the Baptist. It was constructed in Neo-Gothic architecture in 1852 and it’s set in a beautiful location in the woods, a 20-minute walk from the centre of McLeodGanj.

This is one of the oldest churches in the region and what I loved most about it is that it’s both eerie and beautiful at the same time.

5. Tibetan Market

You will find plenty of small shops and market stalls on the main street of McLeodGanj (Temple Road).

From Buddha statues, singing bowls, prayer wheels and Tibetan trinkets to clothes, carpets and handicrafts, this is the perfect place to go shopping for some unique souvenirs from India .

Don’t be afraid to haggle before purchasing things here, though, as the starting price can be quite high in some of the shops.

6. Bhagsu Waterfall

One of the most popular places to visit in McLeodGanj is the Bhagsu Waterfall , which is an easy, 1-hour hike from the centre of town.

On the way to the waterfall, you will pass the Hindu Bhagsunag Temple and its two pools that are believed to have healing powers. It’s worth making a quick stop here before continuing.

Once you reach the main path to the waterfall, you will have a stunning view overlooking the valley. There are some small tea stalls on the way up and the beautiful Shiva Café is not too far from here either.

Although this is a beautiful waterfall worth checking out, you will probably not be the only one there. The area around the waterfall is on the small side and it is a popular place to visit. You could head here in the early morning to avoid crowds, though.

7. Triund Hill

Triund Hill is one of the best places to visit in McLeodGanj if you’re a nature lover, and it was my favourite place to visit here. Both the hike to Triund , as well as Triund Hill itself, are stunning.

The trek to Triund is approximately 9 km (5.6 mi) one way with an elevation gain of 1000 m. It can be done in one or two days, as it is possible to camp there.

There are two ways to reach Triund Hill. One via Dharamkot and another one via the upper part of the Bhagsu Waterfall. The second one is the one I took to hike up and it’s also the most difficult way (read: pretty steep). However, I thought it was more beautiful (and much more tranquil) than the other way, which I took to hike back down.

8. Dharamshala

Dharamshala is a city that lies 600 m below McLeodGanj. There’s a ropeway connecting it to McLeod, which makes it super easy to visit this city.

In Dharamshala, you can pay a visit to one of the highest cricket stadiums in the world, see the State War Memorial, visit the Tibet Museum or shop at Kotwali Bazar. This is also the place where you will find malls, cinemas and bigger shops in case you need something.

9. Restaurants and cafes

Another great thing about McLeodGanj is its abundance of cosy restaurants and cafés serving anything from Israeli and Italian food to Indian and Tibetan food.

Some of my favourite restaurants in McLeodGanj and Bhagsu are Nick’s Italian Kitchen (check out their balcony), Shiva Cafe , Lhamo’s Croissant and Nature Twins Cafe . There are many, many more, though!

Make sure to try some momos, thukpa, butter tea and other Tibetan specialities while you’re here. McLeodGanj is the perfect place to do so.

10. Dharamkot

Dubbed the mini Israel of Himachal Pradesh , Dharamkot is the only village in this state with a Jewish community centre, and you will find plenty of Israeli tourists here.

This quiet village is a 20-minute walk from McLeodGanj and it’s a nice place to escape the hustle and bustle of this town.

One of the best things about Dharamkot is that the only way to reach it is by foot, so you won’t see any cars here.

You will find plenty of small restaurants, shops and yoga studios here, though, and Dharamkot is also home to a famous studio (Dharamkot Studio) where you can take pottery lessons if this is something you’re interested in.

Places to visit around McLeodGanj

If you have more time in McLeodGanj, you can explore its surroundings too. Some of the best things to do around the Dharamshala area are the following:

• Kangra Fort: Kangra Fort is 30 km (18.6 mi) from McLeodGanj. It dates back to the 9th century and was once home to the Katoch dynasty. You will also find a museum here where you can learn more about its rich history.
• Gyuto Monastery: A 15 km (9.3 mi) drive from McLeodGanj, the Gyuto Monastery is the Tantric Buddhist’s main centre. The original Gyuto Monastery was founded in the 15th century in Tibet, but later re-established in India. The snow-capped mountains in the background make this monastery look even more beautiful.
• Masrur Temple Complex : Located 50 km (31 mi) from McLeodGanj, you will find 14 rock-cut Hindu temples in the Masrur Temple Complex. These temples date back to the 8th century and they’re quite a spectacular sight!
• Bir: Bir is 70 km (43.5 mi) from McLeodGanj and it’s the world’s second-highest paragliding site. So make sure not to miss it if paragliding is something you would like to check off of your Indian bucket list .

Yoga and meditation in McLeodGanj

Apart from visiting places and hiking, many people also come to McLeod to meditate, enrol in yoga classes or go on a silent retreat. You will find plenty of places offering these (and other classes) in McLeodGanj, Bhagsu and Dharamkot.

I didn’t do this myself, so I can’t recommend a specific place. However, while I was there, I met many people who recommended me places, so don’t be afraid to ask around.

Best time to visit McLeodGanj

The best time to visit McLeodGanj is in the Summer – from March to June . At this time of the year, the weather will be at its best (mostly dry and between 15°C and 30°C.).

During the monsoon season (July to September), there will be a lot of rainfall, so this is not the best time to visit McLeodGanj.

Winters last from October to February and this is the coldest time of the year when you can expect snow too.

How to get to McLeodGanj

McLeodGanj is 9 km (5.6 mi) from Dharamshala in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India. There are no trains here, but you can reach it by:

• Bus: There’s a night bus from Delhi or a regular bus from Amritsar to Dharamshala. It takes around 10 hours to reach Dharamshala from Delhi and 4 hours from Amritsar . Once you’re in Dharamshala, you will have to take a taxi to McLeodGanj, this is a steep ride up a hill that costs somewhere around 400 or 500 INR.
• Private car: Hiring a private car is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach McLeodGanj, but it’s also the most expensive one.
• Flight: Kangra Airport is just 22 km (13.7 mi) from McLeodGanj and you can take a taxi from here.

How to get around McLeodGanj

McLeodGanj and its surroundings are pretty walkable. However, if you don’t feel like walking or would like to save some time, you can easily grab a taxi .

If you would like to head to Dharamshala for the day, the easiest way to get there is by taking the ropeway .

There are also some places where you can rent a bike or a scooter in McLeodGanj. This is a nice way to explore the surroundings.

Where to stay in McLeodGanj

This one was a bit confusing to me at first, as there are plenty of places to stay in the area.

You can either stay in Dharamshala , McLeodGanj , Bhagsu , Upper Bhagsu or Dharamkot . It all depends on your personal preferences.

I visited McLeodGanj twice and stayed in Upper Bhagsu for 3 weeks the first time and in McLeodGanj for 2 weeks the second time.

• McLeodGanj: Also called “Little Lhasa”, this is where Tibetan culture is most alive. You will find the Dalai Lama Temple and many Tibetan restaurants in this area.
• Bhagsu: Bhagsu is a 20-minute walk from McLeodGanj. It’s a busy, touristy area full of taxis and hotels.
• Upper Bhagsu: As its name predicts, Upper Bhagsu is the upper part of Bhagsu. It’s quieter than Bhagsu itself, and the higher you go, the quieter it gets. This is where you will find most foreigners.
• Dharamkot: Dharamkot is a 30 to 40-minute walk from McLeodGanj and it’s similar to Upper Bhagsu. I didn’t stay here myself but I did visit it and heard it’s nice to stay here. This village can’t be reached by car, though. So you might have to walk a bit with your luggage to reach it.

My favourite place to stay was McLeodGanj itself. I was staying in a nice and quiet guesthouse with a lovely owner here ( Shree Guest House ). The place I stayed in Bhagsu was nice too, though ( Bhagsu Villa ).

Although there are peaceful places in Bhagsu, what I didn’t like when I stayed here was the drugs, alcohol and parties. I was heading to the mountains to find a quiet, peaceful place, which turned out to be more difficult than I expected.

Places to visit in McLeodGanj: Final thoughts

I hope this post will help you plan your trip to McLeodGanj, the home of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

Although I have to admit that Bhagsu wasn’t my favourite place to stay in India, I did like McLeod. It’s a great place to learn more about Buddhism and Tibetan culture.

On top of that, the surroundings are beautiful too, and there are plenty of things to see and do here. From enjoying nature to going on a spiritual retreat.

Have you been to McLeodGanj, Dharamshala? How was your experience? Let me know in the comments!

Read more about India:

• A Guide to the Triund Trek in McLeodGanj + Insider Tips
• Bhagsu Nag Waterfall, McLeodGanj: Complete Guide
• Dhankar Lake Hike in Spiti Valley: A Guide
• 4 Ways to Get from Manali to Spiti Valley
• Wagah Border Ceremony, Amritsar: A Complete Guide
• Amritsar to Lahore: Crossing the Wagah Border from India to Pakistan
• The Ultimate India Travel Bucket List: 34 Ideas
• Solo Travel in India: A Complete Guide (Best Places, Tips & Safety)

My Indian city guides:

• Amritsar Itinerary: What to Do in 1 or 2 Days
• Delhi Itinerary: The Highlights in 1 Day
• Jaipur Itinerary: 2 Days in the Pink City
• Udaipur Itinerary: 2 Days in the White City
• Jodhpur Itinerary: 2 Days in the Blue City
• Jaisalmer: 7 Places to Visit in 2 Days
• Pushkar in 1 Day: 8 Places to Visit (+ 4 if You Have More Time)

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Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Mcleod Ganj

When travelers talk of staying in Dharamsala, McLeod Ganj is usually where they actually mean. A couple of miles north of Dharamsala proper (or six miles via the looping bus route), McLeod Ganj is the residence of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and home to a large Tibetan population, including many maroon-robed monks and nuns. The Tibetan government-in-exile is based in between at Gangchen Kyishong. McLeod attracts thousands of international visitors, many of them volunteering with the Tibetan community, taking courses in Buddhism, meditation or yoga, trekking in the Dhauladhar mountains, shopping for Tibetan crafts, or just hanging out enjoying the spiritual vibe and the plethora of good cafes where you're never far from an interesting conversation.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Mcleod Ganj. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tsuglagkhang Complex

McLeod's main focus for visiting pilgrims, monks and most tourists is the Tsuglagkhang complex, a custard-coloured concrete monastic village that's home…

Tibet Museum

This must-see, two-storey museum sets out to remind visitors of Tibet's history as an independent nation, mourning the Chinese occupation (since 1949) and…

Men-Tsee-Khang

Men-Tsee-Khang is an organisation established to preserve the traditional arts of Tibetan medicine and astrology. The Gangchen Kyishong branch includes a…

Library of Tibetan Works & Archives

Inside the government-in-exile compound, nearly 2km downhill from the Tsuglagkhang complex, the Library of Tibetan Works & Archives began life as a…

Men-Tsee-Khang Museum

Three floors of displays explain the sophisticated sciences of Tibetan astrology and medicine.

Kalachakra Temple

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A Little Lhasa… 20 Things to Do in the Tibetan Town of McLeodganj, India

Last updated on August 20, 2023 by Shannon

The bus skirted the mountainside as my cousin and I traveled toward Dharamsala, India. In my many weeks backpacking through India, this past week had begun the tour of subgroups and other cultures strongly present within India.

En route to visit Dharamsala—or, more accurately the small town of McLeodganj—I stopped for several nights in Amritsar to learn more about the Sikh religion, and to visit the holy Golden Temple . Amritsar is a crowded, congested city and after sitting on the shores of the Temple’s lake, I boarded a bus that would take me further into the Himalayan foothills, and into yet another culture.

Although it’s still technically India, McLeodganj is better known as “Little Lhasa” since it’s the seat of power for the exiled Tibetan government. To walk the streets of this small mountain town is like an exit from India.

Although there are some ethnic Indians in the city, the bulk of the town is composed of Tibetan refugees. And, the His Holiness the Dalai Lama calls McLeodganj home.

Table of Contents

History of McLeodganj

McLeodganj is a hill town located in the Kangra district of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its Tibetan culture and beautiful monasteries. The history of McLeodganj is closely linked to the history of Tibet.

After the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959, the Dalai Lama fled to India and settled in McLeodganj, which became the center of the Tibetan exile community in India. Many Tibetans followed the Dalai Lama to India and settled in McLeodganj, bringing with them their culture and traditions.

The town was named after David McLeod, the British Lieutenant Governor of Punjab, who founded the town in the 19th century. It was originally a small hill station that was popular with British officials and tourists.

In the early 20th century, McLeodganj became a center for Tibetan Buddhism and was home to many Tibetan monasteries and temples. The Dalai Lama’s residence, the Tsuglagkhang Temple, is located in McLeodganj and is a popular tourist attraction.

Quick Break: Realities of Traveling in India

Having spent more than a month in Rajasthan, an intensely populated area bustling with tourists and touts and people. This time in India’s far north was a chance to take a step back from the pace of my previous travels.

Arriving in McLeodganj was a sanctuary from the sensory assault of the past weeks. The weather was cooler, the mountains misted in the mornings, and the tall peaks blotted out the sun early in the day.

With a gorgeous guesthouse secured (we stayed at a great budget spot  the first few nights but then moved nicer when we got sick), my cousin and I decided to camp out in McLeodganj for a week.

I had high hopes that this base would afford me the chance to hike in the mountains around the city. Unfortunately, traveler’s sickness final struck, and it alternated its victim.

My cousin and I had done well for five weeks—we avoided even the whiff of sick. But the traveler’s adage proved true—it’s not a matter of if you’re going to get sick in the country, but rather when.  

I had traveled with a SteriPen for the past weeks in India. This little device was very handy. It saved us money and it also eliminated the assault on the environment that comes from mass consumption of bottled water in a country that has no effective waste management system.

The SteriPen never failed us, but instead we were felled by the street dumplings we had craved on arrival. I deeply love Tibetan momos and the chance to eat them all day from every location seemed fortunate. But instead, those dumplings shaved several days from our time in Dharamsala.

Traveling in developing countries has challenges, and now that I am many months into traveling through Asia—first Southeast Asia and now India —I am weary of hugging more toilets. I am also not a huge fan of mega dosing on antibiotics, but it’s a given for long-term travel.

Even though I had a huge course of antibiotics to overcome dysentery in Laos , I needed another course for this bout of traveler’s diarrhea. I am stepping up my caution once again. When so many weeks pass, it’s easy to let my guard down and crave fresh fruits even if I have a niggling doubt that they’ve been sterilized.

Best Things to Do in McLeodganj

Anyhow, that took me down for the count for part of my time in McLeodganj. But as for actually visiting the area in and around Dharamsala—there’s a lot to offer! The main activities center on either the Tibetan aspects of the down or the hiking. My cousin and I both took this time to learn more about the situation in Tibet. Knowing only the basics about the conflict between the Tibetans and the Chinese, learning the scope of the was sobering.

1. Visit the Tibetan Museum in McLeodganj

The Tibetan museum is a basic building and exhibits center on rooms full of pictures that tell stories about the many the Tibetan refugees crossing through the snowy mountains to find freedom. It’s harrowing, they faced frostbite, lack of food, and general poverty in their quest to live and find freedom. Once in India, the refugees struggle to rebuild their lives with the support of the Tibetan government in exile.

2. Visit the Dalai Lama Temple

The Dalai Lama Temple, also known as Tsuglagkhang, is a popular attraction in McLeodganj. It is a beautiful Tibetan Buddhist temple that is open to visitors and offers prayer sessions and teachings by the Tibetan monks. The temple complex also includes the residence of the Dalai Lama, the Namgyal Monastery, and the Tibetan Library. Visitors can also attend teachings and lectures by the Dalai Lama, when he’s well and in residence.

3. Don’t Miss Clapping Monks at the Tibetan Monastery

Near the museum is a large monastery where the Tibetan monks live. Visiting the monastery was a fantastic experience and a real highlight from my time in the city. The older monks were using the open grounds of the monastery to prepare for their final debates.

If you have ever seen a roomful of monks debate, it’s not something you are likely to forget! The debating style is unique. They emphatically argue their points to the other person, then make a large slapping/clapping motion at the end to both emphasize the point and throw the focus to the next person. I wrote a bit more on that here .

It was neat to hang out in the courtyard and observe the process. It’s an open and welcoming place, so there was no pressure to do anything other than enjoy and ask the occasional question when I found an English speaker.

The Dalai Lama wasn’t feel well during my visit, so I wasn’t able to see him speak in person. The week before I arrived, the Tibetans rallied against 50 years in exile (it’s now been over 60 years). Although the event had passed, the general tone of amplifying their message and sharing their struggles was ever-present. Tibetans are a peaceful people, but they wanted to let the world know and remember their struggles and displacement.

4. Hunt Down Tasty Momos and Salted Butter Tea

One of my favorite new finds is a tasty is a salted butter tea. Well, that and the Tibetan brown bread. Oh, and the momos, of course. In fact, all of the Tibetan food was delicious and contained a complexity of flavor within seemingly simple dishes.

McLeodganj is small too, so no matter which guesthouse you choose, you can visit any of the restaurants on an easy walk. For the first few days, my cousin and I made a point to try a new lunch and dinner spot each day—that was essentially enough time to try them all!

Once we had a few stand-out favorites, we spent the rest of the time popping around to each place, chatting with the owners, and downing delicious Tibetan eats.

With so many tasty options, we ate very well. Before a hike, my cousin and I usually packed some brown bread and snacks and hiked around the outskirts of town and into the nearby mountain towns.

4. Stop for a Photo Shoot at the Bhagsunag Waterfall

The Tibetan community is slower paced than the rest of India, but it’s still India. On one of our hikes my cousin and I found ourselves back in the spotlight with the locals. We hiked to the small but pretty Bhagsu Waterfall outside of town and found ourselves a delightful novelty to the Indians also hiking to the waterfall.

I had a mini photoshoot with a few hikers, and then laughed my way away from their group.

After the first impromptu photoshoot, I was still surprised when I was accosted for a second photoshoot with a large and boisterous family. There must have been 12 members of the family. They swarmed us, but in a much more fun and interactive way than the slow stalking at Gandhi’s Ashram when I had first arrived.

Once my cousin and I agreed to take a picture with family’s children, the mother of the group decided to gather the whole family together. It was so funny. They all jostled us around so that they could be touching some part of us during the  picture.

After they snapped a photo on one camera, the mother would grab our arms in a death grip to hold us in place. She wanted to ensure that we didn’t flee before we had posed for a full lineup of photo in various arrangements.

The family gave us a good laugh, they were genuine and friendly, but they would have never let us leave, so we did a walking backwards departure after ten minutes. There were lots of hugs, smiles, and waves until we rounded the bend and my cousin and I fast-walked out of there!

5. Explore the Bhagsunag Temple

The Bhagsunag Temple is an ancient Shiva temple located in the Bhagsunag village, just a short distance from McLeodganj. The waterfall mentioned above surrounds it and the entire area is a great place to relax and meditate.

The temple is located in a beautiful setting and is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities. I had a mini photoshoot with a few hikers, and then laughed my way away from their group.

6. Learn Tibetan Cooking

With a good amount of time on our hands in McLeodganj, we signed up for a cooking class. I have eaten my weight in Tibetan momos these past weeks in India’s north, so I decided to learn the process with a hope that I can make them myself when I’m back home and longing for the flavors.

The class was simple and a fun way to pass the afternoon. Sanji Tashee taught two classes each day with several different lessons. Now, there is a great vegetarian cooking class on offer at Lhamo’s Kitchen that comes highly recommended.

For my class, of course I only had eyes for the class that took me through the momo process from start to finish. Traditional vegetarian momos have just a handful of flavor combinations. There are: spinach and cheese; cabbage, onions and veggies; mixed vegetables.

The real treat turned out to be my favorite of the three—a chocolate momo! This is definitely  not  a traditional Tibetan momo, but Tashee knew his audience well. He won my undying affection with the delicious combination of cocoa, sugar, and sesame seeds all steamed in a dumpling shell. Unbelievably good.

And one of the coolest parts was learning how to roll out the momos, stuff them, and then how to fold them into pretty little dumpling shapes.  Between the Laotian cooking class and now with the Tibetan momos, friends and family back home can expect a special international cuisine night when I get home.

7. Visit the Norbulingka Institute

The Norbulingka Institute is a Tibetan cultural center located in McLeodganj. It is a great place to learn about Tibetan culture and see Tibetan artisans at work. The institute is home to a beautiful Tibetan garden and offers classes in Tibetan art and culture. Visitors can also watch Tibetan artisans at work and purchase handmade Tibetan items.

8. Visit the St. John in the Wilderness Church

The St. John in the Wilderness Church is a beautiful Anglican church located in McLeodganj. It is a popular tourist attraction and is known for its beautiful architecture. The church was built in the 19th century and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

9. Visit the Triund Hill

Triund Hill is a popular trekking destination located just a few kilometers from McLeodganj. The trek to Triund Hill offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is a great place for nature lovers. The trek is not too difficult and can be completed in a day—you’ll need a full day though.. There are also several guesthouses and campsites at the top of the hill where visitors can spend the night.

10. Relax at Dal Lake

Dal Lake is a beautiful lake located just a few kilometers from McLeodganj. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. The lake is surrounded by forests and is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.

You can take a walk around the lake, go boating, or just sit by the lake and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It’s also a great place for birdwatching, as it is home to a variety of bird species. Dal lake is accessible by road and is popular with both tourists and locals alike.

11. Go paragliding

Paragliding is a popular activity in McLeodganj, and it offers stunning views of the Himalayas. There are several operators offering paragliding tours in the region. The tours usually include a brief training session and a guided flight with an experienced instructor.

12. Shop at the Tibetan Market

The Tibetan Market in McLeodganj is a great place to shop for souvenirs and Tibetan handicrafts. It is also a good place to try some Tibetan food and watch local artisans at work. The market is filled with stalls selling handmade Tibetan items such as prayer flags, Thangka paintings, and Buddhist statues.

13. Take a yoga class

McLeodganj is a great place to practice yoga and there are several studios and instructors offering classes in the region. The town is known for its peaceful atmosphere and is a popular destination for yoga retreats and teacher training programs.

14. Visit the Kangra Fort

The Kangra Fort is a historic fort located just a short distance from McLeodganj. It is a great place to learn about the history of the region and see some beautiful architecture. The fort was built in the 4th century and has a long and interesting history. It is now a popular tourist attraction and offers beautiful views

15. Plan a Proper Long Trek

In addition to the Triund Trek mentioned, plan some proper hiking in these gorgeous mountains. These are the most popular treks near McLeod Ganj.

The Kareri Lake Trek : The Kareri Lake Trek is a beautiful trek that takes you through the forests and meadows of the Dhauladhar range. The trek starts from McLeodganj and takes you to the Kareri Lake, which is a beautiful high altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The trek is moderate in difficulty and takes about 3-4 days to complete.

The Minkiani Pass Trek : The Minkiani Pass Trek is a challenging trek that takes you through the Dhauladhar range and over the Minkiani Pass, which offers stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek starts from McLeodganj and takes about 8-9 days to complete. It is suitable for experienced hikers and requires good physical fitness.

The Bhrigu Lake Trek : The Bhrigu Lake Trek is a beautiful trek that takes you through the forests and meadows of the Dhauladhar range to the Bhrigu Lake, which is a high altitude lake located at an altitude of 4,300 meters. The trek starts from McLeodganj and takes about 4-5 days to complete. It is suitable for moderate to experienced hikers.

The Hampta Pass Trek : The Hampta Pass Trek is a beautiful trek that takes you through the forests and meadows of the Pir Panjal range and over the Hampta Pass, which offers stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek starts from McLeodganj and takes about 5-6 days to complete. It is suitable for moderate to experienced hikers.

16. Enjoy the Relaxed Pace of Life

Take time to sit and drink tea at the tiny coffee shops. Browse for Tibetan handicrafts as souvenirs in the shops and street side stalls. Accept a cuppa chai tea when you’re invited. Bundle up and go stargaze in the evening.

In short, McLeodganj is not the place to stick to a frenetic pace of life. The Tibetan community brings a calming influence to the city, and a spiritual one too. Many foreigners take classes in yoga and meditation nearby.

Others are there for the same reasons I found myself enjoying McLeodganj—simply to enjoy the pace of life.

It’s a pretty little city, and one unlike anywhere else in India. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, surrounded by beautiful forests, mountains, and valleys. There is just no shortage of things to do no matter what type of traveler you are.

Quick Travel Tips: McLeod Ganj

McLeodganj is a hill town and can be quite cold, especially in the winter months. It is a good idea to pack warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes. However, it is also important to pack light as you will be carrying your luggage up and down the hills.

Stay hydrated

The weather in McLeodganj can be quite dry, and it is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. It is a good idea to carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times so you can fill up at guesthouses (or buy a big jug and fill up from it to save plastic).

Respect the culture

McLeodganj is home to a Tibetan exile community and it is important to respect their culture and traditions. It is a good idea to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering temples and monasteries.

Be prepared for high altitudes

McLeodganj is located at a high altitude and some people may experience altitude sickness. It is a good idea to acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in any strenuous activities.

McLeodganj is generally a safe place to visit, but it is always a good idea to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night and be careful when carrying valuables.

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What am I reading right now? : The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai

3 thoughts on “A Little Lhasa… 20 Things to Do in the Tibetan Town of McLeodganj, India”

Dharamshala is One of the best place to hangout in Himachal! Love it.

What great photos. I love hearing about your travels Shannon, you tell it straight like no one else :)

Mmmm I am looking forward to you making me some of that when you get home :)

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"Land of His Holiness the Dalai Lama - Little Lhasa"

Mcleodganj tourism.

Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most popular tourist destinations for it's tibetan culture, nature treks, greenery, ancient temples & monasteries, and british influence. Located in the Kangra district, it's on the outskirts of Dharamshala. Famous for being home to the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, Mcleod Ganj is culturally blessed by a prominent Tibetan influence owing to the major settlement of Tibetans here who fled their homeland. It is also worth noting that Tibet's exiled government is also based solely in Mcleodganj which is also why it's called the Little Lhasa.

Nestled amidst majestic hills and lush greenery, the town  has one of the most mesmerising landscapes in the entire state of Himachal Pradesh and attracts a lot of tourists throughout the year. The mountainous region and  forests of Oak, Rhododendron, Deodar, and makes Mcleodganj a favorite trekkers, with the Triund Trek, Kareri Lake Trek, Thatharana Trek being some of the most popular ones. The towns of Dharamsala, Dharamkot, Bhagsu Nag and Kangra are some of the closest destinations to Mcleodganj. Few of the most eminent and religiously significant monasteries in India are located here, including the Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang , where the spiritual leader Dalai Lama resides. A combination of serenity, adventure, and spirituality, Mcleodganj is truly a winter favorite among tourists and one of a lifetime experiences. 

Must Know Before You Travel to Mcleodganj

• It's best to avoid travelling to Mcleodganj during Monsoons (July to August) due to heavy downpour. 
• According to Tibet Travel Policy, tourists can't stay at a Tibetan monastery or live with Tibetan monks. However, in Dharamsala, you have a unique opportunity to stay in a monastery, speak to the monks, attend pujas, and partake in Tibetan spirituality. Guyto monastery has got rooms for rent for their visitors. 
• Mobile network is available during treks, however, the network vanishes once you reach the top.

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Visiting Mcleodganj : Travel Guide To The Home Of The Dalai Lama

Created by Colleen Sims * 9 December 2023 * Updated 23 March 2024

Table of Contents

We fell in love with Mcleodganj during our 3 month tour of India but initially I knew nothing of the town except that you could hike here.

Nestled amongst the majestic Dhauladhar mountains in the Himalayan foothills, this charming hill station offers a unique Tibetan influence and is a glorious place for any visitor.

If you love the great outdoors, are fascinated by the Tibetan History and are keen to visit some lesser know Gems in India then read on as Mcleodganj is your perfect destination!

Visiting Mcleodganj : Travel Guide

We’ll hold our hands up and admit that the real reason we added Mcleodganj to our India itinerary was simply because we’d heard of the Triund Trek. It was only after further investigation that we learned about the town’s famous resident, the Dalai Lama. 

Mcleodganj stole our hearts and even after several days exploring we wish we’d stayed longer.  We created this guide for first time visitors like us. Read on if you want to know :

• how to reach Mcleodganj
• where to stay
• where to eat

Whether you’re seeking solace, outdoor adventure, or an escape from the hustle and bustle of Indian cities, this glorious little town will capture your heart too.

Where is Mcleodganj?

Mcleodganj sits in the Kangra district of the Himachal Pradesh region of India. Think lush green valleys, snow-capped peaks, and crisp mountain air; it’s just 5 kilometres away from the larger Dharamshala.

Tucked away in the foothills of the Himalayas, at an altitude of 2000 metres, Mcleodganj offers stunning mountain views and glorious sunsets.

Top Tip : I was confused by choosing either Dharamshala or Mcleodganj and wasn’t sure what the difference was between the two. Mcleodganj is almost like the little sister of Dharamshala, the two are both easily reached from each another. Mcleodganj is smaller and higher up the mountain road and has more of a village feel.

History of Mcleodganj

With its more modern sounding name it would be easy to assume that the history of Mcleodganj is tied up with the British Empire but it is actually much older. There are mentions of the region in ancient Hindu scriptures dating from the 4th century BC and by Chinese travellers in 7th century.

During the time of the Mughal rulers the region changed hands many times but became part of the British Empire in 1846 and remained so until India’s independence in 1947.

In more recent years, Mcleodganj became intrinsically linked with Tibet and the Dalai Lama.  In 1959, Mcleodganj became a haven for Tibetan refugees; including the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government-in-exile.  They have since rebuilt their lives and culture here and as a result Mcleodganj offers a unique blend of Tibetan traditions and Indian charm.

Why is Mcleodganj Famous?

Today Mcleodganj is famous for its spiritual ambiance, Tibetan culture and as the seat of the Tibetan government-in-exile.

For us, it was the mountains that led us to the town. Having spent many glorious days here we realise that Mcleodganj is famous on many levels :

• Tibetan Culture with monks and markets and colourful prayer flags the region offers a unique culture in India.
• Himalayan Beauty hiking the Triund Trek or through rhododendron forests in the surrounding mountains offers breath taking vistas and glorious sunsets.
• Spiritual and Yoga Retreats are a popular attraction and many people visit to seek solace in the town’s peaceful environment.
• Food and Coffee Lovers Paradise with its unique history reflected in the food and the coffee culture . From momos and thukpa and fusion cafes, you can tantalize your taste buds in Mcleodganj.

Is it Worth Visiting Mcleodganj?

Absolutely! We totally loved our stay and it’s high on our list for a return visit.  We were taken by surprise at how much we adored this little town.  It has such a relaxed vibe that it almost demands a slower pace.

We loved the clean air, the café culture , the breath-taking scenery, rich history, creative arts and incredibly friendly locals.  Mcleodganj is perfect for a short stay and its blend of Tibetan and Indian culture creates a unique and unforgettable experience.

How Many Days Do You Need in Mcleodganj?

It depends on your pace.  We allowed 6 days and could have stayed several weeks.  I would be quite content to walk the Kora every day, drop in at my favourite coffee shop and sit and read and write or take photographs.

However, for most people a 3 day Mcleodganj itinerary allows you time to cover the highlights and really get a feel for the town.  The longer you stay the more you can delve deeper into the culture and explore more distance or hidden gems.

Where to Stay in Mcleodganj

We opted to stay in Mcleodganj and we have no regrets with that decision.  If we return we would still opt to stay in the mountains rather than Dharamshala.  All that we wanted to see and do was easily accessible and we loved the vibe of Mcleodganj.

Here are our three top choices for accommodation in the town; with something for every budget.

Our Budget Pick : Ram Yoga House

We stayed at Ram Yoga House and we were happy with our stay.  It is a little out of the main centre but this made it quieter and the location was never an issue for us.  The rooms were large, we had a small kitchen and balcony. We had great views of the Temple Complex and it’s close to the Kora Walk and the Dalai Lama’s temple.

Ram Yoga House

• We loved the comfortable bed and breakfast choices
• Excellent value for money
• Offers yoga and retreat packages
• It is a little on the edge of town but it was never an issue and we loved the quiet evenings

Our Comfort Pick : The Hosteller

Another great choice if you wish to be close to the action but not in the thick of it.  The Hosteller is a hostel but it also offers excellent private en-suite rooms. 

As a hostel it’s a great choice for solo visitors or those wishing to meet likeminded travellers, whilst still wanting a little privacy and comfort.

The Hosteller

• Choice of dormitory rooms or superior rooms
• Good location just on the edge of the main sights
• 24 hour reception, daily maid service and a restaurant
• Might be too much like a hostel for some but great for meeting others

Our Luxury Pick : Hotel Norbu House

If you are looking for a little extra comfort during your stay in Mcleodganj, then you will struggle to beat the service and location of the Hotel Norbu House ; and for a price that you’d expect of a mid-range hotel. 

This is a great choice for travellers looking for a special stay and you only need to read the reviews to see why people choose to stay here.

Hotel Norbu House

• Amazing views and almost on the doorstep of the Dalai Lama’s temple
• Rooms and suites are available
• Expect all the services of a modern, highly rated hotel in an exceptional location
• No swimming pool and maybe a little pricey for some travellers

Is it better to Stay in Mcleodganj or Dharamshala?

Deciding between Mcleodganj and Dharamshala was the dilemma we faced.  I am happy that we choose to stay higher up in Mcleodganj but there are pros and cons for either; ultimately both are close to each other and both offer a unique experience.

Staying in Dharamshala

• Quieter and less crowded than Mcleodganj (I have to say that the times we visited it didn’t feel so quiet)
• Lower accommodation costs
• Central location for transportation
• Mix of more authentic Indian as well as Tibetan culture
• Further from the Tibetan heart of Mcleodganj
• Fewer Tibetan restaurants and shops
• Not as walkable as Mcleodganj

Staying in Mcleodganj

• Immersed in Tibetan culture
• Close to the Dalai Lama’s residence and Temple complex
• Wide variety of Tibetan restaurants and shops
• Walkable town centre and very easy to explore on foot
• More options for trekking and outdoor activities
• More crowded and touristy
• Higher accommodation and restaurant costs (but not hugely different)
• Limited access to non-Tibetan attractions

How to Get To Mcleodganj

Mcleodganj isn’t directly accessible by air or rail, but there are lots of nearby connections and choices. 

We travelled from Amritsar to Mcleodganj.  Initially we had booked seats on an air conditioned coach but this was cancelled on the morning of our journey.  A hasty change of plan led us to taking a private taxi and it was excellent value for money; costing less that 40€ door to door.  Our bus would have taken us to Dharamshala where we would have needed a taxi or tuk-tuk to reach Mcleodganj.

The options that you choose will depend on budget, starting location and time-frame but your choices are :

Mcleodganj By Air

The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (also known as Kangra Airport ), located less than 20 kilometres from Mcleodganj. Regular flights connect Gaggal Airport to major cities in India; Indigo and Spicejet offer flights; use Skyscanner to check times and availability.

Taxis and buses connect the airport to Dharamshala and Mcleodganj.

Mcleodganj By Road

Mcleodganj is well-connected by road from major cities such as Delhi and Chandigarh; we travelled from Amritsar after visiting the Golden Temple and the Wagah Border Ceremony and after travelled onwards to Shimla (to ride the famous Toy Train).

Buses and private taxis are readily available, offering scenic journeys through the mountains.  Do expect the roads to be bumpy and dusty; many are in a bad state of repair and some are being rebuilt and we were told it could take years.  However, we enjoyed our car journey even though it was not as smooth as you might expect; nonetheless we’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Use 12Go to check if buses are available for your journey. 

Himachal Pradesh has a public bus service.  These offer excellent value for money but the journeys can be very long and the timetable is not always convenient, but they offer some stunning mountain views and are a great choice for the budget traveller. 

Look for buses to Dharamshala as most journeys will terminate here; you can then take a tuk-tuk or taxi for the last few kilometres to Mcleodganj. We found that UBER did not work in Mcleodganj.

Top Tip : Ask the hotel that you are travelling from or going to in Mcleodganj.  They will have trusted drivers who’s rate is often much lower than rates advertised on major booking sites.

Mcleodganj By Train

The closest mainline railway station is Pathankot, which is well-connected to various cities in India.  However, the station is a fair distance at almost 90 kilometers from Mcleodganj. 

There are regular buses and taxis that will take you onwards to Dharamshala or Mcleodganj. Again use 12GO to check which trains (and buses) are available.

Getting Around Mcleodganj

Walking is the best way to explore the town’s narrow lanes and soak up the atmosphere. Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available if you wish to venture further afield although UBER didn’t work for us. Tuk-Tuks are perhaps the better option for getting around Mcleodganj’s narrow streets, which can often be jammed with traffic.

Top Tip : be sure to negotiate your fare beforehand or ask your accommodation for recommendations and to book for you. 

You can also use the Skyway Cable Car to quickly move between Mcleodganj and Dharamshala. It’s not the cheapest form of transport but the views are majestic!

Things To Do and Places to Visit in Mcleodganj

Mcleodganj is like no place we’ve visited before, offering the chance to explore ancient forts, temples and monasteries as well as trekking in the Dhauladhar mountain range.  

For more detailed ideas on how to plan your visit take a look at our 3-day Mcleodganj itinerary but here are a few ideas to get you started :

• Namgyal Temple Complex – Enjoy the tranquillity of the Dalai Lama’s residence and explore the Tibetan Buddhist culture.
• Walk the Kora – The spiritual circuit that encompasses the Dalai Lama’s temples and residence.
• Triund Trek – Embark on a trek with breath taking Himalayan views.
• Bhagsu Nag Waterfall – A more gentle trek through scenic forests.
• Dalai Lama’s teachings – It is possible to attend public teachings if the Dalai Lama’s schedule coincides with your visit.
• The Norbulingka Institute – While away several hours exploring this Institute which promotes the preservation of Tibetan Arts and culture.

Top Tip : Check out our 3-day Itinerary for more things to do in Mcleodganj

Mcleodganj Tour Guides

When we were searching for things to do in Mcleodganj and indeed across the Himachal Pradesh region, we came across a website offering tours with local guides, born and living in the region. 

As we’re always keen to support local initiatives we have since been talking with Himachal Bylocals ; they’re a great local tour company and we’re more than happy to help promote their tours and services and we know that a guide really can add depth to your experience.

We’d recommend that you take any of these tours; for both hiking and cultural visits in and around Mcleodganj.

• Tour 1 : Day hike to Triund Hill with a local guide
• Tour 2 : Day tour across the Kangra Valley to Kangra Fort and Masroor Rock Cut Temple with a local guide
• Tour 3 : Day cultural tour of Mcleodganj and Dharamshala with a local guide

Spiritual, Yoga And Meditation Retreats

There are many choices for people wishing to visit Mcleodganj for spiritual reasons or those simply seeking a quiet retreat.  Some offer day classes which allow you to stay in your own choice of accommodation and others offer residential courses.

Tushita Meditation Centre

Tushita Meditation Centre is situated in the forest above McLeodganj, is dedicated to the study and practice of Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism. Established in 1972 by Lama Thubten Yeshe, Tushita provides a welcoming space for individuals of all backgrounds to explore Buddhist philosophy and meditation.

Thosamling is a global community of Buddhist nuns and lay women, residing and studying in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

Nestled in the foothills 16 kilometres from Mcleodganj on the outskirts of Dharamshala, it offers unique study, practice, and retreat opportunities.   Whist primarily a nunnery, its vitality stems from a diverse international community of Dharma practitioners.

Ram Yoga house

We Stayed at Ram Yoga House and as well as offering accommodation this is a flourishing Yoga Retreat.

Ram Bhardwaj, founder of Yoga House, brings a rich background rooted in yoga and Ayurveda. Raised in a family of yoga practitioners and midwives near Dharamshala, Ram has evolved into a world-renowned Yoga and Thai Yoga Massage teacher, having taught in over 20 cities across Asia, England, Europe, and South America.

Local Food and Our Favourite Places to Eat in Mcleodganj

Indulge your taste buds in the diverse culinary offerings of Mcleodganj. From traditional Tibetan momos to north Indian earthy currys, the town boasts a variety of gastronomic delights; there is also a healthy vegan, vegetarian and café scene here too.

We really loved Snow Lion Café and Crepe Pancake Hut but to read about all of our favourite eateries don’t miss our separate post for our top 5 Café recommendations .

The Best Time to Visit Mcleodganj

Whilst Mcleodganj maybe considered a year-round destination, an ideal time for sight-seeing or hiking is either spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. 

We visited in mid-November and whilst the weather was perfect, we did experience cloud in the afternoons. There was also some air pollution in Dharamshala as a result of the crop burning in the Punjab although nowhere near as bad as in Delhi at that time of year.  We never noticed air-pollution higher up in Mcleodganj.

There are fewer crowds in July and August but it can also be hot and humid and the monsoon has been known to wash away roads so it’s perhaps not the ideal time for visiting.

• March to Early June – Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and trekking.
• July to September – Monsoon season, expect heavy rain and limited outdoor activities.
• Mid October to Mid December – Post-monsoon, with clear skies and vibrant landscapes.
• Mid-December to February – Winter brings chilly temperatures and the occasional snowfall.

Mcleod Ganj, Mcleodganj, or McleodGanj? The Name Conundrum!

Mcleodganj was named after Sir Donald Friell McLeod, born in India to a Scottish father and was Lieutenant Governor of the Punjab. Ganj is a common Persian word meaning neighbourhood.

When researching the town I wasn’t sure if the variations in name meant different locations or different towns.  However, all versions refer to the same place and locals will use them interchangeably, reflecting different linguistic influences. 

All three names are acceptable, although we were told that Mcleodganj is the most widely used.

Visiting Mcleodganj : Our Travel Guide

We fell in love with Mcleodganj and I hope that shines through in all our posts about this little mountain gem. We would happily revisit and do very little except walk, explore and relax in this special Himalayan treasure.

If you only have a few days then our Mcleodganj Itinerary for 3 days provides a taste of all that the town and region has to offer.

Be prepared to be captivated. Mcleodganj offers cultural richness, spiritual aura, and breath-taking landscapes. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this town has something magical to offer.

Plan your trip wisely, immerse yourself in the local experiences, and let Mcleodganj weave its charm on you.

Discover More About India

If you’re visiting India and you’ve found this useful then you may be interested to read my other posts :

• Incredible India : Our Unforgettable Three Month Adventure
• Amritsar Itinerary : 2 Fabulous Days in the Golden Holy City
• Visiting the Golden Temple in Amritsar : All You Need to Know
• Wagah Border Ceremony : Where Is It, What Is It and How Do You Visit?
• 3 Day Itinerary for Mcleodganj
• Top 5 Cafes in Mcleodganj

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Whenever you travel overseas it’s imperative to travel with a good travel and medical insurance policy.  None of us expect anything bad to happen, but in the event of an incident, you want to be sure that your insurance will be there for you.

I’ve had the mis-fortune to end up in hospital in Peru, Indonesia, Portugal and Ireland; every time my insurance took care of everything. I would never leave home without full and comprehensive insurance.

Globelink   : We have used and recommended Globelink for years and we’ve not heard of any issues. They are a great choice for European and UK Residents.

TrueTraveller  : We have this policy now for an extended global trip and we are very happy with the cover, especially considering our ages and pre-existing conditions

Safety Wing  : Many of my travelling buddies from the USA have recommended this company to me, although we’ve not used them personally.

Top 10 Places to visit in Mcleodganj

Last Updated on May 10, 2023 by admin

Mcleodganj the idyllic town nestled in the Dhauladhar offers stunning mountain views in every season. This guide covers all the places to visit in Mcleodganj.

I have fond memories of Mcleodganj, a stunning town surrounded by the Dhauladhar mountain range in Himachal Pradesh. Many spring seasons ago, when I was volunteering at Triund , I had the opportunity to explore all the places to visit in Mcleodganj and the many things to do in Mcleodganj.

Table of Contents

ABOUT MCLEODGANJ

Thanks to its pristine location, Mcleodganj is a hub for tourists, adventure junkies, trekking enthusiasts, and Buddhist monks. The Dalai Lama and his Tibetan followers migrated to Dharamshala in 1959 and it has been their home ever since. The Dalai Lama now resides in McLeodganj, a town in the Dharamshala district.

Mcleodganj has since then gained spiritual importance. Just like Rishikesh, Mcleodganj has also gained popularity for yoga and meditation camps and is one of the most popular places for tourism in Himachal Pradesh. 

Also known as Little Lhasa , Mcleodganj has one of the most stunning landscapes in all seasons of the year. The snowy peaks are especially amazing around the spring.

Also Read: Manali Travel Guide

PLACES TO VISIT IN MCLEODGANJ

While it is perfectly alright to not do anything while in Mcleodganj, in case you are visiting for a long weekend in Mcleodganj, here are some of the things to do in Mcleodganj and places to visit in Mcleodganj.

Tsuglagkhang temple complex

Tsuglagkhang temple is one of the major attractions in Mcleodganj not just for the Buddhist monks but also visitors. The complex includes Tsuglagkhang temple, the Namgyal Monastery, Tibetan Museum, a bookstore, a cafe, and a library, along with many shrine rooms having statues of Lord Gautam Buddha, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), and Chenrezig (Avalokiteśvara).

Except for the Dalai Lama’s residence, visitors can visit other parts of the Tsuglagkhang temple complex. And you can meet the Dalai Lama if you are lucky! The temple is open from 5 am until 8 pm.

Namgyal Monastery

The Namgyal Monastery is a historic religious center, located next to the residence of the Dalai Lama within the Tsuglagkhang temple complex.

The 16th-century Namgyal Monastery has Buddhist temples and prayer wheels inscribed with the mantra ‘ Om mani padme hum ’, a Tibetan verse. Visitors can go around the monastery and witness the many activities happening all around. 

When I visited the Namgyal Monastery, it was abuzz with decorations, food preparations, and monks chanting mantras, doing meditation, and performing ceremonies. The entire complex was bubbling with festive fervour. Later I came to know that the Dalai Lama was slated to visit the monastery the next day. However, bookings were required for entry the next day and so I decided to pass and just soak in the positive and peaceful vibes from the place.

From the highest point of the monastery, the snow peaks of the Dhauladhar range were clearly visible. The entire complex is full of lush green environs with trees. In spite of being on the main market road, once inside the complex, it is extremely peaceful. Visitors are allowed to meditate anywhere in the complex.

Entry to the monastery is free and the opening hours are from 9 am to 6 pm daily. 

Note: As of December 2020, the monastery is temporarily closed due to Covid-19. Kindly check before your arrival.

Trekking the Triund Hill

Thanks to the beautiful mountain ranges around Mcleodganj, there are options for treks in Dhauladhars . Triund happens to be one of the topmost choices of trekking in Mcleodganj .

Although closed in the heavy snow season, Triund is open all year round and at all times of the day. Triund is popular for one-day treks as well as overnight camping.

Located at the height of 9350 feet (2850 meters) the entire trekking path offers gorgeous views of mountains. It looks especially breathtaking in spring with the rhododendron in full bloom. Triund rhododendron trek is a must-do! With steep ascents and rocky sub-trails, this 9km long trek rewards visitors with the most stunning views. A clear day will certainly make you fall in love with the mountains, with snow peaking and the sun caressing the valleys. 

Camping is possible here if you carry your own tents or if you go with local guides. The only downside of this trek is the absence of toilets at the peak. There is one shop mid-way and one at the top which serves packet food, Maggi and chai. 

There is also a possibility to volunteer with a local NGO and go on clean-up hikes on Triund. Volunteers can accompany the NGO staff which conducts the clean-up hike at Triund every Monday. The trash is picked up through the entire trekking trail and collected at the mountain top. The trash is sent to Mcleodganj town on mules and further sent for recycling. Talk about plogging done right! 

If you love trekking and have strength, ability, and time in hand, one can further trek to Snowline at 10,800 feet. Snowline trek is 2km further than Triund and has steeper ascents than Triund. If you are camping in Triund overnight, Snowline can be covered the next day and one can trek back all the way on day 2. It is also possible to camp at Snowline which also has a snowline cafe. I will highly recommend taking a guide along for snowline, especially in winters.

Bhagsunath Temple and Bhagsu Falls

A small trek near Dharamkot leads to the Bhagsunath temple and Bhagsu waterfalls. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Mcleodganj.

Located at a height of 5,807 feet, the ancient temple was built by King Bhagsu, and dedicated to Lord Shiva and Snake God – ‘ Nag Devta ’. If you are staying in Mcleodganj town, Dharamkot can be easily reached on foot and will take 20 minutes.

According to legends, King Bhagsu came to the glaciers in search of water. He was challenged by the Snake God who was the resident of this region. In the ensuing battle, the King was defeated; however, his plea for water to his fraternity was granted and the place came to be known as Bhagsunath.

The temple attracts a huge number of believers and tourists throughout the year. Surrounded by freshwater springs and green areas, the springs are said to be sacred and hold healing powers and medicinal properties.

The trek to the falls is quite challenging due to the steep ascent but the views from the top are worth it. Visitors can say their prayers and then take a dip in the adjacent pool. 

Walk to the Bhagsu falls nearby and soak in the beauty of nature around. Bhagsu falls is one of the most popular Mcleodganj Tourism places so it is extremely crowded at all times. One can take a dive in the bone-chillingly cold water, follow it by relaxing on the rocks and soaking up some rays and panoramic views from the top. 

Shiva Cafe at the top of Bhagsu waterfall is extremely popular and you just cannot go to Bhagsu and not visit Shiva Cafe and post Instagram stories about it. But be patient to get a seat here, especially on the afternoons and weekends

. The ‘No name cafe’ is another option which is located at the bottom of the waterfalls. Both cafes offer the typical Himachal Pradesh backpacker food – Maggi and momos! Savour and indulge.

A little away from the Mcleodganj town, is a different world altogether.

Dharamkot, situated 2 km away is a cute little village that offers yoga and spiritual retreats. On the crest of a hill above McLeodGanj, Dharamkot quietly enjoys the panoramic views of the Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar ranges.

Dharamkot has the famous Tushita Meditation Centre, which is a center for the study and practice of Buddhism in the Tibetan Mahayana tradition, the Vipassana Meditation Centre, and the Dhamma Shikara. 

The village is closer to Triund trek and Bhagsu waterfalls and much peaceful than Mcleodganj which is why it is a preferred place for accommodation for many backpackers. Dharamkot also has many homestay and hostel options which are cheaper than Mcleodganj town.

If you have a car, it needs to be parked at Dharamkot square and carry the luggage by your own.

Yes, there is a Dal lake in Mcleodganj ! Located near the village of Tota Rani, the lake is 4k away from Mcleodganj. Probably 1/100th the size of the actual one, Dal Lake Mcleodganj is a small lake that is surrounded by deodar trees.

It has Lord Shiva temple on its bank. The lake is a good tourist spot for families who want to enjoy some boating. Kids can especially enjoy boating as there are many varieties of fish. 

Kangra Fort

Located at a distance of 28 km from Mcleodganj, the 4th-century fort is one of the oldest forts in the country and the biggest fort in the Himalayas. Kangra Fort is the 8th largest fort in India   – covering an area of 463 acres.

It was built by Maharaja Susharma Chandra, a descendant of the Katoch dynasty, the oldest living dynasties. Despite over 50 invasions, it still stands tall after a lot of centuries.

The Kangra Fort lies on a patch of land between the Manjhi and Banganga rivers and offers prominent views of the Kangra valley in all four directions. The fort boasts 11 gates, 23 bastions, alleyways, vast courtyards, and ancient temples within its premises. The highest point is occupied by the palace courtyard, below which there is a large courtyard containing the stone-carved temples of Laxmi Narayan, Ambika Devi, and the Jain Temple

Visitors can get a detailed understanding of the fort by visiting the Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum, situated right next to the fort.

Visiting the Kangra Fort from Mcleodganj will easily consume half the day. The fort itself will require 2-3 hours. So it is best to plan accordingly.

Recommended Read about Fort trek: Lohagad Fort , Kumbhalgarh Fort

Entry fee for Kangra fort: INR 150 for Indian nationals and INR 300 for international tourists

Kangra fort timings: 09:00 am – 11:00 am

I was super hungry after all the walking and climbing in Kangra fort. Just near the car parking, there was a small shop called ‘ Anand tea stall’ serving refreshments. I was too tempted with the lady making aloo parathas and decided to try one. I ended up hogging many. It was too delicious, especially after that trek!

Naddi View Point

Trekking to Naddi is another option while in Mcleodganj. Situated 3km from the central town, Naddi is a small village that offers breathtaking views of the mighty Dhauladhar mountains and the vast expanse of Kangra valley.

Just like Dharamkot, this village offers many homestays for the peace-loving crowds who want to curl up with the mountain views. 

Naddi viewpoint or Naddi sunset viewpoint is one of the best places to visit in Mcleodganj. By following the directions from the main roads, one ends up on a non-tar road with a signboard ‘Naddi view point’. One needs to cross a few street-side vendors to come to a point where telescopes are installed. And the view is just breathtaking!

I visited on a cloudy evening so I could not witness the sunset but nevertheless, the views were amazing.

Church of St. Johns

The 19th-century neo-gothic architectural marvel is the Church of St Jones in between a forest that is why it is called St John’s church in the wilderness. Built by the Britishers for the troops and families, the area around also serves as the final resting place of Lord Ergin, governor-general and viceroy of India during the British Raj. 

Constructed of hand-cut granite, it is one of the only buildings which remained after the 1905 earthquake.

SHOPPING IN MCLEODGANJ

Shopping is a retail therapy in Mcleodganj. With an array of things to buy in Mcleodganj and souvenirs from Mcleodganj, the options are many. From Thangka paintings to Tibetan carpets, from jewellery to artefacts, handicrafts to books, from cakes to winter wear the options are unending on what to buy in Mcleodganj.

One of the main places to visit in McLeodganj is the Main Market. The entire street and around is lined with shops. There are plenty of bakeries and small restaurants around too. It is best to explore them on foot so as not to miss out on quaint cafes and cute stores. 

If you want to buy affordable souvenirs from Mcleodganj as gifts for your friends, I will suggest picking up Buddhist prayer flags, beaded jewellery, yak mittens, or shawl.

WHAT TO EAT (AND WHERE) IN MCLEODGANJ | CAFES IN MCLEODGANJ

With a lot of Tibetan influence, the entire town of Mcleodganj has many options of Momos and Thukpa. Since there are a lot of visitors from European countries, Mcleodganj cuisine offers a lot of continental dishes such as pizzas, lasagnas, pasta, pancakes, hummus, and Shakshuka. The bakeries are amazing as well and have delicious cakes, cheesecakes, and croissants. Being a spiritual town, there are many cafes and restaurants offering vegan menus in addition to vegetarian options.

Momos in Mcleodganj

Momos are Tibetan dumplings that are usually stuffed with pork, chicken, or veggies. They are served with red chili chutney. There are way too many restaurants and street vendors selling momos in Mcleodganj and it is hard to pick one place which is the best. I tried momos in Trek N Dine in Dharamkot and a couple of street vendors (vegetarian versions) and all were great. 

Bhagsu Cake

The best dessert has to be a local one! Bhagsu cake is a crunchy pie crust, layered with sticky caramel toffee sauce and topped with dark chocolate or white chocolate. It had this cake in Moonlight Cafe in Dharamkot. 

Check out this detailed Food guide to cafes and restaurants in Mcleodganj .

BEST TIME TO VISIT MCLEODGANJ

According to me the best time to visit Mcleodganj is spring – between March and April. The weather is not too hot or cold for treks. There is still snow on mountain peaks and the nip in the air is perfect for walking around without wrapping too many layers. The rhododendrons are in full bloom which looks extremely pretty around the town. 

Summers are also pleasant to visit Mcleodganj with maximum temperatures hovering at 30°C. But if you want to witness the snow, then winter is ideal. Storms are not quite common here as the region receives heavy rain annually. It is best to avoid July and August due to the heavy rainfall. 

HOW TO REACH MCLEODGANJ

The nearest airport to Mcleodganj is Kangra Gaggal Airport, also called Dharamshala airport. It is located at a distance of 20 km from McLeodganj. Private cabs can be booked from the airport to reach Mcleodganj.

The closest railway station to Mcleodganj in Pathankot. Trains from south and north stop here. 

There are two options to reach Mcleodganj from Pathankot – take a taxi or public bus to Mcleodganj. The taxi takes around 1.5 hours depending on the traffic and the buses take 3 to 4 hours since they stop at many villages to pick and drop people. 

Private buses of all kinds (air-conditioned, Volvo, sleeper, semi-sleeper) leave from Delhi (Majnu ka Tilla, Kashmiri gate) for Mcleodganj. It is an overnight comfortable journey of 10-12 hours. They drop at the Mcleodganj bus stand.

Bike rent in Mcleodganj

It is possible to rent bikes in Mcleodganj. There are many local shops in the main market which offer these services. Visitors also have the option to rent a 2-wheeler from many rental vendors in the city. The vendors drop the vehicle at your hotel and pick it up. The rent range is between INR 300-500 per day.

WHERE TO STAY IN MCLEODGANJ

There are many options to stay in Mcleodganj. Many visitors prefer to stay in the quieter nearby areas of Mcleodganj such as Naddi or Dharamkot or Bhagsu. I personally stayed in Dharamkot and can vouch for peaceful surroundings. Some of the options for hostel, homestay, and hotels in Mcleodganj are

Hostel: The Hosteller , Hostel Triangle Folks , Zostel

Hotel: Treebo Trend the Trance , Hotel Norbu House

Homestay/ AirBnB: Anandam Homestay – A Wandertrails Stay , Satobari Greens Homestay

SUSTAINABLE TIPS FOR PLACES TO VISIT IN MCLEODGANJ

• Mcleodganj is a hill town and so it is best to avoid polythene bags. Do not use single-use or disposable plastic. Dispose of biscuit wrappers, wafer packets, and juice boxes in designated bins. Do not litter the highways, places of tourist interest or riverbanks.
• Respect nature during adventure activities and do not harm it in any form. A single cigarette butt can give rise to fires hurting the economy of the entire region.
• Do not pluck flowers/fruits without permission. Be a responsible and respectful tourist.
• Eat and enjoy local food.

I hope this Mcleodganj travel guide on Places to visit in Mcleodganj will help you to plan your trip. Did I miss out on any things to do in Mcleodganj? Let me know in the comments below.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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Ketki Gadre

Ketki is an environmental consultant and a sustainable travel blogger, who loves nature, wildlife and heritage. She enjoys bringing places to life through her informative blogs to inspire readers to travel sustainably and become responsible travellers.

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Enjoyed reading this post! Crisp & informative👍

So glad to know that Nilima. I hope this helps you in planning a trip to Mcleodganj in the post-pandemic era.

I always heard about Mcleodganj but never knew places to visit around.tbanks for sharing. I should plan once things settle

Oh, there are tons of things to do in and around Mcleodganj. If you like adventure sports you can try para-sailing in Bir which is nearby!

the Bhagsu Cake looks so good! I love trying local desserts!

Me too. Food tourism is a thing to stay.

Looks like a beautiful experience. Absolutely love the gorgeous mountains in the photos.

It is one of my favorite places in Himachal and probably would make it to top 5 in India 🙂

Wow you volunteered for a clean up hike – that’s the article I am reading next 🙂 I have been to Mcleo over 15 times and never did triund 🙁 Generally stay glued to bhagsu or dharmkot. I need to go and do that trek and would perhaps do the clean up one 🙂

It is extremely satisfying to do the cleanup trek – it gives the liberty to yell at trash-making tourists.. haha.. But jokes apart it is quite alarming to see the amount of trash that gets accumulated every week. If you don’t want to hike Triund, the same organization does clean-up hikes for Bhagsu waterfall every Wednesday. Check with them and just join in! 🙂

Thanks so much for sharing this beautiful part of the world! I had never heard of Mcleodganj before. I would love to visit the Kangra fort!!

Mcleodganj is absolutely stunning. I wish I could do a staycation there for a couple of months!

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29 Best Things To Do In Dharamshala & Mcleodganj | Itinerary

Here are the best things to do in Dharamshala that you should include in your Dharamshala and McLeodganj itinerary.

Dharamshala, the beautiful winter capital of Himachal Pradesh is a traveller’s delight in more ways than one. The things to do in Dharamshala and the places to see are soul-soothing, to say the least. Dharamshala and its suburb, McLeodganj which is also known as, “ Little Lhasa ,” together have a plethora of activities and places that are sure to charm visitors.

The presence of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government-in-exile lends a unique aura to Dharamshala. It comes alive with the vestiges of the colonial presence seamlessly integrated with Tibetan cultural influence and ancient Hindu culture. Any Himachal Pradesh itinerary would remain incomplete if you were not to include a Dharamshala and McLeodganj itinerary within it.

We present here a comprehensive list of places to visit in Dharamshala and McLeodganj , and you can plan a 2 Day trip to Mcleodganj and Dharamshala from the places and activities that we have listed out. So, you can either fit in places and activities for a Dharamshala/Mcleod Ganj Itinerary of 2 Days , or factor in more days for your trip.

Table of Contents

Top Things To Do In Dharamshala And McLeodganj

One of the top things to do when in Dharamshala or Mcleodganj is actually to do nothing! Just soak in the beautiful vibes of the Dhauladhar ranges, and let the mountain air rejuvenate your body, mind, and soul. But if you are out there to see places and experience activities, there is much to experience amidst the swaying cedar trees that greet you at every twist and turn in the road.

Things To Do In Dharamshala | Dharamshala Mcleodganj Itinerary | Dharamshala Itinerary 2 Days

There is a lot to do in Dharamshala and McLeodganj . There is something that is bound to appeal to all types of travellers, across age groups. Nature spreads its arms wide for nature lovers with amazing viewpoints and treks. For those looking for spiritual solace, there are temples, churches, and monasteries that beckon visitors with their divine aura.

For those who want to delve deep into history and heritage, museums and other heritage sites stand with open doors. Finally, for adventure junkies, there are many exciting activities at Dharamshala and McLeodganj. In a nutshell, whether you are travelling with your family, solo, or as a couple, Dharamshala has something exciting for you to discover and experience.

Experience Spirituality In The Monasteries – Things To Do In Dharamshala

Dharamshala is a place where the sounds of the rustling leaves of Cedar trees and mystical Buddhist chants merge harmoniously in the air. One of the main reasons why tourists flock to Dharamshala is the presence of the Dalai Lama . Apart from the Dalai Lama temple, many other Buddhist monasteries add to the place’s spiritual aura.

Visit Dalai Lama Temple (Tsuglagkhang Complex)

The Tsuglagkhang Complex, popularly known as the Dalai Lama Temple , is the main motivation for most people to visit Dharamshala. It is a sacred place and a pilgrimage destination for Buddhists , especially Tibetans. It houses the official residence of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government-in-Exile. A monastery where more than 200 Buddhist monks live and study is also housed within the complex. The Buddhist temples of Thekchen Choeling and Kalachakra are also housed within the complex.

Visit Theckchen Choeling Buddhist Temple

The Theckchen Choeling Temple is located within the larger Tsuglagkhang Complex. It is the main temple inside the complex and the principal deities are Shakyamuni Buddha , Padma Sambhava or Guru Rinpoche, and Avalokieshwara.

The temple architecture is spartan, but the images of the deities are truly resplendent and embellished with gold, silver, and other precious metals, as well as precious stones. The Theckchen Choeling temple also has stupas fashioned from bronze and bell metal. The temple also houses about 100 volumes of Kangur which are ancient Buddhist texts believed to contain the teachings of Buddha that were directly spoken by him. About 225 volumes of Tengyur, a collection of commentaries on Buddhist teachings are also treasured in the temple.

Visit Namgyal Monastery 

The Namgyal Monastery is the personal monastery of the Dalai Lama and is the one that is actually known as the Dalai Lama Temple . It is located within the Tsuglagkhang Complex. It is a monastery that includes all the four main lineages of Tibetan Buddhism, namely, Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug , in the curriculum and rituals of the monastery.

The Namgyal Monastery was originally established by the second Dalai Lama, Gedun Gyatso in the 15th century in Tibet. It was relocated to Dharamshala after the Dalai Lama established the Tibetan Government-in-Exile there. It is also known as Namgyal Tantric College , and more than 200 monks study the tenets of Buddhism here.

Visit Kalachakra Temple 

The Kalachakra Temple is also located within the Tsuglagkhang Complex. Kalachakra which literally translates as, “wheel of time,” is a Buddhist tantric practice. The Kalachakra temple has beautiful murals of Avalokiteshwara and Sand Mandalas. The Namgyal Monastery trains monks in various aspects of Kalachakra including initiation, construction of Sand Mandalas and other rituals and dances of the Kalachakra ceremony.

Visit Gyuto Monastery 

The Gyuto Monastery is located in the Sidhbari suburb of Dharamshala town. It is about 12 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple. This is a monastery that is dedicated to the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.

Visit Nechung Monastery 

The Nechung Monastery is considered sacred as it is the seat of the State Oracle of Tibet. After the formation of the Tibet Government-in-Exile in Dharmashala, the Nechung Monastery has been established in McLeodganj. It is located about 2 kilometres from the Tsuglagkhang Complex.

Visit Dip Tse Chok Ling Monastery 

The Dip Tse Chok Ling Monastery , also referred to as Tsechokling Monastery is located at a distance of under 2 kilometres from the main Dalai Lama Temple in Upper Dharamshala. It belongs to the Gelug lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Like many other monasteries, the original one was established in Tibet during the 18th century. The monastery in Dharamshala in the current location came up in 1984.

Visit Mani Lakhang Stupa 

The Mani Lakhang Stupa which is also known as the Prayer Wheels Stupa was established in Dharmashala under the guidance of the third Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche. The Mani Lakhang Stupa was established in the year 2001 and is a hallowed spot for Buddhists. The Mani Lakhang Stupa is located within 2 kilometres of the main Dalai Lama temple.

Come Close To Divinity In The Temples – Things To Do In Dharamshala

If Buddhist chants fill the air of Dharmashala with spirituality, the chants from Hindu temples merge seamlessly with them. There are a few ancient temples that have many interesting legends associated with them. These temples are linked to ancient Hindu mythology and are places that you must visit when in Dharamshala or McLeodganj .

Visit Bhagsunag Temple 

The Bhagsunag temple lends its name to the village in Mcleodganj, where it is located. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva and the serpent God, Nag Devta. The temple is small and within the temple complex is situated a holy spring, whose sacred waters are believed to possess healing properties.

The Bhagsunag Temple is associated with the legend of a King named Bhagsu, who was challenged to a duel by the Serpent God and was vanquished. The water that he had taken from the Nag Dal Lake, fell, creating a spring at the place. The Bhagsunag temple is at a distance of about 3 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple, in McLeodganj.

Visit Aghanjar Mahadev Temple 

The Aghanjar Mahadev Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to be over 500 years old. The temple is located in a suburb of Dharamshala, called Khanyara, at a distance of about 11 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

The temple nestles in a scenic location, surrounded by lush forests, mountains, and streams. Legend has it that in the Mahabharata, Arjun was on his way to Kailash to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva for the Kurukshetra war. Lord Shiva appeared before Arjuna at the spot where the Aghanjar Mahadev temple is located.

Visit Shri Durveshwar Mahadev Temple 

The Sri Durveshwar Mahadev Temple is a Shiva temple that is located on an elevation that overlooks the Dal Lake. It is believed that the legendary Rishi Durvasa, had meditated here, hence the name Durveshwar Mahadev. The current temple is built by a person named Kaleshar Singh Rana, according to a board near the entrance to the temple.

The Dal Lake and the Durveshwar Mahadev temple are considered as sacred as the Mani Mahesh Lake and Kailash Parvat. The place has been referred to as Chhota Mani Mahesh. People who are unable to undertake the arduous Mani Mahesh Yatra, visit the Dal Lake and bathe in its sacred waters, after which they take darshan of Lord Shiva at the Durveshwar Mahadev temple.

The Durveshwar Mahadev Temple is located about 5 kilometres from the Dalai Lama Temple, on the way to Naddi Village from McLeodganj.

Visit Mata Chintpurni Temple 

The Mata Chintpurni Temple is located exactly opposite the Sri Durveshwar Mahadev temple and overlooks the Dal Lake. This is a small temple set in serene surroundings and is not to be confused with the Chintpurni temple in the Una District of Himachal Pradesh. That temple is a Shakti Peeth, where a part of Sati’s feet is believed to have fallen.

Mata Chintpurni Devi is a manifestation of Durga and is also known as Maa Chinnamastika – the one with a detached head. The temple is located about 5 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

Experience Serenity In The Churches – Things To Do In Dharamshala

Dharamshala was a hill station that was established by the British . Many vestiges of the colonial period have survived the ravages of time and the devastating earthquake that rocked the Kangra valley in 1905.

Visit St John In The Wilderness Church

St John In The Wilderness Church is a very old church that dates back to the colonial period. The beautiful St John In The Wilderness Church lies beneath the benevolent shade of giant cedar trees and is a serene place to visit. The church was built in the year 1852.

A memorial to James Bruce, the 8th Earl of Elgin and Viceroy and Governor-General of India in the 19th century, is located within the churchyard. Many Britishers who died in the earthquake lie buried along with James Bruce in the Church Yard of St John in the Wilderness.

This church is a beautiful example of neo-gothic architecture, complete with exquisite stained-glass windows. The Church is located about 3 kilometres from the Dalai Lama Temple in a suburb of Dharamshala called Forsythganj.

Experience Nature’s Magic – Things To Do In Dharamshala

You are sure to notice a spring in your walk as soon as you step into the enchanting environs of Dharamshala. The sheer beauty of the Dhauladhar ranges , the forests, the gurgling streams, the cascading waterfalls , and the never-ending stretch of Deodhar trees are simply mesmerising. Here are some of the beautiful spots where nature unfolds its magic in McLeodganj and Dharamshala.

Visit Bhagsu Falls

A small trek from behind the Bhagsunag Temple takes you to the foot of the Bhagsu waterfalls . The water cascades down in a steady stream from a height of about 20 metres. and creates a small rocky pool. The real beauty of the Bhagsunag waterfall can be appreciated in the rainy season when the water is in full flow.

During winters the area is covered by snow. One can also trek to the top of the waterfalls. From the Bhagsunag temple, one needs to trek about a kilometre to reach the foot of the falls. The falls are located at a distance of about 4 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

Visit Dal Lake

The Dal Lake is a captivating waterbody that is fringed with tall Deodhar trees on one side. Sacred temples overlook the lake, giving it a mystical aura.

The Dal lake is also known as, “ Chhota Mani Mahesh ,” and is considered as sacred as the Mani Mahesh Lake in Kailash. Dal Lake is about 5 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

Visit Naddi Village View Point

Naddi Village is a picturesque village located about 6 kilometres from the Dalai Lama Temple. It is the starting point for many treks. The Naddi Village View Point offers a ringside view of the majestic Dauladhar range of mountains.

The snow-capped mountains can be viewed at close range from the vantage point that Naddi Village offers. The presence of dainty cafes and Yoga and meditation camps, make Naddi Village a much sought-after destination in Dharamshala.

Educate Yourself At The Museums, Memorials And Heritage Sites – Things To Do In Dharamshala

One of the first things to do in Dharamshala is to visit the museums and other heritage and historic sites, as this would give a better understanding of the place. Museums, especially open windows to the past and foster learnings about a place that are not found in any book.

Visit The War Memorial In Dharamshala

The War Memorial in Dharamshala is a place you must visit to pay your tribute to our country’s war heroes. The Dharmshala War Memorial was built in 1972 as a tribute to the Himachal War Heroes who laid down their lives defending the country. The names of the martyrs are etched in gold on three curved walls that are part of the main memorial monument.

The three curved walls represent the three wings of the armed forces. The names of the martyrs are engraved on five of the faces of the walls while a mural can be seen on the sixth face. Beautiful fountains and landscaped gardens provide a sense of calm to the place. The State War Memorial is in Dharmshala town, located about 6 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple.

Visit The Tibet Museum

The Tibet Museum is an effort to preserve the Tibetan Culture and history and educate the world about it. The Tibet Museum consists of permanent and temporary exhibitions. The permanent exhibition is titled, “I am Tibetan and this is my story.” It showcases the real story of Tibet and Tibetans as opposed to the versions propagated by China. The exhibits showcase various aspects of Tibetan history and culture.

Visit The Norbulingka Institute

The Norbulingka Insitute is a place that lovers of art and crafts are sure to be impressed with. It is a place that was established to preserve and nurture the traditional arts and crafts of Tibet. It offers employment to around 300 Tibetans and also ensures that the ancient arts and crafts of Tibet live on in Dharamshala.

Visitors can appreciate Tibetan art and craft in the Norbulingka Institute and also shop for them here. If you are keen on learning the arts and crafts, workshops are also offered. Guided tours of the institute are available for visitors. The Norbulingka Institute is about 10 kilometres from the Dalai Lama temple, on the Palampur-Dharamshala road.

Visit Kangra Fort

The Kangra Fort is a historic fort that is believed to be the oldest fort in India dating to the 4th Century BCE. It is believed to have been built by a king of the Katoch Dynasty . The Katoch Dynasty finds a mention in the Mahabharata, in the Chakravyuha incident in which Abhimanyu, the son of Arjuna is killed by the Kauravas.

The Katoch King Susharma Chandra, who was fighting alongside the Kauravas was tasked with distracting Krishna and Arjuna, while Abhimanyu was trapped in the Chakravyuha. The Katoch king ruled over the land known as Trigarta and Kangra is believed to have been a part of this kingdom that is mentioned in the Mahabharata. The ruins of Kangra Fort hold many a story from the lost chapters of history and mythology. The Kangra Fort is located about 20 kilometres from Dharamshala.

Other Experiences Not To Miss – Things To Do In Dharamsala

If you are in Dharamshala or McLeodganj, you must include these activities in your itinerary and a list of things to do in Dharmshala.

Visit HPCA Stadium

A visit to the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium is a must, especially for cricket lovers. Never mind if there is no match, you can still visit the stadium. Visitors are allowed into one of the stands in the stadium and can spend time looking at the beautiful cricket ground.

The green grounds set against the backdrop of snow-clad mountains of the Dhauladhar range kissed by floating clouds are indeed a wonderful sight to behold. There is a ticketed entry into the HPCA stadium.

Take A Cable Car Ride

The Dharamshala Skyway is a ropeway that connects Dharamshala and McLeodganj across 1.8 kilometres in length. The journey can be done by cable car in less than 10 minutes.

The cable car ride is a thrilling experience, as one can feast on panoramic views of the mountain ranges and dramatic landscapes below.

Shop At Kotwali Bazar

There are ample opportunities for shopping in Dharamshala from modern malls to the quaint little shops that line McLeodganj and Dharamshala. Kotwali Bazar is the main shopping area in Dharamshala. The Bazar is essentially for the locals to shop for their daily necessities, but makes for an interesting stroll.

Shop At Bhagsu Market

The street that leads to the Bhagsunag temple is a colourful lane with shops selling souvenirs and other articles on either side of the street.

Visit The Cafes of McLeodganj

Your visit to McLeodganj and Dharamshala cannot be complete without chilling out in one or more of its famed cafes. The Cafes at McLeodganj and Dharamshala are colourful and have beautiful locations and are quirky places to hang out.

Some of the top cafes in Dharamshala are Illiterati, Yellow Llama, Himalayan Musafir, Woeser Bakery, Moonpeak, and Carpe Diem, among others.

Things To Do In Dharamshala – Treks In And Around Dharamshala

Himachal Pradesh is one of the favourite haunts of trekkers. Its hilly and forested terrain lures trekkers in search of nature and adventure. Places like Manali , Kasauli, Bir, Shimla , and Dharamshala, are the places to embark on the most beautiful and fulfilling treks in the country. Dharamshala is the starting point for many of the treks that showcase the beauty of the Dhauladhar ranges.

Triund Trek

The Triund trek is the crown of the Dhauladhar treks . It is the most famous and sought-after trek from Dharamshala. It is a scenic trek and is about 6.8 kilometres from Dharamshala. The trek is an easy one except for the last kilometre which has many twists and turns.

Kangra Trek

The Kangra trek brings alive the beauty of the Kangra valley in all its splendour. The total distance covered is 27 kilometres. The trek provides an experience of both trekking and camping in the beautiful locales of the Kangra valley.

Indrahar Pass Trek

Indrahar Pass Trek is a trek that is about 10.7 kilometres long and takes the trekkers through dramatic landscapes amidst the mountainous regions. The views on the trek include meandering rivers, streams, and panoramic views of the valleys.

Trek To Kareri Lake

Trek To Kareri Lake is a 10-kilometre-long trek that takes the trekkers to the beautiful surroundings of the Kareri lake. The enchanting lake and the presence of the Pir Panjal mountain ranges in the backdrop make for a beautiful camping experience.

How To Get To Dharamshala | Mcleodganj

Dharamshala is the headquarters of the Kangra District in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India.

• Delhi To Dharamshala distance is about 468 kilometres
• Amritsar To Dharamshala distance is about 201 kilometres
• Chandigarh To Dharamshala distance is about 237 kilometres
• Pathankot To Dharamshala distance is about 85 kilometres
• Dalhousie To Dharamshala distance is about 117 kilometres
• Dharamshala To Mcleodganj distance is about 6 kilometres

The nearest airport to Dharamshala is Kangra Airport in Gaggal, at a distance of about 13 kilometres. It is a regional airport and has flights to and from Chandigarh , Hisar, and Delhi . The alternate airport is Pathankot at a distance of about 90 kilometres.

The closest broad gauge railway head to Dharamshala is Pathankot. There is a narrow-gauge railway from Pathankot to Jogindernagar. Kangra Mandir is a railway station on this line which is at a distance of 32 kilometres from Dharamshala.

Dharamshala and McLeodganj are well connected by road to other towns and cities of Himachal Pradesh. Himachal Roadways buses to Mcleodganj are available from Delhi and other places.

If you are planning a visit to Dharamshala/Mcleoganj, you can book your flight tickets right here through Cleartrip  or Makemytrip  or  CheapAir  or  Priceline  and fly to Pathankot or  Amritsar . If you are thinking of a   road trip , do check out the rental car and bus options.

Best Season To Visit Dharamshala | Mcleodganj

Dharamshala can be experienced in its different forms during different seasons. Dharamshala weather is cool and pleasant during the summers and makes for a cool getaway from the plains between March and June. Temperatures during this time range between 20-35°C.

If you want to experience the romance of the rains in Dharamshala then head out there between July to September, when the temperatures range between 18-22°C.

If you love the winter vibes, then the best season to visit Dharamshala is from December to February when the temperature ranges between 4-7°C. Suffice to say that the beauty of Dharamshala is enchanting throughout the year.

Mcleodganj Dharamshala Itinerary – Where To Stay In Dharamshala | Best Hotels In Dharamshala / Mcleodganj

There is no dearth of hotels to stay in Dharamshala and McLeodganj . There are luxury hotels and resorts, budget hotels, as well as hostels. We stayed at the Spring Valley Resort , which is located very near the Bhagsunag temple. You can book the Spring Valley Resort or any other hotel right here.

Click to book  Spring Valley Resort , one of the best places to stay in Mcleodganj.

You can  book Hotels  in Mcleodganj,  Hotels in Bir ,  Hotels in Dharamshala ,  Hotels in Palampur or any destination right here through any of the options here –  TripAdvisor  or Cleartrip or  makemytrip or  goibibo or  Booking.com or  HotelsCombined or  Agoda  and save a lot by getting the best deals on booking your stay.

Travel Around Himachal Pradesh, India

There is so much to see and experience in Himachal Pradesh. If you prefer package tours and looking for these, you can plan your Himachal Pradesh itinerary and book your  Himachal Pradesh trips , right here.  So go ahead and book online places to see in Himachal Pradesh and popular activities in Himachal Pradesh and cover attractions in Himachal Pradesh.

McLeodgang Images | Dharamshala Images

We hope you liked reading our blog post about the best things to do in Dharamshala . We are sure that the information provided here will help you in charting out your own Dharamshala itinerary .

We leave you with some lovely images of Dharamshala and McLeodganj that are sure to make you pack your bags!

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23 thoughts on “29 best things to do in dharamshala & mcleodganj | itinerary”.

WOW, your pictures are stunning and there is a lot to do indeed in Dharamshala & Mcleodganj! I would love to check out the Treks In And Around Dharamshala, look so beautiful

So much to do and see. I would love to visit that waterfall.

I do love to travel but haven’t been able to in a while. It seems like you visited a fair few places there. The temples and monasteries must have been interesting to see they are all so different.

Wow! There’s a lot to do there! I would love to visit The Theckchen Choeling Buddhist Temple! My whole family would love to be here!

I can hardly imagine doing half the things during a visit anywhere and I love that there’s at least 29 right here! It seems like Dharmshala and Mcleodganj are very culture-rich areas and filled with such beautiful scenery in between. I would love to visit the monasteries and churches the most because I’m just in love with their architecture.

This looks like a wonderful place to visit and I love exploring the world and will have to add this to my bucket list 😉

This looks like a fun place to visit. A lot of fun things to do. Thanks for sharing this.

I would so love to see all of this in person. Absolutely beautiful!

Love the St. John church. Beautiful pics. I would love to visit one day. Thank you so much for sharing!

I love doing nothing in new cities! It’s the perfect way to get to know your surroundings.

Wow…it is hard to decide what to cover and what to leave for next trip. I didn’t know that Dharamshala has so much to cover. Now, I must make a trip to this beautiful place.

Looks like a great place to visit and explore. There is so much history to learn too, for sure.

So many beautiful and unique places to visit. Love to discover these natural corners!

I remember going on a gondola ride when we were in Colorado one year when I was younger. I’d love to go on one again here.

These pictures and description has reviewed the old memories. But I guess we missed visiting so many places mentioned in your post, may be next time!!

You’ve covered all the points here. If I could read your itinerary before our trip! We missed some spots you have mentioned here. However, we might plan a trip in near future. Would definitely explore thise places.

I had heard about the beautiful monasteries in McLeod Ganj but didn’t know that there were so many, and such beautiful temples as well. The Dal Lake from Kashmir extends till here?

This is a great compilation of places at Dharamshala and Mcleodganj. I surely plan to visit these places and saving this post for reference.

Amazingly detailed post of an amazing place. I have so many places to visit up north. Dalai Lama temple is something I can’t miss. Dharamshala has both spiritual and historical value with amazing natural beauty.

Whoa, you have suggested so many places that I feel it won’t be possible for traveller like me to cover them in two days. This list fore is a itinerary for seven days. HPCA stadium is something I want to visit and enjoy the game of cricket for couple of hours there.

Dharmashala has been on our list for quite a long time, but exploring it through your post is a great experience. If we cover half of the places as a family that would be an achievement for us.

Oh wow looks like a rich place to visit, I would love to visit all of these places, the temples look very interesting

Mountains are a blessing! These two places are truly heavenly. I have been to Dharamshala and it is so serene. Have visited the other place through your blog too. This is brilliantly covered.

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McLeod Ganj is a neighborhood near Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. People call it "Little Lhasa" because many Tibetans live there, and even the Tibetan government-in-exile is based there. It's become a popular spot for tourists because of its beautiful scenery and the Tibetan culture you can experience there.

Speaking of Mcleodganj tourism, this quaint little town, located about 9 kilometers away from Dharamshala, is visited by thousands of tourists every year. People come here for various reasons like spirituality, volunteer programs, Himalayan experiences, and for many other sightseeing, photography, and excursion opportunities in this religious small town cum hill station in the Himalayas.

The town of Mcleodganj is famous especially and foremostly for being a spiritual getaway and pilgrimage for the Buddhists. The reason behind that is it is home to the 14th Dalai Lama of the Buddhists, Lama Tenzin Gyatso, who came here in the year of 1960 after his exile from Tibet. Dalai Lama established the Tibet Government in exile here at Dharamshala and made the quaint little town of Mcleodganj his permanent residence.

The presence of His Holiness in town attracts a lot of tourists and pilgrims to the town. Mcleodganj is also one of the best places to see the real lifestyle of Tibetan Buddhists and monks up close. One of the reasons this place is called Little Lhasa is because the people have built this place in the image of their previous abode. And it is possible to get a glimpse of the Dalai Lama on the occasions that he is in town and one of the many Buddhist festivals celebrated in the town.

Apart from this, Mcleodganj is considered by many to be an adventurous hub, especially in terms of trekking in Mcleodganj . Home to one of the most beautiful, scenic and exciting treks of the country, the Triund Trek, Mcleodganj is the base camp for reaching the summit of the famous hill. Starting from Dharamkot in Mcleodganj, the 9 km trek leads the trekker through forests of Oak, Deodar, and Rhododendron before opening up to one of the best sceneries that you will find in the Himalayas.

And as the elevation rises, the picturesque hills and valleys become clearer, giving it all a serene touch. Upon reaching the top of Triund, one can see far off hills of the Dhauladhar mountain range that look to be so close that you could touch them if you only extended your hand. The exciting trek has become such a favorite of the community that one can even call it the poster boy of Mcleodganj tourism. And speaking of mountain ranges, Mcleodganj lies in the Dhauladhar range, with the highest peak of the range Hanuman ka Tibba lying just behind the town. The 5,639m giant stands tall and like a guard in the backdrop which is a sight to behold from everywhere in the hill station.

And with such beauty and spirituality, sightseeing in Mcleodganj is something that will never bore a person visiting here. Apart from Triund, some of the places to visit in Mcleodganj include the name of the famous Bhagsunath temple. Attached to a wonderful legend, the medieval era temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is famous for a waterfall that flows right through the temple. The majestic cascading waterfall, called the Bhagsunag falls, forms a pool at the base which is considered to be sacred amongst the devotees and dip in the cold water brings about a different feeling of spiritual in the people.

Another famous tourist spot in Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh is Kareri Lake. Filled with the melting snow of the Dhauladhar ranges, this lake at the base of the Minkiani Pass is the perfect combination of offbeat trekking and scenic beauty in the middle of snow-capped peaks. Alongside the experience of trekking to this calm and serene lake is the added experience of camping by its side and in a scenic meadow right under the Minkiani Pass.

Speaking of which, the Minkiani Pass is another great place to see when in Mcleodganj. You can simply extend your trek to Kareri Lake to conquer the summit of this serene pass lying at an amazing height of 14,000ft above sea level. The view that one gets of the nearby ranges makes you feel like you are walking on the clouds. A great place to take pictures, Minkiani Pass trek is considered to be somewhere in between easy and moderate in difficulty and makes it worth facing the trek at the end.

And one of the most important places in Mcleodganj is the Namgyal Monastery. The place is actually a personal monastery for the 14th Dalai Lama and relates to the very second Religious teacher of the Buddhist belief, dating back to the mid 16th century. Originally in Lhasa, the monastery was entirely relocated to Mcleodganj in the uprising of 1959 and is now the home to the Dalai Lama. It is also the largest Tibetan Temple outside of Tibet. Apart from being a beautiful monastery, Namgyal is also center for education, called the Namgyal Tantric College, where the arts of Kalachakra, Vajrakilaya and many other such Tantric practices are taught to the future Namgyal Monks.

With such beauty, spirituality, adventure, and serenity, Mcleodganj is truly one of the best places to visit in the Himalayas. In fact, Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh, and many areas around it are experiences that should be visited at least once in a lifetime. So let the adventure unfurl as you take on the spellbinding journey through this amazing hill station of the Kangra District and in the lap of the Dhauladhar mountains.

Start your amazing trip through the Kangra District and the beautiful Dhauladhar mountains with Himachal tour packages . Enjoy the adventure and peacefulness of Mcleodganj and its lovely surroundings.

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Here is the list of some of the most enthralling activities that you can enjoy in Mcleodganj. 1. Enjoy a boat ride in the Dal Lake:  Witness the picturesque beauty of Mcleodganj by enjoying a boat ride in the Dal Lake. This beautiful lake offers a peaceful setting to the visitors to soothe their souls. You can also visit Lord Shiva temple that is located on the banks of this river after enjoying the serene boating experience. Location: Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh. 2. Trekking to Kangra Valley:  One of the best activities that you can enjoy at Mcleodganj is a trekking expedition to the Kangra Valley. This is a scenic trek that delights the visitors with its beautiful lakes, old temples, and remotely located Hindu towns. The starting point of the trek is Mcleodganj, and it then passes through Kareri Village. The best thing is that this trek is ideal for both the expert as well as the beginners. Location: Bhagpur, Himachal Pradesh 176058. 3. Buy souvenirs from the Local Markets: Shop till you drop at Mcleodganj to stock up some of the best souvenirs for your friends and family members.  Some of the local markets located here, such as Mcleodganj Central Square, Kotwali Bazaar, and Jogiwara Road, are known for selling the best Tibetan rugs, carpets, and exotic sculptures. You can also buy wooden carvings and spices from these local shops at an extremely pocket-friendly rate. 4. Camping under the stars:  Camping is another popular activity that you must try in Mcleodganj for offbeat adventure. Triund is the ideal spot for the camping enthusiasts as it is surrounded by mighty peaks and lush green valleys that offer you the unadulterated view of nature. The campsites here offer warm bonfire, local food, and a clean and hygienic environment. You can listen to soothing music and play enjoyable games with your friends while camping here. Location: Himachal Pradesh 176219. 5. Dine at the Lively Restaurants and Cafes:  You can’t complete the tour of Mcleodganj without enjoying its local delicacies that are guaranteed to leave you mouth-watering. There are many cafes and restaurants located here that offer delicious momos and noodles that are the specialties of the Himalayan region. Some of the recommended cafes that you can visit over here are Namgyal Café, Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen, and Woeser Bakery. 6. Indulge in Spa Therapy:  Refresh your tired body and mind by enjoying a rejuvenating spa session at Ayurvedic Rejuvenation Centre that offers some of the best massage treatments and best in class ayurvedic therapies. You’re also guided about your diet and routine at this spa center so that you can adapt to the Ayurvedic lifestyle and lead a healthy life. 7. Explore the Tibetan culture at Norbulingka Institute:  If you wish to know about the teachings of the Tibetan community, then Norbulingka Institute should be a must-visit for you. This is a cultural center where you can watch several artisans wood-crafting, making thangka paintings and statues. The institute is also a scenic sight where you can witness different species of birds and water cascading through the Japanese style gardens. Location: Palampur - Dharamshala Rd, Sidhpur, Himachal Pradesh 176057. Entry Fee/Price: Rs 20 per person.

What is the best time to visit Mcleodganj?

How many days are enough for mcleodganj, what can i buy in mcleodganj.

There are plenty of things that you can buy in Mcleodganj: -Jewelry -Beautiful clothes -Colorful Purses and bags -Handmade paper and handcrafted diaries -Singing bowls -Buddha statues -Decorative knick knacks -Tibetan Handicrafts.

Is McLeodganj safe to travel?

Yes, Mcleodganj is extremely safe to travel, and you won’t find any sort of notorious activities prevalent here. But you should take care of your belongings while going out to reduce the chances of burglary.

What are the best treks in McLeodganj?

Get ready for some adrenaline rush by enjoying a trekking expedition at these popular treks in Mcleodganj. 1. Kareri River Trek:  Located in the Southern region of the Dhauladhar range, Kareri River Trek is a popular trekking destination in Mcleodganj. The trail offers you a stunning view of the dense rhododendron forests and a wooden bridge. It is suitable both for experienced as well as beginners as it doesn’t have very narrow steeps. 2. Guna Devi Temple Trek:  Considered to be the most famous religious spots in Mcleodganj Guna Devi Temple is an abode of tranquility and peace. To reach this temple, you have to trek through the Naddi Village to Ball Village. While trekking through this route, you’ll come across Gaddi shepherds and lush flora and fauna. 3. Bhagsu Trek:  The trekking route to Bhagsu is short but full of verdant beauty of nature. From the Bhagsu waterfalls, the trekkers have to climb a hill to reach Bhagsu temple. There are many refreshment centers and cafes on the way to this trekking route. 4. Indrahar Pass Trek:  Located on the topmost part of the Dhauladhar range, Indrahar Pass is considered to be a trekkers delight with enthralling sceneries and boulder fields. Lahesh Cave is the basecamp for this trek, and the trail goes up to a small Devi shrine.

Which are some famous places to stay in Mcleodganj?

Enjoy a luxurious stay at these premium hotels to stay in Mcleodganj: 1. Greenwoods Inn:  Surrounded by lush green forests and oak trees, Greenwoods Inn offers upgraded quarters with furnished rooms for a regal stay. The rooms are equipped with WiFi, television, air conditioner, and coffeemaker. 2. Silver Moon House:  This guesthouse offers the best accommodation facilities with a free parking area, a shared lounge, and an in house restaurant. It showcases stylish décor and sleek architecture that gives an authentic Himalayan stay experience. 3. Tibet World:  This is one of the most budget-friendly staycations in Mcleodganj that offers premium facilities such as a shared lounge, WiFi, and free parking area. It also has a terrace and a garden where you can relax and unwind. 4. Green Hotel:  This is a family-owned heritage hotel that offers lavish accommodation options with balconies, parking area, and a terrace restaurant. The rooms are well furnished with modern interiors and facilities such as laundry services, WiFi, and wardrobe. 5. Hotel President Inn:  Perched on the hillside, Hotel President Inn offers a serene stay experience to the visitors offering a splendid view of nature from each of the rooms. The rooms are various spacious equipped with amenities such as king-size bed, television, and antique furniture.

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In this blog, we are going to explore some of the best places to visit in McLeodganj for you to plan the perfect trip!

Dharamshala and McLeodganj Overview

McLeodganj and Dharamshala, two enthralling destinations in Himachal Pradesh, India, famed for their picturesque landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, are nestled in the tranquil embrace of the Himalayan foothills. Known as “Little Lhasa,” McLeodganj is a monument to Buddhism and Tibetan culture. The town, which is well-known across the world for being the 14th Dalai Lama’s home, provides tourists with a rare chance to experience Tibetan spirituality firsthand through its thriving Tibetan marketplaces and monasteries. Dharamshala, which includes McLeodganj, offers stunning vistas of the Dhauladhar mountain range and contributes an economic and administrative aspect to the area.

In addition to its cultural appeal, the region is a paradise for those who love the outdoors and the great outdoors. Trekking routes in the area, including the ones that go to Triund, offer chances to experience the Himalayan nature. With its breathtaking setting, the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium brings a little of sport to the idyllic surroundings. For those looking for peace and discovery in the heart of the Indian Himalayas, McLeodganj and Dharamshala together provide a wonderful fusion of spirituality, scenic beauty, and cultural variety.

26 Places to Visit in Mcleodganj and Dharamshala

Bhagsu waterfalls.

Dharamshala’s top tourist destination, the Bhagsu Waterfall, attracts peace-seekers and environment lovers. Situated on the primary route that links McLeodganj and Dharamshala, this waterfall provides a serene backdrop for leisurely lunches amidst the breathtaking scenery. The waterfall, which rises at the foot of the Dhauladhar Valley and flows past the hallowed Bhagsunath Temple, is significant religiously. The waterfall, which drops from a height of around thirty feet, is at its most spectacular during the monsoon season. For those who are drawn to the Bhagsu Waterfall because of its mesmerising charm, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to the Bhagsunath Temple, it is one of the most essential places to visit in McLeodganj.

Triund Trek

Adventurers are drawn to Triund, which is tucked away in the Himalayan splendour of Himachal Pradesh, by its easily accessible journey and stunning mountain views. At a height of 2828 metres, Triund is a short distance from Dharamshala and a great place to visit if you want to immerse yourself fully in the splendour of the Himalayas. Whether you start the walk from McLeodganj or Dharamkot (two km past McLeodganj), the trip to Triund is brief but worthwhile. The walk is not only physically stimulating but also a visual feast because of the routes’ captivating vistas of the vast Kangra Valley. Triund is a peaceful haven for hikers and nature lovers hoping to get a closer look at Himachal Pradesh’s breathtaking scenery. It is a monument to the area’s natural splendour.

Bhagsunag Temple

Part of the cultural and spiritual legacy of the area is the Bhagsunag Temple, a historic holy institution near McLeodganj. Known by many as Bhagsunath Temple, it is one of McLeodganj’s oldest temples and is revered by the Hindu and Gorkha populations in the area. Two holy ponds nearby, thought to have miraculous healing properties according to local belief, highlight the temple’s holiness. In addition to its historical significance, this hallowed location draws pilgrims and tourists because of its ethereal, spiritual air. Perched in the foothills of the Himalayas, the charming village of McLeodganj is adorned with a rich tapestry of faith and history, which the Bhagsunag Temple exemplifies.

St. John’s Church in the Wilderness

Built in 1852, St. John’s Church in the Wilderness is notable and ancient in Himachal Pradesh. Situated close to Dharamshala and on the way to McLeodganj, this gem of neo-Gothic architecture is devoted to John the Baptist. Encircled by lush deodar woodlands, the chapel radiates calm and provides a serene haven. Intricate Belgian stained-glass windows compliment its architectural grandeur, lending a touch of artistic splendour to the ethereal atmosphere. In addition to being a house of worship, St John in the Wilderness is a symbol of the cultural and historical diversity of the area, luring tourists who value the building’s opulence as well as the tranquillity of its natural environs. The charm of the church makes it one of the best places to visit in McLeodganj.

Namgyal Monastery

The greatest Tibetan temple outside of Tibet is the Namgyal Monastery, which stands among the best places to visit in McLeodganj. It is also home to the revered Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. Located in the heart of the Tsuglagkhang complex, with sweeping views of the Dhauladhar mountain ranges, this monastery is extremely important to Tibetan Buddhism. The Namgyal Monastery, which doubles as the Dalai Lama’s home and a hub for religious activity, draws pilgrims and tourists looking for spiritual comfort and cultural enrichment. The monastery is an important part of McLeodganj’s character and a symbol of the Tibetan diaspora in India because of its serene setting and function as a hub for Tibetan religious activities. It is one of the most religious places to visit in McLeodganj if you’re looking to explore Tibetan culture.

Situated close to Dharamshala and McLeodganj, Dharamkot is a charming hippy community that provides a peaceful haven that is comparatively unexplored by popular travellers. Dharamkot, often known as the “Yoga Village,” is well known for its calm atmosphere and spiritual retreats. Seekers of inner peace and awareness are drawn to its renowned meditation centres, which include the Dhamma Shikhara Vipassana Meditation Centre and the Tushita Buddhist Meditation Centre. Beyond its spiritual appeal, Dharamkot is the beginning point of several well-known treks in the area, including the Indrahar Pass and Triund treks. For those looking for a harmonic fusion of nature, spirituality, and exploration, the town is a hidden gem due to its quirky appeal and its function as a starting point for both spiritual practices and daring adventures.

Minkiani Pass

Tucked away amid the breathtaking scenery close to McLeodganj, Minkiani Pass is a hidden gem for serious hikers venturing into the Himalayan Dhauladhar Range. This high-altitude mountain pass offers a unique experience that appeals to hikers looking for a more remote and difficult walk. As they navigate the difficult terrain, hikers are rewarded with stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks, verdant meadows, and pristine alpine lakes. Minkiani Pass is a great place for people who enjoy the physical challenge and the peace of untainted mountain vistas because of its pure natural beauty and calm seclusion, which provide a rare chance to experience the wild majesty of the Himalayas fully.

Illiterati Books and Café

In McLeodganj, Illiterati Books & Cafe has become a must-visit location, expertly fusing books, coffee, and delicious food. Regarded as one of the most well-liked cafés in the vicinity, it draws a steady stream of customers and visitors all day long. The café provides the ideal balance of cerebral stimulation from its vast book collection, the fragrant appeal of expertly prepared coffee, and the mouthwatering tastes of its cuisine. In addition to its delicious food, Illiterati sometimes has live music performances, which adds to the atmosphere and takes the whole experience to a whole new level. Illiterati Books & Cafe embodies the spirit of this dynamic and creative hill town, offering visitors to McLeodganj a cultural and sensory experience in addition to a wonderful meal.

Gallu Devi Waterfall

Tucked away in the tranquillity of Upper Dharamshala, the Gallu Devi Waterfall is a secret treasure that calls travellers to its magical realm. Situated within a minute’s drive from the Gallu Devi Temple, it has grown to be a popular hiking location. The waterfall adorns the Bhated stream, which is enhanced in appeal by the many natural ponds that surround it. The short but difficult walk to this lovely location winds through rocky, narrow paths surrounded by beautiful greenery. The sound of gushing water becomes more audible as hikers follow these paths, increasing their excitement for the breathtaking waterfall that lies ahead.

Dalai Lama Temple

The Tsuglakhang Temple, also called the Dalai Lama Temple, is a prominent political and religious hub in Dharamshala that is located in close proximity to the Dalai Lama’s house. Majestic sculptures of famous personalities, including Padmasambhava, Avalokiteshvara, and different Buddhist monks, decorate this vast complex. The enormous Buddha statue, crowned on a tall pedestal, is the temple’s main attraction and draws crowds with its ethereal presence. The notable principal prayer wheel is another component of the temple grounds that adds to the site’s religious atmosphere. In the centre of Dharamshala, the Dalai Lama Temple is a centre for both political and religious activity. It is of great cultural significance and draws both pilgrims and visitors. It provides a calm area for introspection and devotion and is one of the most sought-after places to visit in McLeodganj.

Dharamshala-McLeodganj Ropeway

The 1.8-kilometer Dharamshala Skyway is an amazing ropeway that has completely changed the way people travel between these two Himalayan towns. It connects Dharamshala with McLeodganj. This cutting-edge aerial transport system, which has eighteen gondolas and can carry people from Dharamshala to McLeodganj in only five minutes, provides passengers with both a quick means of transportation and an amazing overview of the surrounding countryside. The ropeway has ten towers and two stops. The higher station is positioned in front of the Dalai Lama Temple, giving the ride a deeper spiritual meaning. The Dharamshala Skyway has come to represent efficiency and connectedness, offering visitors and residents alike a singular, accelerated experience while travelling between the bustling town of Dharamshala and the cultural centre of McLeodganj.

Naddi View Point

The Naddi View Point, which is located in the charming Naddi Village in McLeodganj, is a great place to see the Dhauladhar ranges’ spectacular grandeur, especially in the winter when the peaks are covered in fresh snow. With its expansive outlook, this vantage point perfectly encapsulates the majesty of the Himalayas. Beyond its picturesque setting, Naddi View Point is the beginning point of a number of stimulating hikes that draw adventure seekers looking to explore the Himalayan wilderness, such as those that lead to Kareri Lake, Triund, and Dharamkot. With the stunning Dhauladhar hills as a background, along the route, tea vendors provide trekkers a welcome break and food and drinks, rounding out the trip with a sense of local friendliness.

Standing tall at the top of the Bhagsunag Waterfall and accessible only by a strenuous hike upwards, McLeodganj’s Shiva Cafe is an incredibly picturesque hippy sanctuary. This little restaurant provides a gourmet adventure, delivering delicious food all day long. The cafe’s culinary selections and the tranquil atmosphere it creates with the sound of the neighbouring waterfall’s cascading water make the trek worthwhile. Shiva Cafe’s prime position captures a sense of peace, offering guests a calm experience amidst the breathtaking Himalayan scenery. The café is one of the best places to visit in McLeodganj because of its wonderful music selection, which further improves the whole ambience and creates a harmonic combination of gastronomic indulgence, gorgeous surroundings, and a laid-back feel.

The lovely little lake at McLeodganj, named after the well-known Dal Lake in Srinagar, is about 3 kilometres from the town centre. Encircled by placid deodar trees, McLeodganj’s Dal Lake has a calm atmosphere. Its allure is enhanced by the presence of a Lord Shiva temple on its beaches, which lends a spiritual element to the surrounding area’s breathtaking natural beauty. Dal Lake is not only a destination in itself, but it’s also an ideal place to stay for hikers heading up to the Naddi Viewpoint. Its calm waters and placid atmosphere make it the perfect spot to unwind and take in the gorgeous surroundings, giving guests a welcome respite amidst the beauty of the Himalayan foothills.

Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts

The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA), a cultural organisation renowned for its concentration on maintaining and promoting Tibetan performing arts, including dance, music, and opera, is situated in McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh. The institution frequently hosts dance, opera, and folk music events that provide a colourful window into Tibetan cultural customs. The monasteries also display Thangka artwork, which adds to the richness of the culture.

On its grounds, TIPA also has a museum that offers a thorough examination of Tibetan history. The museum provides visitors with a fuller knowledge of Tibetan traditions by showcasing exhibits linked to Tibetan culture and including archives with a collection of analogue and digital audio-visual recordings. The museum offers free admission, which makes it an affordable and educational experience for anybody curious about the rich cultural diversity of the Tibetan people in McLeodganj.

Best Time to Visit Dharamshala & Mcleodganj

October to March is the best time to visit the Himachali beauties of McLeodganj and Dharamshala.

McLeodganj, located in the captivating Himalayas, is a sanctuary for adventure seekers, environment lovers, and spiritual searchers. All of the places to visit in McLeodganj convey a story of cultural diversity and natural beauty, from the tranquil Dalai Lama Temple to the daring paths that lead to Triund and beyond. Immerse yourself in the distinct charm of McLeodganj as you explore its colourful marketplaces, enjoy the local food, and take in the stunning views.

So, pack your belongings, put on your boots, and go out to discover this charming hill town. Take inspiration from the meditative chanting of Tibetan monasteries and the expansive vistas of the Dhauladhar range. McLeodganj is there, prepared to provide a rich tapestry of encounters. Take pleasure in the journey, enjoy the peace, and make heartfelt memories. Your journey to McLeodganj is just a short drive away; take the call and make it your next stop!

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3 mins read

The Perfect 3 Day Mcleodganj Itinerary For A Quick Trip

26 Mar, 2023

McleodGanj is one of the most popular getaway destinations for mountain lovers. Known as 'Little Lhasa', it is located in the Kangra district and boasts of a lively Tibetan culture. Dotted with nature's wonders right from gushing waterfalls to calm monasteries, McleodGanj is a paradise for backpackers. If you're looking for a place to enjoy a relaxing stay, McleodGanj for you. Here is a McleodGanj itinerary to help you plan your trip better.

Read This 3-Day Itinerary To Enjoy Mcleodganj To The Fullest - 

How To Reach McleodGanj 

Kangra Airport is located in Gaggal, about 12 km from Dharamshala. This airport is however regional and serves only certain flights and timings. So if you want to fly in, do some research about the flights that land here and maybe you can find one to your suiting.  

Pathankot Station is about 90 km from Mcleodganj and is the closest one to it. From the station, you can find buses and cabs to take you to Mcleodganj easily. This route is very common and you will find plenty of trains to reach Pathankot from any major train station around the country.  

This is the easiest and most common way to reach Mcleodganj. There are  Government-owned as well as private buses that ply from Delhi, Chandigarh etc. You can get off at the Mcleodganj bus stand and move onward in a cab.  

If you have a car to rent or your own private vehicle, then there is no problem. Simply take the NH1 via Delhi and you will be in Mcleodganj in about 10-12 hours.  

Picture - Unsplash  

St. John’s Church  

Start your day as you head over to St. John’s church in the wilderness. The road leading up to the church is quiet and full of lush green trees. Spend some time in the wilderness and head back over to the main market. Going to and coming back from the church will be a really long walk, so you can opt for local taxis or autos. Autos are cheaper obviously, both autos and taxis have fixed rates.

Bhagsu Falls  

Once you are back in the main market, head towards Bhagsu falls and take in the beauty of the Bhagsu village. It is vast and goes on way beyond what the eyes can see. While in Bhagsu, you can choose to have lunch in any of the cafés lining the streets, or also on the way to the falls. The Bhagsu Falls is a gorgeous waterfall that cascades into a rocky pool. It is a beautiful sight to behold.

Shiva Café  

Shiva Café is one of the most popular cafes around here, however, it is quite a way up from Bhagsu falls. The view from this café is to die for though! It is a good option to spend your time at. When you head back down, check out the boho shops selling trinkets and clothes and pick some up for the return journey. One of the things that you definitely must try is the Bhagsu cake at German Bakery! Dhompatsang is a shop you must visit, you will find OG Tibetan incenses, essential oils, and other authentic Tibetan knick knacks at very reasonable prices.

Dalai Lama’s Temple  

Once you’re done with the Bhagsu village, explore the main market area of Mcleodganj and of course visit the Dalai Lama’s temple! There is unusual calm and peace inside this temple, and you would not want to leave. Here, you’ll find people practising yoga, chanting, and meditating. End your day with a meal at Café Illiterati. It is a beautiful café with a kickass view and equally good food. Also, say hello to their in-house dogs.

Triund Trek  

Wake up early, fill up on breakfast and gear up for the Triund trek! There are two options you can take - either take a ride to the Himalayan tea shop which is the starting point of Dharamkot village or take a taxi up to Gallu Devi temple. We would suggest the former because the trail from Dharamkot village to Gallu Devi temple is simply beautiful! Take the longer route used by taxis to trek up, as it scores 100 on the “views to die for” scale. In case you want to skip all the planning, join our specially-curated Triund Trek and say yes to new adventures.

It will take you anywhere between 3-5 hours to reach the Triund top depending on your speed. The trek path is lined with rhododendron trees, and you will often catch goats grazing around. The last 1-2 km of the trek are the most challenging as the gradient becomes steep. But once you reach the top, you’ll be at a loss for words (not because you’re panting and out of breath).

Camp At Triund

The Dhauladhars are up close, the air is clean, the view is mesmerising, and there you are, a tiny little human just trying to take it all in. Breathtaking and majestic. Camp out the night here, because nights on the Triund top are a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Your McleodGanj itinerary is incomplete without this location.

Don’t forget to carry your water, at least 2 bottles, which you can refill at Gallu. You can buy water at the cafés on the Triund trail as well, but make sure your litter remains in your bag and is emptied only in a dustbin. Waste Warriors, an NGO, cleans up the trail on a weekly basis. You will even catch some of their posters and installation art in and around McleodGanj.

Picture - Unsplash

Naddi Village  

If you chose not to spend the night at Triund then you can have a late start today by 11 am and opt to go to Naddi village which is known for its wonderful views! If you did spend the night at Triund and have the energy to move around, you can opt for this exciting day-out plan. However, if you want this day to be chill, spend your day and lunch at our cafe in The Hosteller.  

Dharamshala  

Say goodbye to Mcleodganj by 2-3 pm and head over to Dharamshala to witness the most beautiful cricket stadium you’ll ever see in your entire life! The HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala is a field of green backdropped by the snow-capped Himalayan mountains - definitely a sight that should not be missed! This is a great place to take photos so click away so don't miss out on it while preparing your McleodGanj itinerary.

You can also choose to explore the Dharamshala tea gardens, famous for the Kangri Tea. You can get local tea brews to carry back home for your family and friends. Catch your Dharamshala-Delhi bus and bid the beautiful Dhauladhars one final goodbye, until next time.

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19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

2. catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, 3. shop at the luxurious gum, 4. make your way into lenin's mausoleum, 5. spend an hour (or three) at red square, 6. discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, 7. ride the stunning moscow metro, 8. explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, 9. spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, 10. walk up and down arbat street, 11. stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, 12. wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

• Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
• Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
• The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
• The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
• Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
• If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Russia: Whether you are interested in history, nature, or architecture, there's much to see in Russia. For a good introduction to some of the most fascinating spots in the country, take a look at our article on the Best Places to Visit in Russia . For more on Russia's second-largest city and all it has to offer, check out our piece on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Petersburg .

Moscow’s Top 13 – The Main Attractions of the Russian capital

13 Moscow Attractions

One of the most fascinating metropolis, breathtaking city, and a vibrant European capital, Moscow is a powerful mix of history and edginess, full of world famous sites and attractions that are worth exploring. However, it would take weeks to really explore all facets of the Russian capital – unfortunately hardly any traveler has that much time, which is why you should concentrate on the absolute Moscow top attractions and highlights. Here is the list of top 13 Moscow attractions you can choose on your next Russian travel journey.

What Times Square means to New York, Pariser Platz with the Brandenburg Gate to Berlin, or Trafalgar Square to London – Red Square means to Moscow. The heart of Russia’s capital it is the central meeting point and the most famous photo opportunity. No place stands for Russia and Moscow more than “krasnaja ploshchad”, as Red Square is called in Russian.

It is arguably one of the Moscow main attractions and most visited. With the gigantic military parade on Victory Day in World War II, which takes place every year on May 9, the pictures of the square go around the world year after year. But for the rest of the year you will mainly meet local and foreign tourists here, who take peaceful pictures and soak up the unique spirit. The square looks spectacular illuminated at night, but you should visit the square at least once in daylight as well.

If you stand in the middle of the huge cobblestone square, in the clockwise direction you can see the Kremlin and the Kremlin Wall with a total of 20 individually designed towers, Lenin’s Mausoleum, Historical Museum built with red bricks, the little Kazan Cathedral, the impressive luxury department store GUM, the imposing St. Basil’s Cathedral and, the bridge over the Moskva River. This unique ensemble offers more sightseeing highlights at one stroke than any other tourist attractions in Moscow or the world.

So it’s no wonder that Red Square is UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers the most popular photo opportunities worldwide. When visiting Moscow, there is no reason not to visit to Red Square and a selfie is practically also a must – getting there is easy even for Russia newcomers. Although Red Square does not have its own metro station, it is still child’s play to find the way there – especially since the Square is the absolute geographical center of the city.

There are four metro stations in the vicinity, from which it is only a short walk to Red Square, Okhotny Ryad and Teatralnaya directly at the northwest entrance of the Square at the Historical Museum; further to the west is the Lenin Library station, from which one arrives at the same entrance through the Alexander Garden. As well as the station Revolution-square behind the GUM department store, which leads past to the northeast side of the Square.

The Kremlin

This is the biggest active fortress in Europe offering a week’s worth of attractions. For more than 70 years, the Kremlin was the power center of the Soviet Union, which the US President Ronald Reagan called the Empire of Evil exactly 35 years ago, one of the symbols of the East-West conflict in the Cold War. People in the West feared the «dark» plans that were built behind the thick walls of the Kremlin.

The Kremlin is built in a triangular shape on the natural elevation above the Moscow River, known today as the Kremlin Hill. Today’s metropolis Moscow has expanded in a circle around it and the road around the Kremlin is considered the first of several ring roads in Moscow counting.

Now Kremlin has lost its terrifying image, although it is still the seat of the Russian President and thus one of the most important places in World political events. It is an inviting, historical sight for tourists, and one of the famous Moscow tourist attractions which can be visited for just a few dollars.

The large parts of the 28 hectare site can be visited by tourists – with the exception of the Kremlin towers, the presidential Grand Kremlin Palace and the Senate Palace. The first port of call on the site is the so-called Cathedral Square, which is the geographical center of the Kremlin and at the same time the highest point on the Kremlin Hill and contains the three oldest structures in the complex. The three 15 th -century cathedrals of the Kremlin (the Dormition, Archangel Michael and the Annunciation Cathedrals), which together with the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the Cathedral of the Deposition of Mary, make the most famous ensemble of the Kremlin. Also to be visited here are primarily the Armoury and the Patriarch’s palace.

To get to the Kremlin, you have to pass a security gate at one of the two publicly accessible entrances – these are located at the Kutafja and Borovitsky towers. Tickets cost from 700 rubles upwards, the admission to the Armoury, the Ivan the Great bell tower and the Patriarch’s Palace being paid for separately.

More about the Kremlin

Lenin’s Mausoleum

This is the ultimate love it or hate it tourist attractions in Moscow It may be mistaken for a gloomy performance, but Lenin remains an absolute attraction almost a hundred years after Vladimir Lenin death. The founding father of the Soviet Union is not only a fascinating historical figure of world renown for supporters of communism. Despite ongoing discussions about a final burial of the leader of the communist October Revolution in 1918, hundreds of thousands come year after year to the dark marble building on Red Square, right next to the Kremlin wall, to see the embalmed body of the legendary Russian revolutionary.

First opened to the public in 1924, the Mausoleum attracts 2.5 million visitors every year, so, visitors have to wait a long time to get into the illustrious building. Also, photos from inside the Mausoleum are prohibited. But a visit is still a must for Moscow visitors, especially since the visit is free. Please note that the Mausoleum is only open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The queue starts behind the Historical Museum and before you get into the actual mausoleum, you have to pass an airport-like security gate – cameras and cell phones are not allowed into the Mausoleum, but can be safely placed in a cloakroom for a small fee. On the way out of the Mausoleum, after the visit, you pass the graves of the other Soviet heads of state. Including the grave of Josef Stalin, who was briefly kept next to Lenin in the Mausoleum after his death. But in the course of de-Stalinization, the cruel dictator was moved to the less prominent place behind the Mausoleum.

More about the Lenin Mausoleum

The Alexander Garden (Alexandrovsky Sad)

If you visit Moscow in summer, the hustle and bustle in the metropolis of millions can get over your head. The city, best known for its icy winters, can turn into an absolute burning furnace in summer. It sometimes takes over an hour to get to the edge of the metropolis. The perfect retreat, located in the center of Moscow, is therefore the Alexander Garden and one of the Moscow top attractions.

Located directly on the western wall of the Kremlin, the Alexander Garden is just a small, but all the more well-kept park that extends to the nearby Manege Square (Manezhnaya Ploschad). The garden undergoes a lot of changes, with old trees cut down in 2012 and over 200 planted, the authorities also claim that there will be a rosary of 3000 roses. As soon as the first rays of sun warm up the Muscovites, tormented by the long winter, they set off into the countryside. If you are right in the center, you can choose the small park right by the Kremlin.

With a café in hand, which you can get yourself on Manege Square, you can linger here between the carefully tended flower beds. With the Grave of the Unknown Soldier and the regular changing of the guard, there is even a real tourist attraction on top. Entry is free.

The Moscow Metro

In no other metropolis in the world would the subway be declared a sight. Yes, that is truly right as riding this one of the top Moscow tourist attractions is an experience in itself or just a walk through the station is amazing in itself. Whether in New York, Berlin, London or Paris – the big city inhabitants of the world metropolises have a love-hate relationship with their metro. It’s different in Moscow – the residents of the Russian metropolis love their metro and there is a reason for that: in the early days of metro construction, dictator Stalin had built the stations into “palaces for the workers”.

All the splendor of the tsars, which the ordinary Russian never saw, is now open to everyone, regardless of their origin. Indeed, a number of stations on the Moscow Metro, each built shortly before or after the war, are unmatched architectural masterpieces. Mayakovskaya station is often compared to a ballroom for its chandeliers and ornaments. The Teatralnaya stop, located directly below the world-famous Bolshoi Theater, shines with decorations reminiscent of the country’s theater and ballet tradition. Colorful glass windows, almost like in a sacred building, adorn the Novoslobodskaya station.

But the uncalled queen among Moscow’s metro beauties is Komsomolskaya station, named after the youth organization of the Soviet Union. With its huge chandeliers and detailed ceiling decorations, it is the crown jewel among the 331 metro stations. It is not uncommon for tourists to stand in the middle of the platform and take photos under the glances of passengers who just want to walk past the annoying tourists to and from work as quickly as possible.

A ride on the metro currently costs 57 rubles, which is less than one dollar. You should plan a few hours for a tour of the most beautiful stations, but the good news is, once behind the turnstile, a single ticket is enough to stay in the metro system as long as you want.

The Bolshoi Theater

To see Tchaikovsky Swan Lake or the Nutcracker by the same legendary Russian composer on the famous Bolshoi stage – that is the dream of every ballet fan. Home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, nowhere else is the fine art of musical dance lived as much as in Russia – and has been since the times of the tsars.

The Bolshoi itself has been shining back to its former glory since it was built in 1776 since its extensive renovation that cost almost a billion dollars a few years ago. The large historical hall of the building impresses with its opulent golden decorations and creates a very special atmosphere – this was also used by the communist leaders of the Soviet Union, who held their congresses in the building directly at the Kremlin. The Theater is so famous that it currently adorns the 100 ruble banknote and is among the Moscow main attractions.

If you’d like to go to what is probably the most famous ballet theater in the world today, it’s easier than ever. The program can be found months in advance on the official website bolshoi.ru  and can be ordered at very reasonable prices. The cheapest seats in the hall can be booked for as little as 100 rubles, i.e. less than $ 2. However, you should reserve tickets early, as the performances are usually booked weeks in advance. Even for good seats, you pay very moderate prices compared to Western Europe.

There are a few things to watch out for, however, proper, appropriate clothing is welcome, but apart from the obligation to wear trousers, it is not an exclusion criterion for men. If you arrive late, you have to wait outside until the next break so as not to disturb the other guests during the performance. The best way to get to the Bolshoi is by taking the Moscow Metro via the Teatralnaya station, which was built especially for the theater and which stairs are right in front of the main entrance.

More about the Bolshoi Theater

The GUM department store

The Russian abbreviation GUM means main all-purpose shopping center and sounds quite formal for such a shopping temple. Located in front of the Kremlin on Red Square, GUM has existed as a department store since 1920 and was previously a market. It is the most iconic and largest department store in Russia and among the Moscow tourist attractions .   The facade of the building, built in 1890, fits perfectly into the overall picture of Red Square and is illuminated photogenically at night.

In contrast to the scarcity economy of the Soviet era, the GUM today really has everything to offer that one can imagine. It has become the flagship of the shopping and fashion metropolis Moscow. But today you will mainly find smaller luxury shops here. From western high-couture boutiques such as Prada or Gucci to fur for the icy Russian winter, a well-to-do Muscovite or a tourist will find everything their heart desires here.

People can walk through the wide and beautifully decorated arcades of the GUM, free of charge. Cafes invite you to linger. A delicatessen shop on the ground floor sells Russian specialties at affordable prices. Chocolate, honey and caviar, as well as the all-round vodka in Russia, can be bought here as souvenirs for friends and family at home. In addition, the Soviet-style cafeteria on the upper floor is very cheap for lunch.

The GUM offers a special highlight every winter when the department store administration built an ice rink in front of the building directly on Red Square. For only 200 to 300 rubles per hour, depending on the time of day, you can lace up your skates and glide over the ice with the unique panorama of Red Square.

More about the GUM department store 

The Historical Museum

The Historical Museum is a museum of Russian history wedged between Red Square, Lenin Mausoleum, small Kazan Cathedral, and Manege Square. The red brick building of the Museum is a real eye-catcher and Moscow top attractions located on the opposite side of St. Basil’s Cathedral. It is dedicated to Russian history and is built in the Old Russian style, the building did not open until 1883.

The Museum houses everything from an exhibition on the archeology of Russia, through the technological achievements, to the art of the gigantic empire in 16 sections and has a total of 5 million exhibits. So if you are interested in the history of Russia, you cannot avoid visiting this Museum and should plan enough time for it.

A visit costs 150 to 500 rubles, depending on which exhibition you want to visit. The Museum is open in winter, autumn and spring from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., closed on Tuesdays. In the summer months, the extended Saturday times apply daily.

It is probably the most famous park in the Russian capital and the top Moscow tourist attractions – a novel and its film adaptation and a Russian rock band have its name and numerous songs by Russian and international bands and TV series, such as House of Cards, mention it or act here. Gorky Park is a premier green space offering entertainment for every taste. Located southwest of the center of Moscow on the Moskva River, it is designed more for family attractions and rest and the classic park on the other side – has become one of the meeting places for Muscovites of all kinds in recent years.

Whether for a yoga class, a family picnic or beach volleyball match, skateboarding, and cycling – people meet here often. Because even in the Gorky there is an ice surface in winter, the largest in Moscow, which attracts many Moscow residents as well as tourists.

A large-scale renovation in 2011 breathed new life into the park – the roller kiosks were removed and more emphasis was placed on the maintenance of the green spaces. The park remained free of charge and developed into one of the most popular places in the capital. Whether with the rental bike through the green lungs, the pedal boat across the numerous ponds or simply watching the goings-on on the park bench – a visit to Gorki is also absolutely worthwhile for tourists.

Day trip to the Golden Ring

As much as the metropolis Moscow is fascinating, the side effects of a cosmopolitan city like Moscow – the noise, the traffic and the crowds – can overwhelm any tourist. What could be better than a day trip to escape the organized chaos of the cosmopolitan city?

The places on the Golden Ring near Moscow are an ideal destination for this and among the Moscow main attractions – located north-east of the metropolis, these old Russian cities, some of which have existed for much longer than Moscow itself, offer a welcome change from the hectic hustle and bustle of the capital.

Developed in the late 1960s uniting several mediaeval Russian cities located to the north-east of Moscow it is the most popular route around provincial cities of central Russia. More than a thousand year old city of Yaroslavl on the Volga is the largest, but at 260 km from Moscow also the most distant city of the Golden Ring. For only 650 rubles, however, you can take the three-hour train ride there.

Yaroslavl has been part of the world cultural heritage since 2005 and is best known for its two monasteries – the Monastery of our Savior and Transfiguration and the Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Tolga are located directly on the Europe’s longest river Volga and its inflow Kotorosl. Both testify to the long history of the Russian Orthodox Church. The cityscape of Yaroslavl is also really worth seeing with its classicist buildings – walking through the streets of the city with 500,000 inhabitants is a welcome contrast to Moscow. Things are even more slow in the small towns of Suzdal and Vladimir, both of which can still be reached with the Moscow suburban train network (known as Elektrichka) for a good 500 rubles. In both cities time seems to have stood a little – large sacred buildings dominate the cityscape.

Especially the Assumption Cathedral, located in the center of Vladimir, and the Golden Medieval Gate are the main attractions for tourists. The church, built in the early 12th century, is best known for its almost 700 year old wall paintings and frescoes and is a World Heritage Site. The Suzdal Kremlin is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage List and was first mentioned in writing in 1024.

Suzdal with its only 10,000 inhabitants has still retained the character of a small Russian town and in the town, which will celebrate its millennium in 2024, you can still find numerous wooden buildings typical of rural Russia – whether churches or houses, the colorful buildings are ideal as Photo motif and give an impression of the simple Russian provinces life away from the metropolises.

The exhibition of the achievements of the national economies is not in every travel guide as a classic Moscow main attractions and a must see of the Russian capital. But no other place in the modern mega-metropolis exudes the spirit of the Soviet Union as much as the enormous VDNKh (All Russian Exhibition Centre) in the north of Moscow. It was built as an agricultural exhibition before World War II, but was then renamed world exhibition for the 15 individual Soviet states and their achievements.

From the Armenian, Estonian and Kyrgyz culture, to the Soviet achievements in space travel and nuclear power, to statues about the heroes of the Soviet history, the VNDKh (Vystavka Dostizheniy Narodnogo Khozyastva) was an absolute attraction until the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. After that, the old charm fell into disrepair and the large central pavilion, which was built in the splendidly pompous Stalinist style, was filled with small traders selling souvenirs and matryoshkas.

Since its renovation in 2014, the exhibition in the park-like area is absolutely worth a trip again and with the metro station of the same name you can get from the center to the VDNKh quickly and without problems. There are still strange souvenirs, plus huge Soviet monuments worth seeing, as well as numerous rides for children. The Kosmos exhibition still exists and is now part of the Cosmonaut Museum, which is located at the front end of the park when coming from the metro station.

Here you can experience the various achievements of Soviet and Russian space travel vividly. From the very first Sputnik satellite, the spacesuit of Yuri Gargarin, the very first human in space, to the Buran space shuttle, you can learn an incredible amount about the conquest of the cosmos here. However, you should plan several hours just for a visit to the Cosmonaut Museum.

More about the cosmonaut museum

The Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery

To complete the cultural program in Moscow, you should definitely make a tour to the Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery when visiting the Russian capital. It is the largest museum of European art and among the Moscow top attractions. The former Museum of Fine Arts was named after Alexander Pushkin’s death in 1837 – it is still one of the most important art collections in the world today.

It boasts one of the richest collections of foreign art in Russia, showcasing global artistic developments from early times to the present day in expositions numbering 700,000 works of art.  Not far south of the Kremlin, exactly opposite the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the Museum is housed in a classic building specially built for this purpose in 1898. From early Byzantine art to the famous Madonna by Lukas Cranach, the Italian masters, Peter Paul Rubens and masterpieces of Expressionism, for example by Paul Cézanne, you can admire a huge selection of important art here.

The regular entry ticket costs 800 rubles and the Ьuseum is open on weekends from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., during the week until 8 p.m. – only Monday is closed.

The second important art collection in the capital is the State Tretyakov Gallery. It is the national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the greatest museums in the world. Started by the textile entrepreneur and philanthropist Pavel Tretyakov as a collection of local contemporary art in 1851, the gallery has now developed into one of the cultural highlights of Russia. In contrast to the Pushkin Museum, you will primarily find Russian art from the 19th century and older icons.

Entry cost is 400 rubles and the Gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Monday is also the day off.

Take a stroll across Red Square, meet Lenin and see the world-famous Kremlin?

Then first of all you need a visa! !

Alexander Popov

Welcome to Russia! My name is Alexander, I was born in Moscow and I'm a passionate tour guide. I want to share my passion for Russia and my hometown with you. On my website you will find useful information to make your individual trip to Russia as interesting as possible.

The Museum of Cosmonautics and the Planetarium in Moscow

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9 Things to See in Moscow's Red Square

 Sir Francis Canker/Getty Images

In most cases, you'll be entering Red Square from the north, passing landmarks such as the Bolshoi Theatre and Duma parliament building as you make your way southward. Although you don't necessarily have to pass through the Voskresensky (or Resurrection in English) Gates in order to gain access to the square these days, they definitely provide a sense of arrival, to say nothing of the way their left arch frame's St. Basil's Cathedral if you look from just the right angle.

An interesting fact is that while a gate of some kind has stood here since the mid-16th century, the one you currently see wasn't built until 1994, having been destroyed in 1931 so that tanks could enter and exit Red Square during military parades.

St. Basil's Cathedral

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Few sights are as iconic not only of Moscow and Red Square but indeed of Russia than St. Basil's Cathedral, whose colorful, onion-shaped domes are a symbol of the country around the world. Officially known as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, this church has stood since 1561, which is quite miraculous when you consider all the turbulent history that has transpired since then.

Among other things, religion was severely prohibited during the Soviet period , which led some to believe that this emblem of the Russian Orthodox church might not withstand the tenure of the USSR. 

An interesting fact is that St. Basil's is the so-called "Kilometer Zero" of Russia; all of Moscow's main roads (which can take you anywhere in Russia) begin at the exits to Red Square. In this way, St. Basil's iconic status also has an extremely tangible element.

The Kremlin

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

When you think of The Kremlin, it's unlikely that positive images enter your mind. The fact that simply saying the word "Kremlin" is too vague a descriptor (most Russian cities have their own Kremlin complexes; you should say "Moscow Kremlin") notwithstanding, this misunderstood place is incredibly beautiful, even if you don't like the policy that comes out of it.

Senate Square

In spite of its name, which refers to the role the building that rises above the square played during Imperial Russia, Senate Square is actually home to Russia's presidential administration, currently helmed by Vladimir Putin. In order to see where Russia's legislature operates from, walk just outside Red Square to the Duma parliament building.

Dormition Cathedral

Dating back to the year 1479, the gold-domed Dormition Cathedral pays homage to an Orthodox religious feast that commemorates the death of the Virgin Mary . As is the case with St. Basil's, it is curious that such a conspicuously religious structure was able to survive through the Soviet period.

Armoury Chamber

Though it takes its name from the fact that it housed Russia's royal arsenal when it was built in the 16th century, the most notable resident of the Kremlin's Armoury Chamber today is the Russian Diamond Fund.

Notable Kremlin Towers

Robert Schrader

The interior of the Moscow Kremlin is more beautiful and inviting than you'd expect, but the walls and towers that rise around it better live up to the intimidation with which the complex is associated. 

Borovitskaya Tower

Named to commemorate the dense forest that once stood atop the mount where it's built, this tower is extremely picturesque. Built in the late 15th century, it's visible from most places in the square, and also as you walk along the Moskva River.

Nikolskaya Tower

Also built in the year 1491, this tower currently suffered destruction at the hands of Napoleon's army in the 19th century. What you see now is the result of an 1816 re-design and renovation, though artillery fire during the Russian Revolution also caused superficial damage to the tower, named to honor St. Nikolas of Mozhaysk , so it's difficult to know which elements of it are original.

Spasskaya Tower

Known in English as the "Savior's Tower," this iconic, star-topped tower is perhaps the best-known of all the Kremlin's towers. Built in 1491 like the other two towers on this list, it's certainly the most photographed. As a result of its proximity to St. Basil's, it often makes its way into tourists' pictures.

Mausoleum of Lenin

Just as it's strange to learn how many religious monuments survived through the Soviet period, it's a bit odd to think that Lenin's preserved body still sits in a mausoleum just beneath the walls of the Kremlin on Red Square, given the lack of consensus about the ultimate impact of his Revolution, even in Russia.

It's not guaranteed that you'll be able to see the body (which, believe it or not, seems to be improving with age ) when you go, and if you do you will likely have to wait in line, but even strolling past the outside of the Lenin Mausoleum, flanked by stone-faced guards that almost look like statues, illuminates the gravity of his body still being here.

GUM Shopping Center

You might cringe, at least initially, when you realize that one of the most iconic stops on a tour of Red Square is a department store—until you see said department store, that is. Built in 1893 and known during Soviet times as the State Department Store, GUM  ( Glávnyj Universáľnyj Magazín​ or Main Universal Store in English) hearkens back to the grandeur of the late 19th century, both seen from the outside (especially, when lit up at night) and the interior, which might have you feeling like you're further west in Europe.

A trip inside GUM is a particularly good idea during winter, when frigid temperatures outside will have you savoring the heat, the quality of souvenirs, confections and other goods sold inside notwithstanding. Also, make sure not to confuse GUM with CDM, which sits near the Bolshoi Theatre, even though both are stunning and iconic in their own right.

State Historical Museum

The Russian State Historical Museum is located near Voskresensky Gates, though you should wait until after you've seen the first few attractions of Red Square and the Kremlin to head back there and go inside. To be sure, as you pass by its facade (whose late-19th century grandeur somewhat obscures that fact that it's currently a museum accessible to the public) you might not even think to try and gain entry.

Once inside the museum, you can plan to spend at least a couple of hours, given that artifacts here date back to the very beginning of the Russian state in the ninth century. As is the case with GUM, this will be a particularly alluring prospect if you visit in winter, when Moscow is arguably at its most beautiful, but certainly at its least tolerable. 

Minin-Pozharsky Monument

It's somewhat easy to disregard this monument, which pays homage to the two Russian princes who ended the so-called "Time of Troubles" in the mid-16th century, during which Polish-Lithuanian forces occupied Russia, among other awful things including a famine. That's because the statue currently sits just at the base of St. Basil's Cathedral, which makes it very difficult to photograph or even see without being overwhelmed by that much more famous edifice.

Though the statue originally sat at the very center of Red Square, it came to be an obstacle to the movement of tanks during the Soviet period, much like the Voskresensky Gates. As a result, authorities moved it during that time, and it's stayed where you currently find it ever since.

Kazan Cathedral

Taken by itself, the smokey-pink Kazan Cathedral is an architectural marvel; originally built in the 17th century, the church you find here today, located just north of the GUM department store, dates back only to 1993.

Unfortunately, since it sits not only in the shadow of GUM, but also in the shadow St. Basil's and the Towers of the Kremlin, it's easy to miss entirely if you aren't looking. As a result, you might wait until you've seen just about everything else in Red Square before coming here to take photos, and to appreciate the understated beauty of this oft-overlooked cathedral.

Moskva River

As you head south from St. Basil's Cathedral to exit Red Square, make sure to walk onto Bolshoy Moskvoretskiy Bridge, which crosses the Moskva River. If you look due north, you can get an excellent shot of the church framed, on the left, by the towers of the Kremlin. Directing your gaze a bit to the west allows you to see the skyscrapers of Moscow City as they rise above the Kremlin's walls.

Walking westward along the riverbank is also a worthwhile excursion, for the views it provides of Red Square and the Kremlin, as well as the fact that doing so takes you to other iconic Moscow attractions, including Gorky Park and the Pushkin Museum. The views you enjoy from the river and the bridge are particularly stunning at night, though you should make sure you bring a tripod if you want to get a clear picture, given how strong winds over and near the river can be.

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