The hilltop home of the Tibetan government-in-exile, packed with monasteries, cafés, momo stalls and bustling bazaars under the Dhauladhar peaks.
McLeodganj sits on a ridge above Dharamshala and is the heart of the Tibetan community in India. Since 1960 it has been home to His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Administration, which is why it is often called "Little Lhasa".
The town is small enough to explore on foot: the Temple Road and Jogiwara Road bazaars are lined with Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, bookshops and cafés serving thukpa, momos and butter tea. Most visitors base themselves here to explore Bhagsu, Dharamkot, Naddi and the Triund trek.
Roads in McLeodganj are narrow and parking is limited, so a local driver who knows the one-way loops makes arrivals and departures much easier.
Highlights
- Tsuglagkhang Complex & Namgyal Monastery
- Tibetan market on Temple Road
- Cafés with Dhauladhar views
- Base for Triund, Bhagsu & Dharamkot
Photos
How to reach
Around 25–30 minutes by taxi from Dharamshala and 45–60 minutes from Gaggal Airport (DHM). The nearest broad-gauge railway station is Pathankot, about 90 km away.
