Triund Trek
Constituting one of the top trekking trails in the country, the 9000-foot ridge behind the Dhauladhar range is Triund. Is one of the places to visit near Mcleodganj situated just nine kilometers away from , the extremely popular nine-kilometer trek is much sought-after. The Triund trail begins from Tushita road which is not far from the main square.
Bhagsunath Temple & Waterfall
Legend has it that King Bhagsu incurred the wrath of the snake god, and following a war, the king was pardoned. In honor of the snake god’s generosity, King Bhagsu built the shrine. This medieval Shiva temple is one of the most important places to visit in McLeod Ganj and is frequented by members of both Hindu and Gorkha communities.
Namgyal Monastery
Namgyal monastery, also known as the 14th Dalai Lama’s monastery, is a sacred place where rituals involving various Buddhist practices such as the Kalachakra, Vajrakilaya, Guhyasamaja, Yamantaka, and Chakrasamvara.
Kareri Lake
Kareri Lake is a freshwater lake located in a high altitude area is a place to visit near Mcleodganj. The source of the lake water is from the snow of Dhauladhar mountain ranges that melts in the hot season. As snow is the main water source, the lake water is almost crystal clear.
Dharamkot
Dharamkot is a village adjoining McLeodganj that oozes sparkling sceneries. Not far from Dal Lake, the festival-fair organized every year adds to the vividness of Dharamkot. More spellbinding views of the Dhauladhar range await you, and a spiritual retreat at one of the several dedicated centres is just a step away.
Minkiani Pass
The Minakini pass is a part of Dhauladhar ranges which offers some splendid and spectacular view of nature and landscape is a must visit place near Mcleodganj. If you are a photographer, you would love to capture the scenic beauty the pass has to offer. The slope, which is not located in a high altitude area unlike the other slopes, offers a good trekking experience for the tourists.
Naddi View Point
If you want to the beauty of snow-capped mountains, there could be no better place than the Naddi viewpoint. The Naddi viewpoint is one of the tourist places in Mcleodganj that offers a splendid view of the hilly areas. Not only can photographers capture the moments, but they can also watch the beautiful sunset and sunrise from this high altitude area.
Dal Lake
The slopes of McLeodganj have one of the most picturesque lakes around. Named after the more-celebrated Dal Lake in Srinagar, this small lake is close to a beautiful village called Tota Rani. Flanked by Deodar trees, that are so typical of the region, lend the lake a mystical ambiance.
Dhauladhar Ranges
Dhauladhar ranges are a part of the lesser Himalayas that rises from the Indian subcontinent and ends up to the north of Kangra district, Dharamshala. The mountain ranges comprise of slopes and valleys those are loved by mountaineers and trekkers. It is one of the best tourist places in Mcleodganj as it satisfies the natural lust of most people.
Kangra Fort
The Kangra fort is a royal palace built by the royal Katoch dynasty in the ancient times. The fort is a witness to numerous wars, invasions, and evolution. If you are looking for some of the oldest architecture places near Mcleodganj, Kangra fort would be the right choice for you.
Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts
Tibetan Institute of performing arts is also one of the most popular tourist places in Mcleodganj. Set up by the 14th Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso, this institute was at first known as the dance, drama and music society. The main aim of establishing this institute was to preserve the entertainment culture of Tibetans.
Indrahar Pass
If you are not much of a trekker and you are looking for a first-time adventure, Indrahar pass trek could be the right choice for you. The place is counted among one of the best places to visit in Mcleodganj when it comes to easy or moderate trekking.
The Dalai Lama’s Temple
The huge complex is also known locally as Tsuglagkhang, this is the residence of the Dalai Lama. Although the private residence of His Holiness is out of bounds for tourists, the complex comprises of several shrines, temples, a Tibetan museum, and souvenir stores. Each day, students congregate in the courtyard of the Namgyal Monastery and study ancient Buddhist philosophy.
Saint John’s Church
Constructed in 1852, the church was built on the lines of neo-gothic architecture and is dedicated to John the Baptist. Around 50 years after being built, the Kangra earthquake destroyed the church’s bell tower leaving the rest of the church undamaged. The church is embedded amid a grove of Deodars, with a quaint graveyard lying in the same grounds.
Masroor Rock-Cut Temple
The 15-temple complex is an astonishing example of ancient rock-cut architecture in India. A short drive from McLeod Ganj, it is counted among the hidden gems around and the sights subdue the bumpy ride here. The ornately carved cluster of monolithic rock-cut shrines are among the most unexplored temples in Himachal Pradesh, and the crowds are sparse. Partially in ruins, this stunning monument is believed to have been built between the sixth and the eighth centuries.
Norbulingka Institute
Counted among one of the top tourist destinations in Mcleodganj, Norbulingka Institute is the place you wouldn’t want to miss if you are a sucker of Tibetan culture. The Institute protects ancient Tibetan culture in the form of art, architecture, and paintings.
