McLeod Ganj and Dharamkot on the hillside above Dharamshala
Himachal

Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj Travel Guide: Monasteries, Treks and Cafés

Tibetan monasteries, mountain cafés, the Triund trek and the cricket ground with a view — the hill town that suits every kind of traveller.

Thrill On Hills Travel DeskUpdated 27 October 20263 min read
Photo: Rignam Wangkhang, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
In this guide01Top things to do02Triund trek in brief03Best time to visit04How to reach and how long to stay

Dharamshala sits in the Kangra valley with the Dhauladhar range rising straight behind it. Upper Dharamshala (McLeod Ganj) is home to the Tibetan community and the Dalai Lama’s temple complex, while lower Dharamshala is the busier town.

01Top things to do

  • Tsuglagkhang (Dalai Lama temple complex) in McLeod Ganj
  • Bhagsunag temple and waterfall — an easy walk from town
  • Triund trek — a popular day or overnight hike with Dhauladhar views
  • HPCA cricket stadium — one of the most scenic grounds in the world
  • Norbulingka Institute — Tibetan arts and gardens
  • Cafés in Dharamkot and Bhagsu

02Triund trek in brief

The trail starts above McLeod Ganj (Galu temple is a common starting point) and climbs steadily through forest to an open ridge. Most people take 3–5 hours to go up. Carry water, start early and avoid the trek after heavy rain.

03Best time to visit

MonthsWhat to expect
March–JunePleasant, best for treks and cafés
July–SeptemberHeavy monsoon rain — Dharamshala is one of the wettest places in Himachal
October–NovemberClear views, crisp weather
December–FebruaryCold; snow on the peaks

04How to reach and how long to stay

Overnight Volvo buses run from Delhi, or fly to Gaggal (Kangra) airport. Four nights is ideal; add Dalhousie and Khajjiar for a 6-day trip. Our Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj trip starts from ₹7,500 per person for 4N/5D, and the Dharamshala–Dalhousie circuit from ₹9,900 (October 2026).

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj?

McLeod Ganj is upper Dharamshala, the Tibetan quarter with the Dalai Lama temple; lower Dharamshala is the main town.

How difficult is the Triund trek?

Moderate — a steady climb of 3–5 hours that most fit beginners manage.

How many days are enough for Dharamshala?

Three to four nights; add two for Dalhousie and Khajjiar.

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Thrill On Hills Travel Desk

Written by the Thrill On Hills planning team, who run pilgrimages, mountain trips and holidays from offices in Delhi, Haridwar, Manali, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Ahmednagar and Bhilai.

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