Dharamsala a must visit tourist hotspot

Think Dharamsala and the first name that comes to your mind is definitely Mcleodgunj. The upper Dharamsala is referred to as McLeodgunj — this is not just the hub of tourist activity, but also home to the large Tibetan community.

This is one place in India where you don't have to spend much time on planning as it's a small town and can be explored on your own. That way you save a lot of money too as you don't have to depend on a vehicle to commute.

Soon as you enter the small town, you are greeted by the sight of Tibetans and foreigners from other countries. If you are one of those who loves to do your own thing without being distracted by either guides or tourists giving a list of must-visit places, then Mcleodgunj is for you.

It's a town that you can explore on your own. You could simply walk down the streets and the prominent tourist places appear before your eyes. The best thing about the city is there is no hiding place there so you won't miss out on any important place even if you do not ask a localite's help. Interestingly, most localites are migrated population who have set up their shops there. It's a sparsely populated area. Dharamsala was supposed to be the summer capital of India. However, a strong earthquake that destroyed most parts robbed the place of its chance.

You can visit the place at any time of the year considering the weather is mostly pleasant through the year. Among the many things you could do there is to try out the Tibetan dishes — there are a number of tiny restaurants that specialise in the local cuisine. Another blessing is that food is not very expensive. You must not miss the yummy carrot cake, steamy momos and of course the many green tea variants that is served in even the smallest of hotels.

Although there's not much sight seeing to do, you shouldn't miss the Dalai Lama house, Tsuglagkhang Complex, which is the largest Tibetan temple outside Tibet, Bhagsunag Fall, Dharamkot (to view the Himalayan mountain range), museum, library, Kunal Pathari (temple of the goddess), Buddhist monastery, Dal lake, Indrahar Pass and Triund. Watching the monks chanting and prostrating before Buddha itself is a visual treat.

The most striking thing about the place is that it's peaceful through the day and night. The hill station is serene and full of natural beauty.
The Temple street and Jogiwara street are lined up with small shops offering you a variety of stuff from clothes to souvenirs. Should you want to enjoy the calmness and appreciate the nature in all its glory, then Mcleodgunj is the place for you. After you have visited the place, you are sure to be at peace with yourself.

By Reshmi AR