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Little Lhasa in India - McLeod Ganj
McLeod Ganj is often called 'Little Lhasa', because of its resemblance to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. It is a very calm and peaceful place, strewn with many tourist attractions. The area is rich with many ancient temples and monasteries.
MCLEOD GANJ, is no ordinary hill station; it has an environment of its own. The British-established town of McLeod Ganj, located in the higher regions of Dharamshala, is amongst one of the most travelled destinations in India these days. The area forms part of the majestic backdrop of lush green forests in the Himalayan ranges. The view of the long span of snow-capped Himalayan peaks from this town, is stunning.

McLeod Ganj is often called ‘Little Lhasa’, because of its resemblance to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. It is a very calm and peaceful place, strewn with many tourist attractions. The area is enriched with many ancient temples and monasteries. The prime attraction here is the residence of the Holy Dalai Lama. People throng the place to catch a glimpse of the revered Lama. The Tsuglagkhang or the temple of Dalai Lama is also frequented by scores of followers and devotees. Here you will come across astounding statuettes of Shakyamuni, Valokitesvara and Padmasambhava. It is a very beautiful temple.

McLeod Ganj has lot to offer to tourists looking for an experience away from the humdrum of daily life. The Namgyalma stupa and the impressive monastery with larger than life images of the Buddha is located in the centre of McLeod Ganj. TIPA, the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, is a famous attraction to all art-loving folks from India and abroad. The ten day festival of theatre, music and dance held annually is fascinating and very inviting. Though overcrowded, there’s an ineffable quietude amidst the hustle and bustle. Prayer wheels, or mani, with mantras painted at them, adorn the temple on the main street; turning the wheels is considered an invocation to the Buddha of Compassion.

McLeod Ganj is steeped in Buddhist culture – one can find Buddhist handicrafts, garments, Tibetan food, good luck charms and thangkas for enlightement. A place ideal for chilling out and shopping, it offers everything to a tourist. Tourists can buy handmade shawls, souvenirs, pendants, and many other locally-made products, available at reasonable prices. Traditional Tibetan carpets are a must buy. You can also go for the woollen clothes which include gloves and pullovers. Strolling around the markets is the best way in which you can get acquainted with Tibetan culture. Kotwali Bazaar is a popular market of the area.

McLeod Ganj offers great eateries serving Italian, Israeli, Korean, Japanese and Tibetan food at very reasonable prices. Jimmy’s and the vegetarian Pema Thanga are popular for pizza and desserts, while Tibet Kitchen is the best place to sample authentic Tibetan fare. McLlo’s is also a popular multi-cuisine joint. Macleodganj not only basks in the climate of spirituality, but also infuses a spirit of rejuvenation. The town also houses the Tibetan Medical and Astrology Institute which propagates and furthers the age-old and authentic Tibetan medical techniques. Some interesting activities held here include astrology and natural therapy, which attract numerous tourists.

When you have finished exploring the streets and the entire place, you can also go in for the exciting excursions. Destinations would include Dal Lake, Dharamkot, Palampur and Triund. The breathtaking scenery will leave you in awe. Macleodganj is accessible by air, road and railways. The Gaggal airport is the closest airport, located at a distance of about 15km. Nagrota and Kangra are the closest railway stations. In case you are travelling by road, you can avail of the various bus facilities from different cities like Manali and Delhi. So do make it a point to visit this magical place and soak in the spirituality.

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COMMENTS (2)
.very well written!!!!!!
.It is called Little Lhasa only for one reason i.e its the place where His Holiness the Dalai Lama resides and reason why majority of the Tibetan people maked their living in this small hill station.
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