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.

The trail is also blessed with a view of the Moon Peak-Indrahar Pass, and it only gets better with snow-engulfed Dhauladhar Mountains on one side, and the Kangra valley on the other. If you are even remotely interested in bird-watching, this trek will amaze you with rare sightings.

Often described as the crown jewel of Dharamsala, the evening sky will compel you to camp overnight and soak in the comforting lap of the Himalayas. Trekking at Triund remains one of the most popular adventure destinations from McLeod Ganj, suiting beginners and professional hikers alike.

Best Time to Visit: The months between March and December.
Distance from Mcleodganj: 7 Kms.

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.

The location of the temple is surrounded by pristine-looking coniferous forests, hills and a cascading waterfall that flows through the temple itself! Crowded at times, hallowed pools in the vicinity are said to have been built by subsequent Gorkha rulers, into which the waterfall which is 500 meters away collects into. Swimming in the pool is open to the public, and the cool dip is held sacred by devotees.

The 30-feet Bhagsu Waterfall is a sight to behold and is a mere two kilometers away from McLeod Ganj. Short, casual treks around the place are wonderful to explore the scenery, with a slew of cafes around providing refreshments.

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.

A monastery is a great place for meditation and all tourists are welcomed to join the meditation sessions. It is also the largest Tibetan monastery outside of Tibet. The monastery manages the tantric college and a home for elderly people in Shimla. Anyone who wishes to get a touch of spirituality can visit Namgyal monastery.

Best Time to Visit: Summer Season.

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.

Besides capturing the scenic beauties in their cameras, the tourists can also capture the beautiful pine trees located in the valley. It is a good place for trekking and photography. The Kareri Lake is located in the southern regions of Dhauladhar mountain ranges. The lake starts from Mcleodganj and then leads up to the Karen village.

Best Time to Visit: May to July and September to November
Distance from Mcleodganj: 50 Kms.

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.

A small shrine dedicated to Durveshwar Mahadev causes Dal Lake to be considered sacred, and a festival-fair held every year is evidence of that. The mid-altitude lake takes a greenish-hue and has varieties of fish inhabiting the water.

The mist in the mornings and evenings make Dal Lake the perfect place for an introspective walk alone, or with the beloved. If you’re lucky, boating in the lake is an amazing experience, when available. The lake next to the Tibetan Children’s village is a nice stopover before you proceed to other attractions, and is regularly listed in the places to visit in McLeod Ganj.

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.

Besides, the place is full of green vegetation cover, creating an atmosphere of tranquillity all around. People often take a meal to dine/ have lunch in this beautiful valley.

Best Time to Visit: April to October

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.

If you want to observe the Dhauladhar mountain ranges and Pir Panjal Mountain ranges, taking a trek in the Indrahar pass could be a good idea. The valley offers a direct view of those mountain ranges. Located at an altitude range of 2500 to 4500 meters, the Indrahar pass acts as a border between the Kangra and the Chamba districts.

Best Time to Visit: Mid-May to June and September to Mid-October