Cosmic geeks
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Treks & Hikes
GALLU WATERFALL
Gallu waterfall is a hidden treasure in the middle of the woods. It’s a hike of around 60-90 mins from the Upper Dharamkot but you can also drive till Gallu Devi temple and start the hike from there. Once you reach the temple follow the trail through the woods and breathtaking scenic views and you will reach the waterfall. There is also a cafe located on the way to the waterfall known as the Sunset Cafe. It’s a nice place to chill and have some delicious food while you enjoy the sunset.
Channel Your Inner Creative
Pottery With Local Artisans
Charcoal Sketching
A drawing technique that employs an implement of charred wood, charcoal drawing is a staple of any artist’s study. Charcoal drawings are a great way for any artist to practice gesture and how to zero in on big shapes without getting bogged down in detail.
A small rustic space located in the village of Dharamkot about 2km from Mcleodganj, Dharamkot Studio is a hidden gem where people can take pottery lessons. The lessons include trying to get the hang of the art using simply the hands and the wheel. The studio is also known for reviving black pottery, and trained instructors guide locals and tourists every step of the way.
Cooking Classes
Women around here offer cooking classes which are open to all. Mostly are home run and you get to learn how to cook authentic food in a fun way. Different cuisines are taught in which Northy Indian food tops the list.
Jewelry Making
Enjoy the process of creating ornamental pieces. The materials can range from stone to precious crystals and metals, and the techniques are versatile.
Meditation & Wellness
TUSHITA MEDITATION CENTRE
​Tushita Meditation Centre is a centre for the study and practice of Buddhism from the Tibetan Mahayana tradition. It aims to provide a friendly and conducive environment for people of all nationalities and backgrounds to learn about and put into practice the teachings of the Buddha. They provide various courses and retreats, and a free hour long guided meditation session every morning.
Healing & Well-being
SOUND HEALING
Sound healing therapy has been around for centuries. The power of sound waves and vibrations stimulates healing from within, bringing many benefits.
MASSAGE THERAPY & COURSES
Relax, refresh and rejuvenate your body and mind with Ayurvedic, Tibetan and various other massage therapies. Interested ones can enroll in these courses as well.
ANANYA YOGA & REIKI CENTRE
CHAKRA HEALING & MEDITATION
ECSTATIC DANCE
You will find plenty of courses related to the healing and wellbeing such as Hatha Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Reiki, Sound healing, Yog Nidra etc.
Various centres around offer these healing treatments and courses, one of which is Asho Institute of Healing and Chakra meditation
Dancing is a free flowing state, one can experience a deep state of trance though it. Flow with the rythem of music, free yourself of stuck emotions and heal your soul.
Sight Seeing
Ropeway
Dharamsala Skyway is 1.8 kms ropeway, by which you can reach Mcleodganj from Dharamshala in just 10 Minutes only. The ropeway brings in a scenic aerial view from Mcleodganj to Dharamshala.
Naddi Sunset Point
The sunset point at Naddi offers a breathtaking view of the Naddi village and its scenic surroundings. If you're lucky enough, you could witness a rainbow at sunset (and some light showers too). Naddi is also surrounded by scenic walking trails and, if you're a photographer, it’s a real treat.
Dal lake
This picturesque lake enclosed by forests and mountains is a must-see for nature lovers. It is named after the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar, as this lake is also surrounded by magnificent deodar trees. Dal Lake is a peaceful place to relax or go for a walk. A boating experience on the green waters is also enjoyable as there are a variety of fish in the lake. And for adventure seekers, there are trekking expeditions available around the lake.
St. John's Church
Another of McLeodganj’s famous places to visit is this old Anglican church in the forest. It is a piece of British history hidden deep among the trees.St. John in the Wilderness was built in 1852 as a place of worship for the British soldiers posted in the area. A serene graveyard among the deodar trees holds many memorial stones. It is also the resting place of Lord Elgin, who was the viceroy of India at that time. The church is a fascinating structure built in a neo-Gothic style. Its beautiful Belgian stained- glass windows were a gift from Lady Elgin.
Monasteries & Museum
Namgyal Monastery
Namgyal Monastery comes with a deep history. Located in McLeodganj in the Kangra district, this hermitage was founded by the third Dalai Lama. This historical monastery was moved to Dharamshala soon after the Tibetan Revolt. This place was originally a monastery from the palace of Lhasa, which found its new incarnation in Dharamshala. The monastery is known to perform all important Tibetan ceremonies and host Tibetan monks from around the world. It accommodates around 200 monks who are involved in preserving the rare skills, rituals, tantric practices, Buddhist scriptures and culture which they brought from Tibet. The new version of this monastery is also known as Namgyal Tantric College. Known as “the Dalai Lama Temple” , the monastery now acts as a personal monastery for the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso
Norbulingka Institute
This Institute is one of the more current McLeodganj attractions on the must-see list of many tourists. For those who are interested in Tibetan art, this is a wonderful place to visit. It was founded in 1995 as a place to preserve traditional Tibetan art and culture. The architecture of the building itself is in a traditional Tibetan style. It is set in a manicured garden with small ponds and meandering streams. The Institute provides jobs for more than 300 Tibetan artists and craftspeople. Visitors can take guided tours to see a variety of beautiful artworks. The art studios include woodcarving, Thangka painting, and Tibetan statue making, among many others
The Tibet Museum
This museum is located inside the Tsuglagkhang complex and has a collection of brilliant forms of Tibetan Art, which include history documents, pottery, handicrafts, paintings etc. This museum gives a tourist an insight into Tibatan culture and also the various struggles faced by them lately. The structure of the Tibet Museum is influenced by Tibetan architecture which is unique and innovative
Experience the Night Life
FLUGGLER'S CAFE
Fluggler's is nicely done space. It's a good place to munch and chill.
ALT LIFE
Known for various music events and festivals it's by far the most well done place around on the basis of interiors.
ONCE IN NATURE
The name says it all. It's a beautiful establishment that serves vegetarian food with vegan options as well.
JUNGLE CALLING
It's an experimental hippie space with rocky interiors. They have live music events in the evenings
Cafe Hopping Dharamkot
Trek n Dine
Established in the year 1994, Trek and Dine is a top player in the category of cafes in Dharamshala. This well-known establishment acts as a one-stop destination servicing customers both local and from other parts of the town.has a wide range of products and / or services to cater to the varied requirements of their customers. The staff at this establishment are courteous and prompt at providing any assistance.
Bodhi Greens
Bodhi Greens uses local produce to create gourmet dishes with international flavours. Drop in to experience Chef’S signature plant- based creations ranging with flavours from Japanese, South-east Asian, French and Indian and explore their range of homemade products like granola, almond butter, peanut butter, sesame butter/tahini and more.
Rain's Coffee House
Named in memory of their beautiful dog - rain, they started as a home kitchen during the pandemic and moved into a cafe space last September, keeping in mind that in it's core, rain's would always be a safe space to call home for the community around - travelers and locals alike. They are a self-run space centring around Indian specialty coffee and food cooked/baked/created from scratch using handpicked high quality ingredients. The space also houses the artwork of many visual artists, painters and photographers from the community.
Mowgli's Cafe
Everyone’s go to Dosa place, The Mowgli cafe, is located in the middle of the upper dharamkot area. It is run by the owner of the place single handedly who cooks a variety of yummy Dosas right in front of you. He also serves Biryani and Chicken-Rice on special days. The Badam tea is a delight here.
Salvation Cafe
Salvation cafe is located in upper dharamkot which is a very serene place to be. The cafe serves a delicious variety of food. If you are here and craving really good north Indian food then it’s a must visit. They have vegan friendly options too and live events during the evenings.
Morgan's Place
The location has a patio with spectacular mountain views. The menu is largely Italian, with some delicious pizzas and salads thrown in for good measure. When you want something to eat with your drink or cold coffee, the paninis are ideal. The aroma of those clay ovens where pizzas are made will engulf you before you can take a breath of fresh air. While the outdoor seating is excellent, there is also cushioned indoor seating!
Ananda
Ananda has a variety of healthy and plant based food options, cooked with a lot of care and attention. It is a self run Plant based cafe. The space is filled with a heart warming ambience and beautiful atmosphere. The best part is that they source their raw materials holistically and serve nutritious food.
Birdhouse Cakery
They serve freshly baked cakes, beverages, brewed coffee and breads made with love & expertise! Drop in for a cup of their rich hot chocolate with some views, a good read & soul soothing music to keep you company. Cute paws would often greet you around at The Birdhouse Cakery
Cafe Hopping McLeod Ganj
Nick's Italian Kitchen
Nick’s Italian Kitchen located in proximity to central square in Mcleod Ganj and is one of the most preferred hub for food lovers staying in Dharamshala. You can get the best variety of Italian dishes with an abundance of cheese and flavors that will surely make you visit the place again and again till the time you are staying here. You can also taste momos here served with freshly made chilli sauce. The place is open from 7:30 in morning to 9:00 at night during normal weather. Must try dishes here are: Quiche with spinach, pizzas and cakes.
Jimmy's Italian Kitchen
As described by the name itself, the restaurant mostly deals in Italian food and the other specialty of this restaurant is known to the whole world, the pizzas. But other than the trademark Italian cuisines such as pizza and pasta, there are much more options to choose from and it won’t disappoint you when it comes to the quality and the taste of cuisines.
Juniper Cafe
Juniper Cafe is located right near the center of Mcloed Ganj. It serves all variety of coffees and teas alongwith freshly made food. It has a very warm and cozy environment. A really great place to go espoecially if you're travelling solo.
Jimmy’s Assian Kitchen
Alongwith the Tibetan Japanese and Korean cuisines wait for you. You will be offered good momos, bibimbap and bao. Delicious coffee or great tea are worth trying here. Select between indoor and outdoor seating. The cheerful staff reflects the style and character of Jimmy’s Asian Kitchen - McLeodGanj. Downscale service is something that visitors would like to improve here. But google users awarded this
Shiva Cafe
This has to be the most popular café among foreigners and young Indians. Shiva Cafe in Mcleodganj has an interesting story attached to it. A young Muslim man named Touseef, went to the hills in search of peace and ended up starting the hippie culture in Himachal Pradesh. A Muslim man naming his café after a Hindu god speaks a lot about India’s secular vibe. A little away from the main town, Shiva Café serves heavenly pizzas. Head to this café for some chill vibes and meeting like-minded people.
Lung Ta Japanese Restaurant
After enjoying Tibet World, go to this restaurant that is not far away. They serve delicious Japanese food. It's a pleasant experience to try good soup, potato salads and tofu salads. Tasty lemon pie, fruitcake and biscuits will impress you at the first bite. The positive aspect of Lung Ta Japanese Restaurant is that the staff is professional. Enjoyable service is something clients like here. Adequate prices are to be expected at this place. The fancy decor and cozy atmosphere let guests feel relaxed here.
