Home β€Ί Pilgrimage β€Ί Dharamsala & McLeod Ganj
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India 🌸 Good time to visit now

Dharamsala & McLeod Ganj

Himachal Pradesh, India
Altitude
1,457 m
Best time
March – June Β· September – November βœ“
Temperature
5Β°C – 25Β°C
Country
India

About this sacred site

Dharamsala β€” specifically McLeod Ganj β€” is the seat of the Tibetan Government in Exile and the residence of H.H. the Dalai Lama since 1960. The Tsuglagkhang (Main Temple) complex houses the Dalai Lama’s residence, the Kalachakra Temple, and the Tibet Museum. Receiving a public audience with or attending a teaching by H.H. the Dalai Lama is possible when he is in residence. The town is densely packed with Tibetan culture, monasteries, dharma centres, and practitioners from around the world. The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives is a remarkable resource. The surrounding Kangra Valley and Dhauladhar Range provide stunning Himalayan scenery. For many Western practitioners, Dharamsala is the first encounter with living Tibetan Buddhist culture.

When to visit

Spring
10-22Β°C
βœ“ Ideal Β· Now
Summer
18-25Β°C
βœ“ Ideal
Autumn
12-22Β°C
βœ“ Ideal
Winter
2-12Β°C
Possible

Getting there

1
Fly to Gaggal Airport (DHM) β€” flights from Delhi (1hr). Or train to Pathankot (85km, then bus 3hrs).
2
Overnight Volvo bus from Delhi (12hrs) β€” comfortable and popular with pilgrims.
3
Check the Dalai Lama's teaching schedule at OHHDL.org β€” public teachings are announced 1-3 months ahead.

Nearby Buddhist sites

Location

Open in Google Maps β†—

Frequently asked questions

How can I attend a teaching by the Dalai Lama?
Check the official schedule at dalailama.com or OHHDL.org. Public teachings are usually announced 4 to 8 weeks in advance. Registration (free) is required. Bring your passport.
Are there meditation courses for beginners?
Yes β€” the Tushita Meditation Centre in McLeod Ganj runs excellent Introduction to Buddhism courses, usually 10 days. Book 2 to 3 months ahead as they fill quickly.
Where should I stay β€” McLeod Ganj or lower Dharamsala?
McLeod Ganj for pilgrimage and Buddhist practice β€” it has the Tsuglagkhang complex, Tibetan quarter, and most dharma centres. Lower Dharamsala is more local and less tourist-oriented.
What is the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives?
An extraordinary institution housing over 80,000 Tibetan manuscripts and books. It offers courses in Tibetan language, Buddhist philosophy, and meditation. Open to visitors.

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