McLeod Ganj is a serene land, where the Dalai Lama temple resides and it is an important religious place for Buddhists. The Dalai Lama temple complex is a wonderful one that comprises many significant attractions that preach about the greatness of Buddhism. Being surrounded by a peaceful environment and resonating positive vibes from the temple, make us feel the serenity of the land. The temple is a great place to forget everything and just enjoy the presence of Lord Buddha in ourselves.
To explore this serene land, here is all about the temple to know before you visit. At your fingertips, you can access all important information about the Dalai Lama Temple and all other things.
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What to know about the Temple:
The temple complex houses various things, structures, and temples dedicated to Lord Buddha. The first and most important place in the complex to visit is its Main Temple. It houses the statues of Buddha, Padmasambhava, and Avalokiteshvara. This temple comprises a serene meditation hall for prayers and preachings. Here you can meditate and pray to the Lord Buddha. Then, the major attraction of the temple is a massive idol of Buddha on an elevated pedestal. At the center of the temple, the idol was placed with a chief prayer wheel plated in Gold. Pilgrims walk around the wheel and rotate it. It is believed that if they do so, they will be blessed.
The next important part of the complex is Namgyal Monastery, which is the personal monastery of the Dalai Lama. Here you can experience the lifestyle of monks and how they perform everyday religious rituals and activities. It is a complete place to learn about Buddhism. Later, The Tibet Museum is the next important place to explore the beautiful exhibitions of Tibetan history, culture, and the insights of the Dalai Lama’s life.
We know the Temple is quite famous for the preachings and life lessons of Buddhism. But if you want to be part of the preachings of the present 14 Dalai Lama, you have to check the official website for the scheduled events. It will be best if you plan when there is a preaching of the Dalai Lama to witness the 14th Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso’s preachings.
Things to do in and around the temple:
- The Library inside the temple houses good books on Lord Buddha’s preachings and lessons. But most of them are in foreign languages very few you will get in English translation.
- There will be a good number of shops around the temple. You can shop for books on meditation, religion, Buddhism, Tibetan handicrafts, artifacts, etc.
- Never forget to visit the museum, it is about Tibetan culture and history, the Dalai Lama’s escape from Tibet, Independence martyrs, etc.
- In the complex, you can see various prayer wheels with Tibetan mantras inscribed on them. People walk around them and rotate them. It is a sacred practice of Buddhism.
- Never miss to taste the food of the McLeod Ganj. Here you can experience Tibetan-style food in various restaurants and local eateries around the temple.
Nearby Attractions to explore:
McLeod Ganj is a wonderful tourist destination also. There are many other important tourist attractions to explore near the Dalai Lama Temple. Once your temple tour is over, you can catch up on these wonderful places near the Temple.
Bhagsunath Temple: The Temple is located near the Dalai Lama Temple and it is quite famous for Lord Shiva. Beside the temple, a waterfall will make the place more beautiful with lush greenery and a serene atmosphere.
Kangra Fort: Just 20 km far away, Kangra Fort is a majestic fort in India known for its beautiful architectural styles comprising numerous temples and palaces. The panoramic views from the fort look stunning and amazing.
Triund Trek: For adventure lovers, this trek route is a wonderful option to start from McLeod Ganj. Through the trek, you will cover magnificent views and attractions of the Dhauladhar Mountain Range.
Dal Lake: Very close to the temple just 3 km far away, Dal Lake is a simple and peaceful lake to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy boating on this lake.
Dharamkot: For offbeat destination lovers, Dharamkot village is a perfect choice to visit near the temple. Here you can capture the fantastic views of the Kangra valley and Dhauladhar range. The village’s yoga centers and organic food cafes are the best to explore.
Masroor Rock Cut Temple: A little bit far away from the temple about 40 km. But a wonderful architectural monolithic rock-cut temple. The temple dates back to the 8th century. Its intricate architectural works are the highlights of the temple.
Tips to be followed:
- Be respectful of the temple’s sanctity and monastery.
- Be quiet when you are inside the prayer halls and never disturb others.
- Mobile phones are allowed inside the temple but take prior permission to take photos.
- Try to dress traditionally.
- If you want to attend the preachings of Dalai Lama, you have to book online only.
- Footwear is never allowed inside the temple.
- If you have altitude sickness, take prior medical support and medications if required.
Best Time to Visit:
Throughout the year, the temple is open but the best time to visit is between September and March. At that time, the place with drizzling snow and chilling weather makes the trip special and memorable. Compared to other seasons, at this time the place will be more attractive for tourists to enjoy the pleasant atmosphere.
How to Reach:
By Air: Gaggalor Kangra Airport is the nearest airport to reach the destination. It is just 15 km away from Dharamshala. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or local bus to McLeod Ganj.
By Train: Pathankot Railway Station is the nearest one for railway passengers. It is 85 km far away from Dharamshala. From the Pathankot Railway Station, you can hire a cab or local bus to McLeod Ganj.
By Road: McLeod Ganjis well-connected with all surrounding major cities like Manali, Chandigarh, Delhi, etc. So you can catch private travel or public transport buses to the destination.
This is all about the McLeod Ganj’s Dalai Lama Temple in Dharamshala. It is a wonderful place to visit and enjoy the serenity of the place and to bag full of memories. Whenever you are near Dharamshala never hesitate to visit this tranquil wonder. That’s all you should know before you want to visit the famous Dalai Lama Temple in Himachal.
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