{"id":1872,"date":"2008-09-19T12:54:00","date_gmt":"2008-09-19T12:54:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/box2067.temp.domains\/~atinytri\/dharamsala-mcleod-ganj-dharamko\/"},"modified":"2021-03-01T13:21:27","modified_gmt":"2021-03-01T17:21:27","slug":"dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/","title":{"rendered":"One Week Dharamsala Itinerary (McLeod Ganj, Dharamkot)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamsala-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9008\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamsala-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamsala-1-320x213.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamsala-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamsala-1-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamsala-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>Dharamshala<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Last we left off in <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Amritsar (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/delhi-contrishikeshharidwaramritsar\/\" target=\"_blank\">Amritsar<\/a>, so today we&#8217;re back with a one week Dharamshala itinerary. Dharamshala (also written Dharamsala, Dharmshala and Dharmsala) is the winter capital of the State of Himachal Pradesh in India. It is located in the hills of the Kangra District.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dharamshala refers to the main town but it is the surrounding villages where you can really settle down for a few days to explore the beautiful mountains of Himachal Pradesh, covered in Deodar cedar trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For tourists, places to visit in McLeod Ganj are where it&#8217;s at. So take in the McLeod Ganj tourist scene: take a class, relax, and enjoy the mountains of Dharamsala. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<!--more-->\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_64 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Skip ahead!<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-662beb7560535\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-662beb7560535\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#One-Week-Dharamshala-Itinerary-Overview\" title=\"One Week Dharamshala Itinerary Overview\">One Week Dharamshala Itinerary Overview<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#Dharamsala-Itinerary\" title=\"Dharamsala Itinerary\">Dharamsala Itinerary<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#When-to-Visit-Dharamshala-and-McLeod-Ganj\" title=\"When to Visit Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj\">When to Visit Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#Travel-to-Dharamshala\" title=\"Travel to Dharamshala\">Travel to Dharamshala<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#Dharamkot\" title=\"Dharamkot\">Dharamkot<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#Tips-for-Dharamkot\" title=\"Tips for Dharamkot\">Tips for Dharamkot<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#Cooking-Yoga-and-Massage-Courses-in-Bhagsu-Nag\" title=\"Cooking, Yoga and Massage Courses in Bhagsu Nag\">Cooking, Yoga and Massage Courses in Bhagsu Nag<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#Tips-for-Bhagsu-Nag\" title=\"Tips for Bhagsu Nag\">Tips for Bhagsu Nag<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#McLeod-Ganj-Upper-Complex\" title=\"McLeod Ganj Upper Complex\">McLeod Ganj Upper Complex<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#Surprise\" title=\"Surprise!\">Surprise!<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#Triund\" title=\"Triund\">Triund<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#McLeod-Ganj-Lower-Complex\" title=\"McLeod Ganj Lower Complex\">McLeod Ganj Lower Complex<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#Tips-for-McLeod-Ganj\" title=\"Tips for McLeod Ganj\">Tips for McLeod Ganj<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/#More-Things-to-Do-in-Dharamshala\" title=\"More Things to Do in Dharamshala\">More Things to Do in Dharamshala<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"One-Week-Dharamshala-Itinerary-Overview\"><\/span>One Week Dharamshala Itinerary Overview<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The area around Dharamshala, specifically, McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu Nag and Dharamkot are the perfect area to delve into Indian and Tibetan culture. There are a wide array of classes offered that last anywhere from 3 days to 6 months and more! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s a sample itinerary combining a 5 day class of your choice along with the main cultural attractions around Dharamshala.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dharamsala-Itinerary\"><\/span>Dharamsala Itinerary<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"has-background has-very-light-gray-background-color\"><li>Travel Day<\/li><li>Sign up for classes- cooking, massage, yoga etc. Class day 1.<\/li><li>Class day 2 and Visit the McLeod Ganj Upper Complex<\/li><li>Class day 3<\/li><li>Class day 4 Hike to Triund<\/li><li>Class day 5 and Visit McLeod Ganj Lower Complex<\/li><li>Travel Day! <\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When-to-Visit-Dharamshala-and-McLeod-Ganj\"><\/span>When to Visit Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Himachal Pradesh is one of only three Indian states that have two capitals. Shimla is the summer capital and Dharmashala is the winter capital! Dharmashala in the winter does get snow and is quite cold. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Summers are hot and rainy. During the British Raj, the British rule over India, Dharmasala was a Hill Station, a town in the hills where diplomats from Delhi would escape the summer heat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sure enough monsoon rains in the summer keep temperatures lower (not low, mind you). If you\u2019re planning to spend a week in Dharmashala, spring and fall are the best times!\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Travel-to-Dharamshala\"><\/span>Travel to Dharamshala<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So a 4 hour train and 4 hour bus ride later, we arrive in Dharamsala (from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/delhi-contrishikeshharidwaramritsar\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1873\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Amritsar<\/a>). It is too late to go up to McLeod Ganj, where the exiled Tibetan community resides, so we crash for the night in a horrible guest house and go up the next morning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After a delicious breakfast of hash browns, saut\u00e9ed veggies, eggs and toast; we set about to look for a place to stay. Michael walking accidentally down the wrong road, (and after asking a shopowner) was lucky enough to be tipped that if we keep heading up, we will arrive in the quiet village of Dharamkot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/daytime-view-from-dharamkot-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"view from dharamkot\" class=\"wp-image-5587\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/daytime-view-from-dharamkot-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/daytime-view-from-dharamkot-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/daytime-view-from-dharamkot-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/daytime-view-from-dharamkot.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>daytime view from Dharamkot<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dharamkot\"><\/span>Dharamkot<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Sounding like it&#8217;s just what we&#8217;re looking for, we climb up and over to the other side of the hill with our packs and stumble upon one of the nicest guest houses we have stayed at: huge windows all around overlooking the village and a balcony of our own. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/at-guest-house-dharamkot-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5586\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/at-guest-house-dharamkot-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/at-guest-house-dharamkot-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/at-guest-house-dharamkot-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/at-guest-house-dharamkot.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>Snow White guest house balcony<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Happy to be in the mountains again, we set about exploring, walking across to the neighboring village of Upper Bhagsu and working our way down to Bhagsu Nag- where we found out where all the Israelis have been hanging out. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-to-bhagsu-nag-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"mcleod ganj to bhagsu nag view\" class=\"wp-image-5588\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-to-bhagsu-nag-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-to-bhagsu-nag-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-to-bhagsu-nag-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-to-bhagsu-nag.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>McLeod Ganj to Bhagsu Nag<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>From there is was a walk around to the other side of the hill and we were back in McLeod Ganj. This is the walk that would frame the remaining days of our week, as we embarked on a cooking course and a massage course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips-for-Dharamkot\"><\/span>Tips for Dharamkot<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Use this as a cheap place to stay with a good view, quieter than McLeod itself <\/li><li>Massage course- down the trail (1800 Rs for 5 classes \/ 2 hours each); ask for Kamal<\/li><li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Iyengar Yoga Center (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/hiyogacentre.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Iyengar Yoga Center<\/a>&#8211; large yoga complex<\/li><li>Other classes available such as jewelry making\/knitting, etc.<\/li><li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Chabad House (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/unity.co.il\/\" target=\"_blank\">Chabad House<\/a>&#8211; for internet, shabbat dinners, etc.<\/li><li>Snow White Lodge- upper Dharamkot; nice family; 200 Rs\/night, double with attached bath and hot shower; no sign- just ask for Deepak<\/li><li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Milkey Way Cafe (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/wJnt2yWJb7rdbwgL6\" target=\"_blank\">Milky Way Cafe<\/a>&#8211; good Israeli food, run by Sanji<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cooking-Yoga-and-Massage-Courses-in-Bhagsu-Nag\"><\/span>Cooking, Yoga and Massage Courses in Bhagsu Nag<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The following morning, I went down to a yoga class in Bhagsu where the teacher proceeded to fold me like &#8220;cloth&#8221;. Then it was time for cooking class with Rita. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cooking-class-dharamkot-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"cooking class rita bhagsu nag\" class=\"wp-image-5581\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cooking-class-dharamkot-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cooking-class-dharamkot-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cooking-class-dharamkot-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cooking-class-dharamkot.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>cooking class in Bhagsu <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>First day, we learned to make a Thali (the Indian dal bhat that consists of lentils, curry, rice and chapati). In the next couple of days we also learned how to make Malai Kofta (potato cheese kube-like balls in sauce), Alu Paratha (potato stuffed flat bread), Samosas, and Palak Paneer (Spinach and Cheese). Yummy! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We ended the day back in Dharamkot where Michael took an Ayurvedic massage course. Needless to say I was not complaining about having to be the model for the next 5 days!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips-for-Bhagsu-Nag\"><\/span>Tips for Bhagsu Nag<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Like Dharamkot but busier, has many mid-range accommodations (Best Western etc.)<\/li><li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Rita's cooking classes (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/qsAd9vMtTD9ceeWH9\" target=\"_blank\">Rita&#8217;s cooking classes<\/a>&#8211; 700 Rs for 3 sessions\/person; includes lunch after each class.<\/li><li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Unity Pizza (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/YkVsSEbFXw6esgN37\" target=\"_blank\">Unity Pizza<\/a>&#8211; amazing pizza for a good price<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ins class=\"bookingaff\" data-aid=\"2129175\" data-target_aid=\"2129175\" data-prod=\"dfl2\" data-width=\"100%\" data-height=\"auto\" data-lang=\"en\" data-dest_id=\"-2102941\" data-dest_type=\"city\" data-df_num_properties=\"3\">\n    <!-- Anything inside will go away once widget is loaded. -->\n        <a href=\"\/\/www.booking.com?aid=2129175\">Booking.com<\/a>\n<\/ins>\n<script type=\"text\/javascript\">\n    (function(d, sc, u) {\n      var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0];\n      s.type = 'text\/javascript';\n      s.async = true;\n      s.src = u + '?v=' + (+new Date());\n      p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p);\n      })(document, 'script', '\/\/aff.bstatic.com\/static\/affiliate_base\/js\/flexiproduct.js');\n<\/script>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"McLeod-Ganj-Upper-Complex\"><\/span>McLeod Ganj Upper Complex<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In between cooking in Bhagsu and massaging in Dharamkot we had some time in McLeod Ganj, where we discovered the Tibet government bakery and a Momo shop making delicious chai, perfect for our afternoons. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 1959, the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, established the Tibetan exile government. The following year, the Central Tibetan Administration was moved of Dharmashala!\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The town of McLeod Ganj is famous for being the seat of the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader. Here you will find the Dalai Lama\u2019s temple, Tsuglagkhang, a monastery and Tibetan government buildings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We got to see the main temple area, the Dalai Lama residence, and the Tibet museum, telling the story of the Tibetan exile, which was quite profound. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another day, we got a tour of a hand-made paper factory run by the Tibet welfare office, by a young Austrian volunteer. It was really interesting to get some insight about how the exile government is run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/entering-mcleod-ganj-upper-complex-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"sign showing which way to circumambulate at mcleod ganj temple\" class=\"wp-image-5589\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/entering-mcleod-ganj-upper-complex-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/entering-mcleod-ganj-upper-complex-240x320.jpg 240w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/entering-mcleod-ganj-upper-complex.jpg 960w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/temple-in-mcleod-ganj-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Tsuglagkhang Temple\" class=\"wp-image-5582\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/temple-in-mcleod-ganj-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/temple-in-mcleod-ganj-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/temple-in-mcleod-ganj-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/temple-in-mcleod-ganj.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-upper-complex-view-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"upper complex mcleod ganj view\" class=\"wp-image-5590\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-upper-complex-view-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-upper-complex-view-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-upper-complex-view-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-upper-complex-view.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>view from the Upper Complex in Mcleod Ganj<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Surprise\"><\/span>Surprise!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>[Michael here] So today was a surprise. After a relaxing morning we walked down to Milky way cafe for brunch. They make delicious sabich pitas, shakshuka, hummus, etc. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After our meal as I walked along the path down towards the massage school I see Dru and Amy, a buddy of mine from home and his sister. We knew we were both in the area, but hadn&#8217;t connected by email in a few days. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/michael-and-dru-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5583\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/michael-and-dru-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/michael-and-dru-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/michael-and-dru-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/michael-and-dru.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We spent the afternoon all together, chatting and a short walk around Dharamkot. We planned a hike for the next day up the mountain to Triund, for a view of the other side. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Triund\"><\/span>Triund<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With a clear and sunny morning we started off up the mountain. A pleasurable hike with beautiful views above dharamkot and bhagsu we kept climbing. After just over 2:30 hours, we were at the top. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just as we were approaching the clouds had begun to roll in and our view of &#8220;the other side&#8221; was covered in thick clouds. We enjoyed a chai before heading downhill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hike-to-triund-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"triund hike from mcleod ganj\" class=\"wp-image-5596\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hike-to-triund-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hike-to-triund-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hike-to-triund-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hike-to-triund.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>hike to Triund<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sheep-in-triund-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"sheep in triund\" class=\"wp-image-5595\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sheep-in-triund-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sheep-in-triund-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sheep-in-triund-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sheep-in-triund.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>sheep in Triund but no view<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p> In&nbsp; the last couple days it had begun raining quite early in the day so we made our brisk return. Daphna and I had a delicious sabij sandwich each and then enjoyed a well deserved rest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"McLeod-Ganj-Lower-Complex\"><\/span>McLeod Ganj Lower Complex<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The next morning the four of us met for breakfast. With full bellies we headed down to the Tibetan complex housing a cultural museum, a medical institute, the supreme justice, a library, and other Tibetan government related buildings. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some interesting things we saw included hundreds of samples of Tibetan herbs and minerals used in Tibetan medicine, ancient buddha statues and textile arrangement, among others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-entering-lower-complex-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"entering mcleod ganj lower complex\" class=\"wp-image-5584\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-entering-lower-complex-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-entering-lower-complex-240x320.jpg 240w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-entering-lower-complex.jpg 960w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption>entering Mcleod Ganj lower complex<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-lower-complex-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"buddhist stupa in mcleod ganj\" class=\"wp-image-5585\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-lower-complex-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-lower-complex-240x320.jpg 240w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-lower-complex.jpg 960w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption>Buddhist Stupa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-parliament-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"tibetan parliament in exile building\" class=\"wp-image-5591\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-parliament-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-parliament-240x320.jpg 240w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleod-ganj-parliament.jpg 960w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips-for-McLeod-Ganj\"><\/span>Tips for McLeod Ganj<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Attractions in the Main Complex<\/strong>&#8211; including: Dalai Lama&#8217;s residence, Tsuglagkhang Temple and <a href=\"http:\/\/tibetmuseum.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Tibet Museum (opens in a new tab)\">Tibet Museum<\/a> (about Tibetans&#8217; plight from Tibet since the Cultural Revolution in China)<\/li><li><strong>Attractions in the Tibetan Government Complex<\/strong>&nbsp;(bottom of hill from Mcleod, 30 min walk): Museum of Tibetan Medicine (really interesting), Tibetan Cultural Museum (Here you can take many classes such as Tibetan Language, Buddhism, etc.)<\/li><li><strong>Hiking<\/strong>: walk to Triund, about 4 hours round trip- nice views especially on a clear day; take lunch. Other options include further overnight hikes to Chamba; check with locals for guides, etc.<\/li><li>Momo cafe- good for chai and momo&#8217;s<\/li><li>JJI cafe- really good breakfast JJI breakfast or farmer&#8217;s breakfast<\/li><li>Tibet bakery- great bread and donuts and muffins, etc. try something new every day, run by the exile government.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/unity-pizza-bhagsu-nag-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5594\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/unity-pizza-bhagsu-nag-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/unity-pizza-bhagsu-nag-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/unity-pizza-bhagsu-nag-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/unity-pizza-bhagsu-nag.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>Unity Pizza in Bhagsu<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>After building up an appetite at the complex it was time for lunch. We walked the 2.5 km to Bhagsu, not a big deal, for a special pizza. Best pizza on our trip so far. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Then it was a good-bye to Dru and Amy as it was our 8th and final night in Dharamkot. The next morning we would be off to <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Manali-Vashisht area (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/manalichandigar\/\" target=\"_blank\">Manali-Vashisht area<\/a> on an early bus\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"More-Things-to-Do-in-Dharamshala\"><\/span>More Things to Do in Dharamshala<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Need a little help getting organized? Then, you could definitely take a tour to get you started exploring Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/activities.frame\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-widget=\"activities\" data-gyg-number-of-items=\"1\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"D9BVJG4\" data-gyg-tour-ids=\"290205\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-2-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamshala-itinerary-1-week-683x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5603\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamshala-itinerary-1-week-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamshala-itinerary-1-week-213x320.png 213w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamshala-itinerary-1-week.png 735w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleodganj-itinerary-one-week-683x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleodganj-itinerary-one-week-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleodganj-itinerary-one-week-213x320.png 213w, https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mcleodganj-itinerary-one-week.png 735w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Last we left off in Amritsar, so today we&#8217;re back with a one week Dharamshala itinerary. Dharamshala (also written Dharamsala, Dharmshala and Dharmsala) is the winter capital of the State of Himachal Pradesh in India. It is located in the hills of the Kangra District. Dharamshala refers to the main town but it is the &hellip;<\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more\"> <a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/dharamsala-itinerary-mcleod-ganj-dharamkot\/\"> <span class=\"screen-reader-text\">One Week Dharamsala Itinerary (McLeod Ganj, Dharamkot)<\/span> Read More &raquo;<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":5603,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[157],"tags":[],"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamshala-itinerary-1-week.png",735,1102,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamshala-itinerary-1-week-150x150.png",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamshala-itinerary-1-week-213x320.png",213,320,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamshala-itinerary-1-week.png",735,1102,false],"large":["https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamshala-itinerary-1-week-683x1024.png",683,1024,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamshala-itinerary-1-week.png",735,1102,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamshala-itinerary-1-week.png",735,1102,false],"yarpp-thumbnail":["https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dharamshala-itinerary-1-week.png",80,120,false]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"atinytrip","author_link":"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/author\/atinytrip\/"},"uagb_comment_info":8,"uagb_excerpt":"Last we left off in Amritsar, so today we&#8217;re back with a one week Dharamshala itinerary. Dharamshala (also written Dharamsala, Dharmshala and Dharmsala) is the winter capital of the State of Himachal Pradesh in India. It is located in the hills of the Kangra District. Dharamshala refers to the main town but it is the&hellip;","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1872"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1872"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1872\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5603"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1872"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1872"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.atinytrip.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1872"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}