Hotels in McLeod Ganj

McLeod Ganj: Tibetan Exile Capital in the Kangra Valley

McLeod Ganj sits at 1,457 metres in Himachal Pradesh, 5 km above Dharamshala and roughly 500 km north of Delhi. The Dalai Lama established his government-in-exile here in 1960, and the town has since grown into the largest Tibetan settlement outside Tibet. Tsuglagkhang Complex — the central cathedral and Dalai Lama's residence — anchors the upper village and draws pilgrims, scholars, and journalists year-round.

Where to Stay

Most hotels concentrate along Jogiwara Road and Bhagsu Road, within walking distance of Tsuglagkhang. Bhagsu village, 2 km east, offers quieter guesthouses near the Bhagsu waterfall. Dharamkot, a 20-minute uphill walk, draws longer-stay travellers and meditation retreat participants. Expect a range from basic monastery guesthouses to mid-range hotels with Dhauladhar ridge views.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: The nearest airport is Gaggal (Kangra), 23 km south; taxis take about 45 minutes.
• Best months: March–June and September–November avoid monsoon landslides and winter road closures.
• Permit: No inner-line permit required for most nationalities.
• Altitude: Pack a light layer — evenings drop sharply even in May.