The Backpacker's Guide to McLeod Ganj

McLeod Ganj, often called Little Lhasa, is the seat of the Tibetan government in exile and home to the Dalai Lama. It is also a hub for backpackers, and for good reason. The town is set in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, with cool air, pine forests, and a laid back vibe. I spent a week there, and it was exactly what I needed after months of traveling in the heat. The main attraction is the Tsuglagkhang Complex, which includes the Dalai Lama's temple. I sat in on a meditation session, and even though I am not a Buddhist, I found it deeply calming. The complex also has a museum about Tibetan history that is worth visiting. The food scene in McLeod Ganj is excellent, especially if you like Tibetan food. I ate momos almost every day, and the thukpa was the perfect comfort food on a chilly evening. There are also plenty of cafes serving everything from Israeli food to wood fired pizza. For a bit of exercise, I hiked up to Triund, a meadow about nine kilometers from town. The trail is steep but manageable, and the views of the Dhauladhar mountain range from the top are spectacular. You can camp overnight at Triund if you want, but I did it as a day hike and was back in town in time for dinner.