Trip to Dharamshala

I am a die-hard traveller and believe that travelling is a metaphor of movement and growth in life. In this vein, trip to Dharamshala was not so much about discovering the place but about spending time with the team and to get to know them better. It is a place to relax with family and friends. Attraction: Nestled in the Dhauladhar ranges, Mcleodganj is best known as the abode of Tibetan leader, Dalai Lama. A visit to Mcleodganj is must for anybody vaguely interested in Tibetan culture and way of life. In fact, most of the sight seeing or places to visit are centered around the Tibetan culture. Dalai Lama temple, Norbhulingka institute are an important landmark in the Tibetan presence in the country and go a long way in making a Tibetan feel at home. In McLeodganj don't miss to visit Bhagsu waterfall. No need to carry eateries with you to the spot. There are small shops that serve you Maggi, cold drinks and some snacks. Accommodation: You can get room for price starting Rs 250 in off-season at motels/guest house in Mcleodganj, which is half an hour drive from Dharamshala. Motelier /hotelier will be quoting price starting Rs 800 onward but a good search inside can give you a good deal. We got a three rooms with attached toilet and bathroom with option of a big terrace and loan for camp fire. You can get good luxurious accommodation inside Norbhulingka campus for Rs 1,800. It is through Norbhulingka management. Food: At McLeodganj, you get Chinese, Tibetan food and Punjabi food as well in restaurant. Shopping: There is not much to shop in Dharamshala/Mcleodganj. You can buy some yalk wool shawls, antiques and a must but is hand made trousers and T-Shirts raw cotton trousers made by Tibetan refugees. We got cotton trouser for Rs 200 and T-Shirts for Rs 150. Reaching McLeodganj: The best way to travel to Mcleodganj is to take Volvo bus from Delhi. There is option of train as well to Pathankot. You will option to take a bus or taxi from Pathankot to Dharamshala (which is about 3 hrs from Pathankot) Which ever vehicle, make sure you enter from Pathankot side. Negotiation is must. We booked a Qualis for Rs 2,000 from Pathankot to McLeodganj.