Our bus arrived in McLeod Ganj at around 6.00am. On arrival, we were approached by a few local guys hustling us to stay in their hostels. We walked around and tried to find an ideal hostel but eventually settled in a hostel (Rs150=Rm13.50 per room), not far from the town centre.
McLeod Ganj is the HQ of the Tibetan Government in exile, where it's leader, Dalai Lama currently resided. Foreign visitors like to come here to learn more about the Buddhism and Tibetan culture. There are a number of education centers conducting courses in language study, therapies, traditional massage, medication and organized holistic activities etc.
McLeod Ganj is a small country town, so it was quite easy for us to move around. Temples, monasteries, monks and priests, mani prayer wheels, traditional crafts, prayer items, Tibetan costume jewelry were seen in most places around the town.
In the afternoon, although it was drizzling , we visited the Tsuglagkang Complex, the official residence of Dalai Lama & the Namgyal Gompa. I spent an hour there watching the various religious activities conducted at the time of our visit. Worshippers, monks & priests were indulged in chanting, meditation and food were freely provided by the Gompa people. After the visit, I went away with a greater understanding and appreciation of the Tibetan culture & religion.
" McLeod Ganj & Dharamsala - HQ and home of the Dalai Lama - a major centre for the study of Buddhism & Tibetan culture "
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