Every person wishes to meet a wise man at least once in his or her life.

It is extremely possible to do this, especially if one has a tour to India, specifically Mcleod Ganj, planned out.  This is because the Dalai Lama resides in this town on the side of a mountain.  This is also credited to his wisdom, because there is extreme beauty where he lives.  This may even be why he is so wise.

History of Mcloed Ganj

Though have always been in the area, the place was recognized in 1849 when the British took over after the second Anglo-Sikh war.  The town started off as a hill station which was used during hot summers.  It began to grow in popularity up until a time when it was even nominated as the summer capital of India.  By the early 1900s, the location was already an important area of trade, but everything failed when a huge portion of the town was destroyed in an earthquake in 1905.

After the earthquake, the important portions of the town were moved to a location at a lower altitude.  In 1959 though, the area once again gained recognition because the Dalai Lama, fleeing Tibet after the Chinese announced their intention to liberate the country, was given the town as a place of refuge.  Since then, the town has grown as many other Tibetans have taken to the area, and it has also grown as a major Buddhist destination.

Tourism in Mcleod Ganj

The surroundings of Mcleod Ganj already exude much beauty, and staying in the area is a relaxing experience.  The enjoyment does not end there though, as there are also a lot of sights to see.  Tsuglag Khang, the main temple of the area, is one of them.  Standing just opposite the house of the Dalai Lama, this great temple is where the leader holds both his public and private audiences.  Being the greatest Buddhist temple outside of Tibet, it houses three main images: Shakyamuni Buddha, Avalokitesvara (Buddha of compassion) and Padmasambhava (the one who introduced Buddhism to Tibet).  This is where all Buddhist pilgrims travel to.

The Tibetan culture is extremely beautiful and colorful.  In order to preserve this, the Tibetans established TIPA, or the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts.  It is a school that is aimed at teaching the younger generations of the traditional music, dance and theater arts of Tibet.  Tours include this school especially during April, which is when TIPA holds its annual Folk Opera Festival.

Close to the city center is an area named Bhagsu.  It's a small village that houses the Bhagsunath temple and the waterfall known as the Bhagsu falls.  This is a community pool and a major tourist destination, as it has a calming effect on all those who visit. This is the perfect place to sit down and enjoy nature.

It is difficult to find a place to visit that has the perfect blend of modern day technology and unspoiled, natural serenity.  Mcleod Ganj offers this, and is a must visit for every tourist who wishes to travel to India.