"Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful place" could possibly be the simplest and the humblest way I can express my feelings for the state. There are not many places in the world where you can experience the serenity of this majestic state bordered by the almighty Himalayas. Beauty is all around you, you just have to pick a spot and you can call it the most exotic tourist place you have ever seen.

One of my favorite locations in Himachal Pradesh would be McLeod Ganj, near Dharmasala. Dharmasala is home to His Holiness Dalai Lama who often spends his time at the Monastery here when he is not around the world doing his tours. If you are one of the lucky few you may get the chance to see him too. But essentially, I would like to speak about the austerity of the place that is beyond religion. If you are looking at a retreat for pure air, bluer skies and a waterfall from the holiest of the mountains, the Dhauladhar Range of Himalayas, and serenity this should be your destination. You shall also be rewarded with an exotic experience. Exotic, I mean literally, because there are more foreigners than Indians for one part and the place is also the refuge of the Tibetans who fled from their land after the Chinese attacked and killed thousands of them.

Reaching McLeod Ganj is quite easy. All you have to do is reach Amritsar, Delhi, Chandigarh or Dehradun and catch a train to Pathankot in Punjab. From Pathankot you can reach Dharmasala by bus or Car, which ever is convenient. Another 10km ride by road will bring you to the destination McLeod Ganj. Ideally, rest for the day and start your trek early in the morning the next day since you have plenty to do in the place if you have the energy. Mclo Restaurant is one place you shouldn't miss for the delicacies they serve. Wines and beer at affordable rates, great pastries and more. If you are looking at good coffee, you should totally try out the MoonPeak Espresso. Street food vendors have momo's of all kinds, steamed, fried, chicken, vegetable, potato, mutton and what not. With the special Chilli Garlic Vinegar sauce, you will feel the essence of the place with every bite of the momo. Remember the inner peace scene from Kung Fu Panda 2? Exactly.

(Streets bustling with activity at McLeod Ganj)

For a more Tibetan experience, just if you prefer to feel like living in Tibet, try out the Shangrila Restaurant, which is run by the monks and every penny spent is a sort of donation to them. The food is absolutely blissful. Thukpa is a must try, to go along with butter tea.

So, now that you are full, rest well for the day. Try to find a room at one of the hotels with a view of the valley or Dharmasala. Om Hotel is one I would recommend on a short budget with the best service, best rooms and great views.

(Om Hotel)

Idea time for treks could be all around the year since, every weather has something or the other to offer. But be wary of harsh winters when it snows. If the snowfall is high, trekking may not be allowed. Barring January, every other month could be providing unique experiences. Lush green plain on the mountain of Triund in summers or snow capped peaks of the same during winters. Rainy season has a charm of its own, but careful again about slippery paths. Walk around in comfortable shoes rather than trendy sneakers.

(Bhagsunag Waterfall)

Triund can be a day trek or you can spend a night or two at the peak and then scale back down. Starting early in the morning at 6am would be a great start to the day. Have some cookies in the bag after a good breakfast and also buy a few buns they sell at the main road (you will soon know why). Carry a bottle of water and don't be miserly to spend a few more bucks on bottles on the way up. Carrying gums could be a good idea too. The beautiful path up the mountain will take you around 3hrs for a beginner. The difficulty is fairly easy for a beginner too. Take good naps enjoy the scenery around, the valley and the waterfall (which can be approached by another route). Dogs will guide you to the top of the mountain, wait for you if you are lagging behind. All you have to do is feed them occasionally. Enjoy your tea's at cafes on the points to the mountain. Breathtaking views, hot tea and cold weather would be more than perfect combination of any trip and any terrain.

(Tea Shop)

Once you reach the top you will be rewarded with the majestic view of the Dhauladhar, several peaks against the backdrop of a very blue sky. Take your time, spend a few minutes to breathe in the unspoiled nature or even lie down looking at the sky; all of most which you would do since you are tired. Staying overnight is also possible. You can rent a tent or bring your own. There is no bliss that will supersede this experience, when you are with the right company. There is a small cafe/hotel that will serve small snack like foods and noodles for your dinner. Take your time to trek back down and make sure you start before 3pm since it will get very dark and cold in the mountains.

Happy Journey.

(This is where you shall be)

For more information on the place or any other queries, write to us in the comments section. We would love to hear from you.

(AW- Anil)