Sightseeing

Tsuglagkhang (Dalai Lama's Temple), is the most important Buddhist monument in Mcleod Ganj. Although a relatively modest structure, it enshrines three magnificient images, including an enormous gilt statue of Shakyamuni, statues of Avalokitesvara and Padamasambhava, or Guru Rinpoche, the Indian scholar who introduced Buddhism and Tantric teachings to Tibet in the 8th century.

Dip Tse - Chok Ling Gompa, this beautiful little gompa lies at the bottom of a steep track which leads off the laneway past the Om Guest House. The main prayer hall houses an image of Shakyamuni, as well as two enormous drums covered in goat skin and painted around the rim, which were made by monks at the gompa. Also here are some superb butter sculptures, which are made during Losar. Fine and detailed sand mandalas are also made here.

Library of Tibetan Works & Archives, down at Gangchen Kyishong, halfway between Kotwali bazaar and Mcleod is the repository of Tibet's rich literary heritage, containing about 40% of Tibet's original manuscripts, as well as an excellent general reference library on the Himalayan regions and a photographic archive.

Tibetan Medical & Astrological Institute is at Gangchen Kyishong, about five minutes walk below the main entrance to the library area. There is a museum, library, research unit and a college at which Tibetan medicine and astrology is taught. The museum has a well displayed exhibition of materials used in Tibetan medicines.