Mcleodganj and Dalhousie both are really beautiful, and it’s a very common question which comes to our mind, that which place we should visit if we have to choose any of them.
In reality, there is no exact answer that which is better, Mcleodganj Or Dalhousie? Both places are equally beautiful and worth exploring. But there are much more options of activities nearby the Mcleodganj in comparison; you can do trekking, shopping, sunset point, paragliding and much else.
So it’s up to you, if you are looking for different kinds of activities, then you should consider visiting Mcleodganj, but if you just want to spend a few days in peace then you can choose any of these two places.
Don’t Get Confused Between Dharamshala And Mcleodganj
First, don’t get confused between Dharamshala and Mcleodganj.
I have seen many peoples asking that which places we should choose, Dharamshala vs. Mcleodganj vs. Dalhousie.
Mcleodganj is just around 5 Km from Dharmshala.
Mcleodganj is the major tourist attraction, not the Dharmshala, because of the favorable weather and nearby tourist places.
Dharamshala is much a local resident, and Mcleodganj is a major tourist spot.
Visit Both Mcleodganj And Dalhousie
If time is not the issue, then you can visit both places. From Mcleodganj, Dalhousie is just 124 Km, and both of the places are well connected with the roads, so you can easily commute between them. There are many public and government buses on this route.
What Will I Choose?
I will definitely choose Mcleodganj over the Dalhousie if I have to choose only one place. I have been to Mcleodganj, and there are lots of things to do,
- Trek to Triund
- Trek To Kareri Lake
- Trek To Indrahar pass
- During the monsoon, there are many options for waterfalls
- You can spend some day in peace in Kareri or Naddi Village
- There are many beautiful and peaceful monasteries
- You can try paragliding
- There are many cafes where you can chill and try some good food
At last, you have to choose; I will suggest first ask yourself what exactly you are expecting from your trip. Then check out the possible activities in both the places, and choose which suits your expectations best.
What Majority Is Saying?
I go through sites & communities like Quora, Indiamike, etc., most of the people shared that Mcleodganj is the best option, so if you are really confused, then I think you should go with the majority.
Some people also suggest visiting both places, but if there is the only choice, then they suggest visiting Mcleodganj.
What If You Have Limited Time? Weekend Trip
From Mcleodganj, Dalhousie is around 124 Km, as per Google Map.
So if you are planning for a weekend trip, then visiting Dalhousie can be hectic. On the other hand, you can easily visit Mcleodganj on the weekend and can explore than places.
If you are coming by your car, then it will not make much difference, but if you are dependant on public transportation, then I suggest you to choose Mcleodganj over Dalhousie.
Choose As Per Your Budget
The cost of living will be a little higher in the Dalhousie than the Mcleodganj.
Dalhousie mostly has hotels but in Mcleodganj you can find all kinds of stay such as luxury hotels, hostels, homestays, etc.
Mcleodganj also has much options for food too whether you looking for exotic food or simple daal roti.
So if your budget is not the issue then you can visit any of these places but if you are really tight with the budget then I will suggest you to choose Mcleodganj.
Climate | Mcleodganj (Dharamshala) Vs. Dalhousie
Both places are the two famous hills stations and stay chilly in summer, and witness snowfall during winter.
But in comparison, Dalhousie has much favorable weather than Mcleodganj during summer, and during winter Dalhousie gets much heavy snowfall than Mcleodganj.
In summer there will slight difference in temperature between Mcleodganj and Dalhousie, but if you planning your trip in winter then I will suggest you to choose Dalhousie.
Trekking | Mcleodganj Vs. Dalhousie
Both the places have some good trek around, but Mcleodganj has more options wether you are a beginner or an advanced trekker.
Treks Near Dalhousie
- Khajjiar
- Jot
- Ganji Pahari Trek
- Dainkund
Treks Near Mcleodganj
- Triund
- Snowline/Ilaka Glacier
- Lahesh Cave
- Indrahar Pass
- Moon Peak
- Kareri Lake
- Mankini Pass
- 7 Lakes
Shopping Places In Mcleodganj And Dalhousie
There is no doubt that Mcleodganj is much better than Dalhousie for the shopping.
There are so many places in Mcleodganj and dharmshala for all kinds of shopping.
Also if you are interested in authentic Tibetan shopping then Mcleodganj is not going to disappoint you.
So for Shopping, Mcleodganj is better than Dalhousie
What Is The Basis Of All Of This Informations?
I am a solo traveler cum content marketer and I have spent many months there in Mcleodganj and nearby places so I know this place very well.
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