
McLeod Ganj Market
A vibrant Himalayan marketplace blending Tibetan and Himachali cultures, offering unique handicrafts, woolens, and delicious local food.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best selection

McLeod Ganj Market
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best selection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant Himalayan marketplace blending Tibetan and Himachali cultures, offering unique handicrafts, woolens, and delicious local food.
"A shopper's paradise in the hills, alive with color, culture, and delicious aromas."

Bargain with a Smile
Haggling is part of the fun! Start lower and meet in the middle. :moneybag:
Explore Jogiwara Road
Discover unique Tibetan art, carpets, and handicrafts. :art:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tibetan Handicrafts
Jogiwara Road
Vibrant thangkas, prayer wheels, and intricate wood carvings showcase rich Buddhist art.

Local Woolens & Shawls
Main Square
Cozy woolens, colorful shawls, and warm scarves perfect for the mountain chill.

Authentic Tibetan Cuisine
Various stalls and cafes
Savor steaming momos, hearty thukpa, and the unique taste of butter tea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bustle
Cultural Fusion Finds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bargain with a Smile
Haggling is part of the fun! Start lower and meet in the middle. :moneybag:
Explore Jogiwara Road
Discover unique Tibetan art, carpets, and handicrafts. :art:
Try Local Delicacies
Don't miss momos and butter tea from street vendors. :tea:
Go Early for Best Buys
Beat the crowds and get the freshest items. :alarm_clock:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bargain with a Smile
Haggling is part of the fun! Start lower and meet in the middle. :moneybag:
Explore Jogiwara Road
Discover unique Tibetan art, carpets, and handicrafts. :art:
Try Local Delicacies
Don't miss momos and butter tea from street vendors. :tea:
Go Early for Best Buys
Beat the crowds and get the freshest items. :alarm_clock:
Cash is King
Many vendors prefer cash, so carry enough. :dollar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise McLeod Ganj Market for its vibrant atmosphere, unique blend of Tibetan and Himachali culture, and the wide variety of handicrafts and woolens available. The opportunity to try authentic Tibetan food like momos is a major draw. However, some find the cleanliness could be improved, and the staff professionalism inconsistent in nearby accommodations. Parking can also be an issue.
"During my visit to Dharamshala, I decided to extend my stay by two days in the picturesque area of McLeodganj. After browsing through various options on Make My Trip, I settled on a property that was highly rated for its proximity to the main square. I’d like to share my thoughts in a pros and cons format to help fellow travelers make an informed decision about this place, as I had a pleasant experience during my stay.
Pros:
1. Prime Location: The hotel is situated just a stone's throw from the bustling main square, making it incredibly convenient for exploring local shops, cafes, and attractions. I've attached videos showcasing the vibrant surroundings.
2. Modern Lift: The property features a fairly new elevator, which adds accessibility for guests, especially those with heavy luggage or mobility concerns.
3. Newly Furnished Rooms: Each room is tastefully decorated and equipped with brand-new furniture, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
4. Spacious Family Room: For larger groups or families, there is a generous family room that accommodates two beds, providing ample space for everyone.
5. Private Balconies: Many rooms come with personal balconies, allowing guests to enjoy the fresh mountain air and stunning views.
6. Washrooms with Geysers: Each bathroom is equipped with a geyser, ensuring hot water is readily available, which is especially appreciated in cooler weather.
7. On-Site Restaurant: The attached restaurant, Tens Cafe, offers a variety of delicious meals, serving both local and international cuisine.
8. Large Smart TV: Each room features a big smart TV, perfect for entertainment during downtime.
9. Reasonably Priced Cafe Food: I found the menu at the cafe to offer a diverse selection of tasty dishes at reasonable prices, which was a pleasant surprise.
Cons:
1. Average Cleanliness: While not terrible, the cleanliness of the property could use some improvement to meet higher standards.
2. Staff Professionalism: The staff seemed somewhat unprofessional; they didn’t wear uniforms, and their demeanor could benefit from more training and consistency.
3. Slow Service at the Cafe: Though the cafe was capable of taking orders, the delivery time was quite lengthy, often taking 50 to 60 minutes.
4. No On-Site Parking: The hotel lacks dedicated parking facilities; guests must park their vehicles about 300 meters away, which can be inconvenient, especially with luggage.
5. Luggage Assistance Issues: When we requested two helpers to manage our luggage to and from the parking area, only one was sent, leaving us to carry half our luggage back on our own, which was frustrating.
6. Pest Issues: I did notice a few small insects in the room, which detracted from the overall experience.
7. Pricey for What’s Offered: At 11000₹ for two nights, I felt the price was quite high, particularly considering it did not include any meals or additional amenities.
Overall, while there were a few drawbacks during my stay, the positives—especially the location and modern amenities—made for an enjoyable experience in McLeodganj."
Dr Varinder
"Booked a deluxe room with balcony and mountain view. The room was clean and nicely maintained. The balcony view is beautiful and the main highlight of the hotel is it's in the main market. The Dalai Lama temple is just in front of the hotel and everything else is also nearby. The staff is very polite, friendly, and helpful. Service is also good. Overall I had a comfortable and good stay at a generous budget."
Aayushi Bisaria
"We stayed here during His Holiness's 90th birthday celebrations. 🎂
We had problems with our flight from Delhi to Dharamshala, but the hotel staff were very helpful — they waited for our late arrival and made us feel at ease after the stressful experience at the airport.
We highly recommend this accommodation — it was a great choice, with very friendly staff and a warm, family-like atmosphere.
Thank you for this wonderful experience. 🙏"
Róbert Kekis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McLeod Ganj is accessible by road from major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to Dharamshala, and then a local taxi or bus to McLeod Ganj. The market is centrally located in the main square.
Dedicated parking is limited. Visitors often park about 300 meters away and walk to the market.
Walking is the best way to experience the market's charm. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be on your feet exploring the lanes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee to explore McLeod Ganj Market. It's a public space open to all.
The market generally operates from morning until evening, with shops closing at different times. It's busiest in the afternoons and evenings.
No, the market is a walk-in experience. You purchase items directly from vendors.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Popular buys include Tibetan handicrafts, woolens, prayer flags, thangkas, Kangra miniature paintings, and local jewelry.
Jogiwara Road is particularly known for its shops selling authentic Tibetan thangkas, prayer wheels, and carpets.
Yes, bargaining is a common practice. Be polite and have fun negotiating prices with the vendors.
Prices vary widely depending on the item. You can find affordable souvenirs as well as more expensive, handcrafted pieces.
Many shops in the main square offer a good selection of woolens. It's best to browse and compare quality and prices.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You must try steaming momos, hearty thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), and butter tea. Local cafes also offer a variety of dishes.
Numerous street vendors and small eateries in and around the market serve delicious momos.
Yes, most eateries offer vegetarian options, especially momos and vegetable thukpa.
Butter tea is a traditional Tibetan beverage made with tea, yak butter, and salt. It's an acquired taste but a unique experience.
Cafe food can be reasonably priced, especially at local joints. Some cafes might be pricier but offer a wider menu.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of prayer flags, the intricate details of handicrafts, and the lively street scenes. The blend of cultures offers unique shots.
Generally, photography is allowed in the market. However, always ask permission before photographing individuals or inside private shops.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, while evenings can provide a warm, atmospheric glow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🛍️ Shoppers & Souvenir Hunters
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of McLeod Ganj
Shopping here is an adventure in itself. You'll find an eclectic mix of goods: colorful Tibetan thangkas and prayer flags, intricately carved wooden items, handmade jewelry, and a wide array of woolens like shawls, sweaters, and mufflers, perfect for the chilly mountain climate. The market also offers a glimpse into Pahadi culture with local handicrafts and Kangra miniature paintings. Don't be afraid to engage with the friendly vendors; many are eager to share stories about their crafts.
Beyond shopping, the market is a culinary delight. Sample authentic Tibetan dishes like steaming momos and hearty thukpa, or try the unique, warming butter tea. Numerous small cafes and street food stalls offer delicious and affordable options, making it a perfect spot to refuel while exploring. The proximity to the Dalai Lama Temple also adds a spiritual dimension to the market experience.
Navigating the Market: Tips from Travelers
Bargaining is an integral part of the shopping culture here. While it's important to be respectful, don't hesitate to negotiate prices, especially for handicrafts and woolens. Starting with a lower offer and meeting the vendor somewhere in the middle is a common approach. It's also wise to carry sufficient cash, as not all vendors may accept digital payments, and ATMs can sometimes be unreliable in the hills.
For those interested in specific items, Jogiwara Road is frequently mentioned as a prime spot for Tibetan handicrafts, including thangkas and prayer wheels. When it comes to food, don't shy away from street vendors for authentic momos and other local snacks. Remember that the market is a lively, sometimes chaotic, but always rewarding place to explore.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit