At a glance
| Place | From McLeod Ganj | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| Bhagsunag temple | About 2 km, 30 minutes on foot | Old Shiva temple and its spring-fed pools |
| Bhagsu waterfall | About 1 km beyond the temple | A waterfall about 20 m high |
| Dharamkot | About 3 km uphill | Cafés, yoga, Triund trailhead |
| Naddi | About 3 km by road | Dhauladhar views, sunrise and sunset |
Bhagsunag temple and waterfall
The Bhagsunag (Bhagsu Nath) temple is an old shrine to Shiva at the head of a narrow valley, with spring-fed bathing pools beside it. From the temple, a paved path continues about a kilometre to the waterfall, which drops some 20 m and is at its fullest in and just after the monsoon. Cafés line the path, and the upper café terraces look straight at the falls.
The rocks around the falls are slippery, and the stream rises quickly after rain; enjoy the view from the path rather than climbing on wet stone.
Dharamkot
Dharamkot sits on the ridge above Bhagsu, reached by a steep lane from McLeod Ganj or a road loop. It's a quiet, green village of guesthouses, cafés, yoga and meditation courses, and long-stay travellers. It's also the usual starting point for the Triund trek, via Galu temple. Even if you're not trekking, the forest walk from Dharamkot towards Galu gives good views across the valley.
Naddi viewpoint
Naddi is a village on a spur west of McLeod Ganj, known for one of the closest, clearest views of the Dhauladhar range. Come for sunrise or the last hour before sunset, when the light turns the peaks gold. A taxi takes about 15 minutes, or you can walk up through the forest. Nearby, Dal Lake, a small lake in the deodars, makes a pleasant stop, though it can be low in the dry months.
Linking them in a day
A good loop: morning walk to Bhagsunag temple and the waterfall, lunch at a café in Bhagsu, an afternoon climb to Dharamkot, then a taxi round to Naddi for sunset. Fit walkers can do it all on foot; others should use taxis between Dharamkot and Naddi. In winter, start earlier, as it gets dark and cold by 5 pm.
Tips
- Wear shoes with grip: the lanes and paths are steep and often wet.
- Visit the waterfall early to avoid the midday crowds.
- Snow and sleet can fall on these villages in winter; check before walking.
- Carry cash: small cafés may not take cards.
- Respect the temple: remove shoes and dress modestly.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Bhagsunag waterfall from McLeod Ganj?+
About 3 km: around 2 km to the temple and another kilometre to the falls, an easy walk of under an hour.
Is there an entry fee for Bhagsu waterfall?+
No. The temple and waterfall are free to visit.
What is Dharamkot known for?+
Quiet guesthouses, cafés, yoga and meditation courses, and being the starting point for the Triund trek.
When is the best time to visit Naddi?+
At sunrise or the last hour before sunset on a clear day, especially from October to June.
How do I get from McLeod Ganj to Dharamkot?+
Walk up the steep lane, about 30 to 45 minutes, or take a taxi round by road.
Is Bhagsu worth visiting in the monsoon?+
The waterfall is at its fullest, but paths are slippery and the stream can rise fast. Take care.
