u/Exotic-Gate-8952

Forget McLeodGanj crowds. I just spent a few days in Kareri Village, and it’s pure, untouched magic. No phone network, just insane Dhauladhar views, cold alpine air, and stunning treks to the frozen lake. If you need to unplug and actually breathe, this is it.

Had the chance to enjoy a proper Himachali Dham in Kangra, and honestly, nothing beats this experience 🙌

Simple yet soulful meal served on patta (leaf plate) — freshly cooked rice with desi-style sabzi (looks like matar-paneer). The taste hits different when you’re sitting on the ground, eating with hands, and surrounded by local vibes.

This is not just food, it’s tradition, culture, and hospitality all served together ❤️

People from outside Himachal might find it basic, but once you try it — you’ll understand why it’s so special.

Have you ever tried Himachali Dham? Which dish is your favorite? 👇

I went on my first solo trip last week after many months of planning and a lot of help from this group and members. I did one week (including doing nothing) in McLeodganj and Dharamshala, including the Triund Trek. I have wanted to do a solo trip for such a long time and never thought I'd be able to do it; finally did and I cannot wait to go on my next one :)

Rough itinerary

Day 1 - Flight to Delhi, overnight bus to Dharamshala.

Day 2 - Reached Dharamshala (couldn't stop staring at the snow capped mountains), took a cab to my stay near Gallu temple. Had breakfast from cafe 5060, went to the naag temple nearby (10 minute walk, loved it), sat staring at the view, came back to the stay and chilled.

Day 3 - Took a cab and went to Dharmshala and McLeodGanj. Covered all the important landmarks and sightseeing places. Absolutely loved it.

Day 4 and Day 5 - Triund trek. Stayed overnight. Did some stargazing and back down the next day and relaxed.

Day 6 - Went to Dharamkot, worked from a cafe there.

Day 7 - Evening bus to Delhi.

Day 8 - Flight back home.

This was definitely one of the best trips of my life. It was amazing and laid back and I'm glad to have done it. The people were very friendly and helpful. If you're a woman who is planning a solo trip, Id definitely recommend this place.

PS: this wasn't the order I wanted to post the pictures in; idk how to change it 🥲

Editing to add cost: Mostly I see people say Mcleodganj can be done under a budget, which is true, but since I'm travelling from the south, it was teeny expensive for me. Plus this wasn't a budget trip. Here is the rough breakdown.

Flights to and from Delhi - 24k

Buses Delhi 🔁 Dharamshala - 2500

Stay - 11k for 6 nights (can definitely be cutdown). I stayed at the Ekama stays Airbnb. Would recommended it 10/10.

Triund trek - 1000

Cabs were my main transport within the town. One can walk, but i mostly did cabs since I stayed near Gallu. They came up to 6-7k ish altogether.

https://cdn.s3waas.gov.in/s348aedb8880cab8c45637abc7493ecddd/uploads/2026/03/17749435415535.pdf

Original Source: Video

A breathtaking marvel of 8th-century engineering. Often referred to as the "Himalayan Pyramid" or the "Ellora of Himachal," this monolithic complex is uniquely carved entirely from a single massive sandstone ridge, showcasing an exquisite example of the Nagara (Indo-Aryan) architectural style. Its towering shikharas (spires) and deeply ornate, almost hyper-realistic carvings of deities and celestial figures offer a stunningly cinematic glimpse into ancient artistry. Historically, the temple holds immense significance as it is the only rock-cut temple of this magnitude in the sub-Himalayan region. Serving as a testament to the area's deep spiritual heritage, the complex is steeped in local mythology and showcases remarkable resilience, standing proud even after the devastating 1905 earthquake that leveled much of the surrounding mountain landscape.