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Visiting Little Lhasa and exploring it as a shopping destination.
McLeodganj, nestled amidst the scenic Dhauladhar range of the Indian Himalayas, is not only famous for its serene ambience and spiritual attractions, but also for its vibrant street shopping scene. I had heard so much about the hill station, but only got to visit it for the first time in May 2023. Buddhist culture is strong in Mcleodganj; in 1953, Tibetan Buddhists escaped Chinese persecution to find refuge in India, in the areas surrounding Dharamshala. They found a peaceful environment in the Dhauladhar mountains and built their religious centre in McLeodganj. The Tibetans share their heritage with the locals here and provide a glimpse into their world through their culture, craft and cuisine. Join me as I take you on a delightful journey through the bustling streets of McLeodganj, sharing my experiences and tips on finding the finest bargains without breaking the bank.
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After visiting the Dalai Lama Temple, I stepped into the colourful streets of McLeodganj. I was immediately captivated by the vibrant stalls, aromatic food carts and lively atmosphere. The air was filled with the aroma of steamed momos and cinnamon—the latter, wafting from freshly baked apple pies. The narrow lanes near the monastery were lined with shops offering unique treasures that were waiting to be discovered. From traditional handicrafts to fashionable clothing, McLeodganj had many unique offerings. I was ready to explore all aspects of this cultural extravaganza and began my shopping spree at the handicrafts shops.
Tibetan handicrafts are the highlight of shopping in McLeodganj. As I strolled through the lanes, I couldn't resist the allure of prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. The shops were filled with beautifully crafted Buddha statues, Tibetan rugs, silver jewellery, handbags, purses, colourful Thangka paintings, singing bowls, and Buddhist prayer wheels. I found joy in exploring the handmade artefacts, each telling a story of Tibetan culture and spirituality.
During my shopping spree, I couldn't resist the mouthwatering aroma of Tibetan and Indian street food. From steaming momos to piping hot thukpa, and spicy laphing, the local cuisine provided the perfect fuel to my shopping adventure. I decided against visiting any swanky restaurants and instead had quick bites at small kiosks. I savoured each bite—immersing myself in the delectable flavours being offered—on the streets of McLeodganj.
McLeodganj also caters to fashion-conscious travellers. The streets are adorned with vibrant clothing stalls, offering a fusion of traditional Tibetan attire and modern bohemian chic clothes. I found beautifully embroidered woollen jackets, colourful warm scarves, and unique accessories. I purchased harem pants, cotton short kurtas, fanny bags, and bandanas—all of this coming up to less than Rs. 2,000! The key was to explore multiple shops, compare prices and quality, before making a purchase. Keep in mind that your bargaining skills will be put to test at every shop!
As the day progressed, I discovered that the real treasures lay in the smaller, lesser-known shops tucked away in the bylanes. These hidden gems offered unique items and often had better deals than the more crowded areas. From chunky jewellery to fancy caps, incense sticks to assorted tea leaves—I managed to buy several items to gift. Engaging in conversations with locals and fellow travellers helped me uncover these hidden spots and discover one-of-a-kind souvenirs that added a touch of exclusivity to my shopping experience.
Street shopping is incomplete without bargaining, and McLeodganj is no exception. Armed with with a certain budget in mind, I dived into the art of haggling. I discovered that most shopkeepers were friendly and open to negotiations. It was essential to strike a balance between getting a good price and appreciating the craftsmanship. Polite and respectful bargaining often led to fruitful outcomes, ensuring I stayed within my budget without compromising on quality.
My day of street shopping in McLeodganj was a delightful adventure filled with colours, flavours, and cultural encounters. From exploring the traditional Tibetan handicrafts to immersing myself in the bohemian fashion scene, the streets of McLeodganj offered an array of choices. By bargaining wisely, exploring hidden gems, and indulging in local delicacies, I managed to stay within my budget. My memories of the place and the items I purchased served as eternal reminds of the beautiful Himalayan hill station.
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