McLeod Ganj Transportation – Taxi, Train, Bus & Airport Tips

McLeod Ganj Transportation

If you are looking for transportation to and around McLeod Ganj, you have several options including taxi, bus and train, as well as hiring private drivers. Your choice will be largely determined by personal choice, as any of these will get you there.

Getting to McLeod Ganj from New Delhi

If you are traveling to McLeod Ganj from New Delhi, you can take either a bus or the train a good portion of the way. You’ll start on an overnight train from New Delhi to Pathankot. From there, you’ll board a bus to Dharamshala. The distance is about 90 kilometers and will take approximately four hours. Dharamshala is only about 9 kilometers from McLeod Ganj, and you can take a shared taxi from there.

Taking the Bus

More recently, luxury bus services have started going directly from cities such as New Delhi, Jammu, Shimla and others to McLeod and Dharamshala. These buses are air conditioned, reliable buses but tend to be pricier than the train.

Traveling from McLeod Ganj

The bus station in this town is small and doesn’t have a lot going on. While you may enjoy the slower pace compared to the hectic stations in larger cities, you’ll find there are limited options when it comes to catching outgoing buses. If you time it right, you can catch a bus to Panthankot, and from there you can go anywhere you want. You just may have difficulty finding many direct routes going out of McLeod. If you wish, you can also head over to Dharamshala which will give you more options.

Things To Know About Buses

It’s important to realize this isn’t the fastest form of transportation, and it isn’t always the most reliable. This is especially true for older buses. They stop frequently, and often not at designated bus stops. They break down, as well. The modern luxury buses are more reliable and faster, but they also make lots of stops. It helps to keep this in mind going in. A trip that is only supposed to take seven hours will most likely take nine.

Can You Drive From New Delhi To McLeod?

Yes, if you wish you can rent a car and drive. This isn’t advisable unless you have some experience or are really comfortable driving in the area. It is a long drive (approximately 10 – 12 hours) but it is very scenic. If having your own agenda and being able to stop when you want to is important, driving yourself is an option.

Editor’s Note: The above page was compiled using real traveler reviews and tips on transportation to, in and around McLeod Ganj.