So you have reached Dharamshala and are looking to explore something unique. What do you do?
If you like to be outdoors with barely any human footprint, surrounded by trees, mountains and birds then read on 👇🏾
One of my favourite memories and the best kept secret of Mcleodganj located in the middle of nowhere is a waterfall called “The Big Waterfall.”
You can find it here.
What to expect?
An easy 45 minute trek from Gallu Devi Temple which is rocky, winding and through the middle of a jungle without any farmlands or orchards.
Might be slightly tough for the elderly and children and it is best to wear shoes. But almost all age groups should be able to do the trek.
The trek is plastic free, devoid of human presence. On the way you will see a lot of butterflies, small mammals, birds, trees, insects and mountains 🐝🐞🌲⛰
A water pipe runs through most of the way which acts as a guide besides the signs on the path to the waterfall. The phone network is poor and patchy.
Although called “The Big Waterfall”, it is actually not big. It has average sized pools where you can bathe in icy cold waters – no matter the month of the year.
The experience is magical to say the least. Especially, in a crowded country like India where it is hard to find places so beautiful without any human presence.
Getting there
It took us more than one attempt to reach the waterfall. Either due to weather as it would rain in the late afternoon or due to light.
Even though you can hike all the way to the waterfall, I would recommend taking a cab till Gallu Devi Temple so that you complete the trip in one go.
Plan to reach Gallu Devi Temple latest by 3 PM so that you have ample time and light to go and return from the waterfall.
Cafes
There are two cafes, one en-route the waterfall and the other one is at the waterfall.
The cafe at the waterfall is a quaint little house with a thatched roof and serves snacks, tea & coffee. Enough to give you a breather from hunger but not to satiate it all the way.
The other cafe is called The Sunset cafe and true to its name one can view some of the most spectacular sunsets and gorgeous hues in the evening sky.
Unlike, the cafe at the waterfall the Sunset cafe serves a plethora of cuisines and beverages. It is a 7 odd minute walk from Gallu Devi temple & the best time to get here is in the evening right about an hour before the sunset.
The reason for reaching the waterfall around 3 PM is to get a glimpse of the gorgeous sunset.
I believe it will make a great location to watch stars from in the night sky.
If you are looking at where to eat then check out my recommendations here.
Finally
If you are visiting Mcleodganj and want to experience magic at its best then I would highly recommend adding this to your list of to dos.
It was hands down one of my best experiences and cherished memories from Dharamshala.
It will leave you spell bound & coming back for more. Have you been here or would like to go?
