RETAIL THERAPY
From handcrafted items to Buddhist paraphernalia and funky clothes, shopping here is an adventure.
Arty Delights
Lower Dharamshala is synonymous with the bustling 32 Kotwali Bazaar, where shops selling household goods and vegetables jostle for space with those stocking a wide array of Tibetan rugs, carpets, shawls, and Buddha statues. The 33 Tibetan Handicraft Centre, established in 1963 with modest contributions from the Dalai Lama, has been the source of livelihood for hundreds of Tibetans-in-exile, who participate in weaving rugs and shawls here. 34 Palaco Handmade Crafts and Divine Buddha Handicrafts are other popular shops for Tibetan rugs, shawls, wall hangings, Buddha figurines, prayer wheels, singing bowls, lamps, incense sticks, and more.
Good Buys
The 35 Green Shop is a wonderful little outlet frequented by those looking for organic and eco-friendly products. Run by the Tibetan Welfare Office, it offers a collection of books made from recycled paper, natural beauty products, and organic food items. Bookworm is McLeod Ganj’s most famous all-round bookstore catering to various interests.
Style Statements
The main street of McLeod Ganj, Jogiwara Road is lined with shops selling woollen scarves, bags, shoes, earrings, trinkets, jackets, and sweaters at great bargains. In the winding lanes of Dharamkot village, colourful little shops sell harem pants, dream catchers, bedspreads, t-shirts with hand-painted mandalas, beaded neckpieces, bracelets, and more. For branded goods, 36 Maximus Mall is Dharamshala’s only modern shopping complex with all the usual brands, as well as a food court and multiplex.