With A Little Help From My Friends - basic survival in McLeod Ganj

Everyone needs help from time to time and here are a few basics to help you in McLeod Ganj.


Medical:
Men Tsee Khang on the Bhagsu Road is a Tibetan clinic that has assisted me with a variety of ailments from a common cold, throat infections and even a broken toe.

Collect a number and wait your turn. Take the prescription from the doctor to the cashier who will then point you to the in-surgery pharmacist. Keep hold of your receipt to avoid paying a further consultation fee.

The medicine tastes revolting, but has always been affective.

They are open daily between 9am – 1pm and 2 – 5pm

Dental:
My teeth aren´t pretty, but they are the only set i´ve got. Thus i have never dared have any dental work done in India. Fortunately i´ve had no discomfort, but you can try calling 941-805-5680 a number i picked up from adverts on Free Tibet TV which is broadcast from neighbouring Bhagsu.

Mobile Phone Cards and Changing Money:
I have used Aggarwal Tours and Travel in the Main Bazaar for both recharging my mobile phone as well as changing money. Open daily from 9am – 7pm they can also do bus and rail tickets.

Whilst i have a mobile IDEA package, if you intend to head into Lahaul and Spiti Valleys, you are better off with Airtel.

Internet Access and Electronics:
Sonny has been invaluable for organising and installing my Reliance dongle Internet connection. He runs the store above the State Bank on Temple Road. His mobile number is 941 808 5950 – usually open 9.30 -7pm.

Advance Taxis:
For booking taxis in advance Skyline have been very reliable and have at least three branches in the village. Call Mohinder 01892 221591

Post:
The Post Office is located on the slope of Jogiwara Road. It is open from 9.30 – 5pm, They are usually shut on Mondays (as does many places in the village). They only seem to handle box-sending in the mornings. A small Tibetan tailors next to the post office will pack and seal parcels. Collect 2 copies of the “sending and tariff” form from the next door Nimiyon computer centre. Fill in the details and also include your passport number, before taking your chances in the Post Office.

Post has been effective in general and there is also a Poste Restante for those without a permanent address.

ATMs:
The State Bank of India accepts most cards and now has two ATMs. It is centrally located on Temple Road. There is also an ATM at the Punjab bank, but none of my three cards work in it.

Tourist Services:
The Tourist Information Centre open 9.30 – 5pm is situated on the path running between Jogiwara and Temple Road. They are patient, kind and helpful with loads of brochures on different aspects on what to do in Himachal Pradesh.

In case of emergencies, Himachal Pradesh has its own Tourist Helpline 0189 222 1205.