Triund Trek is an easy-to-moderate Himalayan trek starting from McLeod Ganj/Dharamkot, with breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar range and Kangra Valley.
Triund Trek Details and Difficulty
Trek Details: The trek spans 9 km one-way, making the round trip 18 km. It typically takes 4–6 hours to reach the summit and 3–5 hours to descend, with a 2-day itinerary recommended if you plan to camp overnight. The difficulty level is easy to moderate, making it ideal for first-time trekkers. The altitude at the summit is 2,875 meters (9,430 ft), while the base camp sits at approximately 2,100 meters. The total elevation gain is around 750 metres, ranging between 700–800 metres. The trek base camp can be McLeod Ganj, Dharamkot, or Gallu Devi Temple. The recommended starting point is Gallu Devi Temple, though you can also start from Bhagsu Nag. The best season to visit is from March to June and September to November. No permit is required for Triund itself, but a permit is needed if you go beyond Snowline Café.
Trek Difficulty: Triund is classified as an easy-to-moderate trek, making it ideal for first-time trekkers, families, and children above 7 years. The gradient is approximately 10–15 degrees in most sections. The final stretch includes what locals call the “22 curves” — a steep, rocky section that tests stamina. No technical climbing skills are required, and the trail is well-marked throughout. The altitude is moderate at 2,875 metres, so Acute Mountain Sickness is unlikely.
Itinerary for Trek: Two-Day Ideal Itinerary with Camping
Day 1: McLeod Ganj/Dharamkot to Triund
Start at 7:00 AM from Gallu Devi Temple, where you can take a taxi from McLeod Ganj. The trek begins through deodar, oak, and rhododendron forests, with tea stalls available en-route. Around 8:00–10:00 AM, you will pass through the forest trail. By 12:00 PM, reach the midway cafe at the 4 km mark for a rest and refreshment break. Continue after 2:00–4:00 PM, trekking through the steep “22 curves” section until you reach Triund top. At 5:00 PM, set up your camp and enjoy the sunset over the Dhauladhar range. By 7:00 PM, have dinner consisting of Maggi, dal-rice, and enjoy a bonfire while stargazing.
Day 2: Triund to McLeod Ganj
Wake up at 5:30 AM to watch the sunrise. By 7:00 AM, have breakfast and pack up your camp. Start your descent at 8:00 AM, which is easier than the ascent. Around 11:00 AM, reach McLeod Ganj and explore nearby attractions.
One-Day Option: Start by 6–7 AM, reach the top by 11 AM–12 PM, and return by 5–6 PM.
Trekking Essentials
- Clothing: Carry trekking shoes with good grip, thermal innerwear, a fleece jacket or sweater, quick-dry t-shirts, trekking pants (avoid jeans), a raincoat or poncho, a woollen cap, sun cap, gloves for winter, and extra socks.
- Gear: Bring a 20–30L backpack, sleeping bag and mat if camping, a tent if not booking through an operator, headlamp or torch with batteries, a trekking pole (optional), and light slippers.
- Food and Water: Carry a 2-litre water bottle, electrolytes or ORS packets, energy bars, chocolates, dry fruits, and snacks.
- Personal Items: Include sunscreen, sunglasses, toiletries, a towel, a garbage bag, and a valid ID proof.
- First Aid: Pack band-aids, antiseptic solution, painkillers, motion sickness tablets, and altitude sickness medicine if you plan to go higher.
- Electronics: Bring your mobile phone and a power bank, as there is no electricity at the top.
- Cash: Carry cash since there are no ATMs beyond McLeod Ganj, and Maggi prices increase significantly higher up.
What Not to Carry: Avoid heavy backpacks that add unnecessary weight and jeans, as they restrict movement and get heavy when wet.
Trek Route Map and Trail Information
Two Main Routes: The Gallu Devi Temple route is recommended. It starts at Gallu Devi Temple, which is accessible by taxi, is shorter by approximately 2 km, and features a forested trail that is less steep, making it easier for ascent. The Bhagsu Waterfall route starts from Bhagsu Nag and is steeper initially, making it better suited for descent. Both routes merge near Gallu Devi Temple.
Key Trail Landmarks:
- Gallu Devi Temple at 2,100 metres is your starting point
- Midway Cafe at 4 km is a rest stop with tea and snacks
- 22 Curves is a steep rocky section in the final 2 km
- Snowline Café beyond Triund requires a permit
- Triund Top at 2,875 metres is the summit with panoramic views
How to Reach
Step 1: Reach Dharamshala or McLeod Ganj
By Air: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (Kangra Airport), located 20 kms from McLeod Ganj. Daily flights operate from Delhi and Chandigarh. A taxi takes 40–45 minutes to reach McLeod Ganj.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Pathankot Railway Station, 90 kms from McLeod Ganj. A taxi or bus takes 3–4 hours thereafter.
By Road: The distance from Delhi is 490–530 kms, taking 10–12 hours. Overnight Volvo and HRTC buses operate from Delhi and Chandigarh. Taxis are also available.
Step 2: Reach Trek Starting Point
From McLeod Ganj, take an auto or taxi to Gallu Devi Temple, which is 2 kms from Dharamkot. There is no bus service above McLeod Ganj, and road conditions are poor beyond Dharamkot. Alternatively, you can walk from McLeod Ganj via Dharamkot, which adds 2 kms.
Best Season to Visit Triund for Trek
The best time to visit Triund is during spring and summer (March to June), when temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C during the day and 8°C to 15°C at night. The weather is pleasant, the hills are lush green, rhododendrons are in bloom, and conditions are ideal for trekking, camping, and sightseeing. Autumn (mid-September to November) is another excellent season, with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C during the day and 5°C to 10°C at night. Clear post-monsoon skies offer stunning views of the Dhauladhar Range, making it perfect for trekking and photography.
Monsoon (July to mid-September) brings heavy rain, fog, slippery trails, and occasional landslide risks, making trekking less advisable. Winter (December to February) sees temperatures dropping below 5°C, with snowfall transforming the landscape into a scenic winter wonderland. However, snow-covered trails can be challenging and are best suited for experienced trekkers.
Places to Visit Near by Trek
- Bhagsu Waterfall is 2 kms from McLeod Ganj and features a scenic waterfall, natural pool, Shiva Café, and is a great photography spot.
- Dalai Lama Temple Complex is located at McLeod Ganj main square and includes the Tsuglagkhang Complex, Tibetan Buddhism monastery, museum, and prayer wheels.
- Dharamkot Village is above McLeod Ganj and is known as “Little Israel.” It has yoga shalas, vegan cafés, a bohemian vibe, and sunrise views.
- Naddi View Point is 3 kms from McLeod Ganj and offers uninterrupted Dhauladhar views, sunrise and sunset vistas, and pine forests.
- Dal Lake is in Dharamshala and is a peaceful lake with walking paths.
- Kangra Cricket Stadium is in Dharamshala and is the highest cricket stadium globally.
- Laka Glacier is beyond Triund and is a day hike option. It is a frozen glacier best visited in April–May for snow.
- Indrahar Pass is at 4,342 metres and is an extension from Triund. It is the border of Kangra and Chamba and is an advanced trek option.
Permissions Required for Triund Trek
No permit is required for Triund Trek itself. A permit is needed only for the Snowline Café area and beyond, including Laka Glacier and Indrahar Pass. Forest permission may be required for overnight stays depending on current local regulations. Carry a valid ID proof for registration at the forest check-post at the 4 kms mark. No entry logbook is required if you start early in the morning.
Smart Hacks: Start early between 6–8 AM to avoid crowds and reach before sunset. Carry plenty of water and snacks since prices rise significantly higher up, with plain Maggi costing ₹100 at the top. Invest in good trekking shoes with grip, which are crucial for the steep rocky descent. Weather changes quickly, so keep a light jacket or windcheater handy even if it is sunny at the start. Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly to avoid altitude headaches. Wear thermals under clothes, as they help in chilly mountain weather.
Do not trek alone. Use local guides or travel in a group. Stick to marked trails and avoid shortcuts, which are risky and unmarked. Check weather updates and avoid trekking in fog, rain, or snowfall. Carry cash because there are no ATMs beyond McLeod Ganj, and many
shops accept only cash. Bring a power bank, as there is no electricity at the top, and use your phone flashlight if needed. Carry food for stray dogs, as they will guide you along the way.
For camping, pre-book camps or arrive early to secure a spot for overnight stay. The Forest Rest House is available but requires prior booking only. Pack a raincoat with hood or poncho, as rain can occur suddenly even in summer. Carry an extra plastic bag for wet or dirty clothes. Keep your camera ready, as every stop offers beautiful views.
If trekking during the rainy season, carry salt for leeches. Bring waterproof shoes and a raincoat. During winter, carry ample food and water, as many cafes shut down in peak winter.
Things You Should Know
Accommodation Options: Camping tents are available at Triund. You can book via local operators, and they include sleeping bags, mats, and meals. Forest Rest Houses are basic with limited availability and require advance booking. McLeod Ganj and Dharamkot have boutique hotels, hostels, heritage guesthouses, and homestays.
Camping Cost Approximation:Camping without food and snacks is approximately ₹500 per person. Camping with food and snacks is approximately ₹800 per person.
What Makes Triund Special: You get spectacular panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range on one side and the Kangra Valley on the other. Camping under stars offers no light pollution and a dazzling starry sky. The area has spiritual significance, being near Bhagsunag Temple and Gallu Devi Temple, with yogis meditating in caves. The alpine flora includes oak, pine, and rhododendron forests, along with medicinal herbs like banafsha and brahmi.
Environmental Responsibility: Minimize plastic use and carry a garbage bag to practice “Leave No Trace.”
Conclusion
Triund Trek offers the perfect blend of accessibility, stunning Himalayan scenery, and adventure, making it the ideal introduction to mountain trekking in Himachal Pradesh. Whether you are a solo traveller, family, or friend group, this trek promises unforgettable memories under the starlit sky with the Dhauladhar peaks looming overhead.
By: Anushka Singhal
