Triund Trek

Triund is a serene and alluring trekking destination. Nestled in the lap of Dhauladhar Range, 18 km from Dharamshala, it offers jaw‑dropping views of the lofty Dhauladhar ranges on one side and the gorgeous Kangra valley on the other. And the Triund trek is indeed easy for first timers, popular among adventure enthusiasts of all ages.

The Triund trek route is exhilarating and super thrilling but Triund trek time needs to be checked and maintained while planning the trip. The amazing panoramic views from the top at different times of the day – dusk, moonrise, and dawn – highlight the unique charming beauty of Triund.

The Triund trek in Mcleodganj comprises of undulating and steep but well‑defined trails through the lush forests of green rhododendron and oak trees. So, there need not be any hassle about how to reach Triund or getting lost in the way. To solve this, and many such queries, we have compiled everything you need to know in this Triund trek guide.

Best time to visit Triund Trek

Triund trek is accessible throughout the year, except during January and February. Heavy snowfall during these months cut off some sections of the trekking route. The best time to visit Triund is from March to June because of the cozy and comfortable weather and clear views. The weather in Triund is cool and comfortable round the year, except for chilly winter months.

How to reach Triund

Base Camp: McLeodganj Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport (13 km from Dharamshala) Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot Railway Station (85 km from Dharamshala) Road distance from Delhi: 520km I’ve been to McLeodganj twice, by both bus and car. Talking about public transport, HRTC is India’s best State owned bus service and have a very good network, it’s like delhi metro for Himachal Pradesh. You can book HRTC bus from Delhi which will depart from ISBT Kashmiri Gate for Rs. 1,000

Trail Information : Route

Dharamkot is your base to start the trek of Triund. You can also start the trek from McLeodganj itself, or from two other villages close by‑ Bhagsu and Gallu. The trail from Dharamkot however is arguably the nicer one as it climbs through a thick crown of pine forests. Day 1: Dharamkot to Triund

Trek Distance: 5.45 km Trek Duration: 4 hours Start the trek as early as possible. The first half of the trek up faces the sun and the sun in the mountains can be very harsh later in the day. Get to the water tank near the government primary school at Dharamkot. Next to the water tank, there is a trail that climbs up through a forest. Walk up along this trail for about half an hour to get to the Galu temple clearing. There’s a small tea shop here, just below the shrine. From here, one trail goes south‑west into the forest to the village of Naddi. Another forest trail goes north‑west to the stream that descends from Laka. The main trail to Triund continues straight past the small shrine. Tip: There is an option of taking a cab all the way from Mcleodganj to Gallu Devi temple. For a vehicle, you will be charged for Rs 500 Once you reach the Gallu Devi temple, you will see the trekking trail with the forest checkpoint. There are no charges to be paid. However, your ID card is important and your details will be logged into a book. Your backpack will also be checked for the amount of plastic you are carrying and will be checked again while you return back. Ensure you carry them back and trek responsibly. The main Dhauladhar range comes into view here with the pyramidal peak of Mun appearing larger than life. This entire stretch is perfect for birdwatchers, as these forests are home to various kinds of songbirds. You also have the railings at multiple places on the trek along with a few dhabas/cafés serving tea and packaged food on the trek. There are about 22 bends on the trek or the climb. At around the halfway point you reach Magic view café. From here the trail gets steeper. The trail continues through a series of switchbacks and climbs to the Triund ridge through dense thickets of rhododendron and oak trees. The last couple of switchbacks bring you out of the rhododendrons and out onto the Triund ridge. It’s an open grassy ridge that stretches a good kilometer to the south before plunging into the Kangra valley.

Water is scarce and is available close to 1 km before Triund. It is highly advisable to carry your own supply of drinking water up here.

During the trekking season, there are many dhabas at Triund where you can get a cooked meal and refreshments. Instead of buying any packaged food, it is better to pack food from Dharamkot which won’t get spoilt.

You can stay overnight at the Forest Rest House at Triund, by doing an advance booking at Dharamshala. The accommodation here is reasonable, costing around Rs 600 to Rs 800 for a room.

You can also rent tents at Triund (around Rs 600 for a two‑man tent, with sleeping bags). Keep in mind that on busy weekends, such as around public holidays, the tented accommodation at Triund may get booked out.

Day 2: Triund to Dharamkot

Trek Distance: 5.45 km Trek Duration: 2‑3 hours Wake up early to catch the incredible views of the sun rising from behind the peaks to your east. It is a beautiful sight as the sun lights up the Kangra valley. If you are short on time you can also head back to Dharamkot on day 1 itself, making the round trip to Triund in a single day. You’ll miss out on the lovely views of the evening and morning sky from Triund, but it is possible to return before it gets dark provided you start early. Descend by retracing your steps along the path you came up with. Coming down should take a lot less time than it took to climb up. It’s a short day so enjoy the walk and stop by at the cafes en route. Conversely, if you have the time you can ascend further from Triund to Lahesh cave via Laka. Lahesh cave serves as the base camp for the climb to Indrahar Pass (14,250 ft). There is a tea house at Laka, but you will have to carry your own supplies if venturing further. It is possible to go up to Lahesh cave and descend back to Dharamkot the same day.

Temperatures On Triund Trek

Depending on the season you are going to trek, the temperatures will vary. If you are trekking during the summer season, you can expect the day temperatures to be around 16 to 25 degrees. During the night, it can drop to 7 to 10 degrees. Post‑monsoon and the months approaching winters (September to December), you can expect the temperatures to start dropping. The day temperatures will be fairly pleasant at about 14 to 18 degrees. At night time, it can drop to 1 to 5 degrees.

Costing

There is no limit on spending but if you’re going just for trek by using public transport from Delhi, it could easily be done for around ₹4,000‑₹5,000. I myself have been to Triund twice and costing had a very broad margin Trip 1 : ₹3,800 Trip 2 : ₹8,500