TRIUND Trek - Himachal

Triund Trek: HimTrip Guide to Dharamshala’s Most Iconic Himalayan Trail

Introduction

Nestled in the lap of the mighty Dhauladhar range, the Triund Trek is one of the most popular and accessible Himalayan treks in India. Located near McLeod Ganj and Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, this trail offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, well-defined paths, and rewarding summit views — making it ideal for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike.

With its rolling meadows, 360° panorama of snow-clad peaks, and the magical star-lit sky at night, the Triund Trek is often described as a “Weekend Heaven” for nature lovers.

1. Trek Overview

Altitude

2,850 meters (9,350 ft)

Difficulty Level

Easy–Moderate

Ideal Duration

1–2 days

Trail Distance

~9 km (one way)

Starting Point

McLeod Ganj / Dharamkot / Gallu Devi Temple

Best Time to Visit

March–June, September–December

Closed Season

January–February (heavy snowfall)

2. Why Triund is a Must-Do Trek

✔ Beginner-Friendly

The trek is short but steep toward the end — great for first-time trekkers.

✔ Iconic Dhauladhar Views

The Dhauladhar peaks seem almost within reach, offering dramatic close-ups unlike most beginner treks.

✔ Quick Weekend Trip

A 1–2 day itinerary makes it accessible for travelers from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Himachal.

✔ Stargazing Paradise

The night sky over Triund is among the clearest and most spectacular in the region.

✔ Cafés on the Trail

Forest cafés along the way add fun and comfort to the trekking experience.

3. Route Details & Trekking Experience

Starting Points

Most trekkers begin from:

• McLeod Ganj (main town)

• Dharamkot (shortcut & scenic)

• Gallu Devi Temple (closest road access)

Trail Breakdown

Leg 1: Dharamkot → Gallu Devi Temple

• Gentle uphill walk

• Through forests, guesthouses, and cafés

• Entry checkpost for foreign travelers

Leg 2: Gallu Devi Temple → Magic View Café

• Forest trail through oak, deodar, and rhododendron trees

• First panoramic viewpoints

• Several rest stops

Leg 3: Magic View Café → Triund Top

• Steeper climb

• Famous “22 Curves” — the final zig-zag ascent

• Opens into the wide Triund meadow

4. Triund Top: What to Expect

🏔 Panoramic Views

• Dhauladhar peaks on one side

• Kangra valley on the other

• A vast meadow perfect for camping and photography

⛺ Camping

Although restrictions change seasonally, Triund traditionally allows:

• Overnight camping on the ridge

• Campsites managed by locals

• Bonfire restrictions for safety

🌌 Night Experience

The Milky Way is often visible during clear nights
— making Triund a favorite among astrophotographers.

5. Best Time for the Triund Trek

March–June (Summer)

• Pleasant weather

• Green trails

• Best for first-time trekkers

September–December (Autumn/Winter Start)

• Crisp mountain views

• Ideal for photography

• Cold nights — carry warm layers

Monsoon (July–August)

• Slippery trail

• Frequent cloud cover

• Trek is open but not recommended for beginners

January–February

• Heavy snow

• Official closures some years

• Requires guide + winter gear

6. Permits & Regulations

• At Gallu Devi Check Post, ID verification may be required.

• Plastic usage is restricted — carry a reusable bottle.

• Camping regulations may change, so check locally.

• Drones are generally NOT allowed without permission.

7. Difficulty Level: Easy–Moderate

Triund is ideal for:

• First-time trekkers

• Families

• Solo travelers

• Weekend adventurers

The only challenging part is the last 1.5 km with steep zig-zag curves.

Fitness Tip:
Walking 4–5 km daily for a week is enough preparation.

8. What to Pack for Triund

Essentials

• Trekking shoes (good grip)

• Backpack (20–30 L)

• Water (1–2 L)

• Warm jacket (even in summer)

• Cap, sunscreen, sunglasses

• Quick-dry clothing

Optional

• Trekking poles

• Power bank

• Small first-aid kit

• Camera

For Winter

• Gloves

• Thermal layers

• Waterproof boots

9. Food & Water Availability

• Multiple cafés along the trail (open mostly in peak season)

• Serve tea, Maggi, snacks, parathas

• Drinking water available at some points, but carrying your own is better

At the top:

• Campsites often provide dinner + breakfast

10. Safety Tips

• Start early (before 10 AM) to avoid afternoon fog

• Weather changes quickly — carry waterproof layers

• Don’t trek alone during off-season

• Stay on marked trails

• Beware of slippery rocks during monsoon

11. A 2-Day Ideal Itinerary

Day 1

• Start from McLeod Ganj (8–9 AM)

• Reach Triund Top by 2 PM

• Enjoy sunset + night stay

Day 2

• Early sunrise view

• Descend by 10–11 AM

• Reach McLeod Ganj by afternoon

• Explore cafes, monasteries

12. Budget Breakdown (Approx.)

Expense

Cost

Local Taxi (one way)₹300–₹500

Trekking Guide (optional)

₹800–₹1,200

Camping + Meals

₹800–₹1,500

Food on trail

₹100–₹300

Total Estimated Cost: ₹1,500–₹3,000 (budget friendly!)

Conclusion

The Triund Trek is more than just a hike — it’s an experience that blends adventure, tranquility, and the raw beauty of the Himalayas. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a mountain lover seeking a quick escape, Triund offers the perfect balance of accessibility and breathtaking landscapes. With its golden sunsets, starlit skies, and sweeping valley views, Triund leaves every traveler with memories worth cherishing.