All You Need to Know About the Triund Trek!

Imagine this: After a few hours of hiking, you’re standing on a ridge, face-to-face with the snow-draped Dhauladhar mountains. Behind you lies the vast, green expanse of the Kangra Valley and the bustling town of Dharamshala, now looking like miniature dots. The chill in the air, the silence of the peaks, and the soft crunch of gravel under your boots — That’s Triund Trek for you!

The Triund Trek is one of those rare adventures that rewards you with dramatic Himalayan views in just a short 4–5 hour climb. No wonder it’s one of the most popular weekend getaways in Himachal Pradesh.

If you’re planning to tick this one off your list, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Triund experience.

🌄 What is the Triund Trek?

Nestled in the lap of the Dhauladhar Range, the Triund Trek is a perfect blend of ease and exhilaration. It’s often mentioned in the same breath as beginner favorites like Kheerganga, Parashar Lake, and Beas Kund treks.

The trail takes you from the charming hill town of Dharamkot to the Triund ridge, offering alternating views of the majestic snowcapped peaks and the lush green Kangra Valley. With clouds floating in and out of the trail, the entire journey feels surreal — almost like walking through a dream.

🗓️ Best Time to Do the Triund Trek

You can do the Triund Trek year-round, but the best seasons are:

• Summer (April–June): Perfect to escape the scorching heat of the plains.
  
• Post-Monsoon (October–November): This is when the skies are clearer, offering crystal-clear views of both the Dhauladhars and the valley below.
  

Avoid peak monsoon (July–September) due to slippery trails and the possibility of landslides.

📍 How to Reach the Base: Dharamkot

Your trek begins from Dharamkot, a peaceful hamlet near McLeodganj. While there’s no direct transport to Dharamkot, here’s how you can reach:

🚍 By Road:

• Take a Volvo bus from Delhi/Chandigarh to McLeodganj. Tickets range from ₹1000–₹1500.
  
• From McLeodganj, Dharamkot is just a short cab or tuk-tuk ride away.
  

✈️ By Air:

• Fly into Kangra Airport (Dharamshala).
  
• Take a taxi or shared cab to Dharamkot (approx. 20 km).
  

🚆 By Rail:

• The nearest railway station is Pathankot.
  
• From there, take a bus (₹500–₹1000) or cab (₹2000 approx.) to McLeodganj/Dharamkot.
  

🧾 Permits for Triund Trek

No special permits are required. You’ll just need to register at the forest checkpoint near Gallu Devi Temple, and you’re good to go!

🛏️ Where to Stay: Dharamkot & McLeodganj

Both towns offer a wide range of stays:

• Budget hostels & homestays: ₹500–₹1000/night
  
• Mid-range hotels & boutique stays: ₹1000–₹3000/night
  
• Premium options: ₹3000–₹5000/night
  

Dharamkot is quieter and ideal for nature lovers, while McLeodganj offers more cafes, shops, and nightlife.

🏕️ Staying Options on the Trek

Unfortunately, camping on the Triund ridge is currently prohibited by the forest department.

But you do have two alternatives:

1. Day hike to Triund and return to McLeodganj or Dharamkot the same day.
   
2. Hike beyond Triund to Snowline Café (Laka Got) and pitch your tent there (camping allowed for ₹500–₹700).
   

🥾 Trekking Routes to Triund

There are two primary routes:

1. Main Trail via Gallu Devi Temple

• Trail length: ~7–8 km
  
• Features: Gradual ascent, well-marked path through pine and rhododendron forests
  
• Last 2 km: Steeper but manageable
  

2. Alternate Route via Bhagsunag Waterfall

• Trail length: ~7–8 km
  
• Features: Starts from Bhagsunag Market, steeper ascent, narrower trail
  
• More challenging; not recommended unless the main trail is blocked
  

⛰️ Trek Difficulty

Triund is considered one of the easiest Himalayan treks, ideal for beginners.

• First 5–6 km: Moderate and scenic
  
• Last 1.5–2 km: Slightly steep but doable
  

The Bhagsunag route is steeper and tougher — better suited for experienced trekkers or if you’re looking for a more intense challenge.

📖 Want to Know What It Really Feels Like?

Check out my full Triund Trek travelogue for a personal peek into the ups and downs, the weather drama, and the magical views that made it all worth it!

🧳 Final Tips Before You Go

• Start early (by 8–9 AM) to return before dark
  
• Carry a reusable water bottle — refill en route
  
• Wear proper trekking shoes and layer up for sudden weather changes
  
• Don’t forget sunscreen and a cap — sunburns at altitude are real!
  
• Respect local rules and nature. Leave no trace behind 🌱
  

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a city dweller looking for a taste of the mountains, the Triund Trek offers just the right dose of adventure, beauty, and peace — all packed into a weekend.

So lace up your boots, pack your energy bars, and get ready to be awed by the Himalayas!