Triund Trek Guide: Route, Camping, Best Time & Tips

Home » Indian Holidays » Triund Trek: A Complete Guide for First-Time Trekkers

Monday, July 21, 2025

If you’re craving a Himalayan escape without the physical strain of an intense climb, the Triund trek might be just what you need. Nestled in the lap of the Dhauladhar range in Himachal Pradesh, this trail is the perfect blend of accessibility and awe-inspiring beauty. With mesmerising panoramic views, a beginner-friendly path, and the option for Triund camping, it’s a favourite for weekend adventurers.
For families, couples, and friend groups looking to make the most of a short vacation, the Triund trek offers that sweet spot of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re chasing sunsets above the clouds or sipping chai at 2,800 metres, the trail promises a slice of serenity. You don’t need to be an experienced trekker; all you need is enthusiasm and a willingness to explore.
From the Triund trek starting point to the best gear to pack, this guide will help you plan every detail—including how to make the most of trikund packages.

How to Reach Triund

Reaching the base of the Triund trek is straightforward and adds to its appeal as a short yet spectacular mountain experience.

Step 1: Get to McLeod Ganj

Your journey begins in McLeod Ganj, a Tibetan-influenced suburb of Dharamshala. It’s well-connected by road and air.
By Air: The nearest airport is Gaggal (Kangra Airport), around 20 km from McLeod Ganj. Daily flights from Delhi are available.
By Train: The closest railway station is Pathankot (90 km). From there, taxis and buses can take you to Dharamshala.
By Road: Regular overnight buses run from Delhi and Chandigarh. It’s a scenic 10- to 12-hour ride.

Step 2: Reach the Trek Start Point

Once in McLeod Ganj, hire a cab or auto to Gallu Devi Temple, the popular Triund trek starting point. Alternatively, some choose to begin the walk from Dharamkot or Bhagsu Nag, both of which merge onto the main trail.

Trek Route and Difficulty Level

The Triund trek itinerary takes you through enchanting forest trails filled with oak, deodar, and rhododendron. You’ll encounter sweeping views of the Kangra Valley below and the snow-capped Dhauladhar range above.
Trail Length: 9 km (one way)
Elevation Gain: Approx. 750 metres (from 2,100 m to 2,875 m)
Trek Time: 4 to 6 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
The path starts off relatively gentle but becomes steeper after the midway point. The final stretch, known as the “22 curves,” will test your stamina, but with regular breaks, it’s very doable. First-time trekkers and even children aged 7+ can manage comfortably with supervision.
If you’re on a short trip, this is one of the best introductory Himalayan treks. You’ll be rewarded with spectacular views with minimal altitude risk.

Best Time to Visit Triund Trek

The Triund trek is accessible for most of the year, but choosing the right season can make all the difference. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

1. Spring (March to June):

This is undoubtedly the best time for the Triund trek. As winter bids adieu, the trails come alive with blooming rhododendrons, vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery. The weather remains pleasant during the day, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C, making it ideal for hiking. Nights can still be chilly, so carry warm layers.
Pro Tip: If you’re trekking in June, start early to avoid afternoon showers.

2. Monsoon (July to mid-September):

While the rain-drenched valleys look enchanting, trekking during monsoons can be tricky. The trails become slippery and there’s a higher risk of landslides. Triund receives heavy rainfall, so it’s best to avoid this time unless you’re well-prepared for the challenges.
If you do brave the monsoon trek, be cautious of leeches and carry salt to ward them off.

3. Autumn (mid-September to November):

The post-monsoon months are a great time for the Triund trek. The skies are clear, offering uninterrupted views of the Dhauladhars. With the rains gone, the trails are safer and the weather is pleasant with a nip in the air. Expect daytime temperatures around 10°C to 15°C and chilly nights.
Insider Tip: Catch the spectacular sunset at Triund in October for an ethereal experience.

4. Winter (December to February):

Winter turns Triund into a snowy wonderland, but trekking becomes challenging. The trails are often buried in snow, making navigation difficult without proper gear. If you’re an experienced trekker equipped for snow trekking, this can be a magical time with fewer crowds. Keep in mind that many cafes along the route shut down in peak winter, so carry ample food and water.
In a nutshell, the best time for Triund trek would be from March to June and mid-September to November. With pleasant weather and clear skies, you can make the most of your Himalayan adventure!

What to Carry for the Trek

Packing right is key to a smooth Triund trek. Since weather can change rapidly in the mountains, prepare for all conditions.

Essentials:

Trekking shoes with good grip
Water bottles (at least 2 litres)
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a cap
Raincoat or windcheater
Snacks, dry fruits, and energy bars
Basic first-aid kit
Power bank
Torch or headlamp (essential for Triund camping)
Warm clothes (layering is important)
Valid ID proof (sometimes needed at forest checkpoints)
Accommodation Options at Triund

You have two choices: head back the same day or spend a night in the clouds. We highly recommend the latter!

1. Triund Camping

Triund camping is a bucket-list experience. Imagine setting up tents under a starlit sky with a bonfire and the Dhauladhar peaks looming in the background.
You can either:
Book camping tents in advance via local operators.
Choose trikund packages, which include comfortable setups with sleeping bags, mats, meals, and hot beverages.

2. Forest Rest Houses

The Forest Department operates a couple of basic guesthouses at Triund, though availability is limited and needs to be booked well in advance.

3. Stay in McLeod Ganj or DharamkotIf you prefer comfort, return the same day and stay in town.

From boutique stays to hostels and heritage guesthouses, options abound.
Safety Tips for First-Time Trekkers
The Triund trek is generally safe, but precautions never hurt:

Start early: Begin by 8 AM to ensure daylight descent or camp overnight.
Don’t trek alone: Use local guides or travel in a group.
Stay hydrated: Drink regularly to avoid altitude headaches.
Check weather updates: Avoid trekking in fog, rain, or snowfall.
Stick to trails: Avoid shortcuts—they’re risky and often unmarked.
Carry cash: There are no ATMs once you leave McLeod Ganj.

Things to Do at Triund

The summit isn’t just a checkmark—it’s an experience. Once you arrive at Triund Hill, here’s how to make the most of it:
Watch the sunset: The sky turns gold, pink, and crimson—perfect for photos.
Enjoy a hot meal: Local stalls offer Maggi, tea, parathas, and more.
Stargaze: Without light pollution, the night sky is breathtaking.
Bonfire & stories: Share tales with fellow travellers around a warm fire.
Photography: Capture cloud trails, grazing sheep, and sunrise moments.
Continue hiking: Extend your Triund trek itinerary to Snowline Café or Lahesh Cave if you’re up for more.

Nearby Attractions to Explore

Extend your adventure beyond the Triund trek with these gems:

1. Bhagsu Waterfall

Just 2 kilometers from McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu Waterfall is a serene escape known for its scenic beauty and cool mountain vibes. The short, well-paved walk from the bustling Bhagsunag Temple takes you through local shops and cafés, gradually revealing the sound of rushing water as you approach the falls. In the monsoon, the cascade is especially powerful, tumbling over rocky cliffs into a natural pool where many visitors take a refreshing dip.
The area around the waterfall is perfect for photography, with moss-covered stones, wildflowers, and rainbows forming in the mist. Just below the falls, the Shiva Café offers a cozy place to relax with chai and snacks, often accompanied by live music or the hum of travelers exchanging stories. For those on trikund trek, Bhagsu is a natural inclusion—blending adventure, nature, and spirituality in one stop.

2. Dalai Lama Temple Complex

The Tsuglagkhang Complex, often referred to as the Dalai Lama Temple, is the spiritual heart of McLeod Ganj and a sanctuary for Tibetan Buddhism. Located just a short walk from the main square, the complex includes the Dalai Lama’s residence, a monastery, a museum, a library, and temples adorned with prayer wheels and colorful thangka paintings.
Visitors can observe monks deep in prayer or engaging in lively philosophical debates in the courtyard—a mesmerizing practice of claps, gestures, and quick-witted responses. The serene atmosphere is enhanced by the scent of juniper incense and the soft chanting of mantras. The museum here offers insights into Tibetan history, culture, and the journey of the Tibetan people into exile.

3. Dharamkot Village

Perched above McLeod Ganj, the laid-back village of Dharamkot is often called ‘Little Israel’ due to its popularity among Israeli travelers and backpackers. With forested trails, yoga shalas, vegan cafés, and holistic healing centers, it exudes an alternative, bohemian vibe.
Whether you’re sipping organic coffee at Trek and Dine, attending a sound healing session at a local studio, or learning to play the hang drum, Dharamkot offers a different kind of mountain high. The views of the Kangra Valley and Dhauladhar ranges are spectacular, especially at sunrise.

4. Naddi View Point

Tucked away from the tourist crowds, Naddi View Point is a tranquil spot that offers uninterrupted views of the Dhauladhar mountain range, especially at sunrise and sunset. Located about 3 km from McLeod Ganj, it’s easily accessible by foot or auto-rickshaw and offers an ideal setting for photographers and nature lovers.
In the early morning, the sky glows with soft purples and oranges, while the snow-capped peaks reflect the light like polished silver. The area is surrounded by pine forests, with benches and scenic walking paths, making it a great spot for journaling, sketching, or simply absorbing the mountain air.
Planning a trek? Make the most of your mountain escape with customisable Himachal tour packages designed for nature and adventure lovers.