Day 1: Arrival in Dharamshala & Travel to McLeod Ganj
Morning:
Arrive in Dharamshala (via bus, car, or flight from Delhi or Chandigarh).
Check into your hotel or guesthouse in McLeod Ganj, a beautiful suburb of Dharamshala known for its Tibetan culture, monasteries, and peaceful ambiance.
Afternoon:
Explore McLeod Ganj: Take some time to explore McLeod Ganj. Visit the Dalai Lama Temple, the Tibetan Museum, and the Bhagsu Waterfall. These are iconic spots and give you a glimpse into Tibetan culture.
Evening:
Relax and enjoy a quiet evening at a café in McLeod Ganj, offering scenic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Overnight: Stay in McLeod Ganj.
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Day 2: Triund Trek – McLeod Ganj to Triund
Morning:
Start the Trek: After breakfast, head to the Gallu Devi Temple (about 2 km from McLeod Ganj), where the trek to Triund begins. The trek is about 7 km one way, with a gradual incline and takes around 4-6 hours to reach the top.
The trail begins with a mild ascent and gradually gets steeper as you climb. Along the way, enjoy views of the surrounding Kangra Valley and the majestic Dhauladhar Range.
Afternoon:
Arrive at Triund: Upon reaching Triund, you’ll be greeted with one of the most spectacular views in the region—lush green meadows, snow-capped mountains, and panoramic views of the valley below. Triund is situated at an altitude of around 2,828 meters (9,278 feet) and offers a perfect camping spot.
If you’re not camping, you can relax and enjoy the views and have a packed lunch.
Evening:
Camping at Triund (Optional): If you’re planning to camp, there are several campsites near Triund that offer basic facilities. Enjoy the evening watching the sunset over the Dhauladhar range.
For those who prefer to stay in a guesthouse, you can head back to McLeod Ganj after spending some time at Triund, but note that this may take a few hours.
Overnight: If camping, spend the night under the stars at Triund.
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Day 3: Sunrise at Triund & Return to McLeod Ganj
Early Morning:
Watch the Sunrise: Wake up early to witness the spectacular sunrise over the Dhauladhar mountains. The sight of the sun rising over the snow-capped peaks is an unforgettable experience.
Morning:
Breakfast: Enjoy a simple breakfast at your campsite, or at one of the small local tea stalls at Triund.
Explore More: Take a short walk around Triund and enjoy the incredible views or head to Laka Glacier (an additional 3 km trek from Triund) if you have time and energy. Laka Glacier offers even more dramatic views and a closer look at the snow line.
Afternoon:
Descend to McLeod Ganj: Begin your descent back to McLeod Ganj. The descent takes about 3-4 hours. You’ll retrace the same path through forests and meadows, with views of the Kangra Valley and surrounding peaks.
Evening:
Departure or Relax in McLeod Ganj: After reaching McLeod Ganj, you can relax, enjoy a late lunch, and explore more of the town before departing for your next destination.
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Additional Tips:
1. Best Time to Visit: The best time for the Triund Trek is March to June (for pleasant weather) and September to November (for clear skies and great views). The trek can be challenging in winter due to snow, but it’s also beautiful for those seeking a winter adventure.
2. Packing Essentials:
Comfortable trekking shoes
Layered clothing (it can get cold in the evening, especially at Triund)
A raincoat (in case of unexpected showers)
Water and snacks
A camera to capture the stunning views
3. Difficulty Level: The Triund Trek is considered moderate in difficulty, suitable for beginners with some fitness level. The trail is well-marked and safe, but the climb can be strenuous in parts.
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This 3-day itinerary is ideal for trekkers who want to experience the beauty of Triund and enjoy the serenity of the Himalayas while also getting a taste of the local culture in McLeod Ganj.
