The Triund Trek Hiking

About this Activity

The Triund Trek is a popular 9 km (one-way) beginner-friendly trek near McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh, offering stunning panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range and Kangra Valley at ~2,850 meters. Taking 4–5 hours, it starts from McLeodganj or Gallu Devi Temple, featuring an easy-to-moderate ascent, best undertaken March–June or September–December.

Activity Details

Duration 10 hrs

Age Range 21 – 40 Years

Difficulty medium

Category Hiking

Itinerary

1

Morning: Arrive in McLeod Ganj/Dharamkot (the actual trekking start point is usually the Gallu Devi Temple check-point a short distance above Dharamkot). Start your trek early (around 9:00 AM) to avoid the afternoon sun. Trek: The trail goes through picturesque forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. The initial path is a gradual incline, with a steeper section known as the "22 curves" towards the end. Afternoon: Reach the Triund ridge by afternoon (approx. 4-6 hours of trekking). Settle into your campsite or the forest rest house (if pre-booked). Evening: Witness a breathtaking sunset over the Kangra Valley, with views of the snow-capped Dhauladhar peaks (Moon Peak, Rifle Horn) in the background. Enjoy dinner and a night of camping under a clear, star-studded sky.
2

Morning: Wake up early to catch the beautiful sunrise over the mountains. After breakfast, start your descent back to the base camp. Descent: The downhill trek is much faster (approx. 3-4 hours). You can take a small detour to visit the Bhagsu Waterfall or explore the local market in McLeod Ganj before departing.

Highlights

Sunset & Sunrise: The sunset from the top is breathtaking, overlooking the Kangra Valley.
Packing: Carry warm clothing (jacket, gloves, caps) as it gets very cold at night, even in summer.
Safety: Wear sturdy trekking shoes with good grip; the last 1 km is steep with rocky terrain.
Essentials: Bring enough water, a raincoat, and a trekking pole.
Permits: A checkpost at Gallu Devi allows for necessary trekking registrations.

Inclusion

Accommodation: 1-night camping in tents (usually on a triple or twin-sharing basis) at the Triund top.
Meals: Generally includes 1 Breakfast and 1 Dinner (Veg) during the trek. Some packages include evening snacks and tea.
Guide/Staff: Experienced, certified local trek guide and support staff.
Equipment: Sleeping bags and mattresses are provided.
Permits: Forest entry/camping charges for the trek.
Activities: A bonfire (subject to weather and forest department permissions)

Exclusion

Transport: Transportation to and from McLeodganj (e.g., Delhi to McLeodganj transport is usually extra).
Personal Expenses: Tips, alcohol, snacks, soft drinks, and bottled water.
Taxes: 5% GST is generally applicable over the package cost.
Equipment/Porters: Personal porters or ponies to carry luggage.
Medical/Insurance: Travel insurance, medical emergencies, or evacuation costs.
Meals: Any meals during transportation or not specified in the itinerary.

Eligibility

Physical Fitness: Basic fitness is required, as the 4–5 hour, 9-10 km trek includes a steep, final ascent.
Age: Children aged 8–10 years or older can participate with supervision.
Permits: A valid permit from the Forest Department in Dharamshala is required for all, including foreigners, which can be acquired at the checkpost.
Experience: Perfect for beginners, no prior experience is necessary.
Health: Generally safe, but participants should be mindful of, and prepared for, high altitude, as the top is at 2,828m (9,280 ft).
Documents: Identity proof is necessary for all trekkers; a passport is mandatory for foreign nationals.
Season: While possible year-round, March to June and September to December are best.

What to Bring

For the Triund trek, bring a 20-30L backpack, sturdy trekking shoes, warm layers (fleece/windcheater), a raincoat/poncho, a headlamp, and a water bottle. Pack essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a power bank, personal medicines, and cash. Even in summer, nights are cold, so bring woolens; keep your pack light.

Essential Items Checklist:

Clothing: Thermal inners (suggested), fleece jacket, windproof jacket, comfortable trekking pants, warm socks, and a beanie.
Footwear: Sturdy trekking shoes with good ankle support and extra socks.
Gear: 20-30L lightweight backpack, trekking pole, headlamp/flashlight with extra batteries.
Personal Hygiene & Safety: Sunscreen, sunglasses, basic first-aid kit (including bandages, Odomos).
Documents & Money: Cash (for small shops and cafes on top), valid ID.
Food/Water: Water bottle (reusable) to refill, energy bars, dry fruits, and nuts.
Miscellaneous: Power bank, trash bag (pack it out).

Meeting Location

Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is suitable for beginners and kids over 7, although the final hour is steep.
Yes, it is a popular day trek (6-8 hours total return).
March to June (spring/summer) and September to November (autumn) offer the best weather.
Yes, camping is permitted, and tents can be hired at the top.
No, the path is well-marked and easy to follow, but beginners may prefer one.

Cancellation Policy

Triund trek cancellation policies vary by operator, but generally, full refunds are available 7–30 days before departure, while cancellations within 1–7 days usually result in no refund. Advance booking amounts are often non-refundable, and refunds usually exclude 5% GST.