The crown jewel of Dharamshala, located at the foothills of the Dhauladhar mountain ranges, Triund is a captivating trekking destination. With the beautiful Kangra Valley on one side and the Dhauladhar range on the other, the trek is one of the most sought after in the country. The journey to the top will take you through the forest consisting of deodar, rhododendron, and oak. Although the trek is not challenging, the last kilometer is riddled with curves and slopes will compel you to draw on your fitness and strength.
To take on this 10km long adventure, one has to make their way to McLeodganj, 8km from Dharamshala, which happens to be the starting point of the trek. Cabs and Volvo buses run at frequent intervals from Delhi and Chandigarh. The 2-day long trek will take you past several mesmerizing attractions like the Bhagsu Waterfall, Laka Glacier and the Gallu Devi Temple.
The first part of the journey from McLeodganj to Bhagsu Village is about 7km and is the easier part of the 4 hour long trek. The last 3km, from Bhagsu Village to Triund, will require a good amount of energy. The last bit known as the 22 curves in particular is a laborious stumbling block.
A day trek is a big possibility however, there is a word of caution to pay heed to. If you do not want to spend the night gazing at the star-studded night, then entire trek, back and forth, could take upto 12 hours. I would personally recommend spend the evening observing the night sky. Like a gorgeous piece of art, alive with its raw energy, it cannot be missed out on.
Pack a set of warm clothes as the chilly cold wind will surely send shivers down your spine as it gushes past. If you find the trek to Triund a piece of cake, the trail extends to three further treks which you can continue if you so desire. One can go to the Laka Glacier from here or choose to follow the Indrahar Pass trek to Chamba. Both, believe me, are worth te trouble. The Indrahar Trek is 1,400 meters above Triund and is perfect for experienced trekkers. The rigorous climb will also take you to the popular Lahesh Caves. The Laka Glacier trek is enjoyable during April and May when the snow will have melted, but beyond August will see the route embellished with unending layers of snow.
The Triund Trek is one of the few in the country that is doable throughout the year. While the ideal time to venture would be typically between March and June to get away from the sweltering heat, the trek is a treat even during the chilly winter months, especially between September and mid-December. The trek becomes a challenge during the monsoon particularly, navigating through the lush green forests that you'll come across. Furthermore, the route up to the top is usually closed for several weeks during January and February due to the unrelenting snowfall.
A relatively easy trek for most of the way, it should not be very exhausting. An undulating trek for the most part, the challenge comes towards the end. Nonetheless, be very careful while climbing to the top during winters as the presence of snow can make the well-defined path dangerous.
To reach Triund for the trek, the starting point is McLeod Ganj. McLeod Ganj is easily accessible by road and is the base from where you begin the trek to Triund. Here's how you can reach McLeod Ganj and start the trek:
By Air: The nearest airport to McLeod Ganj is Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala Airport), which is about 20 kilometers away. You can take a flight from Delhi or other major cities to Gaggal Airport, and then hire a taxi or use local transport to reach McLeod Ganj.
By Train: The nearest major railway station is Kangra (about 17 km away) or Pathankot (about 90 km away). From either station, you can take a taxi or a bus to McLeod Ganj.
By Bus: There are regular buses from cities like Delhi, Pathankot, Amritsar, and Chandigarh to McLeod Ganj. You can also take a bus to Dharamshala and then a local taxi or bus to McLeod Ganj.
The starting point of the Triund trek is located in McLeod Ganj, specifically near Gallu Devi Temple, which is about 2 km from the main McLeod Ganj market.
To get there, you can take a local taxi or walk from the main market to Gallu Devi Temple, where the trek officially begins.