trekking In mcleodganj,

Trekking in McLeodganj 

A suburb of Dharamshala in the state of Himachal Pradesh, McLeodganj is probably best known as “Little Lhasa”, since the 14th Dalai Lama had taken refuge in India with a large population of Tibetans living here with McLeodganj as the headquarter for the exiled community. Set to the backdrop of the stunning Dhauladhar Range, McLeodganj is around the year destination for mountain lovers. Besides striking a chord with the quintessential scenic quality of the Himalayas in McLeodganj, travelers find the vibrant monasteries, quaint cafes, the thrilling adventure activities conducted in the slopes, and the entire cultural milieu of the place compelling. Over the years McLeodganj has also grown to become a hotspot for Israeli travelers coming to India for recreation after their compulsory military service. No wonder you can find bonhomie with people from the world over on McLeodganj trekking packages. Some of the unmissably beautiful and enriching treks around here are as brisk as 2.5 km but immensely enjoyable. Come to McLeodganj for a relaxed and breezy experience of the hills topped with great options to wine and dine and shop!

Why Should You Go for McLeodganj Trekking?

• A year-round destination, somewhere to trek pleasurably through the seasons.
• The snow-clad Dhauladhar Range is a treat to the eyes.
• The culturally rich Tibetan heritage sites of McLeodganj are not completely off the trekking trails.
• Easy trails which are fit for children and beginning trekkers alike, trails as short as 2.5 km like the Bhagsuang Waterfall trek.
• Hip cafes all along the way to stop by and relax.
• Thrillingly high and precipitous treks of the winter like Triund which can be covered in a couple of days of overnight camping journeys.
• Rhododendron blooming in spring on the Triund Trail.
• The beautiful Kareri Lake trekking trip with lush green surroundings, a shire to light a fire at, and a rising altitude to try your gusto.
• The Minkiani Pass hike to 4000 meters is a much amazing attraction among the more ambitious Mcleodganj trekking routes.
• Stargazing in Mcleodganj is something of a delight for trekkers of all temperaments.
• Trekking in the trails of the Gaddi shepherds from McLeodganj to Chamba to Indrahar Pass.

McLeodganj trekking routes are also famous for great views of the Pir Panjal Range on the other side, beside the Dhauladhar Mountains.

Which Are the Best Treks in McLeodganj? 

Triund Trek
One of the most beautiful treks in the surrounding Kangra Valley, the trail to Triund trek is frequented seasonally by Gaddi shepherds. The forests and meadows along with the trail blooms with flowers in the summers and spring with the snowy Dhauladhar Range beckoning at a distance. On the way, you will come across landmarks on this McLeodganj trekking such as the Galu Devi Temple. The trail is immensely popular among trekkers who are birdwatchers. There are a large number of birdlife to spot, look out for-- the Himalayan snowcock, red breasted flycatcher, long tailed shrike and many more. From the top of the Triund hill, it’s a magnificent sight and you can actually see the trail zigzagging further on towards Lake Glacier and Indrahar Pass which connects the Chamba and Kangra Valleys.
The total trek distance is 7 km (one-way) which an average trekker would only require 3 hours to complete!
Kareri Lake
A settlement of the Gaddi herdsmen, Kareri lies 3 km ahead of Ghera in the vicinity of McLeodganj. Along the eastern flank of the village, you can see the mighty Dhauladhar Range stand tall. The path climbs by the Nyund stream, zigzagging through mixed forests of oak, pine, and rhododendrons. In the summertime on this Mcleodganj trek, you can spot Cobra lilies growing by the side of the trail and an abundance of birdlife like the Asian Paradise Flycatcher concentrated around the waters.
The one-way trek distance is 7 km and spans over 3 hours for an average trekker.
Indrahar Pass
Stretching to an altitude from 2,875 m to 4,425 m, this Mcleodganj trek is a fascinating glimpse into the serene hamlets of the region, the clear water Lakes of Mankini and Kareri, and the dark bouldered tracks of the Dhauladhar Mountains. The trail keeps in line with the way to Triund and from Triund, it then bends toward Lahesh Cave and Laka Passing. This trek should be worth your while for clear views of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal range, glimpses of the famous Moon peak at 4666m and Arthur’s Seat at 4525 m, and camping in Lahesh cave- a natural rock shelter.
Indru Nag-Chola Village
This trail climbs to an altitude of 2000 m in the village of Chola, a more distant trek on the hills of McLeodganj. The temple is dedicated to the God of snakes and the God of rain, calling to its altar many pilgrims. Shadowy forests of pine and cedar cover the entire path generating oodles of peace in the midst of nature. Sunset from up high, from the summit of the Indru Nag trail, is a notable attraction.
The trek distance is 12 km, to be covered over 4-5 hours.
Guna Devi Temple Trek 
Offering numberless photo-apps, the Guna Devi trek is all about beautiful landscapes and exposure to the local Tibetan expatriate people’s lives. The trail climbs by the beautiful Dal Lake of McLeodganj and passes by Naddi village, and then descends to the banks of the Bhated River. From Balgao, the route bifurcates, going towards Kareri village and Dharmakot respectively.
This is a 15 km trek to be covered over 6-7 km.

When to Visit?

As per a lot of travelers, the best time to visit Mcleodganj is during the post-monsoon winter season, between October to February, and between March to June in the summer. The summers are pleasant in these slopes with a maximum temperature rising to 25 degrees. The winters see the temperature fluctuate between -1 to 9 degree Celsius. 

What to Pack for McLeodganj Trek?

• Large or medium size backpack, and a duffle side bag for extras
• Water bottle
• Sun hat
• Warm cap
• Base layers
• Fleece jacket
• Outer jacket
• Rain jacket (essential for the monsoon months)
• Sturdy trekking shoes and a pair of floaters
• Flashlight
• Trekking pants, several pairs
• UV-protection glasses
• Thermal socks

How to Reach?

By Air: The airport closest to McLeodganj is Gaggal airport; locate 10 km from Dharamshala, well connected with Kullu and Delhi airports by flight.
By Rail: The railway station closest to Mcleodganj is Pathankot, located at a distance of 90 km from Mcleodganj. A meter gauge line connects the area to Kangra and Nagrota.
By Bus: State buses connect the town to neighboring cities including Delhi, Chandigarh, and Dharamshala.