triund trek trekking In india

Triund Trek

With quaint forest trails winding up to the heights from where a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the Kangra Valley meets the eye, the Triund Trek is one of the most exquisite of weekend treks found in Himachal Pradesh. Trekkers come here to spend a couple of nights under the enchanting starry skies while the mountain winds ruffle up your hair. Covering a fairly steep ascent, the route bending from McLeodganj to Triund feels greatly refreshing inside the forests of rhododendrons and oaks. Unlike other high altitude treks in the Himalayas that veer beyond localities, this itinerary features a number of stylish cafes and eateries. Lookout to check-in at the Snowline Cafe to capture some candid moments. McLeodganj - the base camp to the trek is the home to the vibrant and flourishing Tibetan cultures and in the time trekkers get to spend around here can be well utilized to expand one’s learning in Buddhist spirituality and the interestingly chequered history of the Tibetan peoples. Though a short and popularly opted trek, Triund is visually perfect and has a lot to offer in terms of negotiating some tough curves as well. Do this trek to experience a soulful walk through the forests of rhododendrons and oaks while the freshness in the air calms one’s nerves before finally stumbling into the grand scene of sky-kissing snow peaks looming in the horizon.

What is the Triund Trek?

A famed short trek and flagging off from Dharamkot, located a stone’s throw away from the popular tourist destination of McLeodganj, Triund is an absolute scenically rewarding 7 km uphill trip. Passing by the Galu Devi temple, the trail takes a deep gradual incline that lasts a little more than 2 km. On this stretch, trekkers love to stop and hang out at the Snowline Cafe looking over the lush hills and sipping on some great coffee. Before reaching the Galu Temple, about a hundred meters from there, look out for a string of natural caves. Here, you will find goatherds and cowherd coming to rest with their flock. They come to graze their animals in the perennial grassy meadows at the lower altitudes. Beyond the meadows, a lush meadow opens up before the horizon. The Dhauladhar Range rises dreamily in the background. Many leaps below, the Kangra Valley beckons. Keep your camera on the ready to capture a winsome view of the Matterhorn peak to the right in the Dhauladhar Range rising majestically before you!

Why Should We Go for the Triund Trek?

• A chance to explore the splendorous Himalayas in the close vicinity of the well-loved tourist destination - McLeodganj.
• A short and crisp trek as though tailored for a weekend of serenity and bliss near the Delhi-Chandigarh urban circle.
• A test in mountain hiking for beginners and not too grueling for children.
• A string of temples including the Galu Devi, adorning the backdrop of the mountains.
• Amazing view of the Kangra Valley spreading like a green carpet down below.
• A close view of the Dhauladhar Range and the Matterhorn peak in sharp focus.
• Peaceful forest walk through thickets of pines.

How High Is the Triund Trek?

Triund is a vast grassy meadow located at the height of 9278 feet, at the feet of the Dhauladhar Ranges. It is part of the hill station - Dharamkot, located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh.

When to Visit?

A good thing about Triund is that you can opt this trek most parts of the year, though unrelenting heavy rains can make it difficult during the monsoons. In the peak of winter, from January to March too, weather can be harsh but rewarding in terms of crystalline clear skies. The trekking is experienced best in the window of summer between March to June, and during another, from September to mid-December.

How to Reach?

By Air: The Gaggal Airport is the closest accessible point on travel by flight, located about 17 km from McLeodganj. From here, you can book cabs to the town.
By Rail: Pathankot Railway Station is the nearest railhead to the trek, from where McLeodganj can be accessed by bus or shared cab.
By Road: Himachal Pradesh State Transport buses connect McLeodganj to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.

Are There Any Shops Available On the Triund Trek?

You can find a number of cafes to stop by for a bite on this route like ‘Magic View Cafe’ and the more famous ‘Snowline Cafe’. 

What to Pack for Triund 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

Is There Any Possibility Of Altitude Sickness?
Altitude Sickness is not a reasonable risk on this short trek, though fitness is something every trekker must prioritize before coming on this journey.

How Busy Is the Triund Trek?

The Triund trail remains fairly busy through the year since as it makes for a convenient weekend trek and is less demanding in terms of compulsory prior trek experience or fitness level, making it very apt for beginners and children.