McLeodganj and Triund Trek: Trip Guide from Delhi

Plan McLeodganj and the Triund trek from Delhi - how to get there, what the trail is like, the best months and a simple plan for a long weekend.

About McLeodganj and Triund

McLeodganj sits above Dharamshala in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, and is home to the Tibetan community and the Dalai Lama's temple complex. Triund is a ridge above the town with close-up views of the Dhauladhar range - one of the most popular beginner treks in North India.

How to get there from Delhi

  • Distance: roughly 470-500 km by road.
  • Overnight bus: Volvo buses run from Delhi to Dharamshala and McLeodganj.
  • By train or air: Pathankot is the nearest large railhead; Gaggal (Kangra) airport is near Dharamshala.

The Triund trek

  • The trail usually starts near Galu Devi temple or from Dharamkot above McLeodganj.
  • It is roughly 7-9 km one way depending on the starting point, with a steady climb; most people take 3-5 hours up.
  • The top is at about 2,850 m. Many trekkers camp overnight for the sunset and sunrise.
  • The last stretch is steeper and rocky - wear proper shoes.

Best time to visit

  • March to June and September to November are the best trekking months.
  • July and August: Dharamshala is one of the rainiest places in Himachal; trails get slippery.
  • December to February: snow on the ridge is possible - go only with a guide and proper gear.

Also worth seeing

  • The Tsuglagkhang (Dalai Lama temple) complex and the Tibet museum.
  • Bhagsu waterfall and the cafes of Dharamkot.
  • The St John in the Wilderness church among the deodar trees.

A simple 4-night plan

Night 0: overnight bus from Delhi. Day 1: reach McLeodganj, explore the monastery and market. Day 2: trek to Triund and camp. Day 3: sunrise, trek down, rest. Day 4: Bhagsu and Dharamkot, then the overnight bus back.

Tips

  • Carry water, a rain layer and a warm jacket, even in summer.
  • Start the trek early to finish before afternoon clouds roll in.
  • Leave no litter on the trail.

Book it as a package

Treeo Hotels and Travels runs a McLeodganj and Triund package (4 nights / 5 days) with pickup from Delhi, Gurgaon, Chandigarh or Jaipur. See all our holiday packages or message us on WhatsApp at 90566 87913.

Photo: Tanvi.sharmaaa, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.