Triund is a grassy ridge at about 2,850 m, above McLeod Ganj, that looks straight across a deep valley to the granite peaks of the Dhauladhar. It is the most popular day hike in Himachal: well marked, doable for most reasonably fit people, and hugely rewarding on a clear morning.
The trail — about 9 km from McLeod Ganj via Dharamkot or the Gallu Devi temple — climbs through oak, deodar and rhododendron forest (spectacularly red in March and April), with a tea stall at Magic View and the steep final “22 bends” onto the ridge.
Top things to do in Triund
The day hike
Most walkers take 3–5 hours up and 2–3 hours down. Start early (by 8 am) for clearer views and to avoid the heat in summer. From the ridge you can see the Kangra valley on one side and the Dhauladhar on the other.
Stay the night
Sunset and sunrise from Triund are memorable. Camping rules and permit fees are set by the forest department and change periodically; tented camps and organised overnight treks handle the paperwork.
Snowline and Ilaqa
Fit walkers can continue about 5 km to the Snowline café and the Ilaqa Got meadow at the foot of the Indrahar Pass (approx. 3,300–3,600 m). Beyond, the Indrahar Pass (4,342 m) is a serious, guided multi-day trek.
Alternatives nearby
For quieter trails try Kareri Lake (two to three days), the Gallu waterfall walk, Guna Devi temple or the short walk to Bhagsu waterfall.
How to get to Triund
- Walk from McLeod Ganj via Dharamkot (full 9 km), or take a taxi to the Gallu Devi temple above Dharamkot to save about 2 km of the climb.
- McLeod Ganj is 10–12 hours by overnight bus from Delhi, and about 15 km from Kangra (Gaggal) airport — see McLeod Ganj & Dharamshala.
Insider tips
- Wear proper shoes with grip: the upper section is rocky and slippery after rain.
- Carry at least 2 litres of water, a rain jacket and a warm layer — weather changes quickly.
- Avoid the trail in heavy monsoon rain and after heavy snowfall in winter, when the upper section can be icy.
- Carry all your rubbish down; plastic has been a serious problem on the ridge.
- Tell someone your plan; do not continue beyond Snowline alone.
Tours that include Triund
These guided trips cover Triund or combine easily with a visit:
Guided hike Hiking Day Tour to Triund from Dharamshala
Himachal’s most popular day hike, with a guide. The trail climbs through rhododendron and oak forest from Dharamkot or Gallu Devi to the open Triund ridge, where the granite wall of the Dhauladhar seems close enough to touch. Consistently one of the best-reviewed tours in Himachal.
- Around 9 km each way from McLeod Ganj / Dharamkot
- Triund ridge at about 2,850 m facing the Dhauladhar
- Views down to the Kangra valley
Overnight trek McLeod Ganj: 2-Day Triund Trek & Himalayan Camping
The best way to do Triund: hike up in the afternoon, watch the light change on the peaks, sleep in a tent on the ridge and wake up to sunrise over the Kangra valley. Camping gear, meals and the guide are organised for you.
- Sunset and sunrise over the Dhauladhar
- Tented camp with dinner and breakfast
- Option to continue towards the Snowline and Ilaqa
Multi-day trek Dharamshala: 3-Day Kareri Lake Trek with Meals and Guide
A quieter alternative to Triund: follow the Nyund stream up from Kareri village through forest and shepherd pastures to a shallow glacial lake beneath the Minkiani pass. A great introduction to multi-day Himalayan trekking.
- Glacial Kareri Lake at around 2,900 m
- Gaddi shepherd villages and river crossings
- Guide, meals and camping included
