Place Introduction

History

The Triund trek is a popular hiking trail in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is located in the Dhauladhar mountain range of the Himalayas, near the town of McLeod Ganj, which is famous for being the residence of the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama.

The history of the Triund trek is closely linked with the history of McLeod Ganj. During the early 1900s, the British colonial government established a sanatorium in McLeod Ganj, known for its cool climate and fresh air. The sanatorium was used to treat soldiers suffering from tuberculosis and other respiratory diseases.

After India gained independence in 1947, the sanatorium became a government hospital. In the 1960s, McLeod Ganj became a popular destination for hippies and spiritual seekers, who were drawn to its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to the Dalai Lama’s residence.

As tourism in McLeod Ganj grew, so did the popularity of the Triund trek. The trek is a relatively easy one, and can be completed in a day. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular destination for camping and stargazing.

Over the years, the Triund trek has become a significant tourist attraction in Himachal Pradesh. Tens of thousands of people trek to Triund every year, making it one of the most popular hikes in the region. The trek has also been the site of several conservation initiatives aimed at preserving the fragile ecosystem of the Dhauladhar range.

Location and Climate

The Triund trek is located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, in the Dhauladhar mountain range of the Himalayas. The trek starts from McLeod Ganj, which is situated at an altitude of 2,082 meters (6,831 feet) above sea level. The trail to Triund covers a distance of approximately 9 kilometres (5.5 miles) and reaches an altitude of 2,842 meters (9,324 feet) at the summit.

The climate of Triund trek varies depending on the time of year. During the summer months, from April to June, the temperature ranges from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), with occasional rainfall. The monsoon season, from July to September, brings heavy rainfall and the temperature ranges from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). From October to December, the temperature ranges from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) and the weather is generally dry. The winter months, from January to March, are very cold with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F), and heavy snowfall is common in the higher altitudes.

The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so it is recommended to check the weather forecast before starting the trek. It is also important to carry appropriate clothing and gear for the expected weather conditions.

How to reach

The Triund trek can be reached by road or by air, depending on your starting location.

By road: If you are travelling from Delhi, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to McLeod Ganj, which is the starting point of the trek. The journey takes approximately 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, you can take a train to Pathankot, and then take a taxi or bus to McLeod Ganj.

By air: The nearest airport to McLeod Ganj is Gaggal Airport in Dharamshala, approximately 20 kilometres (12.4 miles) away. You can take a taxi or bus from the airport to McLeod Ganj.

Once you reach McLeod Ganj, you can start the trek to Triund. The trek starts from the Bhagsu Nag temple, approximately 2 kilometres (1.2 miles) from McLeod Ganj. You can either walk to the temple or take a taxi or auto-rickshaw.

From the Bhagsu Nag temple, the trek to Triund takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on your fitness level and the weather conditions. The trail is well-defined and marked, with several rest stops along the way. It is recommended to start the trek early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and to reach Triund before sunset.

Best time to visit

• • The best time to visit Triund trek is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the skies are clear, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The temperature during this time ranges from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), making it comfortable for trekking and camping.
  • The summer months of March to May are the best time to visit for those who want to escape the heat of the plains. The weather is pleasant, and the flowers and greenery are in full bloom. However, this is also the peak tourist season, and the trek can be crowded.
  • The autumn months of September to November are also a good time to visit Triund. The weather is dry, and the skies are clear, offering excellent views of the surrounding mountains. The temperature during this time is comfortable for trekking, and there are fewer tourists compared to the summer months.
  • The monsoon season, from July to September, brings heavy rainfall, making the trek difficult and dangerous. The winter months, from December to February, are also not recommended for trekking as the temperature drops below freezing, and heavy snowfall can make the trail slippery and dangerous.
  • It is always recommended to check the weather forecast before starting the trek and to carry appropriate clothing and gear for the expected weather conditions.
    

Road condition for a road trip

• • The road condition for a road trip to Triund trek can vary depending on the starting point of your journey.
  • If you are travelling from Delhi, the road condition is generally good, with well-maintained highways and roads. However, the last leg of the journey from Dharamshala to McLeod Ganj is a narrow and winding road, which can be challenging for inexperienced drivers. It is advisable to drive cautiously and to hire a local driver if you are not familiar with the terrain.
  • If you are travelling from other nearby cities such as Chandigarh or Amritsar, the road condition is also good, with well-maintained highways and roads. However, the roads leading up to Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj can be narrow and winding, and caution is advised while driving.
  • During the monsoon season, from July to September, the roads leading up to McLeod Ganj can be slippery and dangerous due to landslides and heavy rainfall. It is advisable to check the weather and road conditions before embarking on a road trip during this time.
  • Overall, the road condition for a road trip to Triund trek is good, but caution is advised while driving on the narrow and winding roads leading up to McLeod Ganj. It is always advisable to hire a local driver if you are not familiar with the terrain.

Where to stay

There are several stay options available at Triund Trek. Some of them include:

1. Triund Guest House – This guest house is at the top of Triund Hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It has basic amenities like dormitory beds and shared bathrooms.
2. Forest Guest House – This guest house is located near the forest and offers a quiet and peaceful environment. It has basic amenities like dormitory beds and shared bathrooms.
3. Camping – Camping is a popular option for those who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Triund. You can bring your own tent or rent one from the local vendors. There are several camping sites available with basic amenities like toilets and cooking facilities.
4. Homestays – Several homestays are available in the nearby villages of Bhagsu and Dharamkot. These homestays offer a more authentic experience and allow you to interact with the local people and culture.

It is recommended to book your stay in advance as Triund Trek is a popular destination and the accommodations can get booked up quickly, especially during peak season.

What to eat

 There are several eating options available at Triund Trek. Some of them include:

Tea stalls – There are several tea stalls located along the trek that offer hot tea, coffee, and other beverages to keep you energized during your trek.

Maggi points – Maggi is a popular instant noodle dish that is widely available along the trek. You can also find other snacks like biscuits, chocolates, and energy bars at these Maggi points.

Dhabas – There are several dhabas located along the trek that offer hot and delicious meals like rice, dal, and vegetables. These dhabas are a popular spot for trekkers to take a break and refuel.

Cafes and restaurants – There are several cafes and restaurants located in the nearby villages of Bhagsu and Dharamkot. These cafes offer a range of cuisines, including Indian, Tibetan, and Italian.

It is recommended to carry some snacks and water with you during the trek as the eating options along the trail are limited and can get expensive. Additionally, it is important to stay hydrated and avoid consuming any unhygienic food or water.

What to see nearby places

There are several nearby places to visit while on a Triund Trek. Some of them include:

1. Bhagsu Waterfall – Located just a few kilometers from the Triund Trek base camp, the Bhagsu Waterfall is a popular tourist spot. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a refreshing respite from the trek.
2. Bhagsunath Temple – The Bhagsunath Temple is an ancient temple located in the village of Bhagsu. It is a popular destination for spiritual seekers and offers a glimpse into the rich culture and heritage of the region.
3. Dal Lake – The Dal Lake is a small and serene lake located near the village of Tota Rani. It is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful and tranquil environment to relax and unwind.
4. McLeod Ganj – McLeod Ganj is a bustling town located near the Triund Trek base camp. It is famous for its vibrant culture and offers a range of activities like shopping, dining, and sightseeing.
5. Kangra Fort – The Kangra Fort is an ancient fort located in the town of Kangra. It is one of the largest forts in India and offers a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the region.

These nearby places are worth exploring and can add to the overall experience of your Triund Trek.