Triund Trek: Nature's Serene Trail to Himalayan Bliss

I was eager to embark on my first solo trek, craving the thrill of the mountains and the peace found in nature. I was looking forward to challenging myself, breathing fresh air, and witnessing breathtaking landscapes of the Kangra valley and the snow covered Dhauladhar ranges.

While on vacation with my family in Dharamshala, I decided to do this trek. I was eager to go alone, but my hotel owner insisted I take a local guide. Since I hadn't done this trail before, he was concerned about my safety and the need for assistance in case of any medical emergency. I was accompanied by Anish who was a certified guide (+91 78075 77211).

Triund Height: 2,850 m (9,350 ft). The Triund trek is classified as easy, but it involves a significant altitude gain of 3,000 feet. While the trek is generally straightforward, the continuous ascent can be quite challenging for those with a sedentary lifestyle.

Bare necessities: Trekking shoes, Sunglasses, Cap, Sunscreen, Water bottles.

There are two main Triund trek routes, since I wanted the best of both worlds, I decided to climb up from Dharamkot (via Gallu Devi Temple) and descend from McLeodganj (via Bhagsu).

I began my journey at 7:30 am from my Hotel (Heryk Hill View). I took a local cab to Gallu Devi Temple in Dharamkot, approximately 11 km away. The cab fare was ₹1500, though I feel I could have negotiated a better rate. The trek from Dharamkot to Gallu Devi Temple is also quite popular, thanks to the sounds of mountain birds and the whistling of air through deodar trees. Upon reaching Gallu Devi Temple, I had to present my identity and pay ₹100 at the checkpoint before starting my much-anticipated trek to Triund.

The trail gently ascends through dense oak forests and winds along the steep side of the Laka ridge. As I progressed, the path became a deep gully that traversed a steep section and eventually emerged onto a rocky spur. There are about 22 bends on the trek or the climb. At around the halfway point I reached magic view café.

From here the trail got steeper.

The trail continued with a series of switchbacks, climbing through dense thickets of oak trees to reach the Triund ridge. The final switchbacks lead me out onto the open grassy expanse of the Triund ridge. This ridge stretched for about a kilometer to the south before plunging into the Kangra valley.

Although it typically takes about 4 hours to reach the top, I managed to cover the distance in just 2 hours, thanks to my regular physical training!

Upon reaching the ridge, I found myself completely captivated by the beauty of the majestic mountains. It was truly breathtaking.

Now my body was craving for energy. Dhauladhar Café was just about the right and a cozy spot to refuel after all that exertion. From maggie noodles to parathas and daal rice, they’ve got quite the menu! Sometimes, those simple, hearty meals hit the spot perfectly!

Ah, the mountains, they have a way of stirring the soul! The thin air up there seems to carry whispers of eternity, and perhaps that’s where the connection lies. High above the world, I ascended to a sacred Shiva temple nestled amidst mist-shrouded peaks and met a wise monk. Whether it’s the grandeur of nature or the quiet wisdom of a monk, these moments can evoke a sense of something greater—a reminder that we’re part of a vast cosmic tapestry.

As I descended toward McLeod Ganj, the landscape transformed dramatically. This side of the mountain, meant for camping and adventure, greeted me with open arms. After a two-hour trek downward, I arrived at Bhagsu Waterfall. The icy water, straight from the glacier, momentarily numbed my feet—a miraculous balm for the fatigue and strain of the climb.

Isn’t it fascinating how nature’s elements can both challenge and heal us.

Expenses:

1. Cab to Dharamkot: ₹ 1500

2. Guide Fees: ₹ 1200

3. Breakfast at Dhauladhar Cafe: ₹ 100

4. Cab back to Hotel: ₹ 700