Located at a height of 10,632 feet, Triund is one of the most popular treks in Himachal Pradesh. It is a magical place that never loses its beauty or charm. This destination offers jaw-dropping views of the Dhauladhar Range on one side and the Kangra Valley on the other.

Triund is a hill station that offers stunning views from dusk to dawn, with the ability to leave visitors speechless through its varied panoramic vistas and changing colours throughout the day.

But when is the best time to visit? Should you go during winter or summer? Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about visiting this breathtaking place, including a detailed guide from Delhi to Triund, trek costs, and distance information.

Triund Trek Update 2025

Current Camping Status: 

As of 2025, camping regulations at Triund have been updated. Night camping and staying at Triund is not allowed per the state government’s order, though some sources indicate several tents and guesthouses are available for rent. Additionally, you’ll need to get a permit that costs INR 100 per day for each person, and if you want to camp overnight, it’s INR 550 per camp for two people. But do check current regulations before planning your trip.

You can still enjoy a day hike, but overnight camping may be restricted. Furthermore, many shops along the way have been closed, except for Magic View Cafe.

Important Things to Remember: 

Take sufficient water and food along with you, as facilities are limited. 

I recommend this because of the environmental concerns. The meadows have suffered damage due to overcrowding from camping activities. There were permanent camps that destroyed the grass completely. Additionally, excessive trash generation and the transformation of this peaceful site into a commercialised area have impacted the natural serenity. What once had only 2-3 shops has expanded to numerous illegal establishments along with multiple guesthouses.

Triund in Summer vs. Winter

Having visited this place in both seasons, both offer spectacular views, each with its unique charm.

Summer Experience: The evening sun creates a magical, soothing, and peaceful atmosphere. The trek is comparatively easier, and the weather is more comfortable for camping.

Winter Experience: Snow transforms the landscape into a wonderland, making everything extremely cold. The hike becomes more challenging due to slippery conditions, but the snow sparkles beautifully when the sun’s rays fall on it.

Both seasons have their own appeal, making this trek an evergreen choice regardless of the month and weather. However, avoid visiting during monsoons as the trek, camping experience, and views are all compromised. Additionally, the Milky Way Galaxy, one of Triund’s main attractions, is not visible when the sky is cloudy.

Detailed Season Comparison:

Trek Difficulty: Summer treks are comparatively easy. During winter, the hike becomes slippery, especially when ice crusts form on the trail.

Scenic Views: Winter offers a more dramatic experience with the golden light illuminating the snow-covered landscape, creating an even more beautiful setting.

Accommodation: Camping during winter is harsh and difficult as temperatures drop below freezing point.

Stargazing: Viewing the Milky Way is more challenging during winter as the Earth’s hemisphere shifts, making the celestial display less dramatic. However, star trails remain beautiful throughout the season.

Weather Considerations for 2025: Winter conditions are described as “wintry and serene, with snow covering parts of the trail. Not ideal for casual trekkers; suitable only for experienced trekkers looking for a winter adventure”.

Both seasons are perfect for visiting Triund. Your choice depends on your tolerance for harsh weather conditions and whether you want to experience snow. Below, you’ll find comprehensive details regarding Triund trek costs, distance, accommodation options, and a detailed itinerary that can be applied to both seasons.

Additional Updates

• Permit Requirements: Ensure you obtain the necessary permits before starting your trek
• Safety Measures: Carry appropriate gear for the season, especially during winter treks
• Current Pricing: Trek packages in 2025 start from approximately INR 999- INR 1200 for basic packages
• Booking: Many operators now offer online booking with inclusive packages covering meals, guides, and basic accommodation wherever permitted.

Looking for other hill stations to explore in India? Check this – 54 hill stations we have explored in India

Best Time to Travel to Triund

December Mid to March: Personally, I would say the best time is during winter, even though the climate is harsh. This is because the winter glow on the snow from the warm sun is mesmerising. The snow-covered landscape creates a magical atmosphere that’s truly unforgettable.

April to June: Summer is also a perfect time to visit this place, as the view of the Milky Way is really amazing and clear. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for camping and stargazing.

July to September: Avoid Triund during the monsoon season as the sky is covered with clouds, making the night sky faintly visible. Additionally, if it starts raining while camping, your stay will become difficult. Treks on wet terrain are also challenging and potentially dangerous.

Pro Tip: If you want some respite from the crowds, it’s better to plan your trek during weekdays rather than weekends.

How to Reach Triund from Delhi

By Bus

There are overnight buses from Delhi to McLeodganj that take approximately 10-12 hours to reach McLeodganj. HRTC operates 8 buses daily on this route. If you cannot find direct buses to McLeodganj from Delhi, I would advise you to take a bus to Dharamshala first, and from there, you can take another bus or a cab to McLeodganj. The distance between Dharamshala and McLeodganj is just 30 minutes by road.

You can also book bus tickets through platforms like AbhiBus, which often provide discount offers, and redBus offers deals with 5-25% discounts on bus tickets.

Bus Booking Details:

• HRTC buses are available from ISBT Kashmiri Gate and provide affordable fares compared to private buses or taxis.
• You can book tickets online at the official HRTC website.
• Since McLeodganj and Dharamshala are popular tourist destinations, it’s better to book your bus in advance as seats get booked quickly, especially during peak season.

By Train

If you’re travelling by train, Pathankot is the nearest railway station to Triund. From Delhi, trains like the Jhelum Express operate daily, leaving New Delhi at night and reaching Pathankot in the morning, with tickets priced at approximately INR 300.

From Pathankot station, you can take a direct bus to McLeodganj or Dharamshala:

• The journey from Pathankot to Dharamshala takes approximately 2 hours by bus
• Bus fares range from INR 200 to INR 600, depending on the bus type and operator, with average tickets around INR 200 – INR 230
• Buses run from 05:00 to 18:40 throughout the day

Train Booking: You can book train tickets at irctc.co.in or the official IRCTC mobile app.

By Flight

The nearest airport to Triund is Kangra Airport (also known as Gaggal Airport), located about 20 km from Dharamshala. Flight fares from New Delhi to Dharamshala start from around INR 2,400, though prices vary based on season and booking time.

From the airport, you can:

• Take a direct bus to McLeodganj or Dharamshala
• Book a taxi or a cab for a more comfortable journey

Additional Travel Tips

Transportation from McLeodganj: Once you reach McLeodganj, the trek to Triund starts from Gallu Devi Temple, which is about 2-3 km from the main McLeodganj market. You can either walk or take a local taxi to reach the starting point. The McLeodganj to Triund distance is quite doable if you want to trek it. 

Budget:

• Travelling by bus is the most economical option.
• If you want a good balance of comfort and cost, travel by train.

Advance Planning: During peak tourist seasons (April-June and December-February), book all transportation well in advance to ensure availability and better rates.

Weekend Triund Trek Itinerary

Day 1

You will reach McLeodganj early in the morning. From here, you have two options: either stay in a hotel or hostel for the night, or book a room for three hours to freshen up and go straight to the trek to Triund. It depends on how much time you have available.

McLeodganj is beautiful, and one can easily spend a day exploring this charming town.

Accommodation in McLeodganj

I stayed at HosteLaVie, which is about 30 minutes away from the bus stand. They also provide breakfast along with the accommodation. If you want to check out more accommodation options in McLeodganj, you can make bookings through various platforms. The best part is that many hotels allow you to reserve a room with no advance payment required.

Places to See in McLeodganj

From most hostels, you can reach Bhagsu Waterfall within 20 minutes of hiking. There’s also a Shiva Café located 10 minutes away from the waterfall, offering a stunning view of the sunset.

We had tea and Maggi here while watching the sunset. You can later explore the local market as well while returning from Shiva Café, as it comes along the way.

Day 2

After having breakfast, start your trek. There are two routes you can follow: either take a shared taxi directly to the starting point of the Triund trek or begin the trek from McLeodganj itself.

The McLeodganj to Triund trek distance is approximately 8 kilometres and takes 3-4 hours, depending on your walking speed. It’s a moderately difficult trek, and you need to sign a register before commencing the trek. This is just a record maintained by the authorities to track how many people have gone on the trek.

Reach Triund by afternoon and soak in the breathtaking surroundings. It truly offers one of the most beautiful views you’ll ever see.

Accommodation for the Triund Trek Itinerary

Important 2025 Update: You’ll need to obtain a permit that costs INR 100 per day for each person, and if you want to camp overnight, it’s INR 550 per camp for two people. Be aware that if you’re caught staying illegally, you’ll have to pay a fine of INR 5000.

Camping is allowed on the Triund trek, and you can rent tents at Triund (around INR 600 for a two-man tent, with sleeping bags). Keep in mind that on busy weekends, such as around public holidays, the tented accommodation at Triund may get booked out.

The Triund Trek typically costs INR 1000 to INR 1500 per person, with packages including accommodation in dome/alpine tents, sleeping bags, vegetarian meals, trekking and camping services, a bonfire, and the guidance of an experienced trekking guide.

As soon as you reach the area, it’s better to find a camp. The sooner you arrive, the better campsite you can secure at your preferred location. You can also book the camp in McLeodganj itself. During peak season, it’s advantageous to book the camp beforehand, as booking on the spot becomes difficult.

Food

Carry your own food items for the trek. You won’t get many food options at the top. Mostly, you’ll find fried rice, Maggi, and tea available at the camps. If you’re carrying your own food, ensure that you take all waste materials back with you. Please keep the environment clean.

If you want to know more about Solo Travel Tips, read my guide here.

Day 3

Start your descent early the next morning. There’s a bus that leaves for Delhi in the afternoon.

If you’re unable to catch the Delhi bus, the alternative would be to catch a bus to Chandigarh from Dharamshala. From Chandigarh, there are frequent buses that leave for Delhi.

Triund Trek Guide: Checkpoints, Distance, and Difficulty

You can either start the trek from McLeodganj or take a cab or taxi to Gallu Devi Temple, from where you can begin the trek. Below are the key checkpoints that will guide you through the trek.

Checkpoints

Reaching Dharamkot First (Cab or Trek)

From McLeodganj Main Square, there’s a steep upward walk that passes through the Regional Mountaineering Centre office. You’ll find this at the three-way road intersection. From here, you’ll reach a water tank, and nearby, there’s also a government school in Dharamkot.

You can also hire a cab or shared taxi up to this point. If McLeodganj is your starting point, the total distance to reach Triund would be 9 kilometres and take about 4 to 5 hours.

Reaching Bhagsu Nag or Gallu Devi Temple (Cab or Trek)

From the government school, take the forest route, which takes about one hour to reach Gallu Devi Temple. You can also hire a taxi or shared cab to reach Gallu Devi Temple directly by road.

Sun and Moon Café (Trek Only)

You can rest here for a while and have something to eat. From here, there’s a trekking path going northeast that leads to Triund Hill.

From this point onward, the pathway becomes easier. There’s a clearly defined route to Triund Hill – you simply cannot get lost, the path is that well-marked. Along the way, you’ll encounter two cafés: Magic View Café and Best View Café.

At the base of Triund Hill, there are several tea stalls where you can rest and enjoy tea.

Difficulty

The trek to Triund is moderately challenging – neither too difficult nor too easy. It features clearly defined pathways. However, you do need some stamina, especially if you don’t have prior trekking experience.

Time Needed

It takes about 3-4 hours to reach the top at an average walking speed.

Triund Trek Guide

You don’t need a guide for this trek as the trails are properly defined with 100% visibility. There’s no chance of getting lost. Plus, many tourists go on this trek, so you’ll likely encounter other trekkers along the way.

Triund Trek Guide: Things to Remember

• Permits Required: INR 100 per day per person for trekking, INR 550 per camp for two people for overnight camping.
• Package Costs: Trek packages are now available starting from INR 950 to INR 999 for basic packages.
• Booking Platforms: Various online platforms now offer easy Triund trek booking with flexible payment options.
• Environmental Responsibility: Carry back all waste materials and follow the leave-no-trace principle.
• Safety: Carry appropriate gear for the season and inform someone about your trekking plans

Triund Map

Below, I am embedding a map that will help you track the distance a little better.

Triund Trek Costs and Essentials Guide 2025

Bus Cost

The bus cost varies from INR 570 to INR 2,400. You can book Delhi to Dharamshala Volvo AC bus tickets starting from INR 700, though the last bus operated by HRTC costs approximately INR 2,400 for a Volvo multi-axle AC sleeper (2+1). You can either take an ordinary bus or a Volvo, depending on your budget and comfort preferences.

The travel time varies from 10 hours and 25 minutes to 13 hours and 40 minutes, depending on the bus type and route. 

From McLeodganj, everything becomes simple. Local buses are really affordable, and you can get shared taxis to several places for just INR 15-20.

Accommodation

Hostels in McLeodganj start from as cheap as INR 150, while some hostels are available from just INR 64 per night. Private rooms with great views are available for around INR 750.

The stay at budget hostels like HosteLaVie costs around INR 400-600 per day, which often includes breakfast. Popular hostels include The Hosteller McLeodganj Mini, Flügler Hostels, Alt Life- Dharamkot (McLeodganj), Moustache McLeodganj, and La Vaca India, McLeodganj.

For camping at Triund, prices range from INR 500 for a single occupancy tent to INR 1,000 for a double occupancy setup. Remember, you’ll need permits: INR 100 per day per person for trekking and INR 550 per camp for two people for overnight camping.

Food

Getting food in McLeodganj is easy and affordable. You can easily have a meal for INR 150-250. However, food prices double at Triund trek cafes and campsites. Tea and Maggi cost significantly more on the trek, so it’s advisable to carry some snacks from McLeodganj.

Things to Carry to Triund

Bags

Rucksack: Start with a good backpack that provides comfort during trekking and is durable. A 40-50 litre rucksack should suffice for a weekend trek.

Day Pack: Once you reach the campsite, you’ll need a smaller day pack to carry essential items while exploring around the camp.

Clothing

Warm Clothes: The temperature drops drastically on Triund Hill. While trekking, you might feel warm, but during the night it gets very cold. Always carry socks, a jacket, gloves, and a muffler.

Muffler: Essential for protecting your neck from cold winds. In summer, you might not need mufflers, but they’re very important during winter.

Gloves: Woollen gloves work well, but during the snow season, buy waterproof gloves as snow can get trapped in woollen ones.

Socks: During winter, merino wool socks are recommended as they’re very warm. Layer your feet with two pairs as nighttime temperatures drop significantly.

Essential Items

Good Hiking Shoes: Triund has rocky and sandy paths. Good hiking shoes with proper grip are essential. During winter, waterproof shoes that can sustain snow conditions are even more important.

Water Bottle: Triund doesn’t have reliable water facilities. Even if cafes have water bottles, the costs are double. During peak season, water bottles often run out of stock, so carry sufficient water from McLeodganj.

Food: Getting food on Triund Hill can be difficult and expensive. While you can enjoy Maggi and fried rice with tea, carry additional snacks just in case.

Raincoat/Poncho: Essential if you’re planning to trek during monsoons or winter. The weather can change quickly at higher altitudes.

Extra Batteries and Power Banks: For DSLR, carry extra batteries since there are no charging sockets at the top. For phones and action cameras, a power bank is essential.

UV Protection Sunglasses: At high altitudes, sun rays become more intense. Good quality sunglasses are a must for eye protection.

Toiletries

• Tissue papers
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
• Moisturiser and lip balm
• Hand sanitiser
• Personal medications

Other Essential Items

• Carry valid identification and ensure you have the required permits
• Basic first aid supplies for minor injuries
• Headlamp/Flashlight
• Portable Phone Charger

Connectivity in Triund

There is minimal connectivity at Triund. You’ll get a proper network connection only up to McLeodganj. But honestly, who needs constant connection in Triund – a place with such timeless beauty? It’s the perfect opportunity for a digital detox!

Final Thoughts

Whether you plan to visit Triund during winter or summer, it doesn’t really matter – the place looks beautiful regardless. It’s about your preference and how much harsh weather you can handle.

The key is proper planning, carrying the right gear, and respecting the environment. With updated permits and regulations in 2025, ensure you’re well-informed before embarking on this incredible journey.

Hope this guide helps you plan your Triund trip better! The mountains are calling, and the experience will be worth every penny spent.