Facts last checked 2026-11-04.
Dharamshala is a hill town in the Kangra valley of Himachal Pradesh, below the Dhauladhar range. McLeod Ganj, higher up at about 1,457 m, is its best-known neighbourhood and has been home to the Tibetan government-in-exile for decades. It is the starting point for the Triund trek.
What we arrange in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj
We plan trips here around your dates, group size and interests. Stays, transport and activities are arranged with registered local providers. Visitors mostly come for the Triund trek, monasteries and Tibetan culture, short walks such as the one to Bhagsu waterfall, and cafes. Bir Billing, the paragliding area, is in the same Kangra valley and combines well into one trip. Tell us what you have in mind and we will tell you what is possible on your dates.
We price each trip by your dates and group size. See how pricing works.
The Triund trek
Triund is a ridge meadow at about 2,850 m. The trek is about 9 km one way from McLeod Ganj, or shorter if you start from Galu Devi Temple, a short taxi ride up. The climb usually takes 4 to 5 hours and is rated easy to moderate. Many people do it as an overnight trip. Snow can close the route for several weeks in January and February, and the monsoon makes the trail slippery. A forest entry fee is collected at the Gallu checkpost, and the rules on camping at the top have changed in recent years, so we confirm them before we book.
Getting to Dharamshala
- By air: Kangra Airport at Gaggal is about 15 km from Dharamshala, with limited flights from Delhi. Check the schedule before you book, as weather can delay flights.
- By train: Pathankot Cantt (Chakki) is the nearest broad-gauge station, about 88 km away. A narrow-gauge line also runs to Kangra Mandir.
- By road: Delhi is about 475 to 500 km away, usually 9 to 11 hours, and overnight buses run from Delhi. Chandigarh is about 240 km away. McLeod Ganj is a further short climb above Dharamshala.
When to go to Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj
| Months | What to expect |
|---|---|
| March to June | Pleasant weather, good for the Triund trek. |
| July to August | Monsoon. Heavy rain, slippery trails and clouded views. |
| September to November | Clear, cooler weather and a second trekking window. |
| December to February | Cold, with snow on higher trails. The Triund route can close for weeks in January and February. |
Road and weather conditions change. Ask us before you fix your dates.
Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj: common questions
How long is the Triund trek?
About 9 km one way from McLeod Ganj, usually 4 to 5 hours going up. Starting from Galu Devi Temple makes it shorter.
What is the best time to visit Dharamshala?
March to June and September to November. Avoid the monsoon for trekking.
Which is the nearest airport and railway station?
Kangra Airport at Gaggal, about 15 km from Dharamshala, and Pathankot Cantt (Chakki), about 88 km away.
How much does a Dharamshala trip cost?
There is no fixed rate card. We price each trip by your dates and group size. Send us your plan and we will reply with a quote.