A small hill station in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh and at the foothills of the Dhauladhar mountain ranges at an altitude of about 2,828 meters, Triund has rapidly grown as a popular trekking destination in the past years owing to the recent developments in connectivity and accessibility. Each year, a significant number of trekkers and mountaineers set out to visit this perfect weekend trek to relish the scenic beauty and serenity of the mountains. Best known for its mesmerizing and panoramic views of the Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas, the Triund trek has become quite a popular choice among nature lovers. This article gives a brief overview of the Triund trek, and reasons why it is a perfect weekend trek.
Duration: 1-2 days.
Starting / Ending point: Dharamkot / Mcleodganj.
Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate.
One can start the trek either from Dharamkot or McLeodganj, but trekkers generally prefer the former one, as this route offers stunning views of the thick pine forests all along the way. Dharamkot is another small hill station with an elevation of about 2,100 metres in the Kangra district, located on the crest of a hill above McLeodganj. One can witness breathtaking views of the Kangra valley from the base camp at Dharamkot itself. Trekking starts from the Gallu Devi temple, a popular tourist attraction in the region. Other popular tourist attractions in Dharamkot include the Vipassana Meditation Centre, Dhamma Sikhara, the Tushita Meditation centre, and the Chabad house (a Jewish community centre). One can also experience the prominent Israeli culture that this place is known for especially in the food, clothing and tradition.
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Best known for its spectacular views of the pinewoods and the Kangra valley and the mountains of the Dhauladhar ranges, the Triund trek is a sheer delight for every nature lover. The trek will lead one through beautiful flower-filled valleys and meadows, thick forests of pine, oak and rhododendron, and the small picturesque Himalayan villages along with the magnificent snow-capped mountains in the backdrop. Also a paradise on earth for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts, the Triund trek will let one witness some rare and exotic flora and fauna. It is another major reason behind the huge popularity of this trek. Trekkers and mountaineers generally spent the night at camps in Triund to get stunning views of the sunset and sunrise – another reason which makes the Triund trek so special and one of a kind.
Since it is a short duration trek, the Triund trek is ideal for a weekend getaway. Considered suitable for both beginner as well as experienced trekkers, it is sometimes even considered to be the easiest trek in the state. Despite the steep ascents, it can be traversed within a day with minimum difficulty. The initial part is relatively easier, while the latter part of the trek can be a little challenging. One can easily traverse this part with a little help from professional guides. The breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains and forests definitely compensate for all the physical exhaustion and fatigue.
It is generally advised to visit this trek during the months of May to October, as one can get ravishing views of the grasslands and valleys filled with blooming flowers, and the lush green forests with the snow-laden mountains along the skyline. Though the roads become slippery and there are frequent chances of landslides especially during the monsoons, trekkers and mountaineers still prefer to visit this trek during the monsoons themselves. One might want to seek help from professional guides, as they are the ones most aware of the routes, weather conditions and the challenges one could possibly face along the way.
A perfect weekend getaway for nature lovers, the Triund trek has rapidly grown to be quite popular among trekkers and mountaineers and has its admirers and visitors from all over the world. But, with the rapid growth in tourism, there comes the inevitable damage to the natural ecosystem of the mountains. So it is all of our duty and responsibility to sincerely follow the guidelines and rules to save the ecological balance of the fragile mountains, while we continue to enjoy the jaw-dropping scenic beauty and serenity that nature has to offer.
Before one sets out on this trek, here are a few key points to remember:
- Inquire about the weather beforehand, as the weather at such high altitude is often unpredictable and uncertain.
- Beginner trekkers are advised to seek help from professional guides who are best aware about the routes.
- It is advised to plan the trek properly before one sets out on the journey.
