Must-Visit Treks from Dharamshala for Adventure Lovers

 In Adventure, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, Holidays, Places To Visit, Things to do, Travel

So, fellow wanderers, are you ready for your next big adventure? Make Dharamshala your starting point, where every trip is a new episode of the journey to the heart of the Himalayas!!

If you are anticipating the natural beauty of the royalty of kings and queens just next to Dharamshala, then let’s fulfill your wish. A trekking tour from this beautiful town of Himachal Pradesh is not a mere trip, it is a calling to explore the best artwork by nature. 

Therefore get your hiking boots on and inhale that fresh mountain air! Let’s uncover the best treks from Dharamshala, particularly those that are supposed to deliver thrills, calmness, and the feeling that one will never forget. What new place is on your list of things to explore in Himachal Pradesh or places to travel to?

The beautiful town of Dharamshala in Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh is a trekker’s paradise. This calm town is famous for its enthusiastic Tibetan culture and imposing terrains that provide some of the best treks around Dharamshala. For those who consider trekking and traveling to be their passion or just those who begin this activity, Dharamshala is a city for everyone.

Best Treks in Dharamshala

The area around Dharamshala has many choices when it comes to trekking. Depending on the difficulty, length of the walk, and steepness of the elevation, trails vary from relatively flat day hikes to more complex multi-day hikes. Let’s explore some of the most popular treks from Dharamshala for an unforgettable experience in the mountains:

1. Triund Trek

triund-hill-trek

The Triund Trek is one of the famous treks in Dharamshala Himachal Pradesh. This trek is all about the lovely scenic beauties of the Dhauladhar range and the Kangra Valley. This is a relatively easy hike and preferably for beginners and people with families.

Difficulty Level:

Triund Trek is best suggested as an easy trek that falls in Dharamshala for those who are new to trekking. It’s the best 2-day trek in Dharamshala.

Best Time to Trek:

The ideal time to go trekking to Triund is from March to June and then from September to December. These months provide the best atmospheric conditions like clear skies and a good climate.

2. Indrahar Pass Trek

indrahar-pass-trek

The Indrahar Pass Trek is a moderately tough trek covering the areas of the deodar, rhododendron, and oak forests. The trek commences from McLeod Ganj offering a perfect view of the Indian plains on one side and snow-clad mountains on the other side.

Trekking Difficulty:

It is suggested that this trekking is of moderate to difficult category, best for professional trekkers.

Ideal Season for Trekking:

The Indrahar Pass Trek can be done all through the year but the most recommended time for this trek is from May to October.

3. Kareri Lake Trek

kareri-lake-trek

The Kareri Lake Trek leads you to a high-altitude beautiful lake with meadows and trees around it. The trek has colorful flora and is comparatively less explored as compared to the other treks in Dharamshala.

Difficulty and Duration:

This walk is fairly strenuous and may take anywhere between 2 and 4 days depending on the fitness level of the hiker.

Best Time to Visit:

It is advisable that you visit Kareri Lake during the months of May to June and September to October.

Suggested Read: Best Treks In Tirthan Valley, Himachal

4. Minkiani Pass Trek

minkiani-pass-trek

The Minkiani Pass Trek is another thrilling trek that gives you bird-eye view sightseeing of the Dhauladhar range and the Kullu valley. It mainly crosses through the terrain of the coniferous and broadleaf forests, meadows, and landslide-prone slopes.

Difficulty Level:

This trek is rather difficult which is why it can be completed only by experienced trekkers.

Best Season to Trek:

It is advisable to complete the Minkiani Pass Trek in the months ranging from May to October only.

5. Guna Devi Trek

guna-devi-trek

The Guna Devi Trek is not only about the beauty of nature it has a religious importance as well. It ends at the Guna Devi Temple which is an important shrine that the people go to for worship.

Trekking Experience:

This trek is comparatively on the easier side, and for sure you will get the best view of the Dhauladhar range of mountains. If you are looking for a 2 day trek in Dharamshala, then one is the best choice.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal time to opt for the Guna Devi Trek is from March to June and from September to November.

6. Thatharana Trek

thatharana-trek

The Thatharana Trek is perhaps as famous but considerably less known than the Annapurna Trek. It provides beautiful sightseeing of the Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar hills. So, if you are excited to go trekking near Dharamshala, then this is your ideal spot!

Trek Difficulty:

This is moderate trekking hence it is recommended for those with some basic experience in trekking. For people looking for 3 day trek in Dharamshala, the Thatharana trek is the best choice.

Best Time to Visit:

The recommended time for the Thatharana Trek is April to June and September to November.

Suggested Read: Best Travel Tips For Jibhi! Where Adventure Meets Serenity

Popular Winter Treks in Dharamshala

Dharamshala trekking in winter is quite an experience, especially with the snow on the mountains and a fairly quiet environment. Enjoy a small 1 day trek in Dharamshala, or a fulfilling 3 day trek in Dharamshala, with the perfect snowy view.

The top winter treks in Dharamshala are the Triund Winter Trek and the Kareri Lake Winter Trek. These treks give you a fairy-tale-like feeling as you walk on snowy tracks.

1. Triund Winter Trek

triund-trek

The Triund Winter Trek is indeed a beautiful experience up the snow-carpeted rhododendron and oak trees trail. Progressing your journey upwards you can see the wonder of Dhauladhar in its completely white attire of snow against the backdrop of blue sky.

Trek Difficulty:

Moderate which will suit the trekkers who have had previous experience in trekking.

Best Time to Visit:

December to February. The paths are also covered in snow, the sights are very clear and the air is very fresh especially when you are up in the peaks of the mountain.

2. Kareri Lake Winter Trek

kareri-lake-winter-trek

Yogesh Mutt, the Kareri Lake Winter Trek leads you through snow-laden trails, and deep forests to approach a mesmeric high-altitude glittering lake. Enjoy the thick frozen lake view along with mirror reflections of towering snow-frosted hills.

Trek Difficulty:

Moderate to difficult due to the insistence of the climb in various points of interest all over the City.

Best Time to Visit:

As for the seasonal fluctuation, the demand is higher during the winter season particularly during the months of January to March. 

Suggested Read: Adventure Activities In Jibhi! A Comprehensive Guide To Himalayan Thrills

Best Summer Treks in Dharamshala

Treks during the summer in Dharamshala are a burst of colours and a pleasant climate. Flowers and trees line the trails and there is greenery all around.

Dharamshala, the beautiful town in Himachal Pradesh is vastly visited by tourists from all around the world. People visit here to see the pleasing Buddhist Monasteries, to get blessings from the highest spiritual leader Dalai Lama, and to enjoy adventurous activities like trekking on the offbeat routes in pleasant weather.

Some of the best summer treks in Dharamshala are:

1. Bhagsu Waterfall Trek

bhagsu-waterfall-trek

The Bhagsu Waterfall Trek is relatively short and very enjoyable headed from the Bhagsu village that is near McLeod Ganj. This trek is known among the tourists and the locals because of its easy trail and beautiful Bhagsu waterfall. 

Trek Difficulty:

It is easy and perfect for novices as well as those with children.

Best Time to Visit:

Spring, specifically the second quarter of the year – April, May, and June. However, the waterfall is full, especially during the summer months receiving the water that melts from the Dhauladhar range.

2. Guna Devi Trek

guna-devi-trek

The Guna Devi Trek is a fusion of nature mixed with the beauty of the historical background for trekkers near Dharamshala. From McLeod Ganj, the track goes up to Guna Devi Temple passing through the dense cedar and rhododendron forests. This trek is a perfect combination of beauty in the nature view seeing the Dhauladhar range and the religiousness of this place.

Trek Difficulty:

Moderate trek where tourists of all types of trekking experience can do the trek.

Best Time to Visit:

The major crowd visits the Guna Devi trekking site from September to November while March to June is also preferable. These months are a great time for sunny skies and good visibility.

3. Indrahar Pass Trek Overview

indrahar-pass-trek-overview

The Indrahar Pass Trek is an interesting trekking route that begins from McLeod Ganj near Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. This leads trekkers through thickets of deodar, oak and rhododendron forests, and then with a gradual climb, the forests give way to rocky slopes with alpine pastures. The exceptionally pleasant part of this trek is the visual feast that matches the Kangra Valley on one side and the Dhauladhar snowline on the other. 

Trek Difficulty:

Moderate to difficult mainly because of steep climbs and high altitudes, the trail requires trekkers with some experience. 

Best Time to Visit: 

May to October is the best time for undertaking the trek since the weather is clear and pathways are open for trekking.

Recommended Easy Treks in Dharamshala

As for first-time trekkers, there are several short treks that one can attempt in Dharamshala.

The recommended easy treks in Dharamshala are the Triund Trek, Guna Devi Trek and Bhagsu Waterfall Trek. 

These treks are not very long, have marked paths and the slopes are easy. Overall, as a beginner, you’ll have a great first-time experience with these small treks in Dharamshala trekking offbeat routes in Jibhi.

Multi-Day Treks in Dharamshala

Popular 2-Day and 3-Day Treks

If you are looking for an extended adventure amidst the mountains and lap of nature, then Dharamshala has several more extended-trails treks. Such treks enable one to get an inner feel of the region over a few days.

Tips for Multi-Day Trekking

When doing a multi-day trek one needs to pack appropriately, be hydrated and be ready for different weather conditions. Some of the most sought-after multi-day treks are Kareri Lake Trek and Indrahar Pass Trek.

Best Time to Trek in Dharamshala

Seasonal Advantages

Each season has its own charm to offer to the people visiting Dharamshala. Usually, mid-February to mid-July (spring and summer) are considered the best months to trek in Dharamshala, as the weather is in your favour.

Weather Considerations

For all those seeking a snowy adventure, winter treks are a perfect experience. Other than that, Spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to trek in Dharamshala as the skies are clear and the weather is pleasant.

Trekking Tips and Essentials

trekking-tips-and-essentials

Preparing for a trek in Dharamshala requires careful planning for comfort and safety. Here are some must-follow travel tips in Himachal for treks from Dharamshala:

  • Weight to Carry: Day hikes only require a small day sack with water, some ready-to-eat meals and extra layers of clothing. Also, carry a first-aid kit and sleeping gear.
  • Trekking Shoes: It is recommended that you wear strong shoes that accommodate the foot and ankle well and provide a solid grip. 
  • Fitness: Do aerobic and anaerobic exercises for stamina.
  • Acclimatization: It is important to acclimatize to high altitudes. One way to do this is by going to the higher altitude little by little.
  • Research: Intentionally learn about the trek route, what type of weather to expect, and the challenges that a trekker is likely to encounter.

Suggested Read: Embark On A Beautiful Trail With The Hampta Pass Trek In Himachal Pradesh

Conclusion

Trekking is one of the widely practised activities in Dharamshala because of the various trekking routes with beautiful sceneries and cultural sightseeing. To be more precise, the Dharamshala Trails range from a solitary day’s hike to a Top of the World multi day trek to Kangra Valley, there exists something in every category for everyone. Thus, put on your hiking shoes, take all the backpack essentials and start your exciting trekking tour in Dharamshala Himachal Pradesh.

What are the top trekking routes in Dharamshala?

Dharamshala provides popular trekking routes that include Triund Trek, Indrahar Pass Trek, Kareri Lake Trek, Minkiani Pass Trek, and Guna Devi Trek.

How difficult are the treks in Dharamshala?

The degree of difficulty of treks that can be done in Dharamshala varies from an easy one to a strenuous one. Triund and Guna Devi treks are soft trekking options while Indrahar pass and Minkiani pass are comparatively difficult.

What is the trekking cost in Dharamshala?

The price of trekking in Dharamshala depends on the Trek duration and the service offered to the clients. On average it can be between INR 1,000 to INR 5,000 per person.

What should I wear for treks in Dharamshala?

To plan for treks in Dharamshala the suggestion is to put on durable trekking shoes, several layers of clothes, a hat, sunglasses, and a raincoat. Pack according to season.

Is Dharamshala worthy enough to have a trekking trip?

Absolutely! Dharamshala is best for trekking because of its beautiful views, many kinds of trekking tracks and cultural sightseeing. In the realm of adventure enthusiasts for trekking the place is resourceful enough to be worthy of a visit.

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