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The mountain tops have consistently been home to vagabonds who’re looking for new routes and experiences. From short trekking trails for fledglings to the absolute most elevated mountain treks, trekking in the Indian Himalayas offer a kick of excitement like no other destination in this world.
If you think life is better in climbing boots and partaking in the outlook of strolling in the wild, setting up camp, huge fires and star gazing – then, we, Insta Himachal, hand over a list of ‘best treks in Dharamshala’ to you! There’s no question that Dharamshala is most popular for picturesque views and the all-powerful Dhauladhars. Anyhow, look beyond you’ll discover Dharamshala also has a ton of treks.
Well, let us give you a few spoilers! There are a few trekking trails in Dharamshala, like the Triund Trek, Kareri Lake Trek, and the Indrahar Pass Trek that bring out the flawless amalgam of beauty in the Himalayas. Some treks in Dharamshala, for example, the Triund Trek can be completed in a day, and that too without an aide. Nevertheless, treks like Kareri Lake Trek and the Indrahar Pass Trek should be serenely completed in a couple of days, and ideally with an aide.
7 Best Treks in Dharamshala
1. Triund trek
2. Snow Line Trek
3. Kareri Lake Trek
4. Thatharna Trek
5. Indrahar Pass Trek
6. Himani Chamunda Trek
7. Guna Mata Trek
1. Triund Trek
If you are a beginner in Trekking, then Triund Trek is certainly an ideal choice for you. It lies close to Dharamshala and is situated at an elevation of around 2850 m. The total distance shrouded in the journey is 7 km from Galu Mata Temple. It is one of the most stunning treks in Dharamshala. One gets entranced by its statures and the landscapes it gives. The climate at Triund is wonderful in the midyear months. You can feel the cool breeze as you move up the slopes. The temperature at Triund drops after October and snowfall can be found in the long stretches of January-March. The distress level of the Triund trek can be considered simple to direct. Indeed, even the amateurs can go for the Triund trek. Just make sure you’re healthy and have great endurance. Setting up camp under the stars at such a stature embraced by superb mountains is an experience that should not be taken flippantly!
Best Time to Visit- The spring and summer months of March to June have the best weather conditions to trek in. During these months, you can get clear views of the Dhauladhar range’s snow-capped mountains.
2. Snowline Trek
The Snowline Trek begins from Mcleodganj in Dharamshala and goes through blended woods of deodar, oak and rhododendron, the well-known campground of Triund, and Illaqa Glacier. The whole trek offers panoramic views towards Bhagsu, Mcleodganj, Dharamshala, Kangra valley and outlying views of the Shivaliks and plains of Punjab. Snowline trek follows one of the more settled paths utilized by the Gaddi shepherds enroot their late spring pastures in the upper Raavi Valley and Lahul. To the south there are hypnotic views of the Indian plains, to the north is the Moon peak and the snow-clad Dhauladhar Mountains ranges. A word of advice, don’t curb yourself to Triund, go up to Snow line for an unforgettable experience. Triund to snowline trek distance is approximately 5 km.
Best Time to Visit- April to June and September to December.
3. Kareri Lake Trek
One of the most mind-blowing trekking destinations, Kareri Lake is a shallow freshwater lake, located at a height of 9,626 ft (2,934 m) in the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas in Kangra. Sited in the majestic Dhauladhar range, this frosty lake trek will take you through a journey of the most picturesque views as it is home to lush pasturelands, colourful perennial flowers, and thick conifers! In the latter half of the trek, the forests open up to rocky prairies along the lake-fed Nyund nallah which acts as both a tour guide and a motivating escort. Kareri Lake Trek is much loved among the shutterbugs and nature lovers who can spend some time close to nature whilst snapping their best shots. Be asleep under the stars listening to stories from local villagers as you enjoy the effortlessness of life away from the busy cities. Henceforth, this trek is truly recommendable.
For accommodation you can rent tents from the locals on the way or at the top, it will make the burden light for you.
Best Time to Visit- May to July and September to November are the best months to visit Kareri Lake.
4. Thatharna Trek
This amazing trek will give you a pocket full of memories. Thatharana Trek in Himachal Pradesh which the overwhelming majority do not know about yet lies in laps of the Kangra Valley within the Dhauladhar Ranges. Encircled by lush green mountains, an amazing view of the plains of Punjab, this trek is the most beautiful place to watch out. Enjoy the bonfire in the basecamp and have an extravagant dinner and camp under the stars. All things considered, it’s really said that the most satisfactory outlooks are seen after the toughest trip. Thatharana Trek is not that difficult, however, we’d say that it’s a bit tiring. So, newbies don’t worry. You can definitely climb it.
Best Time to Visit- The best time for Thatharana trek would be April to May and from October to November because the potential outcomes of downpour or snow are less and therefore the climate is amazingly exquisite.
5. Indrahar Pass Trek
One of the most fascinating and a bit challenging treks in Dharamshala is the Indrahar Pass Trek. The 5-day trek begins from Mcleod Ganj. The Indrahar Pass frames the boundary between Kangra and Chamba areas and exposes the stretch of the Dhauladhar range with an intriguing look at villages underneath. It likewise uncovers the serene lakes, Mankiani and Kareri. With an aide, you will travel up right to the 4342m Indrahar Pass and get over from the Kangra Valley to the Chamba Valley. With lovely scenes, shining streams, profound chasms, serene lakes and deodar timberland all through the excursion, the Indrahar Pass Trek in Dharamshala is one of the most beautiful treks that Himachal has to offer.
Best Time to Visit- May and June and September and October. We’d not recommend the monsoon season as it is not a safe time because of the frequent landslides which occur in the region. Moreover, in summers you won’t feel any summer heat here and hence is a perfect summer getaway.
6. Aadi Himani Chamunda Trek
The Aadi Himani Chamunda Trek is located at an altitude of about 2810 meters and is surrounded by the admirable Dhauladhar Ranges. Each year a lot of devotees climb up to take blessings from Maa Chamnuda. The gradient of the Aadi Himani Chamunda Trek is a bit difficult. The most assuaging viewpoint is that the path is evident and somewhat clear.
The tales woven by local people for the presence of the temple are fascinating. According to the anecdotes, Goddess Chamunda killed the two evil spirits – Mund and Chand from the mountain ridge by throwing huge boulders on them. One can still find the boulders above the Shiva Temple located at Shri Chamunda Devi Temple in Dharamshala Palampur highway. If you truly want to explore the stunning views, then you can opt for the off-beaten path near the Jia Village. Another route is via Jadrangal, which is often taken by the pilgrims.
Best Time to Visit- The best time for Aadi Himani Chamunda Trek is in the middle of June to the end of October. During that time, the weather remains pleasant.
7. Guna Mata Trek
The trek to Shri Guna Devi starts from Naddi village and it takes you over an easy route, making the trek epitome for beginner hikers. The temple is located at an altitude of 2300 m with camera-friendly views all-around. On your way to the temple, you will also come across the Bhated nullah (stream) to Balh village which will make your climb more adventurous. If you’re a beginner, taking a guide with you is the best option. The guide will assist you as he must be aware of the route. Once you reach there meditate for a short time inside the temple. It feels so peaceful. Plus, breathing fresh air, smelling the fragrance of forests, and climbing uncountable stairs is what you’ll get through the trek. Maybe you can pick up all the wrappers you could on your way. Yes, you can!
Best Time to Visit- With summer around the corner.
Trekking in Dharamshala is a significant fascination for those in love with the adrenaline rush that comes from climbing heights and watching the snow-clad mountains come nearer to you as you stroll towards them. After knowing the remarkable backdrops of Dharamshala through these treks we hope to see you on the trails! And while you do so explore the dense forests and highlands of Dharamshala.
P.S- Depending upon your wellness level and how long you can spend in the wild, pick an optimal trek for you, don’t rush.
