Top 7 Beginner-Friendly Treks Near McLeodGanj Uttarakhand

Introduction

McLeodGanj, nestled amidst the majestic Dhauladhar Range, offers a variety of trekking trails suitable for beginners. The treks offer breathtaking views and a chance to experience the rugged beauty of the Himalayas. The top 7 beginner-friendly treks are Triund Trek, Bhagsu Nag Trek, Laka Glacier Trek, Dharamkot Trek, Naddi Village Trek, Indrahar Pass Trek, and Kareri Lake Trek. These are the most popular treks, also loved by all trekkers, and they offer the majestic view of lush green valleys, snow-capped Himalayan peaks, and surrounding meadows. And if you're a beginner trekker looking to explore the beauty of the Himalayas, here are the seven most famous beginner-friendly treks near McLeodGanj.

Triund Trek

Triund is the most popular trek near McLeodGanj. It is located at an altitude of 2,850m in the Lap of the Dhauladhar mountains. This relatively easy trek takes you to a hilltop offering stunning panoramic views of the Dhauladhar Range and the surrounding valleys. The trail is well-marked, and the ascent is gradual, making it suitable for beginners. Along the way, you'll pass through picturesque forests, meadows, and lush valleys, and you may encounter friendly dogs and yaks.

Duration: 3-4 hours from McLeodGanj

Distance: 8 km

Best time to visit: March to June, September to November

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Bhagsu Nag Trek

Bhagsu Nag is a popular pilgrimage site located near McLeodGanj. The trek to Bhagsu Nag is a short and easy hike that leads to a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is situated near a cascading waterfall, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. As you ascend the hill, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sound of the waterfall. The trek is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it a great option for those who want to experience the spiritual and natural beauty of the region.

Duration: 1-2 hours from McLeodGanj

Distance: 3 km

Best time to visit: March to June

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Laka Glacier Trek

Laka Glacier is a majestic ice formation located in the Dhauladhar Range near McLeodGanj. Nestled amidst towering peaks and lush valleys, this glacier offers a breathtaking sight for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. The trek to Laka Glacier is moderately challenging, but the stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the glacier itself make it well worth the effort. As you approach the glacier, you'll be captivated by its immense size and the sparkling ice formations that adorn its surface.

Duration: 2-3 days

Distance: 10-11 km

Best time to visit: March to December

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Dharamkot Trek

Dharamkot is a charming hippie village located just a short distance from McLeodGanj. The trek to Dharamkot is a leisurely walk through picturesque forests and meadows. The village is known for its cafes, art galleries, and vibrant atmosphere. As you explore Dharamkot, you'll encounter a diverse community of artists, musicians, and free spirits. The trek is perfect for those who want to experience a unique and bohemian culture while enjoying the beauty of the Himalayas.

Duration: 1-2 hours from McLeodGanj

Distance: 2-3 km

Best time to visit: April to June

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Naddi Village Trek

Naddi Devi is a small, picturesque village located in Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh. The trek to Naddi Devi is a short and easy hike that offers stunning panoramic views of the Dhauladhar Range. The village is known for its traditional Tibetan handicrafts and its peaceful atmosphere. As you ascend the hill, you'll be greeted by lush forests and charming Tibetan prayer flags. The trek is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of McLeodGanj and enjoy a tranquil experience in nature.

Duration: 2-3 hours from McLeodGanj

Distance: 3-4 km

Best time to visit: March to June

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Indrahar Pass Trek

For a more challenging trek, consider the Indrahar Pass Trek. This trek takes you to the high-altitude Indrahar Pass, which offers breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges. The trek is suitable for experienced trekkers, but it's possible to acclimatize gradually by taking a few days to trek to nearby campsites before attempting the final ascent.

Duration: 5-7 days

Distance: 35-40 km

Best time to visit: May to October

Difficulty: Challenging trek

Kareri Lake Trek

Kareri Lake is a stunning alpine lake nestled amidst the Dhauladhar Range. The trek to Kareri Lake is a moderately challenging hike that takes you through lush meadows, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks. The lake is surrounded by breathtaking scenery and offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. As you approach the lake, you'll be captivated by its crystal-clear waters and the majestic mountains that tower above it. The trek is suitable for New trekkers who are physically fit and have proper trekking gear.

Duration: 3-4 days

Distance: 15-18 km

Best time to visit: May to July and September to November

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

McLeodGanj offers a wide range of trekking options for all levels of experience. Whether you're looking for a short and easy hike or a more challenging adventure, you're sure to find the perfect trek to suit your needs. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas.

How to reach McLeodGanj

By Air:

The nearest airport is Kangra International Airport in Gaggal, approximately 22 kilometers from McLeodGanj.

From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach McLeodGanj

By Train:

The nearest railway station is Kangra Railway Station in Kangra, approximately 22 kilometers from McLeodGanj.

From Kangra Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to McLeodGanj.

By Road:

McLeodGanj is well-connected by road and is accessible by bus, taxi, or private vehicle.

Regular bus services are available from cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla, and Amritsar.

Tips and tricks

Here are some essential items to pack for your trekking adventure in McLeodGanj:

Clothing:

Waterproof jacket: A waterproof jacket is essential to protect you from rain and wind, especially during the monsoon season.

Warm layers: Pack warm layers such as a fleece jacket or sweater, as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes.

Comfortable trekking pants: Opt for breathable and quick-drying pants that are comfortable for long hikes.

Hiking boots: Sturdy and comfortable hiking boots with good ankle support are crucial for providing stability and protection on uneven terrain.

Socks: Bring multiple pairs of moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters.

Hat and gloves: A hat and gloves are essential to protect your head and hands from the cold and sun.

Equipment:

Backpack: Choose a backpack that is the right size for your trip and can comfortably carry your essentials.

First-aid kit: A basic first-aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries.

Headlamp or flashlight: A headlamp or flashlight is crucial for lighting your way in low-light conditions.

Sunglasses: Sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun's harmful rays.

Sunscreen: Sunscreen is essential to prevent sunburn, especially at higher altitudes where the sun's rays are more intense.

Personal Items:

Passport and identification: If you're an international traveler, bring your passport and identification documents.

Cash and credit card: Bring a mix of cash and credit cards for purchases and emergencies.

Toiletries: Pack basic toiletries such as soap, toothpaste, and a toothbrush.

Camera: A camera is essential to capture the stunning scenery of McLeodGanj and the surrounding areas.

Reusable water bottle: A reusable water bottle is essential for staying hydrated throughout your trek.

By packing these essentials, you'll be well-equipped to enjoy your trekking experience in McLeodGanj.

Choose Manchala Mushafir for Your Journey.

Manchala Mushafir is your trusted partner for planning memorable trekking experiences near McLeodGanj. With years of expertise in organizing treks, we ensure that every aspect of your journey is seamless and enjoyable. Whether you're embarking on a beginner-friendly trek or considering a more spiritual adventure like the Kedarnath trek, our team is here to guide you at every step.

For those looking to combine adventure with spirituality, Manchala Mushafir also offers packages that integrate treks into a larger spiritual journey. Whether it’s a Kedarnath trip or a Char Dham Yatra package, we take care of the logistics so you can focus on the experience. From transportation and meals to expert guides, every detail is meticulously arranged to make your trip worry-free. Choose Manchala Mushafir to turn your trekking dreams into reality and explore the beauty of nature while making unforgettable memories.

Popular Packages

Kedarnath Packages From Bangalore

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₹15,200

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Do Dham Yatra Package

⏳ 5 Days 4 Night

₹14,500

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Char Dham Yatra Packages from Ahmedabad

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McLeodGanj Treks FAQ

Q1. What is the best time to visit McLeodGanj?

The best time to visit McLeodGanj is from March to June. During this period, the weather is pleasant, with cool temperatures suitable for outdoor activities. There are fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful experience. The surrounding mountains are at their best, showcasing lush greenery and snow-capped peaks.

What are the best treks near McLeodGanj for new trekkers?

The best treks near McLeodGanj are Triund Trek, Bhagsu Nag Trek, Laka Glacier Trek, Dharamkot Trek, Naddi Village Trek, Indrahar Pass Trek, and Kareri Lake Trek, etc.

What is the recent weather in Mcleodganj?

The weather in McLeodganj right now is mostly cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms. The temperature is expected to be around 25-30 degrees Celsius. It's a good idea to check the latest forecast before you travel, as weather conditions can change quickly.

What is the distance from Delhi to McLeodGanj?

From Delhi to McLeodGanj is approximately 550 km, and the Duration is 10-11 hours to reach.

Can we reach McLeodGanj for the Triund trek in One Day?

Yes, you can reach McLeodGanj to Triund trek in one day because the distance is 8 km and it is easily covered in one day. If you're a relatively fit hiker, you can easily complete the round trip in a single day.

Kareri Lake trek distance from McLeodGanj?

The Kareri Lake trek distance from McLeodGanj is 15 to 18 km, and it is covered in 2-3 days.

Indrahar Pass trek distance from McLeodGanj?

The distance from McLeodGanj to Indrahar Pass is approximately 35-40 kilometers. This is a longer and more challenging trek compared to Triund, requiring multiple days to complete. It's generally recommended to spend at least 5-7 days on this trek, including acclimatization days.