Delhi to Dharamshala & McLeodganj 3‑Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Morning: Board an overnight bus or train from Delhi to Dharamshala, a scenic 8‑10 hour journey through the foothills of the Himalayas. Enjoy the changing landscapes and relax on the comfortable seats before arriving in the cool hill town.

Afternoon: After checking into your hotel, head to the Bhagsu Waterfall and the adjacent Bhagsunag Temple for a refreshing dip and a glimpse of local spirituality. The short trek up to the falls offers beautiful forest views and photo opportunities.

Evening: Stroll through the bustling McLeodganj Market, sampling Tibetan tea and street snacks while browsing handicraft stalls. Dine at a cosy rooftop restaurant overlooking the mountains for a memorable first night.

Day 2: Triund Trek Adventure

Morning: Meet your trek guide at the Galu Devi Temple and begin the ascent to Triund, a 4‑hour hike through pine forests and meadows. The trail offers panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range as you climb higher.

Afternoon: Reach the summit of Triund and enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the sweeping vistas of the Kangra Valley and the distant snow‑capped peaks. Use this time to relax, take photos, and explore the gentle slopes.

Evening: Descend back to McLeodganj, freshen up at your accommodation, and unwind with a warm bowl of thukpa at a local eatery. A good night’s rest prepares you for the cultural highlights of the next day.

Day 3: Culture & Return

Morning: Visit the serene Norbulingka Institute, renowned for its preservation of Tibetan arts and crafts. Guided tours showcase intricate thangka painting and carpet weaving demonstrations.

Afternoon: Explore the spiritual heart of McLeodganj at the Dalai Lama Temple, followed by a brief stop at the historic St. John’s Church for its colonial architecture and tranquil garden.

Evening: Board an overnight bus or train back to Delhi, reflecting on the breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences of your Himalayan getaway.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Bus (Delhi‑Dharamshala, round‑trip) – 8 hours each way; $30 total
• Train (Delhi‑Kalka, then taxi to Dharamshala, round‑trip) – 10 hours each way; $24 total
• Accommodation (2 nights, mid‑range hotel) – 2 nights; $80 total
• Bhagsu Waterfall & Bhagsunag Temple – 2 hours; $5 entry/parking
• McLeodganj Market (shopping & dinner) – 3 hours; $20 meals & souvenirs
• Triund Trek (guide, permits, snacks) – 10 hours total; $35 per person
• Norbulingka Institute (guided tour) – 3 hours; $10 entry
• Dalai Lama Temple & St. John’s Church – 2 hours; free (donations optional)
• Meals (additional breakfasts, lunches) – 5 meals; $40 total
• Local transport (taxis, auto‑rickshaws) – 4 hours; $15 total
• Total Estimated Cost: $269

Tips

If you have extra days, consider extending your stay to explore nearby attractions such as the tea gardens of Palampur or a day trip to the historic town of Kangra. To shorten the trip, you can skip the Norbulingka Institute and replace the Triund trek with a shorter hike to Bhagsu Valley, saving both time and money while still enjoying the region’s natural beauty.