Finding Peace in the Himalayas: My Solo Trek to Triund, Himachal Pradesh

Introduction: The Journey I Didn't Plan

Sometimes, the most unforgettable journeys are the ones you never intended to take. I had no grand itinerary or checklist when I boarded a bus from Delhi to Dharamshala on a whim. Burnt out from corporate chaos, I needed an escape—not to Instagram a perfect vacation, but to lose myself in nature. That’s how I found Triund, a quiet Himalayan ridge with a story of silence, stars, and self-discovery.

Why I Chose Triund Trek (And Why You Should Too)

Triund isn’t the Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit. It’s modest, beginner-friendly, yet immensely rewarding. Situated in Himachal Pradesh near McLeod Ganj, it’s a 9 km hike through dense forests of rhododendrons and oaks, offering panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range and Kangra Valley.

Best time to visit Triund: March to June, and September to November.
How to reach Triund: Nearest airport is Kangra Airport (Gaggal), about 20 km from McLeod Ganj.
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate, great for solo or first-time trekkers.

The Hike That Healed Me

When I started the trek early morning from Gallu Devi Temple, I was surrounded by fellow hikers, chattering away, clicking pictures. But soon, the trail thinned out. I slowed down intentionally, letting others pass.

The whisper of the wind, the crunch of gravel, and distant echoes of mountain birds created a rhythm that calmed me more than any guided meditation app ever could.

At the Magic View Café (yes, that’s really what it’s called), I paused for some lemon ginger tea and maggi—because what’s a Himalayan trek without maggi?

As I climbed further, the tree cover disappeared, opening up a surreal skyline. Clouds floated beneath me. For the first time in months, I wasn’t refreshing my inbox or doom-scrolling. I was just… breathing.

The Summit: A Sky Full of Stars

I reached the ridge by late afternoon. A few colorful tents dotted the green patch, flapping in the wind like tiny flags. I opted to stay overnight (and you should too—sunsets and sunrises here are cinematic!).

As night fell, the sky exploded with stars. No light pollution, no honking vehicles—just an orchestra of crickets and the glow of the Milky Way.

I remember lying inside my tent, feeling tiny yet infinite. The real world was a thousand meters below, and I had found something priceless up here—peace.

Practical Tips for Your Triund Trek

• Pack Light, But Smart: Essentials include a light jacket, water bottle, flashlight, sunscreen, and power bank.

• Stay Overnight: Either book a tent in advance from McLeod Ganj or rent one on the ridge (approx ₹500-700/night).

• Weather Check: Always check weather updates. The trail gets slippery post-rain and may close during snow season.

• Responsible Travel Tip: Carry your trash down. Respect the mountains.

What I Learned From This Solo Adventure

In a world obsessed with productivity, silence is a rebellion. Triund taught me the beauty of doing nothing and the strength in being alone. I returned to my daily life with a lighter heart, clearer mind, and stronger legs.

If you’re overwhelmed, overworked, or just seeking something real—go to Triund. Let the mountains remind you what peace feels like.

Final Thoughts

Triund isn’t a bucket list destination—it’s a soul list one. You don’t visit it to tick a box. You visit it to pause, to reflect, and maybe, like me, to heal.

So if you're looking for your next travel story—not a tourist trap but a genuine memory—pack your bag and head to Triund. The mountains are calling, and this time, you must go.