McLeodganj | Our Favourite Trip

Day 1: Goodbye, City-Me.

Our journey will begin directly at Delhi, 05:30 pm at ISBT Kashmiri Gate bus stop to be precise. From here, we board a direct bus to McLeodGan,j saying goodbye to our city lives.

Travel: 12-13 hrs bus journey (Delhi > Dharamshala)

Day 2: McLord! I’m Coming Home.
Reach Dharamshala early in the morning. Our homestay is located in Dharamkot, a picturesque hill town which is just a 25-minute cab ride away from us with spectacular views of the entire valley. After breakfast in Dharamkot, head to H. H. Dalai Lama Temple, Namgyal Monastery, and the Tibet Museum. Visit St. John’s in the Wilderness Church. Sample some local cuisine for dinner.

Travel: 25-min cab ride (Dharamshala > Dharamkot)

Day 3: It’s pronounced tree-oond, not try-und.

Aaah! The big day! We trek to Triund, one of the peaks of the Dhauladhar mountain range. After an early breakfast, head to Galudev Temple. We make our way to Triund, which is 2,850 meters (9,350 ft) above sea level. It is a day-long hike but the serene mountainous landscape, rare wildlife and a trail dotted with magical little cafés with breathtaking views will keep you going. Camp in tents facing the majestic snow-clad mountain range through the night.

Travel: 30-min cab ride (Dharamkot > Gallu Temple)

Day 4: Muscle-Discovery Day

After breakfast, say goodbye to Triund and start the descent. Reach our rooms in Dharamkot by afternoon. This is the day to rest muscles you didn’t even know you had. The evening is at leisure. You can check out some of the popular cafes in the area which have music lessons, live music, meditation sessions, and workshops happening every other night.

Travel: 30-min cab ride (Gallu Temple > Dharamkot)

Day 5: I Believe I Can Fly

After an early breakfast, we make our way to Bir-Billing, where we can spend the day walking around this beautiful town, chilling at a cafe, or paragliding. We regroup by evening and make our way back to our homestay in Dharamkot.

If heights and flying aren't your thang, gorge on some Bhagsu cake or sit in a cafe and listen to music the whole day! Experience the titular evening at Sunset Cafe in Gallu.

Travel: 2-3 hour cab rides (Dharamkot > Bir Billing > Dharamkot)

Day 6: Last Day, Last Chance

After breakfast, check out. Make final shopping calls at McLeodGanj market. Head to Dharamshala. Board the semi-sleeper bus early in the evening.

Travel: 12-13 hour bus ride (McLeodganj > Delhi)

Day 7: The Toughest Goodbye 

We'll reach the ISBT Kashmiri Gate bus stop early in the morning around 7am. Trip ends. Say goodbye to the hills and hello to nostalgia, of course, until next time!

• • Bus fares to and from Delhi and McLeod Ganj in a semi-sleeper AC bus
  • Accommodation in rooms with attached washrooms on a double-sharing basis (Click for photos)
  • Camping in tents with sleeping bags and foam mats at Triund on a double-sharing basis
  • Private internal transport (taxis) throughout the trip
  • 1 breakfast & 1 dinner at Triund
  • All activities and visits to places as per the itinerary
  • Basic medical and first-aid kit assistance
  • Transport to Bir-Billing (paragliding)
  • All permits, tolls, and parking charges
  • Experienced local guide
  • Assistance by Vagabond Experience Managers

• Meals (except breakfast & dinner at Triund)
• Paragliding cost (approx INR 3,000)
• Travel Insurance

Earlybird: Rs 22,500 Rs 20,500 /- (+5% GST)

Vagafam*:  Rs 18,500 /- (+5% GST)

• You can block your seat for an advance of just Rs. 10,000 /-
• *Vagafam is a loyalty discount for anyone who has joined us on 3+ experiences
• The balance amount will have to be paid 30 days before the trip

• Rooms will be on a double-sharing basis with washrooms attached. Check out photos of our guesthouse here
• The homestay will have a running hot water facility, depending on the power cut situation
• These are homestays and not hotels. There will be no room service
• At Triund, we will be camping in tents with sleeping bags and foam mats on a double-sharing basis

• Vagabond will provide dinner and breakfast at Triund
• The EMs will guide you to the best restaurants in the hood.

• We will be traveling from Delhi to Mcleodganj and back in AC semi-sleeper Volvo buses
• We will transit within Mcleodganj by taxis

1. Sturdy shoes for trekking (well-fitting, neither loose nor tight)
2. An extra small backpack for day outings (20-30 ltrs)
3. Reusable water bottle (avoid buying mineral water bottles to reduce plastic waste)
4. Toiletries, Torch, lip balm, Sunscreen, Sunglasses.
5. Personal Medication (Asthma, allergen medication, etc.)
6. Slippers/flip-flops
7. Rainwear (jacket/poncho) & rain cover for bags
8. Binoculars, Camera (optional)
9. Sufficient liquid cash, as there are very few ATMs in McLeod Ganj
10. Crepe bandage (each person should have 1 roll each)
11. Warm clothes (temperature-appropriate clothing)

• In Delhi, we will meet at ISBT Kashmiri Gate by 5:30 pm. Please do not be late.
• Please note that the bus timings are subject to change due to availability and may be delayed. In which case, we will inform you beforehand.
• On your return journey from Delhi, please book your train or flight after 11 am (to be on the safer side in case of any delays)
• Despite this being a backpacking trip, we will be running on a fixed schedule. Punctuality will be appreciated.
• McLeod Ganj and Dharamkot are home to people from around the world from different cultures. Please honour the local cultures and do not be disrespectful.
• This is a backpacking trip. Please be prepared for a good amount of walking up and down hills and hilly terrain.
• If you have any medical or physical conditions that may affect you during the trip, you are required to inform us before the trip begins.
• Please carry enough warm clothes like thermals, beanies, socks, gloves, and jackets. It is advisable to carry a few pieces of temperature-appropriate winter wear as opposed to several layers of regular clothing.
• While we're moving in groups to various places, try and stick to the group and not wander off.
• Carrying rainwear is very important. Especially if the trip is between June and September. Take all necessary precautions to keep yourself and your belongings dry.
• The trip schedule is subject to change. Days of visits to the mentioned places could be shifted back and forth.
• While booking your transport to and from Delhi, please try and book refundable tickets wherever possible (especially flights.

1) What region of North India are we travelling to?

-We're travelling from Delhi to McLeod Ganj, which is a suburb of Dharamshala in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh.

2) What altitude would we be travelling to?

-McLeodganj is at an altitude of approximately 6,830 ft (2,082 m), while our campsite at Triund is at 9,350 ft (2,850 m)

3) What will the temperature be like while we're there?

-Temperatures rise to a maximum of 30°C during the day and can drop to a minimum of 15-20°C during the night (and 5°C at the Triund campsite)

4) Is there mobile connectivity in McLeod Ganj?

-Other than our trek to Triund, you will have network and internet for the rest of the trip

5) Are there toilets at Triund?

-There are no toilets at Triund. There are designated toilet areas. We will be answering nature's call in the wild for that one day.

6) Are there any ATMs where we're travelling?

-There are a couple of ATMs at McLeodganj market; however, carry liquid cash at all times.

7) Can I smoke/drink on this trip?

-We at Vagabond do not refrain our participants from smoking or drinking on our backpacking trips. However, there are times you will be disallowed from doing so (monasteries, treks, sacred spaces, etc). Indulge in these activities very responsibly.

8) What will the group size be?

-We will have a maximum of 15 travellers, excluding 1-2 Vagabond EMs

9) Is there any age limit to join this trip?

-No, there is no age limit to join this trip. However, based on our previous experiences, the age group of travellers is usually between 18-35.

10) Can I join this expedition solo?

-Yes, of course, you can! We have a good number of solo travellers on almost every Vagabond experience.

11) How physically fit do I need to be to join this trip?

-This trip involves a lot of walking! Most of the real exploration happens on foot. If you have any physical, mental or medical conditions that may affect your capacity to do the trip, you must inform us before you confirm your seat.

12) How do I know if I’m fit enough?

-You should be able to walk a distance of 5 km in less than 35 minutes for 5 days continuously. If you are above 40 years of age, you should be able to walk a distance of 5 kms in less than 45 minutes for 5 days continuously.

13) Are there doctors/hospitals in McLeodganj?

-McLeodganj market has a doctor’s dispensary, which is at a convenient distance from our homestay

• There isn’t an age restriction on any of our experiences, everyone is welcome. However, the average Vagabond customer is anywhere between 20 – 35 years old. The experiences involve a good amount of time spent with the group. Depending on what experience you’re opting for, there could be a lot of walking and physical exertion.
• It’s important to understand that most of our experiences include very rustic accommodation and not a luxurious means of transport. These may be basic in their facilities, but the hospitality is homely and comforting. If you’re someone who doesn’t like compromising on your comforts while travelling, this experience may not be very enjoyable.
• Most of our trips have a healthy number of solo travellers. We encourage you to join us solo, especially if you’re tired of waiting on your friends. We promise you’ll return with many more.
• We try our best to be responsible travellers. Everyone is welcome to explore with us, but we pay utmost importance to cleanliness on all our experiences. We encourage you to #LeaveNoTrace behind while you discover the beauty of the outdoors.
• It’s important to understand that in a limited amount of time, only a limited amount of experiences can be had. We like to cover a few places in-depth rather than just ticking off a long list of things-to-do and places-to-go. However, if you are that kind of traveller, on almost all trips you can feel free to wander by yourself to places of your interest.
• At a Vagabond Experience, it’s important to stay open-minded and positive when things don’t go as per plan. The essence of traveling in a group is being able to help each other out when in need. The weather could go bad, and plans could get altered. In such situations, we urge you to have faith in your group leader to make the most informed decision for the group.

Years of experience: We’ve been leading trips around the country since 2014. Our time in this field has helped us learn about places and people. This knowledge about the destination contributes to a safe, wholesome, and enriching group experience.

Footfall: Since our inception, we’ve led more than 4,600 people on treks, backpacking trips, camps, and outdoor experiences. Rest assured, we’ve dealt with all kinds of people.

Safety first: Given the time we’ve spent in the travel field, we know and believe in the importance of safety. All our experience managers are first-aid certified, and carry a well-equipped first-aid kit on every trip.

Solo traveller-friendly: Over the years, we have had a healthy number of solo travellers who have been from diverse backgrounds. Especially those who got tired of waiting on their friends to agree to a plan.

Group size: Taking large groups of people compromises on an intimate interpersonal experience. Thus, we do small groups which makes it easier for people to get to know each other over the course of the trip.

No discrimination: At Vagabond, we believe that your age, social class, caste, gender or sexual orientation doesn’t determine your travel experience. Everyone is welcome to travel with us and explore new places, and new ideas.

Flexible itinerary: On a Vagabond experience, you’re free to stray away from our scheduled itinerary and explore the place on your own. You do you. We’re not your school teachers. We’re here to facilitate a better understanding of the place and help you experience it in your own comfort zone.

Mindfulness to nature: Over the years we’ve seen the places we visit turn filthier by the day. We don’t want to contribute to that any further. At a Vagabond experience, we encourage you to reduce your contribution to waste and follow sustainable tourism practices as much as possible. Check out #LeaveNoTrace

In-depth research: We're not a tour & travel agency. Every experience we offer you has been researched and experienced first hand by our core members. We visit the locations ourselves and curate an experience that we believe to be in sync with our ideologies.

• More than 30 days prior to the date of departure, 20% will be deducted.
• Between 29 to 15 days prior to the date of departure, 50% will be deducted.
• Between 14 to 7 days prior to the date of departure, 75% will be deducted.
• 6 days to the date of departure, no refund shall be admissible
• 3.8% of all booking amounts are payment gateway charges. This amount is not refundable
• The cancellation policy applies to the full payable amount and not just to the advance blocking amount (if you've chosen that option)
• Please refer to the further Terms and Conditions mentioned in the footer of the website

• All timings and activities are subject to weather, group size, capabilities of participants, etc.
• Vagabond holds the right to cancel the event due to unforeseen circumstances (for eg. unfavorable weather)
• By registering for this trip, you agree to have read through and abide by the Vagabond Terms & Conditions mentioned in the footer.

For further inquiries, feel free to WhatsApp/call: +91 93218 04770

PS: We respect and love our personal lives. Please contact us only between 12 pm and 7 pm on weekdays.

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