Mcleodganj: Our Home Away from Home

Ten years. That’s how long we’ve been doing the Back-Pack-Go trip to Mcleodganj, and somehow, it never gets old. It’s like that favorite book you keep re-reading because each time you discover something new—except this “book” comes with snow-capped mountains, Bhagsu cake, and the friendliest mountain dogs you’ll ever meet.

Dharamkot: Our Mountain Second Home

When we first stumbled upon Dharamkot all those years ago, it was like love at first sight—but without the awkward first-date silences. A hamlet that rests just above the more tourist-heavy Mcleodganj, Dharamkot quickly became our safe haven, our home away from home. Over the years, we’ve watched it evolve, but no matter how many new cafés pop up or how many travellers discover it, Dharamkot never loses its charm. The quiet, the views, the laid-back vibe—it’s the kind of place where you can truly chill. You know, the kind of chill that doesn’t involve Wi-Fi passwords or emails.

And speaking of home, there’s Sonu Bhaiya. What started as a guide-to-client relationship has, over the past decade, transformed into something that feels more like family. Sonu isn’t just the guy who knows the best trekking routes or where to find the best photos (though he does, of course). He’s our rock in the mountains—whether it’s helping us navigate new trails or simply sitting with us at the end of a long day, sharing stories under a starry sky. At this point, Sonu Bhaiya is basically a brother who also happens to double as our wilderness expert.

Then there’s Moonlight Café, where we’ve had so many meals that we might as well start calling it our office (except with much better views and way less stress). The ginger-lemon-honey here tastes like home, the food is hearty, and no matter what time of year we visit, Moonlight always feels like a cozy corner of the world made just for us.

Naddi: A Quiet Day by the River

Tucked away from the buzzing streets of Mcleodganj, this hidden gem offers a peaceful escape that feels like a world of its own. After the whirlwind energy of exploring the markets and dodging scooters in Mcleodganj, spending a quiet day by the river is exactly what you need to recharge—both physically and mentally.

There’s something about the soft gurgling of the water, the way the sunlight filters through the trees, and the cool breeze that makes time slow down here. It’s the perfect setting to relax, maybe dip your toes in the icy mountain stream, and take a breather from the excitement of the rest of the trip. The serenity of Naddi serves as a much-needed contrast to the vibrant, chaotic life of Mcleodganj below. It’s a moment of calm that allows you to reflect, recharge, and prepare for the next adventure ahead.

Mcleodganj: Bustling Markets and Tibetan Serenity

Mcleodganj is a heady mix of culture, chaos, and charm. One minute you’re bargaining for a pashmina, and the next, you’re in the middle of a Buddhist prayer ceremony at Tsuglagkhang Monastery. It’s like experiencing two different worlds at once. The monastery in Dharamsala, where the Dalai Lama himself resides, always leaves us humbled. It serves as a beautiful reminder that the freedom we enjoy is something we should never take for granted. Plus, after navigating Mcleodganj’s markets, you start appreciating the serenity of the monastery even more. It’s the perfect breather from the sensory overload.

The Triund Trek: Our Crown Jewel

And now, let’s talk about Triund. Ah, Triund. After all these years, the trek up to this iconic ridge still gives us goosebumps. It’s not just about the climb (though let’s be honest, that climb is serious business), but the sense of achievement, the camaraderie, and the view that awaits you at the top. Standing at Triund with the Dhauladhar range sprawled before you, it’s impossible not to feel like you’ve unlocked some secret level of life.

Yes, the trek can be tough. Yes, you will probably wonder why you signed up for this halfway through (we do too, every time!). But then you get to the top, where the only thing between you and the towering Himalayas is thin mountain air, and you realize: this is why. Every time.

And let’s not forget the furry friends who accompany us along the way. The mountain dogs! Every trip, without fail, they join us for part of the trek, as if they know exactly when we need a little nudge or a reason to stop and take in the scenery (also known as: “Let me catch my breath, I’m definitely not stopping because the view is that nice”).

The Little Things that Make it Special

The real magic of this trip lies in the little things—the Bhagsu cake that somehow tastes better at high altitude, the spontaneous dance-offs in Mcleodganj’s streets, the impromptu jam sessions at Moonlight Café, and the endless bowls of thukpa that warm you from the inside out. 

Every time we return, Mcleodganj welcomes us back with open arms and new stories to tell. And every time we leave, we know that no matter how long we stay away, this place will always be here—waiting to feel like home all over again.

We’re ten years in, and honestly? We’re just getting started.

Elton Mendonce