A note from Tapan
“I came here thinking I'd explore places. Instead, I ended up exploring a slower version of myself. Dharamkot doesn’t give you a checklist — it gives you space.”
What I experienced
I reached McLeodganj expecting another busy hill station. Cafes, crowds, traffic — the usual. But someone told me to go 15 minutes uphill to Dharamkot. That decision changed the entire trip.
Dharamkot feels different. The noise drops, the air feels lighter, and suddenly you're not in a hurry anymore. I stayed in a small homestay overlooking the valley — nothing fancy, just clean rooms and a balcony that became my favorite place.
Most days had no plan. I’d wake up late, walk to a café, sit for hours with coffee, and just watch people come and go. Some were working, some were traveling, some just existed there. It didn’t feel like tourism — it felt like a pause.
One day I hiked to Triund. The trail wasn’t too hard, but the view at the top — snow peaks in front, clouds below — that stays with you. But honestly, the best moments weren’t the views. They were the quiet, in-between moments.
Day by day
How the days actually went.
- 01
Day 1
Arrive and move above the crowd
Reached McLeodganj by afternoon — crowded, noisy. Took a short cab ride up to Dharamkot. The difference was immediate. Checked into a small homestay, had simple dinner, and just sat outside doing nothing.
- 02
Day 2
Cafés, slow walks, no agenda
Started late. Walked around Dharamkot, tried 2–3 cafés. No rush, no fixed plan. Just sitting, eating, and observing. Evening was cold, spent time with other travelers sharing stories.
- 03
Day 3
Triund trek
Started early for Triund. The hike is steady but manageable. Reached the top in 3–4 hours. Sat there for a long time — no phone network, just mountains. Came back by evening, tired but clear-headed.
- 04
Day 4
Hidden trails and waterfall
Explored random trails around Bhagsu. Found a small waterfall spot — not crowded. Spent time there, no hurry to return. Evening café again, same slow rhythm.
- 05
Day 5
Leave, but not really
Packed slowly. Didn’t feel like leaving. Dharamkot has a way of making you want to stay longer. Took a cab back down, but mentally I was still up there.
Local tips
Things I'd tell a friend before they go.
- Stay in Dharamkot instead of McLeodganj for a peaceful experience.
- Carry a light jacket — evenings get cold even in summer.
- Network is weak in some areas (Jio works better than Airtel).
- Start Triund trek early to avoid crowd and heat.
- Cash is useful — many small cafés don’t accept cards.
