Short answer: Give day one to McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu and Dharamkot; day two to the Triund hike or, for an easier day, Naddi, Dal Lake and the cafés; and day three to lower Dharamshala and the Kangra valley — Norbulingka, the cricket stadium and Kangra Fort.
The plan at a glance
| Day | Route | Night at |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive; McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu and Dharamkot | McLeod Ganj |
| 2 | Triund day hike, or Naddi and Dal Lake | McLeod Ganj |
| 3 | Norbulingka, stadium and Kangra Fort | Depart or Dharamshala |
Who this plan suits
First-time visitors who want both the hill town and the valley. It works for families if day two is the easy version.
Day by day
Day 1: Arrive; McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu and Dharamkot
- Tsuglagkhang complex and the Tibet Museum.
- Market lanes and lunch.
- Bhagsunag temple and waterfall.
- Sunset walk to Dharamkot.
Day 2: Triund day hike, or Naddi and Dal Lake
- Hikers: start from Galu temple by 7 am and be back down by mid-afternoon.
- Others: Naddi for the Dhauladhar view, Dal Lake, St John in the Wilderness church.
- Evening free in the cafés.
Day 3: Norbulingka, stadium and Kangra Fort
- Morning: Norbulingka Institute for Tibetan arts.
- The cricket stadium, with the Dhauladhar behind it.
- Afternoon: Kangra Fort, roughly 18–25 km away; allow two hours.
- Evening bus, or stay a night in lower Dharamshala.
Best time for this trip
March to June and mid-September to November. Monsoon mist hides the views; in mid-winter Triund is often shut.
Practical notes
- Start each day by 8 am; hill traffic and afternoon cloud both build later.
- Hire a cab for day three; the stops are spread out.
- Dress modestly at temples and monasteries.
- Fees for the fort, museum and forest checkpost change, so carry cash.
What it costs
We do not publish a fixed price: the cost depends on your dates, group size, vehicle and the standard of stays. Tell us those and we will send a written quote that states exactly what is included.
Read more
- Day trips around Dharamshala
- Things to do in McLeod Ganj
- Triund trek guide
- Best time to visit Dharamshala
Check before you go
- India Meteorological Department — forecasts and warnings.
- Himachal Pradesh Tourism — official destination information.
- HRTC online booking — state bus timetables.
Want this itinerary planned for you?
Funtoor can adapt this plan to your dates, pace and starting city, and arrange transport and stays. Request a custom itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
Is three days enough for Dharamshala?
Yes. It covers McLeod Ganj, a day in the hills and the main Kangra valley sights.
Should I stay in Dharamshala or McLeod Ganj?
McLeod Ganj for walking access to cafés and trails; lower Dharamshala for easier driving and parking.
Can I add Bir Billing?
Not comfortably in three days. See the four- and five-day plans.
Is this plan suitable for children?
Yes, with the easy option on day two.
Compiled by the Funtoor team from published sources and official pages, last reviewed in October 2026. It is a sample plan, not a first-hand trip report or a fixed package: driving times are approximate, and rules, fees and road status change, so confirm anything time-sensitive before you travel.
Written by
Funtoor Travel Team
Travel planners based in Chail, Himachal Pradesh. We plan and arrange trips — stays, transport and experiences — across the Himalayas.
