Dharamshala Stay
Dharamkot to Gallu Devi Sunrise Hike

Dharamkot to Gallu Devi Sunrise Hike

EasyHalf day (3-4 hours)Approx. 2,150 m

₹1,200 / person

Duration

Half day (3-4 hours)

Distance

Approx. 3-4 km round trip from Dharamkot

Max altitude

Approx. 2,150 m

Best season

Year-round in clear weather; best Oct-Mar for views

Overview

Gallu Devi (also spelt Galu) is the small temple above Upper Dharamkot where the Triund trek officially begins. In daylight it is a pleasant warm-up walk; before dawn it becomes one of the nicest short outings in the area. We meet in Dharamkot in the dark, climb 1.5 to 2 km of steady uphill path by headlamp, and reach the temple area in time to watch the light come up over the valley and turn the high Dhauladhar pink and gold. Breakfast and chai follow, then an easy stroll back down to the village cafes. It is a short walk, but the path is steady uphill and stony, so we rate it easy with a little effort. It is a great option for families, first-timers, people on a rest day before Triund, or anyone who wants mountain views without committing to a full trek. We stay at Gallu Devi and do not go beyond the forest checkpost, so the Triund entry fee and the Rs.500 waste deposit (in force since 11 August 2026) do not apply unless you choose to extend towards Magic View, which we can arrange.

Itinerary

Day 1: Pre-dawn walk to Gallu Devi and back

Meet in Dharamkot about 45-60 minutes before sunrise (roughly 5 am in summer, 6 am in winter). Walk up by headlamp to Gallu Devi temple (approx. 45 minutes to 1 hour), watch the sunrise, breakfast with chai, and stroll back down to Dharamkot by mid-morning. Pick-up from McLeod Ganj can be arranged.

Included

  • ✓Local guide
  • ✓Headlamp on loan if needed
  • ✓Breakfast and chai
  • ✓First aid kit

Not Included

  • ✗Taxi from McLeod Ganj or Bhagsu to Dharamkot
  • ✗Extension beyond Gallu Devi (forest fee and Rs.500 refundable waste deposit apply)
  • ✗Tips

What to carry

Trainers with gripWarm jacket, hat and gloves (mornings are cold)Small water bottleCameraCash for extra snacks

Want every detail -- route, fees, camping and safety? Read the full trek guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is the walk to Gallu Devi?
It is short, about 1.5 to 2 km from Dharamkot, but steadily uphill on a stony path. Most people with basic fitness, including older children, manage it comfortably at a slow pace.
What time does the hike start?
About 45 to 60 minutes before sunrise, so roughly 5 am in summer and 6 am in winter. We confirm the exact time the evening before based on the weather forecast.
What if it is cloudy?
Dhauladhar views depend on the weather. If the forecast is poor we offer to move the hike to the next clear morning; October to March usually gives the clearest skies.

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Dharamkot to Gallu Devi Sunrise Hike

Amount₹1,200

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