- Overview
- Trip Outline
- Trip Includes
- Trip Excludes
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- FAQ
The Shepherd Trail Trek is a classic Himalayan crossing that follows the ancient migratory route of the Gaddi shepherds, taking you from Dharamshala in the Kangra Valley to Chamba over the high-altitude Indrahar Pass (4,300 m). This 6-day journey offers a rare combination of adventure, culture, and dramatic Himalayan beauty.
Starting from McLeodganj, the trail ascends through dense oak and rhododendron forests to Triund, and continues to Lahesh Cave and the glacial heights of Indrahar Pass. After crossing the pass, the landscape transforms into wild alpine meadows, with a descent into the remote and picturesque village of Kuarsi in Chamba Valley.
Ideal for trekkers with moderate experience, this trek offers challenging terrain, jaw-dropping views, peaceful campsites, and a deep connection to the traditional shepherd life of Himachal Pradesh.
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Region: Dhauladhar Range, Himachal Pradesh
Start Point: McLeodganj (Dharamshala)
End Point: Chamba
Max Altitude: ~4,300 m (Indrahar Pass)
Best Season: May to October
Grade: Moderate to Difficult
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Trek Route at a Glance:
Day 1: McLeodganj – Trek to Triund (2875 m)
Day 2: Triund – Laka Got – Lahesh Cave (3500 m)
Day 3: Lahesh Cave – Cross Indrahar Pass (4300 m) – Descend to Chhata
Day 4: Chhata – Trek to Kuarsi Village
Day 5: Kuarsi – Hike to Roadhead – Drive to Chamba
Day 6: Drive from Chamba back to Dharamshala
🌟 Trip Highlights:
- Cross the mighty Indrahar Pass, gateway to Chamba
- Camp at stunning locations like Triund, Laka, and Chhata
- Follow the traditional Gaddi shepherd route
- Enjoy a mix of forest, alpine, and rural Himalayan landscapes
- Experience the changing culture and terrain from Kangra to Chamba Valley
Itineraries
Day 1
Time : 8:30 am
McLeodganj – Triund (2875 m)
- Begin trek from Dharamkot above McLeodganj
- Forested trail with views of the Kangra Valley
- Pass Gallu Devi Temple, Magic View Café
- Arrive at Triund, a scenic ridge offering panoramic mountain views
- Overnight stay in tents at Triund.
🕒 Trek Duration: 4–5 hours | Distance: 9 km
Day 2
Time : 8:30 am
Triund – Laka Got – Lahesh Cave (3500 m)
- Continue toward Snowline and Laka Got, traditional grazing grounds
- Climb up to Lahesh Cave, a natural rock shelter used by shepherds
- Acclimatization and preparation for the pass crossing
- Overnight camping near Lahesh Cave
🕒 Trek Duration: 3–4 hours | Distance: 7–8 km
Day 3
Time : 8:30 am
Lahesh Cave – Indrahar Pass (4300 m) – Chhata (3300 m)
- Early start for steep climb to Indrahar Pass
- Cross the pass with breathtaking views of Chamba Valley, Pir Panjal, and Kangra side
- Descend to Chhata meadow on the other side
- Overnight stay in tents at Chhata
🕒 Trek Duration: 7–8 hours | Distance: 12–13 km
Day 4
Time : 8:30 am
Chhata – Kuarsi (2700 m)
- Long descent through alpine forests, grassy meadows, and river crossings
- Reach the remote Kuarsi village, known for shepherd culture and traditional Himachali lifestyle
- Interact with locals and enjoy the hospitality
- Overnight in guesthouse or tents at Kuarsi
🕒 Trek Duration: 5–6 hours | Distance: 10–12 km
Day 5
Time : 8:30 am
Kuarsi – Roadhead – Transfer to Chamba
- Hike down to roadhead where vehicle awaits
- Scenic drive to Chamba, a beautiful town known for its temples and colonial charm
- Evening leisure and local sightseeing (optional)
- Overnight stay at hotel in Chamba
🕒 Trek Duration: 2–3 hours walk + 2–3 hours drive
Day 6
Time : 8:30 am
Chamba – Dharamshala (Drive back)
- After breakfast, drive back to Dharamshala via Banikhet and Nurpur
- Tour ends with beautiful memories of crossing the mighty Dhauladhar range
🕒 Drive Duration: 6–7 hours
- Experienced trek guide & support staff
- Tents, sleeping bags, mats
- All meals during the trek
- Camping permits, forest fees
- Transport from Chamba back to Dharamshala
- Accommodation in Chamba
- Meals in Chamba
- Transport to McLeodganj (start point)
- Personal gear, insurance, and tips
- Mules/porters for personal luggage (available on request)
This trek is rated moderate to difficult. It involves steep ascents, high-altitude terrain (up to 4,300 m), and long descents. Some prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are recommended.
The best months are from May to mid-July and September to October. During this time, the weather is stable, skies are clearer, and Indrahar Pass is usually open and safe to cross.
Yes! This trek includes a complete crossing of Indrahar Pass, making it a true mountain traverse from Kangra Valley to Chamba Valley.
• Camping in tents at Triund, Lahesh Cave, and Chhata
• Basic homestay or guesthouse in Kuarsi village
• Hotel stay in Chamba town
Sleeping bags and mats are provided on trek.
The highest point on the trek is Indrahar Pass at 4,300 meters (approx. 14,100 ft).
Yes! Solo travelers can join scheduled group departures or opt for a private guided trek. It’s safe, scenic, and well-supported.
Expect varied terrain — forest trails, alpine meadows, rocky ridges, and glacier patches near the pass.
Weather can shift quickly — sunny mornings, cold nights, and possible mountain mists or light snow near the pass.
Essential items include:
• Good trekking shoes
• Warm layers & rain jacket
• Daypack, water bottle, sunscreen
• Trekking poles (optional but helpful)
• Personal medication & flashlight
