The topography of Dharamshala is defined by its dramatic elevation changes. The city is broadly divided into Lower Dharamshala (at approximately 1,380 meters or 4,530 feet) and Upper Dharamshala, which includes McLeod Ganj (at approximately 2,082 meters or 6,831 feet).
The landscape is characterized by steep gradients, rocky ridges, and deep V-shaped valleys carved by numerous mountain streams, locally known as *khads*. The Triund Hill, sitting at roughly 2,828 meters behind McLeod Ganj, serves as an alpine meadow and a gateway to the snow line of the Dhauladhar peaks, which tower above 4,000 meters just kilometers from the city center.
