Dharamsala has two good seasons and two difficult ones. March to June is the best time: spring brings rhododendrons in bloom on the hillsides, temperatures at McLeod Ganj are comfortable (15–25°C), and the Dhauladhar peaks are clear of cloud most days. The Triund trek is open and the Dalai Lama's teaching schedule is often active in spring.
October and November are also excellent — post-monsoon, the air is clear, the mountains visible, and the crowds from summer are gone. Tibetan New Year (Losar), usually in February or March, brings celebrations to McLeod Ganj that are worth timing a visit around.
July and August bring heavy monsoon rain. The Triund trail becomes slippery and occasionally dangerous, and views of the mountains disappear for weeks at a time. Some travellers prefer the lush green landscape and empty guesthouses enough to go anyway.
December and January are cold at this altitude — temperatures drop to near zero at night — and snow occasionally closes higher trails. The town is quiet but the Tibetan New Year preparations begin, and the Dalai Lama often gives winter teachings.