Display Directory Hierarchy from Specific Path Ubuntu

This guide explains how to visualize the directory structure within Ubuntu using the command line. You will learn the primary command for generating tree views, how to install necessary tools, and alternative methods for viewing folder hierarchies from a specific path without graphical interfaces.

Use the Tree Command

The most effective way to display a directory hierarchy is using the tree command. It may not be installed by default on minimal Ubuntu installations. Install it using the following command:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install tree

Once installed, run the command followed by your target path:

tree /path/to/directory

Limit Directory Depth

To prevent the output from becoming too large, you can limit the depth of the hierarchy. Use the -L flag followed by the number of levels you wish to see:

tree -L 2 /path/to/directory

Show Directories Only

If you want to exclude files and only display the folder structure, add the -d flag:

tree -d /path/to/directory

Alternative Methods

If you cannot install new software, use the find command which is built into the system. To list directories only:

find /path/to/directory -type d

Another option is using ls recursively, though the output is less visual:

ls -R /path/to/directory