The word “Himachal” just enough to soothe your soul and In this travel guide we are going to cover “Things to Do”, Food and Culture at these offbeat destinations. Enjoy the read!
If you are a mountain lover, look no further than the picturesque towns of Shangarh, Tirthan, and Kasol! These stunning destinations nestled in the Himalayan mountains are the perfect getaway for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
This is the ultimate travel guide you need for an unforgettable experience this summer.
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Destination 1: SHANGARH, HIMACHAL
Shangarh, located in the Seraj Valley, around 160 km from Shimla is a hidden gem slowly gaining popularity among tourists. With its untouched natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, this quaint village is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Himachali culture.
Stroll through the lush forests, indulge in local delicacies, or simply sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains.
The locals of Shangarh are warm and hospitable, and their culture and traditions are unique to the region. Visitors can indulge in some local delicacies such as Siddu, a steamed bread made with wheat flour and stuffed with herbs or potatoes and Chaa Gosht, a traditional meat curry made with tea leaves.
Let’s explore the unique destinations in Himachal Pradesh.
Things to do in Shangarh and around Sainj Valley
- Trekking: Sainj Valley is a perfect place for trekking. There are several trekking routes in the area, including the Sainj-Tirthan Valley trek, Sainj-Malana trek, and the Shangarh-Malana trek.
- Visit Shangchul Mahadev Temple: Shangchul Mahadev Temple is an ancient temple located in Shangarh village. The temple itself is a beautiful structure with intricate carvings and decorations. The peaceful environment and the soothing sound of bells and chants create a sense of tranquility and calmness.The temple complex also includes a small shrine dedicated to Goddess Parvati and a sacred water source believed to have medicinal properties. Visitors can take a dip in the cool and refreshing waters of the stream that flows through the temple.
- Barshangarh Falls: Barshangarh Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder that promises to leave visitors spellbound. To experience its beauty, it’s best to start the day early and embark on a 30-minute hike to reach the falls. As you make your way through the rugged terrain, the invigorating scent of pine trees and the melodious chirping of birds will transport you to a world of serenity.The milky-white waterfalls create a mesmerizing sight that is sure to leave you in awe.
Destination 2: TIRTHAN VALLEY, HIMACHAL
Our small part of heart ❤️ is left in Tirthan, a small hamlet located in the Kullu district. This offbeat destination is a paradise for trekkers, anglers, and wildlife enthusiasts. It’s a beautiful and easy hike to Serolsar Lake, which is at high-altitude lake located in the Tirthan Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The lake is situated at an altitude of around 3,200 meters and is surrounded by lush green forests and snow-capped mountains. The Tirthan River, which is known for its crystal-clear waters, originates from this lake and is home to a variety of fish species and is a popular spot for angling.
To reach Serolsar Lake, one has to undertake a trek of around 5 km from the village of Jalori Pass. The trek is relatively easy and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. The trail passes through dense forests of oak, deodar, and pine trees, offering breathtaking views of the valley.
The shades of Sky keeps evolving in Himachal, this gives me another reason to visit it again and again.
Sheena Chaudhary, Co-founder, Banjara and Gypsy
Once you reach the lake, you will be greeted with a tranquil and serene environment that is perfect for unwinding and relaxing. The lake’s crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
Apart from Serolsar Lake, the Tirthan Valley has several other attractions such as the Great Himalayan National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to over 375 species of flora and fauna.
If you’re feeling adventurous, head out for a trek and spot some exotic wildlife along the way.
Things to do in Tirthan Valley
- Visit Jalori Pass: Jalori Pass is a scenic mountain pass located near Tirthan Valley. It offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range and is an excellent spot for photography.
- Take a cooking class: Learn how to cook traditional Himachali dishes like siddu, kadi-chawal, and dham from a local chef. You can also visit a local market to buy fresh ingredients for your cooking class.
Destination 3: KASOL, HIMACHAL
” Kasol toh sabko pata hai” and We have heard on various references on Tosh village”. Kasol, a vibrant village situated in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, nestled among the lush green hills and the roaring Parvati River. The village has earned its reputation as a backpacker’s haven over the years and is now one of the most popular destinations in Himachal Pradesh.
Culture & Food in Kasol
Kasol is a melting pot of different cultures, and this is reflected in the village’s diverse population and cuisines. Israeli food, in particular, has become synonymous with Kasol, and you can find several restaurants serving up delicious hummus, falafel, and shakshuka. However, the village also offers a range of other cuisines, including Indian, Tibetan, and Italian.
Spot for Trekkers in Kasol
Apart from the food, Kasol is also known for its scenic views and natural beauty. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the Parvati River, go trekking to nearby villages, or hike to the nearby Kheerganga hot springs for a refreshing dip.
Nightlife in Kasol
Kasol also has a thriving nightlife, with several bars and cafes staying open late into the night. The village is famous for its trance and psychedelic music scene, with several music festivals and parties taking place throughout the year. The town’s bohemian vibe and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect place to unwind and connect with like-minded people.
Things to do in Kasol
- Hike to Kheerganga: Kheerganga is a beautiful trekking destination located near Kasol. It offers stunning views of the Parvati Valley and has a natural hot water spring, where you can take a dip to rejuvenate yourself.
- Attend a trance party: Kasol is known for its hippie culture, and there are several trance parties that take place in the region. These parties are a great way to experience the local nightlife and meet new people.
- Try Israeli cuisine: Kasol has a significant Israeli population, and you can find several restaurants serving Israeli cuisine. You may like to try some of the popular dishes like shakshuka, falafel, and hummus.
- Visit the Parvati Shangri-La: Parvati Shangri-La is a beautiful valley located near Kasol, which is known for its scenic beauty and tranquility. You can take a day trip to this valley and enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst nature.
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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ?
Summer (March-June): This is the peak tourist season in Himachal Pradesh, especially for those looking to escape the scorching heat in other parts of India. The weather is pleasant, and one can enjoy outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, and paragliding.
Winter (December-February): Himachal Pradesh experiences heavy snowfall during the winter season, especially in higher altitudes. This is a good time to visit for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
UNFOLDING THE UNTOLD STORIES
Amidst the serene mountains and tranquil nature, a love story was about to unfold. A group of close friends embarked on a journey to Tirthan Valley, unaware of the surprise that awaited them. Little did they know, one of the guys in the group had a special plan in store for his lady love, who resided in the picturesque Himachal Pradesh.
As the group made their way through the winding roads, the anticipation grew stronger. The guy’s heart raced with every passing moment, knowing that the love of his life was waiting for him at the end of this journey. As they reached their destination, he took a deep breath and gathered the courage to ask the big question.
Love for mountains
The mountains stood witness to the celebration of love, and the group of friends felt truly blessed to be a part of this beautiful moment. The trip to Tirthan Valley became a journey of togetherness, where the two souls promised to walk together, hand in hand, for a lifetime.
““Amidst the mountains, love found its forever home””.
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