The charm of Himachal Pradesh has been an inspiration to many and has captured the attention of tourists from all over the world. The immense human interference and commercialization may have hurt its pristine beauty, but still, there are places that have remained unexplored. These may give us a glimpse of the gem Himachal once was.
Hampta Pass
Hampta Pass, a retreat located in the heart of Himachal at the height of 4270 m. It is situated in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, between Lahaul and Kullu valleys. The glimpse of lush green valleys, snow-laden peaks, and exquisite hills are what attract a tourist to Hampta. Hampta Pass trek is a welcome option in place of the overly saturated course of Rohtang Pass.
Barot
Barot, a village in the Himachal’s Mandi district is a perfect stop for bizarre outdoor activities. The region houses the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary and is a habitat of numerous Himalayan species such as Himalayan Gorals, Himalayan Black Bears, and various distinct Pheasants. You may discover multiple trekking trails, including the one that crosses through the sanctuary and heads towards Kullu.
Churdhar
Churdhar, meaning ‘Dressed in the Moonlight’, is the place that truly enlivens its title. The nightfall here, draws a beautiful panorama of the peaks, that come alive in the silvery hue of the moon.
The 48 km path from Sarain, a surreal experience of calm and peace that nature offers, guides you in mystical deodar woods towards the ancient Srigul temple. A giant statue of Lord Shiva rests at the peak, its frame offering shield and grace to the town below.
Rakcham
A small village in the north of Himachal Pradesh surrounded by snow-covered ranges, beautiful gardens, and gushing noise of Bapsa river. At an altitude of 2900 meters, Rakcham hosts Shiva and Kali3, along with a Buddhist shrine to manifest the Tibetan ethos. This village is also said to be home to the flora-fauna varying from exquisite birds to Musk Deer and Himalayan Black Bears, which adds to its wilderness, yet pristine nature.
Even though the village happens to fall en route from Sangla village to Chitkul village, it is often missed by tourists, which has kept this place untouched, serene, and mesmerizing.
Shoja
Shoja is an un-explored village in the Seraj valley, connecting Shimla and Kullu districts. Shoja bestows a lucid scenery of both foliage-covered oblique mountains and snow-covered ranges. Cuddled amidst the Dhauladhar Himalayas, with Conifers and Deodars spreading for miles, the village is heaven for people looking to relax and meditate.
Nature and trekking lovers can head up towards Jalori pass to dwell in the spectacular sight. Here, Raghupur Fort and Seruvalsar Lake are distinguished for their tranquillity and historical significance.
At a 6 km trail, about 3100 feet above the sea-level from the village of Shoja, is a lake named Seruvalsar, surrounded by heavy forests. Locals often connect the lake to ‘Buddhi Nagini (goddess of snakes and 60 Nag-Ditties), which is assumed to reside there and claim to have healing traits. It is also rumoured that during the exile days in Dwaparyug, Pandavas visited Serol Sar, and farmed rice there.
The temperature in Serolsar stays pretty chilly throughout the year, but during winters, the region encounters heavy snowfall of upto 5-8 feet. It is best for summer vacations.
A recent addition to Saryolsar Lake is the hiking trail that starts at the back of the temple that takes one near Raghupur Fort. Raghupur Fort is guessed to have been built by Mandi rulers to shield themselves from the intrusion.
It is now a ruined structure, but it is a pleasant path for a walk. The walk around the Fort goes through the enchanting woodland that offers magnificent glimpses of the ranges. It offers to be a captivating camping spot during summers for some quality time with friends and loved ones.
Only a few sites in Himachal Pradesh remain unexplored/unexploited. These pure and untamed valleys are the treasures of the State and would welcome the travellers who seek break and solace from the clamour of the cities yet pledge to protect and revere mother nature.
Do you have these pristine treasures on your list while planning for your next travel?
Explore mystical hills of India and be responsible towards nature.
Aashi is a working PR professional who enjoys a good amount of her free time reading, cooking, and taking care of her 2 dogs.