Ruskin Bond, the legendary Himalayan storyteller once said, “Once you live with mountains, you never escape from them. You belong to them.” I tend to agree with him on this one. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of popular Himalayan towns like Manali, Kasol or Kullu, Tirthan Valley is a hidden gem in Himachal Pradesh. It’s a serene haven that offers endless mountain views, gushing waterfalls, and quaint villages adorned with traditional Himachali homes.
A perfect retreat for a soul searching for peace and tranquility, Tirthan Valley is the best place to visit in summers to beat the heat wave of the plains. The enthralling beauty of soaring peaks, gurgling waterfalls and lush green meadows will soothe your mind and rejuvenate your body. The mighty Himalayas looming over this secluded valley is a sight to behold and is sure to mesmerize you.
There are a lot of trekking trails in and around this beautiful valley, but if you’re looking for some serious adventure, you can also take the Raghupur Fort trek which is an intermediate level trek and is a true delight for nature lovers. The 2.5 KM trail through dense forests and uphills gives you some spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
You can also head to Jalori pass which is an easy trek for beginners and provides stunning vistas of the Himalayan range from its top. This pass is a part of Great Himalayan National Park and is considered to be a sacred spot by locals. A small temple dedicated to goddess Rishyashringa is found here. This temple has three floors and is a must-visit for mythology lovers.
Another amazing trekking destination in Tirthan Valley is the Gai Dhar waterfall, located near Jalori pass. The serene and refreshing water of this waterfall is sure to make you feel refreshed after your tiring journey through the forest. It is a must-visit for nature lovers and photography buffs alike.
The village of Gushaini is one of the most picturesque places in the entire region. This beautiful village is situated right next to the gushing river of Tirthan and is a treat for your eyes. From here you can easily go on small day treks to explore the pristine meadows and soaring mountain peaks of the Himalayas.
During the winter season, you can easily find snow here and it is considered to be a perfect time for some serious snow-trekking in Himachal Pradesh. You can trek to Rangthar, a high altitude meadow that provides spectacular view of the higher mountain peaks. This trek requires some serious physical preparation and is advisable to be done with a guide.
If you’re planning to travel to Himachal Pradesh this year, then make sure you include Tirthan Valley in your itinerary. It’s a paradise that will rejuvenate your soul and give you a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of life. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and start exploring the wonders of Tirthan Valley!
