Bhakti D
Nestled in the serene Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, Tirthan Valley is a paradise waiting to be explored. This hidden gem, perched at an altitude of approximately 1600 meters, offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking tranquillity, Tirthan Valley promises a rejuvenating experience.
Imagine waking up to the soothing sounds of the Tirthan River, with the Great Himalayan National Park’s lush greenery forming the backdrop of your adventure. From trekking through scenic trails and camping under the starlit sky to fishing in the crystal-clear waters and exploring quaint villages, Tirthan Valley has something for everyone. Join me as I embark on a journey to uncover the untouched beauty and hidden treasures of Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh.
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Journey to Tirthan Valley
We had booked a flight from Mumbai to Chandigarh for our trip to Tirthan Valley. Although Tirthan Valley is 230 km from Chandigarh, it took us 14 hours by road to reach. On this route, there is a major town called Mandi. The road from Mandi is very winding and narrow, so if even one vehicle breaks down, the entire road gets jammed. If you’re lucky, you won’t encounter any traffic.
We arrived at the resort at 9 PM. Being very tired, we first freshened up and then had dinner. The meal was simple but very delicious. We went on June 16th, and even though it was June, it was quite cold. The coolness from the river in front of us was also noticeable. There are private resorts and hotels available for staying in Tirthan Valley, and homestays are also an option.
Exploring Tirthan Valley
Tirthan Valley is a village nestled in the lap of nature. Surrounded by lush green hills and with the Tirthan River flowing through the village, it looks extremely beautiful. The resort where we stayed was right in front of the river… the gurgling sound of the river was very enchanting. In the morning, after having tea, we went for a walk by the river. The water was very clean, crystal clear, and chilly.
Major Attractions of Tirthan Valley
1. Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP):
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity.
- Offers trekking, camping, and bird watching.
2. Tirthan River:
- Ideal for trout fishing, river crossing, and leisurely picnics.
- Provides a serene setting with clear, cold water flowing through the valley.
3. Jalori Pass:
- A high mountain pass at an elevation of 3120 meters.
- Offers panoramic views and is a starting point for treks to places like Serolsar Lake and Raghupur Fort.
4. Serolsar Lake:
- A high-altitude lake accessible via a moderate trek from Jalori Pass.
- Surrounded by dense forests and offering a tranquil environment.
5. Chhoie Waterfall:
- A short trek from the village of Gushaini.
- Known for its scenic beauty and lush surroundings.
Culinary Delights of Himachal Pradesh
Himachali cuisine is known for its rich flavours and traditional dishes that reflect the culture and climate of Himachal Pradesh. Some popular traditional Himachali dishes include:
Siddu:
Steamed bread made from wheat flour, often stuffed with a variety of fillings like lentils or poppy seeds.
We found a local café that serves traditional Himachali food. We placed an order a day in advance and asked them to prepare a proper Himachali thali. They happily served us a very delicious and traditional thali. This thali is called Dham.
The menu of the thali included red rice, chapati, madra, rajma, kadi, lassi, siddu with ghee, pteridium (lingri), and salad.
The use of spices in the dishes here is very minimal, allowing the original flavours of the ingredients to stand out and linger on the palate. There must be certain qualities in the water and air of this region that make even simple dishes taste incredibly delicious.
In Tirthan Valley, there are so many trees that no matter how much you walk, you don’t get tired. You constantly feel refreshed. The atmosphere is very pleasant. Along the roadsides, you can see fruit trees like plum, apple, and pear everywhere. You can easily pick and eat the fruits. Oh, the joy of eating fresh fruits… it’s amazing!
Local Life and Culture
The people in this region seem very simple and straightforward. Men go out to work, and women work in public places as well, often in equal or greater numbers than men. The locals are very hardworking and diligent. Since it is a mountainous area, the roads are not very good, and their houses are perched on mountain tops. They have to climb up and down the mountains multiple times a day. They often have to battle nature. Children face a daily challenge just to get to school, as there are no schools in small villages, and they have to take a bus through narrow, valley roads to reach schools in larger villages. Despite their daily struggles, the people here are cheerful and content in their own world.
There are many spots to see in Tirthan Valley and the surrounding villages. You can choose based on your time and preferences. A stay of 2 to 3 days is sufficient. If you really want to enjoy nature, the river, streams, and valleys, you must definitely visit this tourist destination, Tirthan Valley.
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Best Time to Visit
March to June and September to November are considered the best times to visit for Attractions, weather and clear skies.
Whether you seek adventure in the Himalayas or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature’s bounty, Tirthan Valley beckons with its tranquil rivers, majestic peaks, and warm hospitality.
