Tirthan valley- A Gift from the Gods, Himanchal Pradesh
Tirthan Valley, yet another exciting place that you can pack your rucksacks and get set go! off to the mountains. Well. Himachal Pradesh consistently offers us stunning landscapes, breathtaking views, and numerous opportunities for adventure. Kullu district, popularly known as the Kullu Valley, boasts serene beauty and is home to the famous Beas River. It’s a blend of modern development and Kulu culture vibes. Its a Himalayan gem that borders the Great Himalayan National Park.
The Tirthan River is a pristine Himalayan tributary of the Beas, as it originates from the Hanskund peak. The river rises at a sacred water spring called Tirth or Tirath at the peak thats like 4800 m, and flows downwards through the valley till it merges with the Beas river at Larji. It is crystal clear with shades of blues and greens. It has gushing water and is a hub for nature admirers. One can enjoy trout fishing, riverside camping, waterfalls and camping. Its a great eco-tourism spot. Its an escape at the same time an entry point tothe UNESCO World Heritage park.
Tirthan Valley is 70 km from Kulu in the eco-buffer zone. In the charming villages of trithan you will experience some great Himalayan pine forests, peaks, deep V-shaped valleys, and snow-capped mountain ranges. It has sacred spring waters, and the riverside is very beautiful to chill in. You can sit along the riverfront, do your pranayama, and get into a focused and peaceful deep meditation.
The best times to visit for pleasant weather are during spring and summer, whereas Autums are great too with good winter calling and clear skies in October-November. Well, winters are dam cold with 1 degree celsius so don’t forget to take your winter wear.
Tirthan valley have been unexplored and is not a regular touristy place, so expect an experience of solace and peace. Slow down with the beautfil beas river, chill with a hot chocolate and Maggie’s by the riverside, and enjoy stargazing from your tent view, not to forget the sound of the night flow of water side by side.
Tirthan Valley is named after the famous Tirthan River and is known as the Gift from the Gods.
A valley with a beautiful riverside is so refreshing- Tirthan Valley
When in tirthan so many places to explore, so get some good days off from your hustle. To start with, you should first visit the UNESCO World Heritage site- The Great Himalayan National Park. It’s rich in biodiversity and lush green forests.
If youre a bird watcher and animal lover, then you will come across some Bharals, musk deers, snow leopards, etc. This place is accessible from Gushani.
The park has about 1,000 plant species, 31 mammals, diverse reptiles, insects, and 209 kinds of birds. You can trek up to Hanskund and Saketi Top too. You can understand the local life by either living at their homestays or enjoying their company, tasting delicious local cuisines, rustic cottages, music, dance, and life. You will see some trout fish that are brown, rainbow colors, and you can go fishing too, besides this they are also some snow trouts in the Himalayan waters. You can do this near Goshani, Bathad, and Banjar with local guides, gear, and equipment. It further meets the Parvati River.
Jibhi has some great tree houses, and the tranquility of this village is too serene to handle. It’s just like a dream come true to live in those wooden houses right in the middle of forests and trees. It has glamorous streams and an escape into nature. You can trek to the Jalori pass and also visit the Serolsar lake, Jibhi waterfalls, Mini Thailand ( a scenic riverside), and Chehni Kothi in Chehni village.
Jalori Pass is a gateway to the Tirthan Valley. Its a high-altitude mountain pass. It connects Kullu and Shimla and is a base for treks to Raghupur Fort and Serolsar Lake. Ideal for trekkers but closed in peak winters due to heavy snowfalls. You will get to see the panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges.
You must also visit Banjar, a large town in the Tirthan Valley that offers local handicrafts and culture. Chhoie waterfalls are close to Jibhi and Gaidhar village. It’s a walk and a forest trail. You will also see a deity’s adobe, where you will see some locals worshipping. It’s a moderate, easy trek with stunning views. With about an hour or so, you can cross the oak/deodar forests, which are quite magical, and reach up to the falls. It’s very sacred to the locals, and the locals worship Chhoi Mata. Wear some sturdy shoes as there are several rocky sections and forest paths.
Serolsar Lake is a sacred high-altitude lake near Jalori Pass. It’s quite admired and liked by trekkers as it gives stunning views and a spiritual experience. The lake has crystal clear water that reflects the Himalayan peaks, which is what you want to capture in your phones and cameras. A reel near the lake will definitely make you viral.
Raghupur Fort is believed to have been built by the Mandi rulers. It is also linked to the Pandavas. You need to trek up there, too. Also visit Gushani, a picturesque village. Chehni Kothi is an ancient Fortified tower that is centuries old. It’s made of wood and stone in Kath Kuni style. Take a scenic trek to Shringa Rishi Temple in Banjar Valley its a pagoda-style temple and dedicated to sage Shringa Rishi, who is the valley’s protector. Also visit Sarchi village for some apple orchard sightseeing. You can shop for some Kullu caps, jackets, bags and handicrafts as gifts.
Fly upto Kullu airport, then take a bus/taxi to the valley. You can also drive up to take volvos then bring you here. The road access and route is quite good for a ride till you reach the Himalayan turns.
