Tirthan Valley- A slice of paradise in Himachal Pradesh
Fascinating deciduous forests of spectacular shades of green, interspersed with quaint little villages by the Tirthan River, make this valley one of the most picturesque spots of Himachal Pradesh.
Tirthan valley, located 50 km south of Kullu, at an altitude of 1100 m, is barely a 35-km drive from Aut on NH21. The scenic locale derives its name from River Tirthan, a tributary of the Beas in Himachal Pradesh. Best known as a ‘buffer zone’ of the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP), a UNESCO world heritage site, the valley resembles a picture-perfect painting that is bound to appeal to nature lovers, trekkers, bird watchers, adventure enthusiasts, and just about anyone who wishes to disconnect from the mundane. Tirthan Valley is also known for its brown and rainbow trout. Perfect for a short break, the valley is surrounded by little-known, picturesque hamlets and homestays.
Where is Tirthan Valley
Tirthan Valley is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, about 100 km from Manali and 65 km from Mandi. If one travels from Mandi to Manali, a road bifurcates towards TirthanValley just before Aut Tunnel. Take the exit and continue driving towards Larji.
Best time to go
The best season is from March to October. But for those who fancy snow, winters here can be fascinating, too.
Places to visit in TirthanValley
Jibhi
Jibhi has become fairly popular among Indian travellers in recent years. However, tourists from other countries discovered this treasure more than two decades ago. During that time there were hardly any guest houses, hotels or infrastructure to support tourism here. The village is still not too commercialised and only accommodation options you would find are Jibhi homestays run by locals. Jibhi is a scenic, unpretentious and old Himalayan village settled on the banks of the gurgling Tirthan. Apple orchards and Galgal (Citrus pseudolimon) trees adorn the backyard of every house in this Himalayan village.
Gushaini
Situated on the banks of Tirthan river, Gushaini offers an endless treat to one’s eyes and ears, the lush greenery and chirping of birds. It is an ever so small village on the banks of the roaring Tirthan river. There is a mud road that goes to Pekhri village that lies in the eco-zone of Great Himalayan National Park. Offering the perfect base for a Himalayan trek, Gushaini not only lets one explore the rich flora and fauna inside the famed national park, but also the splendour of exquisitely carved temples and the deodar forests in the area.
Sojha
For a spectacular view of the TirthanValley, trek to Sojha (also spelt as Shoja) in the Seraj region, about 5 km short of Jalori Pass. This is an ideal place to do nothing but sit back relax and soak in the natural grandeur. It’s a quiet place that brings out the writer in everyone.
Selosar lake
A mere 5 km trek from Jalori Pass will lead you this lake which remains completely frozen in winter, but during summers, with a bright sun above, it’s the perfect place to go for a dip in the icy waters of the lake to cool off. The lake also has religious importance as it is dedicated to Mata Budhi Nagin who is worshipped by the locals with utmost belief. The trek is downhill and one of the easiest treks near Shoja.
