Embark on a journey to the hidden treasures of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, where adventure awaits the intrepid traveller. These offbeat destinations offer a tapestry of unparalleled experiences away from the beaten path.
Here are some unique and captivating places for the adventurous soul:
1. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh: Venture into the lap of the mighty Himalayas, where Spiti Valley beckons with its rugged charm. Traverse treacherous mountain roads and discover ancient monasteries perched on rocky cliffs. Engage in heart-pounding treks amidst snow-capped peaks and immerse yourself in the mystique of Tibetan culture.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is in Kullu, and the nearest railway station is in Shimla. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to Spiti Valley from there. The most common route is from Shimla via Kinnaur.
- Things to do: Explore the monasteries of Tabo, Dhankar, and Key, visit the picturesque Chandratal Lake, go on treks like Pin Parvati Pass or Parang La, and experience the local culture by staying in homestays.
2. Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh: A well-kept secret tucked away in the embrace of nature, Tirthan Valley reveals its pristine beauty. Rejuvenate your spirit as you cast your line for trout fishing in crystal-clear rivers. Embark on exhilarating treks through the Great Himalayan National Park, where the wilderness unfolds in all its glory.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali Airport), and the nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to Tirthan Valley from there.
- Things to do: Engage in trout fishing in the Tirthan River, trek to the nearby Great Himalayan National Park, explore the hidden waterfalls in the region, and enjoy camping amidst the serene nature.
3. Chitkul, Himachal Pradesh: Prepare to be enchanted as you set foot in Chitkul, the last inhabited village before the Indo-Tibetan border. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this traditional Kinnauri village, where time seems to stand still. Traverse trails that lead to high-altitude lakes offer awe-inspiring vistas and a glimpse into the mystical world of the Himalayas.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is in Shimla, and the nearest railway station is in Shimla or Chandigarh. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chitkul.
- Things to do: Take a walk through the traditional Kinnauri village, visit the ancient Mathi Temple, hike to nearby high-altitude lakes like Kagyupa or Lamkhaga Pass, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Baspa Valley.
4. Jalori Pass, Himachal Pradesh: Ascend to new heights as you conquer the majestic Jalori Pass. Journey through dense forests, where whispers of ancient tales accompany your every step. From the pass, behold panoramic views that stretch to the horizon, rewarding your adventurous spirit with nature’s grandeur.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is in Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali Airport), and the nearest railway station is Shimla. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Jalori Pass.
- Things to do: Enjoy panoramic views from the pass, go on nature walks through the lush forests, trek to the beautiful Serolsar Lake, and experience the local culture and cuisine.
5. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand: Unveil the secrets of Munsiyari, a captivating hill station nestled in the embrace of the Pithoragarh district. Embark on epic treks leading to the Milam and Ralam Glaciers, revealing nature’s frozen marvels. Immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of the Nanda Devi Temple, where tranquillity and devotion converge.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, and the nearest railway station is Kathgodam. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Munsiyari.
- Things to do: Trek to Milam Glacier or Ralam Glacier, explore the Nanda Devi Temple, visit the Birthi Falls, witness the sunset at Khalia Top, and indulge in birdwatching and nature photography.
6. Binsar, Uttarakhand: Retreat into the serene sanctuary of Binsar, where nature’s symphony unfolds in harmonious melodies. Wander through dense forests, where sunlight filters through the foliage, casting ethereal hues upon the landscape. Encounter diverse wildlife in the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, and allow the serenity to envelop your adventurous soul.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, and the nearest railway station is Kathgodam. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Binsar.
- Things to do: Visit the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, go on nature walks through the forest trails, enjoy birdwatching, visit the Binsar Mahadev Temple, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
7. Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand: Step into a paradise painted with nature’s vibrant brushstrokes at the Valley of Flowers National Park. Trek through meandering paths, where carpets of alpine flowers bloom in a riot of colours. Marvel at the delicate beauty of rare flora and breathe in the pure mountain air as the grandeur of the Himalayas embraces you.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and the railway station is Rishikesh. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Govindghat, the starting point for the trek to the Valley of Flowers.
- Things to do: Trek to the Valley of Flowers to witness the blooming alpine flowers, explore the nearby Hemkund Sahab
These offbeat destinations beckon the adventurous traveller with their untamed landscapes and captivating allure. As you tread these paths less travelled, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty and create memories that will forever be etched in your heart.
