Things to do in Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh - a hidden gem in the Himalayas

Things to do in Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh - a hidden gem in the Himalayas

​Tirthan Valley, a hidden gem in Himachal Pradesh, has become my home in the Himalayas. After quitting my job to take a break and pursue my passions, I had planned to slow down and explore this valley for 2-3 weeks. The unparalleled beauty and simplicity of the place captivated me so much that I ended up staying for 8 months. I keep returning to the valley because I find the most peace and tranquility when I’m home. The pristine valley around the Tirthan River offers just enough basic facilities for travelers seeking a local Himachali experience. The valley has impressed many and is now becoming a popular destination, offering simple and authentic travel experiences.

Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh

​1. Trek in the Great Himalayan National Park

Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to various endangered species of wildlife, including snow leopards and Jujuranas (western tragopans). Depending on your fitness and comfort level, you can choose any number of days to embark on a trek in the GHNP. Trekking along the Tirthan River to the source of the Tirath glacier through the treacherous jungles offers an unforgettable experience. For birding and wildlife spotting, it’s essential to seek the expertise of experienced guides. Alternatively, a short one-day trek to Rolla, with overnight camping in the GHNP, can be a wonderful experience.

Trekking in Great Himalayan National Park

​2. Reconnect with yourself on the banks of Tirthan River

Tirthan River, one of India’s most pristine rivers, stands out as the only one in Himachal Pradesh that flows unobstructed by any dam. For eight months, I immersed myself in this serene environment, waking up to the soothing melody of the river and falling asleep to its gentle flow. Spending moments of solitude near Tirthan River is an experience that rejuvenates and revitalizes the soul.

Tirthan River in Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh

​3. Drive to Pekhri / Sharchi village in Tirthan Valley

Pekhri and Sharchi are higher villages nestled in the valley, accessible only by dirt roads. Both villages offer breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas within the Great Himalayan National Park. Among the two, Sharchi village holds a special place in my heart as one of my personal favorites!

Sharchi Village in Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh

​4. Explore the charming hamlets in Tirthan Valley and learn the local way of life

Tirthan Valley, a collection of charming hamlets nestled along the majestic Tirthan River and perched on the mountains, offers an endless array of activities to keep you engaged. Hike one village each day and never tire of its beauty. It’s an ideal way to begin your day and stay fit.

Village hikes in Tirthan Valley

​Tirthan Valley is untouched by commercialization and thrives on the contentment of its inhabitants. They embrace self-sustainability, cultivating their own food, constructing their own homes, and engaging in various crafts like collecting grass for their cattle, weaving their own clothes and baskets, preserving food for the winter, grazing their cattle, and weaving woollens. A morning stroll through the valley’s charming hamlets offers a glimpse into their lifestyle, and you’ll find yourself warmly invited to join them for a cup of tea at their welcoming homes. The people of Tirthan Valley are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality.

5. Birding in Tirthan Valley

Just a stroll around the valley will reveal exotic Himalayan bird species, either perched on the riverbanks or in the trees. You might even spot the paradise flycatcher, red-capped white start, Himalayan Griffon, verditer flycatcher, hundreds of red-billed blue magpies, and Himalayan bulbuls. Black bulbuls, drongos, tits, and more can also be found. Head to hamlets on higher ground like Chhamni and Pekhri to increase your chances of spotting the koklass pheasant, cheer pheasant, and kaleej pheasant. For a more extensive birdwatching experience, venture into the Himalayan National Park to encounter the Western Tragopan (jujuranas) and Monal Pheasant.

6. Relish fresh local food in Tirthan Valley

I bet you’d overeat every meal if you had the chance to indulge in homemade, fresh food. You might even find yourself giving the food excuse of how delicious it tastes here. It’s true that even the simplest dishes cooked with minimal spices taste incredibly good, especially because the river water used for cooking enhances their flavor. Additionally, the river water contains a high concentration of minerals and digestive enzymes that keep you feeling hungry every two hours. So, indulge in the luxury of eating without the guilt of adding calories!
Must-try local dish in Tirthan Valley: Siddu (Local steamed croissants filled with mashed potatoes, onions, walnuts, and served with melted ghee and walnut chutney)

​7. Angling / Fishing for Rainbow Trouts in Tirthan River

While I wouldn’t advocate for the killing of fish for any reason, Tirthan River holds the distinction of being the only river in India that breeds rainbow trout. Catch your own fish and get it cooked at your homestay. The locals there are known for their mouthwatering dishes and can whip up a feast fit for a king! However, fishing requires a daily permit from the forest department.

Angling in Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Rainbow Trouts in Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh

​8. Hike to Chehni Kothi in Jibhi Valley

​Jibhi Valley is just next to Tirthan Valley. It’s gorgeous, but not as beautiful as Tirthan Valley (sorry, I’m a bit biased). But hey, you can totally take a day trip to Jibhi Valley and explore the valley. You can stroll around, grab a bite at one of the river-side cafes, and maybe even take a short hike to Chehni village. It’s home to the tallest free-standing structure in the Western Himalayas, a 1500-year-old towered castle built in traditional Himachali style.

Chehni Kothi in Jibhi Valley, Himachal Pradesh

​9. Drive to Jalori Pass and Hike to Serolsar Lake

Jalori Pass, renowned for its breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayas, connects Jibhi Valley to Shimla through a a very dangerous and treacherous, yet short route. Driving or riding through Jalori Pass is an exhilarating experience for many adventurers, but it’s advisable to do so cautiously or with local guides. 

Jalori Pass, Himachal Pradesh

​Once you reach Jalori Pass, you can take a small easy hike to Serolsar Lake. This lake holds significant religious importance for the local community. During the winter months, the lake remains frozen, creating a breathtaking sight. The round trip hike from Serolsar Lake to Jalori Pass can take approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Serolsar Lake, Himachal Pradesh

​10. Trek to Bashleo Pass

Bashleo Pass connects Tirthan Valley to Kullu Sarahan. While the bus journey takes around 12 hours to reach any of these locations from the other, it’s more convenient for locals to cover the distance on foot in 5-6 hours. The trek to Bashleo pass and back covers a distance of 20 kilometers and is strenuous to complete on the same day. You could consider camping for a night and then returning to either Tirthan or descending to Kullu Sarahan.

Trek to Bashleo Pass

11. Hike to Chhoie Waterfall in Tirthan Valley

This is the easiest and most popular hike in the valley. A short 30-45 minute hike leads to a beautiful waterfall. The water level of the waterfall changes depending on the season. Almost everyone who visits Tirthan Valley makes sure to visit the waterfall.

Hike to Chhoie waterfall in Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh

12. Buy homemade products from locals in Tirthan Valley

The local ladies in Tirthan Valley are skilled artisans who create handmade, authentic products such as woollen socks and caps, apricot jam, and apricot oil. Since there’s no shopping market in the valley, you might want to consider purchasing these local items from the ladies at the homestay. I wouldn’t miss any opportunity to support women empowerment.

homemade products in Tirthan Valley

13. Spring Season in Tirthan Valley

Tirthan Valley is a must-visit destination during the spring season. It’s home to a variety of fruit orchards, including plum, apricot, walnut, pear, peach, and apple trees. In spring, the trees come alive with vibrant blooms, filling the valley with a delightful display of pink, red, and white flowers. 

Tirthan Valley in Spring Season

How to reach Tirthan Valley

The most economical option is to take an overnight bus from Delhi or Chandigarh to Kullu or Manali. Upon reaching Aut, you have two choices: hire a taxi to Tirthan Valley or take a local bus from Aut to Banjar and then another bus from Banjar to Gushaini.
For convenience, you can fly to Kullu (Bhuntar Airport) and then take a taxi to Tirthan Valley.

Drop by Bisht Niwas Homestay in Tirthan Valley and give my regards to Kavita & Mahendra.
Contact no: +91-9418093158.