Tirthan Valley Trek: A Serene Escape into the Heart of the Himalayas

Timings

• Trek Duration: 2-5 days, depending on the route and chosen trails.
• Entry Hours: Accessible year-round but check for weather conditions during winter.

Distance

• Trek Distance: Varies from 10 to 30 km depending on the specific trek route you choose.

How to Get There

• Nearest Town: Banjar, Himachal Pradesh (approx. 26 km from Aut).
• Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar (approx. 95 km).
• Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (approx. 50 km).
• Road: Take a bus or taxi from Aut (26 km) or Mandi (75 km) to reach Tirthan Valley.

Ideal Season

• Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November. The weather is pleasant in summer, while the post-monsoon period brings clear skies.

Trek Length

• Various Trekking Routes:
• Short Trek: Tirthan River trails (10-12 km).
• Longer Trek: Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) routes (up to 30 km, multi-day treks).

Entry Charges

• Entry Fee: Free for most village routes. If trekking in the Great Himalayan National Park, entry permits are required (₹100-200 per person).

Parking

• Available in Gushaini or Banjar villages, which serve as base points for the trek.

Food Options

• Tirthan Valley: Homestays and guesthouses in Gushaini, Banjar, and other villages offer traditional Himachali food.
• On the Trek: It's advisable to carry packed food for longer treks, as options are limited once you're deep in the trails.

Stay Options

• Homestays: Available in Gushaini and nearby villages offering affordable and cozy stays.
• Camping: You can set up camp along the river or in the forest (carry your own gear).
• Cottages & Guesthouses: Available in Banjar and Tirthan Valley offering scenic views.

Activities

• Trekking: Through the Great Himalayan National Park or riverside trails.
• Fishing: Tirthan River is famous for trout fishing (permits required).
• Camping: By the river or in the forest.
• Bird Watching: The region is rich in birdlife.
• Photography: Ideal for nature photography with scenic landscapes and wildlife.

Tips for Visitors

• Fitness: The trek is moderately challenging. Basic fitness is required, especially for longer GHNP treks.
• Guide: It’s advisable to hire a local guide for treks inside GHNP for safety and navigation.
• Packing: Carry warm clothes, trekking shoes, and basic medical supplies. Don’t forget to pack food and water, especially for multi-day treks.
• Weather Check: Before starting the trek, check the weather as heavy rains or snow can make trails inaccessible.

Nearby Attractions

• Great Himalayan National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with biodiversity and beautiful landscapes.
• Jalori Pass: A scenic high-altitude pass offering stunning views (trek to Serolsar Lake).
• Chehni Kothi: A historic watchtower offering a glimpse into local architecture.
• Shringa Rishi Temple: A peaceful temple near Banjar village.