A Wonderful Place for Adventurous Campers: Sarahan, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh - By Vandana Bhagra, TOI
Hidden among the snow covered hills of Shrikhand Mountian Ranges, which are known for their mythological significance and is said to be one of the adobe of Lord Shiva, this unknown village beckon those with an adventurous spirit as its beautiful landscape and lush green valley will take your breath away.
Many of you may get confused with Sarahan in Shimla district with its beautiful Bhimakali Temple but those you know and have been to Kullu will know this Sarahan better at 3200 metres height, and that too if they have had the zeal to walk all the way to picture its magnificent beauty.
If you start your journey from Shimla then head towards Narkanda about 63 kms and then towards Nirmand which is another 28 kms approximately, with panoramic views of the Satluj Valley. From there you reach Bhagi Pul and then an uphill narrow road covering a distance of about 12 kms leads to this small village nestled among the mountains in all its pristine.
Those who wish to travel by bus should be prepared for a long journey as it is nearly 176 kms from Shimla and can take up to 10 hours to reach, but of course with few stops and immense beauty to admire. Those planning to come from Beas side should be aware that there is no motorable road and would have to cross on foot from the Bishloi Pass.
The HPPWD rest house situated outside the village offers decent accommodation which needs to be booked in advance but for the more adventurous laying out their tents (which of course you need to carry) in the open meadows can always be an option.
With permission from the Government School nearby you can set your camp under the starry sky. The huge ground in the centre of the village is surrounded by fields, flora and fauna, water streams, waterfalls with amazing views of the snow covered hills nearby.
With so much natural beauty around it becomes quite hard to concentrate on anything and then there were these kids studying in their open air classrooms.
School children attending their classes in beautiful ground in Sarahan Village, surrounded by snow covered mountains.
Those raring to go can begin their trek from Kullu Sarahan to Bashleo Pass through the dense forests and green meadows to experience this place and its serenity.
A one day trek to the nearest snow covered peak is an enjoyable experience as one would come across innumerable waterfalls, small stream and unexplainable natural beauty.
The freshness and the virginity of the place suddenly hits you taking you thousands and thousands of miles away from your hustle bustle city life.
Other trekking options include heading towards the Jaon village to begin the Shrikhand trek through various hills, forests and streams. Village folk are often seen walking all the distance to Banjar and making it back by dinner time.
The most typical feature about this village is its beautiful temple dedicated to sage Shring and gives a feeling of being a step closer to god and reaching for the sky. The use of vibrant colours, intricate artwork and unique architectural style will capture your imagination. The snow covered hills behind the temple gives it a perfect backdrop of picture perfect beauty.
The recently concluded two day Jhiru mela held during sangrand in April celebrates the beginning of the New Year which witnesses the village folk in their traditional dresses, dancing and singing to folk songs and wishing for prosperity.
In case you plan a trip to Kullu and its better known destination do not forget to enquire about this small little village as it will equally charm you as would the other destinations.
Bon Voyage !!!
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