Discovering the Best of Nature and Culture: A Guide to Exploring Sarahan in Himachal Pradesh

Nestled amidst the lush green hills of Himachal Pradesh, Sarahan is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by travelers. But for those who do venture to this beautiful hill station, the rewards are plenty. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Sarahan is a destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler.

How to reach Sarahan in Himachal Pradesh:

Sarahan is located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh and is easily accessible by road. The nearest airport is in Shimla, which is about 180 kilometers away, and the nearest railway station is in Kalka, which is about 200 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Sarahan. Sarahan is one of the best stop to take when driving towards Kinnaur or Spiti valley. 

Things to Do in and around Sarahan, Shimla:

Bhimakali Temple: The Bhimakali Temple is one of the most important attractions in Sarahan. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Bhimakali, who is believed to be the presiding deity of the region. The temple is an architectural marvel and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.

Bird Watching: Sarahan is a paradise for birdwatchers, with several species of birds found in and around the town. Some of the birds you can spot here include Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, and Snow Pigeon.

Trekking: Sarahan is surrounded by several beautiful trekking trails that are perfect for adventure enthusiasts. Some of the popular treks in the region include the trek to the Shrikhand Mahadev Peak, the trek to the Bhaba Pass, and the trek to the Rupin Pass.

Natural Beauty: Sarahan is blessed with stunning natural beauty, with snow-capped peaks, lush green forests, and meandering streams dotting the landscape. Take a leisurely stroll around the town and soak in the natural beauty of the region.

Local Culture: Sarahan is home to several indigenous communities, and the local culture is a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Visit the local villages and interact with the locals to get a glimpse into their way of life.

Sarahan is known for its rich cultural heritage, and several festivals and events take place in the town throughout the year. Some of the popular cultural events and festivals in Sarahan are:

Bhimakali Jayanti: Bhimakali Jayanti is the most important festival in Sarahan and is celebrated with great pomp and show every year. The festival is celebrated in honor of the goddess Bhimakali, who is the presiding deity of the Bhimakali Temple. The festival is usually held in the month of April or May and is marked by religious ceremonies, cultural programs, and colorful processions.

Fulaich Fair: The Fulaich Fair is a popular event in Sarahan and is celebrated in the month of August or September every year. The fair is held in honor of Lord Shringa Rishi, who is believed to be the guardian deity of the region. The fair is marked by music, dance, and traditional sports like archery and wrestling.

Some of the traditional sports that are played during the fair are:

- Archery: Archery is a popular sport in Himachal Pradesh, and it is a common sight during the Fulaich Fair. The sport is played with traditional recurve bows and arrows and is a test of skill and accuracy.

- Wrestling: Wrestling is another popular sport that is played during the fair. The sport is played in a traditional mud pit and is marked by intense physical activity and competitive spirit.

- Stone Throwing: Stone throwing is a traditional sport that is played during the Fulaich Fair. The sport involves throwing a heavy stone as far as possible, and the person who throws the stone the farthest wins.

- Tug of War: Tug of War is a popular team sport that is played during the fair. The sport involves two teams pulling on opposite ends of a rope, and the team that pulls the rope to their side wins.

Lohri: Lohri is a popular festival celebrated in the month of January every year. The festival is celebrated to mark the winter solstice and is marked by bonfires, traditional food, and cultural programs.

Diwali: Diwali is a popular festival celebrated throughout India, and Sarahan is no exception. The festival is celebrated in the month of October or November and is marked by fireworks, traditional food, and cultural programs.

Places to stay in Sarahan - 

Sarahan has several accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some popular places to stay in Sarahan:

Hotel Snowview: Hotel Snowview is a popular hotel in Sarahan that offers comfortable accommodation and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel has several room options to choose from, and the staff is warm and friendly.

Shrikhand View Hotel: The Shrikhand View Hotel is another popular hotel in Sarahan that offers comfortable accommodation and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel has several room options to choose from, and the staff is warm and hospitable.

PWD Guesthouse, Jeori : PWD (Public Works Department) Guest House in Jeori is a government-run guest house that offers comfortable accommodation to travelers. The guest house is located in Jeori, which is a small town located near Sarahan in Himachal Pradesh. The guest house is owned and run by the government and offers basic amenities and comfortable accommodation at an affordable price. The PWD Guest House in Jeori offers several room options to choose from, including single rooms, double rooms, and dormitory-style accommodation. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the staff is warm and hospitable.The guest house is located in a peaceful and scenic area, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The guest house is easily accessible by road, and there is ample parking space available for guests.

Hotel Srikhand: Hotel Srikhand is a budget-friendly hotel in Sarahan that offers basic amenities and comfortable accommodation. The hotel is located in the heart of the town and is easily accessible.

Sarahan Retreat: Sarahan Retreat is a homestay in Sarahan that offers comfortable accommodation and warm hospitality. The homestay is owned and run by a local family and offers a glimpse into the local way of life.

Hotel Bhimkali Palace: Hotel Bhimkali Palace is a heritage hotel in Sarahan that offers comfortable accommodation and a glimpse into the town's rich cultural heritage. The hotel is located near the Bhimakali Temple and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Himachal Tourism Hotel: Himachal Tourism Hotel is a government-run hotel in Sarahan that offers comfortable accommodation and basic amenities. The hotel is located near the Bhimakali Temple and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Panchvati Homestay: Panchvati Homestay is a budget-friendly homestay in Sarahan that offers comfortable accommodation and warm hospitality. The homestay is located in a quiet and peaceful area and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Other places worth exploring around Sarahan : 

Sarahan is surrounded by several beautiful places that are worth exploring. Here are some of the other places to explore around Sarahan:

Rampur Bushahr: Rampur Bushahr is a small town located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. The town is located on the banks of the Sutlej River and is surrounded by lush green forests and mountains. Some of the things to do and places to visit in Rampur Bushahr: Padam Palace, Nirath, Raghupur Fort, Lavi Fair, Kupvi..

Sangla Valley: Sangla Valley is a picturesque valley located near Sarahan that is known for its natural beauty. The valley is home to several small villages and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Chitkul: Chitkul is a small village located near the Indo-Tibetan border and is known for its natural beauty. The village is home to the Chitkul Mata Temple, which is a popular pilgrimage site.

Kinnaur Kailash: Kinnaur Kailash is a mountain peak located near Sarahan that is considered sacred by Hindus and Buddhists. The peak offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular trekking destination.

Kamru Fort: Kamru Fort is an ancient fort located near Sangla Valley and is a popular tourist attraction. The fort is home to several ancient temples and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Rakcham: Rakcham is a small village located near the Sangla Valley and is known for its natural beauty. The village is surrounded by lush green forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Kalpa: Kalpa is a small town located near Sarahan and is known for its natural beauty. The town is home to several ancient temples and offers stunning views of the Kinnaur Kailash mountain range.