Everybody looks for an amazing destination to spend some quality time and make memories for a lifetime. And there are so many destinations that can serve this purpose of yours and one of these is the beautiful, quaint and mesmerizing Seraj Valley. In the Mandi district’s Seraj Janjehli valley, you’ll find green trees, tall high mountains, pleasant weather, and stunning views.
This lovely valley exemplifies one of nature’s most beautiful works. The valley begins approximately 40 kilometers from Mandi’s district headquarters. Janjehli has a Seeraj block. In addition, Seeraj is a Legislative Assembly constituency. Himachal Pradesh’s Chief Minister Shri Jai Ram Thakur is the current MLA from here. This valley is located in Thunag Tehsil, approximately 70 kilometers from Thunag’s District Headquarters in Mandi.
However, the destination is not that popular among the people but proves to be a tremendous tourist spot when explored. The scenic seraj valley is a peaceful and tranquil location. The lush surroundings and soothing greenery contribute to the beauty of the location. Shikari Devi’s famous and one-of-a-kind temple is approximately 16 kilometers from Janjehli and hence it serves as a base to that temple. In order to make it a popular tourist destination, the state government is taking various steps for its development.
The valley sits in the lap of nature and offers mesmerizing sites and scenes. The views of this valley are enough to leave a person spellbound. If you are looking for a place to enjoy nature at its fullest and for solace, then Seraj Valley is something that is waiting for you.
HOW TO GET TO SEERAJ VALLEY
From Delhi to Aut, Himachal Pradesh, there are semi-sleeper buses that run overnight. Gadagusain is three hours away from there, and local cabs can be hired. A local bus from Aut to Banjar and then another to Gadagusain is also an option to reach your desired destination of Seraj Valley.
PLACES TO VISIT IN AND AROUND SERAJ VALLEY
Shoja
Shoja is a tiny hamlet that is nestled in the beautiful and enchanting Seraj Valley. It connects the Shimla and Kullu districts. The Kasol-loving crowd frequently overlooks a small village that offers the best that nature has to offer (with tables and chairs made of tree trunks). It is a breathtaking location, having sloped mountains that are covered in vegetation, conifers, and deodars that stretch for miles around, and also offers a mesmerising view of the snow-covered peaks.
Shoja is 38 kilometres from Aut. As you set foot in this land, a slew of magical wonders appears before your eyes. April through June and September through October are the best months to visit. Unless you drive yourself, getting here can be a bit of a challenge.
Also Read, Zanskar Valley: A Beautiful Valley of a forgotten Past
Waterfall point
There are numerous treks available from Shoja; make sure to visit the waterfall, which has been transformed into a tourist attraction with its small and slick bridges and chairs and tables made from tree trunks. The spot will give you some great pictures to flood your Instagram and other social media sites with and yes! it’s a must to have a good rum session there!
Jalori Pass
Simply put, the Jalori Pass area is a natural wonderland. The pass is located five kilometers from Shoja at a height of 3,125 m. The view from the top is simply breathtaking, and the journey is well worth it. You can get a breathtaking panoramic view of the Himalayas from there, giving you a sense of being on top of the world. Beyond Jalori Pass, a 6-kilometer hike will take you to Serolsar Lake, a lovely spot for a campfire or a day out with your friends.
Trout Fishing in Tirthan Valley
This activity is possible in Tirthan Valley, near Shoja. You can go on your own, but first-timers may benefit from a guide who will set up the necessary equipment and show you the best trout fishing spots.
Raghupur Fort
Raghupur Fort, which offers 360-degree valley views to the Dhauladhar ranges, is a worthwhile entry point to Serolsar Lake. Raghupur Fort, also known as Raghupur Garh, is a ruins fort with only a few walls about 3 kms from Jalori Pass. A visit to Raghupur Fort includes a walk through a beautiful forest and views of the mountains. There are breathtaking views as far as the eye can see as you approach the meadows where the fort is located.
Shikari Devi
The Shikari Devi temple is dedicated to Shikari Devi, a stone idol of the Goddess. Hunters in the temple’s area used to pray to the goddess for accomplishment during their hunts, which may be where the name “Shikari Devi” originated. Interestingly, this temple is said to have existed since the time of the Pandavas and does not have any kind of roof. There are numerous religious idols worshipped there, some of which are extremely ancient. These are made of black stone and are intricately carved. The temple is perched on the crest of a hill, surrounded by dense oak and coniferous forests. The elevation exceeds 3200 meters.
