Tirthan Valley: My Amazing Himalayan Trip from Chandigarh

My Dream Trip to Tirthan Valley

I was tired of city noise and wanted a break. That’s when I heard about Tirthan Valley in Himachal Pradesh. Green forests, a flowing river, and big mountains—it sounded like a dream! So, I packed my bag and started my journey from Chandigarh. This blog is my story, with tips on how to travel, what to eat, where to stay, and what to do in Tirthan Valley. If you’re planning a trip, this guide will help you!

How to Reach Tirthan Valley from Chandigarh

Chandigarh is a big city, super easy to start your trip from. Tirthan Valley is about 240 km away, and here’s how I went there:

By Bus: Comfortable and Cheap

I took a Volvo bus from Chandigarh’s Sector 43 ISBT to Aut, a small town near Tirthan. The ticket was around ₹800-₹1,200, and the ride took 7-8 hours. The views of hills and trees were so beautiful, I didn’t feel bored! From Aut, I got a taxi to Gushaini, the main spot in Tirthan Valley, for ₹500-₹700. If you want, you can also book a private taxi from Chandigarh for ₹4,000-₹5,000 one way.

By Train and Bus: Save Money

If you want to spend less, take a train from Chandigarh to Kalka (₹100-₹200, 1 hour). Then, catch a bus or taxi from Kalka to Aut. It’s a budget-friendly way to travel.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Go: March to June for nice weather, or September to November for cool air and fewer people. Avoid July-August because of rain and slippery roads.
• What to Pack: Light sweaters for evenings, good shoes for walking, and sunscreen for the sun.
• Safety Tip: Mountain roads are narrow, so pick a driver who knows them well. Don’t travel at night.

What to Do in Tirthan Valley

Tirthan Valley is like a hidden treasure in Himachal, near the Great Himalayan National Park. It’s got rivers, forests, and mountains that make you feel peaceful. Here’s what I did:

Trekking

I went on the Serolsar Lake trek, a 5-hour walk through forests to a beautiful lake. The path is not too hard, and the views are amazing! Another good trek is to Jalori Pass if you love adventure.

Fishing in Tirthan River

The Tirthan River has lots of trout fish. I tried fishing (you need a permit) and had so much fun, even if I didn’t catch anything big!

Great Himalayan National Park

This park is a UNESCO site, full of rare birds and plants. I took a guided trek for a day (entry fee ₹200-₹500) and saw colorful birds and flowers. It’s a must-visit!

Waterfalls and Villages

Chhoi Waterfall is close to Gushaini and super pretty. I also visited Nagini village to see how local people live. They were so friendly!

My Favorite Moment

Sitting by the Tirthan River in the evening, listening to the water and looking at the mountains, was the best part of my trip. It felt like the world stopped for a moment.

Food in Tirthan Valley: Yummy Himachali Flavors

The food in Tirthan is simple but so tasty! Most places serve Himachali dishes that warm your heart. Here’s what I loved:

• Siddu: A steamed bread stuffed with masala. I had it with ghee and chutney at a small dhaba in Gushaini. Cost: ₹50-₹100.
  image credited by timesnownews
  
• Trout Curry: Since the river has trout, many cafes serve fresh fish curry with rice. It’s spicy and delicious, around ₹150-₹200 per plate.
• Dham: A special Himachali thali with dal, rice, curd, and veggies. I tried it at a homestay for ₹200-₹300.
• Maggi and Chai: Every mountain trip needs Maggi! I had it at roadside stalls with hot chai for ₹30-₹50.

Tip: Carry snacks like biscuits or dry fruits for treks. Some remote spots don’t have shops.

Where to Stay in Tirthan Valley

Tirthan has options for every budget, from homestays to fancy resorts. Here’s what I found:

Homestays

I stayed at a homestay in Gushaini called “Tirthan Homestay” (₹1,000-₹2,000 per night). The owners were like family, and the food was homemade. Many homestays offer river views and cozy rooms.

Guest Houses and Camps

For a nature vibe, try camps like Tirthan Riverside Camps (₹1,500-₹3,000 per night). They have tents with comfy beds and bonfires at night. Guest houses like “Himalayan Trout House” are great too, costing ₹2,000-₹4,000.

Resorts

If you want luxury, check out “Tirthan Nature’s Lap Resort” (₹4,000-₹7,000 per night). They have big rooms, hot water, and amazing views.

Why Tirthan Valley is Special

Tirthan Valley isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. The fresh air, the sound of the river, and the simple life of the locals made me forget my worries. Whether you’re trekking, eating local food, or just sitting by the river, every moment feels magical.

Final Tips for Your Tirthan Valley Trip

• Budget: A 3-4 day trip from Chandigarh can cost ₹5,000-₹10,000 per person, including travel, food, and stay (budget options).
• Connectivity: Mobile networks are weak in some areas, so inform family beforehand. Jio and Airtel work decently in Gushaini.
• Respect Nature: Don’t litter, and follow local rules to keep Tirthan clean.

Tirthan Valley is calling you! Pack your bags, start from Chandigarh, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Have you been to Tirthan? Share your story in the comments!