The Karsog Valley is a spectacular hidden gem of the Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh. Unlike most hill stations like Shimla and Dharamshala, the Karsog Valley is less commercialised or crowded. Visitors go there to soak in the tranquility and beauty of Himalayan culture which is miles away from the roar of city life. The valley’s lush, green forests, orchards, farms and mountains put on a show every season, from the colourful wildflowers and foliage of the spring and autumn to the snow-capped peaks and valleys of winter. Because of its links with the “Mahabharata,” Karsog is a spiritual and cultural hub for tourists, with many devotees participating enthusiastically in celebrations of Baisakhi, Lohri, Navratri and Diwali while experiencing the folk music, dance and cuisine of the region.
While the best time to visit the Karsog Valley is from March to August and September to November, the winter season has its own charms. You can enjoy the chilly and cosy weather by going on winter treks and making sure you dress appropriately. For the full lowdown on what to do in Karsog, here’s a comprehensive guide.
Spread across the lower and middle Himalayan range, the Shikari Devi Sanctuary connects the Karsog Valley to Bagsaid, the Janjehli Valley to the Thunag Valley, and other small towns in the Mandi district with one another. The area abounds with spectacular wildlife, including musk deer, goral, bears, pheasants, rabbits and more. Small huts of the migrant Gaddi and Gujjar people lie along the trails, and in spring and late autumn, you can see them moving with their flocks of cattle. Most of the places you will visit in Karsog will involve treks up and down the valley, allowing for the opportunity to have a deeper engagement with the landscape.
This Shiva temple in Karsog is tied with various beliefs, one of which says that the temple has witnessed the four ages of the world: Satya Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dvapara Yuga and Kali Yuga. It is also said that the Pandavas got rid of a demon who feasted on human flesh, after which they made an akhand dhuna (eternal fire) in memory of their victory at the site. One of the most fascinating artefacts that the temple has is a 5,000-year-old wheat grain that weighs 250 grams and is linked to the Pandavas, who had supposedly used it to grow grain. There’s also a drum that belonged to Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers, which is believed to have been made and played by him.
Located at the highest point in the Mandi district (3,359 metres), this temple is a popular pilgrimage spot for devotees and one of the top places for trekkers to visit in Karsog. It is believed that the temple has existed since the time of the “Mahabharata” and is dedicated to Shikari Devi, the goddess of hunters. In the olden days, hunters or shikaris of the region would worship the goddess to seek her blessings for a successful hunt. Perhaps the most interesting fact about the Shikari Devi Temple is that it does not have a roof. Despite this, it is said that no snow can be spotted inside the temple during winters when the entire region around the site is covered in several inches of powder. When you’re here, cast a glance at the meadows and pastures and soak in the panoramic views of the mountains. The temple is also one of the best places for sunrise and sunset viewings.
This is one of the most important temples in the Karsog Valley and is dedicated to Goddess Kamaksha, a form of the Goddess Durga. The temple is believed to have been built by the demon king Ravana, who worshipped the goddess. The temple is also known for its idol which is said to change colour and expression according to the deity's mood. The temple looks stunning from the outside as its wooden structure is designed in pagoda style.
An avatar of the Goddess Durga, this temple worships the deity in the form of a young girl who made this place her home. The interior of the temple is made of wooden carvings, while the exterior has intricate detailing that sparks wonder. There’s an annual festival at the temple that villagers partake in, but people from all over the country visit throughout the year to seek blessings. There is also a step well here where water is present all year round.
The temple of Mahunag in Naldehra is regarded as one of the most famous in the area. It is dedicated to the deity Mahunag, a snake god who embodies Karna in the “Mahabharata.” The temple is believed to have been built by the Nagas, a tribe of snake worshippers who constructed a wooden structure and a snake-shaped idol. The temple is also known for its annual fair in April which attracts thousands of devotees and tourists.
The Karsog Valley is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts as it has many trails and routes leading to various peaks and temples with breathtaking views of the valley and mountains, and the attendant wildlife. Visitors can trek to the Shikari Devi Temple for panoramic views of the Pir Panjal, Dhauladhar and Kinnaur ranges after passing through dense forests, meadows and streams. The easy-to-moderate trek to the Kamrunag Temple, located at 3,334 metres above sea level, offers scenic views of the valley and the mountains and also passes through apple orchards, pine forests and villages. Meanwhile, the Chindi Trek takes you to the eponymous village which is known for its apple orchards and wooden houses. The village is a peaceful and picturesque place where you can relax and enjoy the hospitality of the locals. The trek passes through farms, temples and waterfalls.
Kunhoo Dhar is a scenic spot in the Karsog Valley where you can pitch your tent and enjoy the starry night and sunrise over the mountains. Situated at an altitude of 2,600 metres, it offers panoramic views of the valley and the mountains, such as the Pir Panjal ranges, Dhamun Tibba, the rises around the Jalori Pass, Narkanda's Hatu Peak and the Shali Tibba. In winters, visitors can enjoy bonfires, music and food at the campsite, and mingle with fellow campers and locals.
The fertile lands of the Karsog Valley support a wide range of crops such as wheat, potatoes, peas and corn. However, the place is well-known for its apple orchards, which bear fruit in June and July. Many farmers offer apple-picking opportunities during this period, so come back in sunnier times to take advantage of this unique experience.
If you’re not camping, consider checking into the Suket Homestay, Hotel Sood, the Mohit Homestay, the HPTDC Hotel Mamleshwar in Chindi and the Jai Mata Homestay in Devidarh.
Take a flight to Shimla Airport (SLV) or the train to Joginder Nagar Railway Station (JDNX). From either of these destinations, take a bus or taxi to Karsog. The valley is connected by road to Shimla, Mandi and Chandigarh.
