Hidden in the Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO-recognised World Heritage Site, lies the picturesque Shangarh village. In this seemingly quiet hamlet, the bright green valleys hum nature's sweet music and spectacular shades of green colour the region. And despite the resounding silence, Shangarh discloses bold cultural expressions through the meticulous craftsmanship of its star Shangchul Mahadev Temple, the rooted Himachali way of life of the locals, and the several hidden trekking trails meandering through its lush valleys.
If you have been craving a peaceful getaway, Shangarh village is the place to be. As a part of the protected ecozone, you can witness nature's unfiltered beauty at Shangarh village. However, that's not all there is to this region. The village is a treasure trove of discoveries to understand the Himachali way of life. On your trip here, here's everything you must experience
Visit Shangchul Mahadev Temple: Perched atop a hill, the Shangchul Mahadev Temple is a popular attraction among tourists and Shiva devotees. The only thing more fascinating than its intricate architecture featuring fine wooden carvings is its history, which traces back to the period of the Mahabharata. As per local lores, the temple is also believed to shelter couples ostracised by their families and society.
Catch a break at Serolsar Lake: Embark on a trek to Serolsar Lake, a serene and pristine lake surrounded by dense forests. The trek is relatively easy and takes you through beautiful meadows and rhododendron forests. The clear turquoise waters of the lake are mesmerizing, and it's an ideal spot for a picnic or camping.
Go trekking or enjoy nature walks: Shangarh is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers. Explore the surrounding trails, such as the Shangarh-Chhatri trek or the Shangarh-Raktisar trek, which take you through dense forests, meadows, and picturesque landscapes.
Immerse in the local culture of the village: At Shangarh village, the best way to immerse yourself in its local culture is to interact with the villagers. They are friendly and warm, and willingly show you around, and sometimes, even invite you for a warm traditional meal at their homes. If you wish to explore further, also visit the nearby Goshati and Darari villages. In addition, you can also learn about traditional agricultural techniques like terrace farming.
Shangarh village and the surrounding towns like Sainj, Tirthan, and Banjar have diverse options for a comfortable stay. Hostels and homestays are many and popular around the area. Here are our top three picks
The Hosteller, Shangarh: Tucked away in the deep green meadows of Shangarh, the Hosteller is a top choice among backpackers travelling on a budget. Even though it is pocket-friendly, the hostel has all the modern amenities, such as 24/7 free WiFi. Apart from mixed dorms and private rooms, they also have a common area and a cafe where you can spend time reading, working, or simply gazing at the beautiful view. Book here.
Into The Wild: Nestled between an apple orchard, surrounded by pine forest and overlooking mighty peaks, this stay transports you to paradise with its secluded setting. With 11 beds and four washrooms, the cottage is a great option if you are travelling with a big group and want the whole place to yourself. In addition, it boasts close proximity to Shangchul Mahadev Meadow, Bharshangarh and Rupi Raila waterfalls, and Raila Twin Towers. The stay is manned by helpful staff ever-ready to whip up traditional Himachali fare upon request. Book here.
Zostel, Shangarh: Located amidst dense meadows, Zostel, Shangarh is another budget-friendly option for backpackers that combines comfort. Here, you can choose to stay in a dorm or a private room, depending on your budget and preference. It also comes with all the amenities you need, and to make your stay more pleasant, the staff is extremely helpful. Book here.
The serene hamlet has very few cafes and restaurants, but for the epicurean, locals here love to treat travellers to traditional delicacies such as tudkiya bhat (sweet rice preparation), dhaam (a traditional Himachali thali), siddu (steamed wheat dumpling), etc. If you do want to try something more familiar, you can head to the popular Cafe Stories N' More or the Mountain View Cafe near the meadows. You can also make a stop at one of the homestays for a fresh home-cooked meal.
Since Shangarh is nestled in a protected ecozone, it is essential to be mindful not to litter and keep the village clean. Also, while locals are welcoming of tourists, it is important to respect their culture and traditions. Drinking in public spaces or in the open is not allowed in the village.
By air: Bhuntar is the nearest airport. From there, hire a cab to Sainj Valley.
By road: From Chandigarh or Delhi, board a bus to Manali with Aut as a stop on the way. Get down at Aut and then take a bus to Sainj Valley.
By train: Chandigarh is the nearest railway station. From there, you can either hire a private cab or take a bus to Sainj Valley.
