Shoja: Why You Should Visit This Offbeat Hamlet In Himachal Pradesh

Tucked away in the tranquil Seraj Valley, Shoja is a hidden gem that often goes unnoticed amidst the bustling hill stations of Himachal Pradesh. Immerse yourself in the peaceful beauty of this charming village and its unspoiled and secluded environment. With lush mountains, expansive greenery, and stunning views of snow-covered peaks, Shoja is an awe-inspiring destination waiting to be explored. Shoja offers a peaceful retreat within the Great Himalayan National Park area. Visitors can explore walking trails leading to scenic spots such as Serolsar Lake, Jalori Pass, and Waterfall Point, making Shoja an ideal destination for unwinding and rejuvenation.Things To See And DoJalori PassExplore the majestic Jalori Pass, situated at an altitude of 3,125 metres and just five kilometres from Shoja. Drive up to the stopping point before embarking on a thrilling hour and a half trek through a lush forest teeming with diverse flora. At the top, experience the awe-inspiring panoramic view of the Himalayas, offering a truly heavenly sensation, and making the journey absolutely worthwhile.Raghupur FortExperience the grandeur of Raghupur Fort, nestled at a breathtaking elevation of 3,540 metres above sea level in the charming town of Shoja. Explore its impressive design, featuring expansive ditches and tranquil fish ponds that whisper tales of history. Marvel at the visible bullet holes in the fort's walls, bearing witness to its rich past. Against the backdrop of the stunning natural beauty, enjoy a mesmerising panoramic view of the Tirthan Valley and the majestic Himalayan ranges. Seruvalsar LakeDiscover the breathtaking Seruvalsar Lake, a high-altitude gem located just 10 km from Shoja. Immerse yourself in the enchanting surroundings by camping amidst the lush forests that embrace the lake. The spiritual allure is heightened by the presence of a small temple dedicated to Buddhi Nagin, adding a touch of mysticism to this already mesmerising destination.Tirthan ValleyNestled approximately 25 km from Shoja, Tirthan Valley stands out as a serene destination in Himachal Pradesh. Visitors have the opportunity to experience trout fishing at Tirthan River, wander through picturesque villages, and uncover the hidden treasures of nearby Jibhi and Gadagushaini.Great Himalayan National ParkVisit the Great Himalayan National Park located around three hours from Shoja. Located in the Kullu district and spread out over three river valleys of Tirthan, Sainj and Parvati, GHNP is home to a variety of wildlife, such as the bharal, ghoral, serow, the Himalayan brown bear, leopards and even the rarely-seen snow leopard. The park consists of the watersheds of the Jiwa, Sainj and the Tirthan rivers and the river tributaries of the Beas. It is naturally protected on its eastern boundary by the Great Himalayan Range, and on the southern and northern boundaries by areas under permanent snow or by impassable ridges. This is also a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its incredible Himalayan biodiversity.Getting ThereThe nearest airport is Bhuntar (54 km/ 2 hrs) and the nearest railhead is Chandigarh (279 km/ 7 hrs). If taking the road drive upto Chandigarh from Delhi via Ambala. From there, follow NH21 to Aut via Mandi. From Aut, it's a 35-km drive to Gushaini via Larji and Banjar. The journey from Delhi to this tranquil village may be long, but the breathtaking beauty of sloping mountains adorned with lush greenery, conifers, and snow-capped peaks makes it all worthwhile.