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<p><strong>The Oasis of Silence, Barog</strong></p><p>Located on the UNESCO World Heritage sitethe Kalka-Shimla railway in Himachal Pradesh&rsquo;s Solan District, Barog is slowly becoming more popular among niche travellers as compared to its more famous cousin Shimla, thanks to the latter&rsquo;s rapid commercialisation.</p><p>For those wanting a quick break from the hassling crowds and noises of the city, Barog, which is in close proximity to Punjab emerges as a welcome break.</p><p><strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong><br>
For those who find silence irresistible and need some me time&rsquo;, Barog ticks all boxes. But that doesn&rsquo;t mean that you have to stay put in your hotel room. The famous Dolanji Bon monastery offers absolute serenity and for those who just cannot do without a bit of adventure, the Choor Chandani peak (3650 m above sea level) is perfect for midlevel trekkers and photography enthusiasts.</p><p><strong>What To Do </strong><br>
If you ask us, going for long walks and inhaling absolutely pure oxygen in this town&rsquo;s markets is the best thing to do. But if you are itching for an activity, head straight to the Barog Camping Grounds which offers a beautiful view of the Solan Valley, and Choor Chandni peaks. This camp offers activities like nature walks and treks.</p><p><strong>Quick Getaways </strong><br>
You can make day trips to Kasauli, Shimla, Chail or Nahan. Also check out the Karol Tibba, just a few kilometres away. Locals believe that the Pandavas had taken shelter here during their exile.</p><p><strong>Distance 60 </strong><strong>kms</strong><strong> from Chandigarh</strong><br>
Stay Here The Pinewood<br>
Tel 01792-238825<br>
Tariff Rs 3,500 per night</p><p><strong>Apple Trail, Narkanda</strong></p><div class="itemcenter"><amp-iframe height="62" title="" width="320" sandbox="allow-forms allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-top-navigation allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation" allowfullscreen src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Fsites%2Findiatoday%2Fbanner%2Fpreferred-source-new.html%3Fv%3D1.014%5Cu0026native%3D1" class="mrBt15 preferred-source-banner"> </amp-iframe></div></p><p>Surrounded by the Shivalik range, Narkanda is a visual treat and promises all the ingredients of a perfect hill station break  forests, orchards, water bodies, trekking trails, ancient temples, skiing, and abundant flora and fauna. Just 65 kilometres from Shimla, Narkanda, doesn't have a huge tourist influx and that's what makes it so special.</p><div class="itgimage"><amp-img src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Findiatoday%2Fimages%2Fbodyeditor%2F201903%2FSP-Cover-Story-March2019-3_770-x443.jpg%3F_kngGXjxjhL.6b9FOlrszlmW6qRBn7sQ%3Fsize%3D750:*" alt="" height="443" width="770" class="" layout="responsive"></amp-img>
<div class="body_caption">Photograph by Sandeep Sahdev; Model Ankita</div>
</div></p><p><strong>Why Go </strong><br>
If it is adventure that drives you, it makes complete sense to trek to the highest peak in the district, Hatu, which is at an elevation of 3400 metres. The peak is also home to the much-revered ancient temple of Hatu Mata and a series of caves. Of course, there is a jeep road to reach the peak too. One of the most popular skiing destinations since the British era, the north facing ski slopes of Narkanda offer this activity for every levelbeginner&rsquo;s run, advanced slope and a slalom run. While there, make it a point to take lots of pictures of the crystal clear waters of the Tannu Jubbar Lake.</p><p><strong>Must See Must Do </strong><br>
Just seven kilometres from Narkanda is the Mahamaya temple dedicated to goddess Kali. A must visit to see the delicate pahari architecture and enigmatic carvings. Also, do take a trip to the Stokes Farm, a haven for apple lovers founded in 1916 by Samuel Satyanand Stokes, an American who came to India with the initial intention of working with leprosy patients. Today, this farm provides livelihood to several locals, especially women. While here, don't forget to pick up some apple wine and jam.</p><p>Distance 173 kms from Chandigarh<br>
Stay Here Seetalvan Orchard<br>
Tel 9805594069<br>
Tariff Rs 5,500 per night</p><p><strong>Back to the soil, Andretta</strong></p><p>This is the perfect place for a truly rustic vacation. Mud houses, Indian minimalism, tea plantations, Dhauladhar ranges  in short, a surreal landscape. Norah Richards, an Irish woman, converted this small Himachali village, just 13 kilometres from Palampur into an artists&rsquo; colony way back in the 1920s.</p><div class="itgimage"><amp-img src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Findiatoday%2Fimages%2Fbodyeditor%2F201903%2FSP-Cover-Story-March2019-2_770-x443.jpg%3FAsynJ.GG4NPfffy1kagofrtOA10XbUzo%3Fsize%3D750:*" alt="" height="443" width="770" class="" layout="responsive"></amp-img>
<div class="body_caption">Potters Mansimran and Mary Singh of Andretta Pottery Studio. Photograph by Sandeep Sahdev</div>
</div></p><p><strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong><br>
Some of the biggest names in Indian art, performance and theatre like painters BC Sanyal, Sobha Singh and Gursharan Singh, who introduced studio pottery in India besides a host of others, set up their mud houses here, employing local style and material, using mud, bamboo and slate. The village became a cultural melting pot for the whole country and played host to several theatre performances.</p><p><strong>Must See Must Do </strong><br>
When in Andretta, visit the Sobha Singh gallery and buy a print or two of his paintings. Check out the pottery studio where you can also buy some blue pottery pieces. Do take a tour of the Woodland Norah Richards house, especially at night.</p><p><strong>Quick Getaways </strong><br>
Almost everybody who visits Andretta makes it a point to drive to Bir which is just an hour away. Boasting of one of the world&rsquo;s best paragliding sites, Bir has come up in a big way as far as tourism goes. Good hiking trails, a host of interesting cafes and monasteries like Chokling and Palpung Sherab Ling make the visit worthwhile.</p><p>Distance 233 kms from Chandigarh<br>
Stay Here Colonel&rsquo;s Resort VPO: Bir,<br>
Baijnath<br>
Tel 09805534220<br>
Tariff Rs 5,000 per night</p><p><strong>Wild and Beautiful, Barot</strong></p><p>Situated in the Uhl river valley, Barot was originally developed by the British as part of the Shanan Hydel Project in 1932. Located in the Mandi district, this is a wellknown place but attracts very few tourists. The blend of small-town feel mixed with tourist attractions is what make it ideal for the discerning traveller looking for an fun getaway.</p><div class="itgimage"><amp-img src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Findiatoday%2Fimages%2Fbodyeditor%2F201903%2FSP-Cover-Story-March2019-4_770-x443.jpg%3FnmbsPFVK5v8lA60q17z5ml10norpIXwS%3Fsize%3D750:*" alt="" height="443" width="770" class="" layout="responsive"></amp-img>
<div class="body_caption">Photograph by Sandeep Sahdev</div>
</div></p><p><strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong></p><p>For the longest time, Barot was almost inaccessible and it was only in 1975 that a road was built to the village. Even today, the pristine surroundings of the village are well preserved and untouched by pollution or population.</p><p><strong>What To Do </strong><br>
Barot&rsquo;s steady rise in popularity means it has a few engaging options for those who look to stay in the village itself, rather than wander around in the forests. Most recently, the village is positioning itself as an angling destination considering the banks of Uhl are ideal for trout breeding and the village itself has a number of fish farms. Barot is also surrounded by a few small lakes which provide the perfect setting to step back and soak in nature&rsquo;s bounty.</p><p><strong>Don't Miss </strong><br>
The Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to the Himalayan black bear, the Himalayan monal and the Himalayan goral. This is easily accessible through the village of Barot. The sanctuary itself is quite large and has two guesthouses where travellers can stay for the night.</p><p>Distance 259 kms from Chandigarh<br>
Stay Here Hotel Lake Paradise<br>
Tel 945-9048-812<br>
Tariff Rs 1,425 per night</p><p><strong>Peace, Pastures And More <br>
Jibhi</strong></p><p>Nestled in the Banjar Valley, Jibhi is a small village where harmony, intimacy and a slow casual pace come at no extra cost. Isolated and pristine, this haven is away from annoying tourists who disrupt the peace during your mountain getaways. </p><p><strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong><br>
Be ready to be stunned by nature at the scenic Jalori Pass as you witness green meadows, dense forests of cedar and pine trees, and snow-covered mountains. The surrounding forests are home to many species of migratory and indigenous birds, making it the perfect setting for bird watchers. </p><p><strong>What To Do? </strong><br>
Unlike other mountain villages, Jibhi has enough to keep one busy, not just for the weekend but in fact several days. The vast green fields are perfect to pitch a tent and all you need is a bonfire to grab a good night&rsquo;s sleep.</p><p><strong>Around Jibhi </strong><br>
Deep inside the forests of Jibhi, you will find enchanting waterfalls. Visit the right one at the ideal time and you might spot a double rainbow a phenomenon that no picture will ever do justice to. A short stroll to the nearby village of Chaini and you can explore an ancient fort that was built here 1500 years ago. The watchtower at Chaini stands 40 metres tall and is the best vantage point for all your pictures.</p><p>Distance 259 kms from Chandigarh.<br>
Stay Here Rana Swiss Cottages<br>
Tel 1903-228-231<br>
Tariff Rs 2,500 per chalet</p><p><strong>The Hidden Hamlet, Shoja</strong></p><p>Located in the Seraj Valley, Shoja is a small hamlet that acts as a connection between Shimla and Kullu. Featuring countless highland terrains, Shoja is surrounded by conifers and pine trees, offering spectacular views of snowcapped peaks all year round. This settlement is nature and oldworld charm at its unadulterated best, featuring tables and chairs crafted out of tree trunks with little to no tourist incursions.</p><div class="itgimage"><amp-img src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Findiatoday%2Fimages%2Fbodyeditor%2F201903%2FSP-Cover-Story-March2019-5_770_0-x443.jpg%3FuVWeTI73rgkPOCvd_xoaRRTdVuhJKrEe%3Fsize%3D750:*" alt="" height="443" width="770" class="" layout="responsive"></amp-img>
<div class="body_caption">Photograph by Alamy</div>
</div></p><p><br>
<br>
<strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong><br>
As its whereabouts sit off the beaten path, Shoja happens to be one of the few locations in the Himalayas that exude untouched beauty. Surrounded for miles by slanting mountains covered with thick forests and snowcapped tops, Shoja will steal your breath every morning with its exquisite views. But surpassing the views of the day are the sunsets, where the mixed hues of amber and cobalt spread across the horizon will be more therapeutic than any other activity. What To Do One of the best gifts you can give yourself is a trek to the Shoja waterfall, a laidback trek and a blessing for amateur trekkers. Once you arrive, the sound of the water tumbling down a height onto muddy crevices in the gravel will be the best sound you would have ever heard in ages.</p><p><strong>Around Shoja </strong><br>
A day's trek to Jalori Pass and Raghupur Fort will be worth your time. Deafening silence greets you as you scale the summit and the surrounding meadows are a sight to behold.</p><p>Distance 265 kms from Chandigarh<br>
Stay Here Forest Rest House<br>
Tel 1903-221-226<br>
Tariff Rs 1,000 per night</p><p><strong>Paradise, Hidden, Beral</strong></p><p>Mostly farmers inhabit this quaint village in Himachal Pradesh&rsquo;s Rohru district. Not on the tour operators&rsquo; map, Beral, nestled in the midst of apple orchards, carries a quiet around itself which promises a great breather from the maddening city life.</p><div class="itgimage"><amp-img src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Findiatoday%2Fimages%2Fbodyeditor%2F201903%2FSP-Cover-Story-March2019-7_770-x443.jpg%3FJVbO6Vy4853XlCc6MLhf2wLE9SXlU3FQ%3Fsize%3D750:*" alt="" height="443" width="770" class="" layout="responsive"></amp-img>
<div class="body_caption">Photograph by Shutterstock</div>
</div></p><p><strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong><br>
The place is a delight for those who look to imbibe knowledge and soak in nature&rsquo;s splendour.</p><p>The local architecture is uniquely traditional. Beral is also home to many temples, all of which are adorned with exquisite craftsmanship on the walls. Some of the temples have their own artisans, whose family have been doing this work for generations. Talking to such artisans is insightful as the anecdotes they share swing between fantastic urban legends and reality.</p><p><strong>Best For </strong>Beral provides an ideal setting for amateur trekkers. Trails are surrounded by pine and deodar trees, and the terrain is not steep. Nearby villages like Jharag and temples like Giri Ganga provide the perfect excuse to step out on a hike. Local women are fond of knitting and sell caps, mufflers, and socks in different patterns.</p><p><strong>Explore Beral </strong>The villages surrounding Beral are equally antiquated and scenic. The locals are amiable and go out of their way to help. They will almost always extend some pleasant hospitality. Life here is frugal and very simple, but that&rsquo;s what makes it so beautiful.</p><p>Distance 212 Kilometers from Chandigarh<br>
Stay Here Kalta Homestay<br>
Tel 941-8207-750<br>
Tariff Rs 1,500 per night</p><p><strong>Tirthan's</strong><strong> Treat, Gushaini</strong></p><p>Located inside the jewel that is the Tirthan Valley, Gushaini is a small village perched at the banks of the Tirthan river and features an immeasurable amount of greenery. Gushaini&rsquo;s proximity to the Great Himalayan National Park makes it a favourite amongst trekkers, researchers, botanists and bird watchers, yet its modern amenities (the camping grounds have WiFi) make it great for a peaceful escape where you can stay connected.</p><div class="itgimage"><amp-img src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Findiatoday%2Fimages%2Fbodyeditor%2F201903%2FSP-Cover-Story-March2019-8_770-x443.jpg%3FAhbSacie1y69L77MWWJnqpd7j40AoafU%3Fsize%3D750:*" alt="" height="443" width="770" class="" layout="responsive"></amp-img>
<div class="body_caption">Photograph by Alamy</div>
</div></p><p><strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong></p><p>The sounds of the Tirthan river gushing a few metres away from your tent is bound to have you waking up with a smile. Several walking trails are on offer in Gushaini.</p><p><strong>Must See Must Do </strong><br>
At the banks of the Tirthan river, Gushaini becomes an ideal spot for trout breeding and thus the village pegs itself as a destination for anglers. There are places where the requisite equipment can be rented, and often the caretaker at your homestay will happily show you how to bend a rod if you are a novice. In case fishing sounds too much of a bore, worry not. Surrounded by lush green meadows and thick layers of pine trees, one only needs a good pair of hiking shoes when at Gushaini and you are set for a week or two.</p><p><strong>Don't Miss </strong><br>
You simply cannot miss a trip to the Great Himalayan National Park that promises a number of scenic and hearty treks. A small hike away from Gushaini, Bandal village has several excellently maintained old temples. </p><p>Distance 252 kms from Chandigarh.<br>
Stay Here Raju's Guesthouse<br>
Tel 945-9833-124<br>
Tariff Rs 3,500 per night</p><div id="tab-link-wrapper-plugin"><div class="authors__container"><div class="authors__by"><div class="authlable">Published By: </div><div class="authdetaisl">Parmita Uniyal</div></div><div class="published__on"><div class="authlable">Published On: </div><div class="authdetaisl">Mar 22, 2019</div></div></div><div class="sendros">--- ENDS ---</div></div>

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<p><strong>The Oasis of Silence, Barog</strong></p><p>Located on the UNESCO World Heritage sitethe Kalka-Shimla railway in Himachal Pradesh&rsquo;s Solan District, Barog is slowly becoming more popular among niche travellers as compared to its more famous cousin Shimla, thanks to the latter&rsquo;s rapid commercialisation.</p><p>For those wanting a quick break from the hassling crowds and noises of the city, Barog, which is in close proximity to Punjab emerges as a welcome break.</p><p><strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong><br>
For those who find silence irresistible and need some me time&rsquo;, Barog ticks all boxes. But that doesn&rsquo;t mean that you have to stay put in your hotel room. The famous Dolanji Bon monastery offers absolute serenity and for those who just cannot do without a bit of adventure, the Choor Chandani peak (3650 m above sea level) is perfect for midlevel trekkers and photography enthusiasts.</p><p><strong>What To Do </strong><br>
If you ask us, going for long walks and inhaling absolutely pure oxygen in this town&rsquo;s markets is the best thing to do. But if you are itching for an activity, head straight to the Barog Camping Grounds which offers a beautiful view of the Solan Valley, and Choor Chandni peaks. This camp offers activities like nature walks and treks.</p><p><strong>Quick Getaways </strong><br>
You can make day trips to Kasauli, Shimla, Chail or Nahan. Also check out the Karol Tibba, just a few kilometres away. Locals believe that the Pandavas had taken shelter here during their exile.</p><p><strong>Distance 60 </strong><strong>kms</strong><strong> from Chandigarh</strong><br>
Stay Here The Pinewood<br>
Tel 01792-238825<br>
Tariff Rs 3,500 per night</p><p><strong>Apple Trail, Narkanda</strong></p><div class="itemcenter"><iframe scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" width="100%" height="62" awidth="320" aheight="62" amplayout="fixed" src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Fsites%2Findiatoday%2Fbanner%2Fpreferred-source-new.html%3Fv%3D1.014" class="preferred-source-banner" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><style>.preferred-source-banner{  margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom:10px;}</style></p><p>Surrounded by the Shivalik range, Narkanda is a visual treat and promises all the ingredients of a perfect hill station break  forests, orchards, water bodies, trekking trails, ancient temples, skiing, and abundant flora and fauna. Just 65 kilometres from Shimla, Narkanda, doesn't have a huge tourist influx and that's what makes it so special.</p><div class="itgimage"><div class="itgimage"><img  height="443"  title=""  width="770"  class="" alt="" src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Findiatoday%2Fimages%2Fbodyeditor%2F201903%2FSP-Cover-Story-March2019-3_770-x443.jpg%3F_kngGXjxjhL.6b9FOlrszlmW6qRBn7sQ%3Fsize%3D750:*" loading="lazy" /></div>
<div class="body_caption">Photograph by Sandeep Sahdev; Model Ankita</div>
</div></p><p><strong>Why Go </strong><br>
If it is adventure that drives you, it makes complete sense to trek to the highest peak in the district, Hatu, which is at an elevation of 3400 metres. The peak is also home to the much-revered ancient temple of Hatu Mata and a series of caves. Of course, there is a jeep road to reach the peak too. One of the most popular skiing destinations since the British era, the north facing ski slopes of Narkanda offer this activity for every levelbeginner&rsquo;s run, advanced slope and a slalom run. While there, make it a point to take lots of pictures of the crystal clear waters of the Tannu Jubbar Lake.</p><p><strong>Must See Must Do </strong><br>
Just seven kilometres from Narkanda is the Mahamaya temple dedicated to goddess Kali. A must visit to see the delicate pahari architecture and enigmatic carvings. Also, do take a trip to the Stokes Farm, a haven for apple lovers founded in 1916 by Samuel Satyanand Stokes, an American who came to India with the initial intention of working with leprosy patients. Today, this farm provides livelihood to several locals, especially women. While here, don't forget to pick up some apple wine and jam.</p><p>Distance 173 kms from Chandigarh<br>
Stay Here Seetalvan Orchard<br>
Tel 9805594069<br>
Tariff Rs 5,500 per night</p><p><strong>Back to the soil, Andretta</strong></p><p>This is the perfect place for a truly rustic vacation. Mud houses, Indian minimalism, tea plantations, Dhauladhar ranges  in short, a surreal landscape. Norah Richards, an Irish woman, converted this small Himachali village, just 13 kilometres from Palampur into an artists&rsquo; colony way back in the 1920s.</p><div class="itgimage"><div class="itgimage"><img  height="443"  title=""  width="770"  class="" alt="" src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Findiatoday%2Fimages%2Fbodyeditor%2F201903%2FSP-Cover-Story-March2019-2_770-x443.jpg%3FAsynJ.GG4NPfffy1kagofrtOA10XbUzo%3Fsize%3D750:*" loading="lazy" /></div>
<div class="body_caption">Potters Mansimran and Mary Singh of Andretta Pottery Studio. Photograph by Sandeep Sahdev</div>
</div></p><p><strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong><br>
Some of the biggest names in Indian art, performance and theatre like painters BC Sanyal, Sobha Singh and Gursharan Singh, who introduced studio pottery in India besides a host of others, set up their mud houses here, employing local style and material, using mud, bamboo and slate. The village became a cultural melting pot for the whole country and played host to several theatre performances.</p><p><strong>Must See Must Do </strong><br>
When in Andretta, visit the Sobha Singh gallery and buy a print or two of his paintings. Check out the pottery studio where you can also buy some blue pottery pieces. Do take a tour of the Woodland Norah Richards house, especially at night.</p><p><strong>Quick Getaways </strong><br>
Almost everybody who visits Andretta makes it a point to drive to Bir which is just an hour away. Boasting of one of the world&rsquo;s best paragliding sites, Bir has come up in a big way as far as tourism goes. Good hiking trails, a host of interesting cafes and monasteries like Chokling and Palpung Sherab Ling make the visit worthwhile.</p><p>Distance 233 kms from Chandigarh<br>
Stay Here Colonel&rsquo;s Resort VPO: Bir,<br>
Baijnath<br>
Tel 09805534220<br>
Tariff Rs 5,000 per night</p><p><strong>Wild and Beautiful, Barot</strong></p><p>Situated in the Uhl river valley, Barot was originally developed by the British as part of the Shanan Hydel Project in 1932. Located in the Mandi district, this is a wellknown place but attracts very few tourists. The blend of small-town feel mixed with tourist attractions is what make it ideal for the discerning traveller looking for an fun getaway.</p><div class="itgimage"><div class="itgimage"><img  height="443"  title=""  width="770"  class="" alt="" src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Findiatoday%2Fimages%2Fbodyeditor%2F201903%2FSP-Cover-Story-March2019-4_770-x443.jpg%3FnmbsPFVK5v8lA60q17z5ml10norpIXwS%3Fsize%3D750:*" loading="lazy" /></div>
<div class="body_caption">Photograph by Sandeep Sahdev</div>
</div></p><p><strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong></p><p>For the longest time, Barot was almost inaccessible and it was only in 1975 that a road was built to the village. Even today, the pristine surroundings of the village are well preserved and untouched by pollution or population.</p><p><strong>What To Do </strong><br>
Barot&rsquo;s steady rise in popularity means it has a few engaging options for those who look to stay in the village itself, rather than wander around in the forests. Most recently, the village is positioning itself as an angling destination considering the banks of Uhl are ideal for trout breeding and the village itself has a number of fish farms. Barot is also surrounded by a few small lakes which provide the perfect setting to step back and soak in nature&rsquo;s bounty.</p><p><strong>Don't Miss </strong><br>
The Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to the Himalayan black bear, the Himalayan monal and the Himalayan goral. This is easily accessible through the village of Barot. The sanctuary itself is quite large and has two guesthouses where travellers can stay for the night.</p><p>Distance 259 kms from Chandigarh<br>
Stay Here Hotel Lake Paradise<br>
Tel 945-9048-812<br>
Tariff Rs 1,425 per night</p><p><strong>Peace, Pastures And More <br>
Jibhi</strong></p><p>Nestled in the Banjar Valley, Jibhi is a small village where harmony, intimacy and a slow casual pace come at no extra cost. Isolated and pristine, this haven is away from annoying tourists who disrupt the peace during your mountain getaways. </p><p><strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong><br>
Be ready to be stunned by nature at the scenic Jalori Pass as you witness green meadows, dense forests of cedar and pine trees, and snow-covered mountains. The surrounding forests are home to many species of migratory and indigenous birds, making it the perfect setting for bird watchers. </p><p><strong>What To Do? </strong><br>
Unlike other mountain villages, Jibhi has enough to keep one busy, not just for the weekend but in fact several days. The vast green fields are perfect to pitch a tent and all you need is a bonfire to grab a good night&rsquo;s sleep.</p><p><strong>Around Jibhi </strong><br>
Deep inside the forests of Jibhi, you will find enchanting waterfalls. Visit the right one at the ideal time and you might spot a double rainbow a phenomenon that no picture will ever do justice to. A short stroll to the nearby village of Chaini and you can explore an ancient fort that was built here 1500 years ago. The watchtower at Chaini stands 40 metres tall and is the best vantage point for all your pictures.</p><p>Distance 259 kms from Chandigarh.<br>
Stay Here Rana Swiss Cottages<br>
Tel 1903-228-231<br>
Tariff Rs 2,500 per chalet</p><p><strong>The Hidden Hamlet, Shoja</strong></p><p>Located in the Seraj Valley, Shoja is a small hamlet that acts as a connection between Shimla and Kullu. Featuring countless highland terrains, Shoja is surrounded by conifers and pine trees, offering spectacular views of snowcapped peaks all year round. This settlement is nature and oldworld charm at its unadulterated best, featuring tables and chairs crafted out of tree trunks with little to no tourist incursions.</p><div class="itgimage"><div class="itgimage"><img  height="443"  title=""  width="770"  class="" alt="" src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Findiatoday%2Fimages%2Fbodyeditor%2F201903%2FSP-Cover-Story-March2019-5_770_0-x443.jpg%3FuVWeTI73rgkPOCvd_xoaRRTdVuhJKrEe%3Fsize%3D750:*" loading="lazy" /></div>
<div class="body_caption">Photograph by Alamy</div>
</div></p><p><br>
<br>
<strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong><br>
As its whereabouts sit off the beaten path, Shoja happens to be one of the few locations in the Himalayas that exude untouched beauty. Surrounded for miles by slanting mountains covered with thick forests and snowcapped tops, Shoja will steal your breath every morning with its exquisite views. But surpassing the views of the day are the sunsets, where the mixed hues of amber and cobalt spread across the horizon will be more therapeutic than any other activity. What To Do One of the best gifts you can give yourself is a trek to the Shoja waterfall, a laidback trek and a blessing for amateur trekkers. Once you arrive, the sound of the water tumbling down a height onto muddy crevices in the gravel will be the best sound you would have ever heard in ages.</p><p><strong>Around Shoja </strong><br>
A day's trek to Jalori Pass and Raghupur Fort will be worth your time. Deafening silence greets you as you scale the summit and the surrounding meadows are a sight to behold.</p><p>Distance 265 kms from Chandigarh<br>
Stay Here Forest Rest House<br>
Tel 1903-221-226<br>
Tariff Rs 1,000 per night</p><p><strong>Paradise, Hidden, Beral</strong></p><p>Mostly farmers inhabit this quaint village in Himachal Pradesh&rsquo;s Rohru district. Not on the tour operators&rsquo; map, Beral, nestled in the midst of apple orchards, carries a quiet around itself which promises a great breather from the maddening city life.</p><div class="itgimage"><div class="itgimage"><img  height="443"  title=""  width="770"  class="" alt="" src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Findiatoday%2Fimages%2Fbodyeditor%2F201903%2FSP-Cover-Story-March2019-7_770-x443.jpg%3FJVbO6Vy4853XlCc6MLhf2wLE9SXlU3FQ%3Fsize%3D750:*" loading="lazy" /></div>
<div class="body_caption">Photograph by Shutterstock</div>
</div></p><p><strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong><br>
The place is a delight for those who look to imbibe knowledge and soak in nature&rsquo;s splendour.</p><p>The local architecture is uniquely traditional. Beral is also home to many temples, all of which are adorned with exquisite craftsmanship on the walls. Some of the temples have their own artisans, whose family have been doing this work for generations. Talking to such artisans is insightful as the anecdotes they share swing between fantastic urban legends and reality.</p><p><strong>Best For </strong>Beral provides an ideal setting for amateur trekkers. Trails are surrounded by pine and deodar trees, and the terrain is not steep. Nearby villages like Jharag and temples like Giri Ganga provide the perfect excuse to step out on a hike. Local women are fond of knitting and sell caps, mufflers, and socks in different patterns.</p><p><strong>Explore Beral </strong>The villages surrounding Beral are equally antiquated and scenic. The locals are amiable and go out of their way to help. They will almost always extend some pleasant hospitality. Life here is frugal and very simple, but that&rsquo;s what makes it so beautiful.</p><p>Distance 212 Kilometers from Chandigarh<br>
Stay Here Kalta Homestay<br>
Tel 941-8207-750<br>
Tariff Rs 1,500 per night</p><p><strong>Tirthan's</strong><strong> Treat, Gushaini</strong></p><p>Located inside the jewel that is the Tirthan Valley, Gushaini is a small village perched at the banks of the Tirthan river and features an immeasurable amount of greenery. Gushaini&rsquo;s proximity to the Great Himalayan National Park makes it a favourite amongst trekkers, researchers, botanists and bird watchers, yet its modern amenities (the camping grounds have WiFi) make it great for a peaceful escape where you can stay connected.</p><div class="itgimage"><div class="itgimage"><img  height="443"  title=""  width="770"  class="" alt="" src="https://ancillary-proxy.atarimworker.dev?url=https%3A%2F%2Fakm-img-a-in.tosshub.com%2Findiatoday%2Fimages%2Fbodyeditor%2F201903%2FSP-Cover-Story-March2019-8_770-x443.jpg%3FAhbSacie1y69L77MWWJnqpd7j40AoafU%3Fsize%3D750:*" loading="lazy" /></div>
<div class="body_caption">Photograph by Alamy</div>
</div></p><p><strong>What&rsquo;s Special </strong></p><p>The sounds of the Tirthan river gushing a few metres away from your tent is bound to have you waking up with a smile. Several walking trails are on offer in Gushaini.</p><p><strong>Must See Must Do </strong><br>
At the banks of the Tirthan river, Gushaini becomes an ideal spot for trout breeding and thus the village pegs itself as a destination for anglers. There are places where the requisite equipment can be rented, and often the caretaker at your homestay will happily show you how to bend a rod if you are a novice. In case fishing sounds too much of a bore, worry not. Surrounded by lush green meadows and thick layers of pine trees, one only needs a good pair of hiking shoes when at Gushaini and you are set for a week or two.</p><p><strong>Don't Miss </strong><br>
You simply cannot miss a trip to the Great Himalayan National Park that promises a number of scenic and hearty treks. A small hike away from Gushaini, Bandal village has several excellently maintained old temples. </p><p>Distance 252 kms from Chandigarh.<br>
Stay Here Raju's Guesthouse<br>
Tel 945-9833-124<br>
Tariff Rs 3,500 per night</p><div id="tab-link-wrapper-plugin"><div class="authors__container"><div class="authors__by"><div class="authlable">Published By: </div><div class="authdetaisl">Parmita Uniyal</div></div><div class="published__on"><div class="authlable">Published On: </div><div class="authdetaisl">Mar 22, 2019</div></div></div><div class="sendros">--- ENDS ---</div></div>

Let the prolonged cold be an excuse to hit some off-grid destinations, many of which promise a host of activities. And some, thankfully, nothingness.

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Road to destress

Let the prolonged cold be an excuse to hit some off-grid destinations, many of which promise a host of activities. And some, thankfully, nothingness.

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