Janjheli Valley & Shikari Devi Trek

Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, is swiftly gaining popularity among tourists, with destinations like Parashar Lake drawing crowds for short weekend getaways and brisk treks. Yet, nestled away from the bustling crowds lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored in every season.

Perched at an elevation of 2150 meters above sea level, Janjheli Valley beckons just 86 kilometers away from Mandi. This serene valley boasts breathtaking expanses of lush green forests, enveloped by majestic deodar trees and adorned with natural springs. Janjheli is renowned for its plethora of historical temples, adding a touch of ancient mystique to its pristine beauty.

Moreover, the valley is adorned with abundant fruit orchards, including apples, plums, pears, and peaches, offering a feast for the senses every season. Whether you seek adventure or solace, Janjheli Valley promises to captivate your soul with its magnificence and tranquility.

Did you know that the Britishers wanted Janjheli to be the summer capital instead of Shimla, but the Raja of Janjheli declined the offer.

With trekking routes reaching heights of up to 3300 meters, this paradise offers an array of options for every level of adventurer. Traverse through dense forests, soak in the scenic vistas along the way, and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of nature.

Places to see in & around

Visit Maa Baglamukhi Temple, located just 2 km from the main road. The temple is in the middle of thick jungle forests and is quite peaceful.

Next day, travel to Shikari Devi temple and be ready to climb up about 602 steps that lead to the main temple. It’s a simple climb and trust me, the 360-degree panoramic views en-route and from the top won’t disappoint you! What’s fascinating about this temple is that it has no roof and also during winter snow, when the entire valley is covered, the temple remains snow free!

Legends tell that during the exile period, the Pandavas went hunting for food and on one of these hunting trips, Arjun failed to catch a deer as it ran towards the ridge every time he came close. So Arjun, felt that it was some divine power in disguise of a deer and prayed for it to reveal its true power. Navdurga appeared before him and asked the brothers to install her at an appropriate place and since then this temple has been famous as the Shikari Devi Temple.

During the Navratras, a fair attracts locals and lots of devotees from nearby cities. I’ll say go experience this place before it too gets swallowed by the tourism.

Near to Janjelhi Valley is Bulah, an open, Green ground with lush green meadows and full of natural beauty. The place is famous for Shikari Devi Temple and many other historical temples. This place would remind you of Gulmarg or Pahalgam. Bulah has a natural nala with fresh clean water and a great place for a family picnic too. There’s a small temple that may be visited.

Also, stop at Pandav Shila en route to Shikari Devi for some refreshing water splash and wonder at the natural stone here. It is believed to have been placed here by Bhima, one of the 5 Pandav and one can easily move it with a finger. Can’t believe it, go try it for yourself.

Janjheli is slowly becoming popular for eco-tourism; however, there are only a few options for staying or eating out. Stop for a simple homely lunch at nominal charges at Danchy Dhaba at Bagsyad.

Shopping: Pick up natural fresh honey from the valley and ask to buy souvenirs like Seraji pulas made of hemp and household wares made of walnut wood. Locals would help you find the right shops.

Visit Trail Hikers for more details on the treks that can be done via Shikari Devi Temple.

Budah Kedar: is perched up at 9000 meters and a trekker’s delight. It is a one trek from Janjheli and Bulah.

Local tell about the legend that it was here at Budha Kedar that Shiva’s Nandi has jumped down the big rock while attempting to save himself from Bhima and reached straight to Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal. Even to this day, there is a big hole in the rock where prayers are offered by entering inside. The place is sacred and people may take a bath in the nearby spring.

Magru Gala: is a high mountain pass and one can view the Pandoh Dam and the Mandi Town from up here.

Other Valleys to visit nearby:

Karsog Valley Trek: is a 16 km trek and takes about 8 hours from Janjheli. The route itinerary is as follows: about 6-km from Janjehli you come across Bulah, an open ground with lush green meadows, also the starting point to Shikara Devi Temple Climb and then the next stop is Rajgarh followed by Gurah and finally reaching Karsog. Karsog is famous for Kamaksha Devi and Mahunag temples. Karsog is situated at a distance of 125 km from Mandi and is also accessible from Shimla (100 km) via Tattapani.

Chindi: Chindi is an apple orchard surrounded by lush green and quiet meadows. Its a place to relax and unwind in a camping tent and just be you. For accomodation you can book the HP PWD rest house (outstanding location and has an old world charm about it) or stay at Mamleshwar Hotel run by HPTDC (good local cuisine on the menu). There are a few other guest houses amongst them Gopal being a good one as recommended on one of the blogs I read. This place can be planned for a weekend off with family.

Gadah Gushaini: Now there is a Gushaini (on the vestiges of Great Himalayan National Park) in Tirthan valley, and then there’s a Gadah Gushaini, definitely a thicker version of the Gushaini we might know. Rolling meadows, gentle flowing mountain streams, shepherds, pot, trails, and it takes more than just a road to get there! Intention, Destiny, Willingness. A winding road of about 33kms from Jibi (in Seraj Valley, reached from Aut 35kms on Manali Highway) gets you to this marvel in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. There is but one guest house and a HP PWD rest house here for accommodation. Before Gadah Gushaini is Bahu another gem in the area. Awesome walks lead one to Chach Galu (Galu means pass in Mandi dialect) and from there to Jalori pass or Magru Gala (near Janjehli). Now a road connects Gadah Gushaini to Chattri and Janjehli. Be here for a weekend and you will understand what escape means.

Kamrunag Valley: Poised at an altitude of 3,334 meters above sea level, this ancient sanctuary graces the banks of Kamrunag Lake, a tranquil haven. Wrapped in the embrace of dense deodar forests. A temple here is dedicated to Kamrunag Devta, a revered Yaksha deity.

I’ll add more details on Keolidhar Valley, Bagsaid Valley and Bheemshil in future posts.

Distance to Reach Janjheli

From Bhuntar, Kullu Airport: 39 kms
From Mandi Town: 86 Kms
From Sundernagar: 100 Kms
From Chandigarh: 236 Kms via Mandi
From New Delhi: 481 Kms via Mandi
From Shimla: 124 Kms via Naldehra & Tatapani