Janjelhi .. untouched by tourists and commercialization ... Truly virgin himachal ...
Can be an ideal destination for people who are sick and tired of the maddening crowds which has overwhelmed places like shimla and manali.
3 days would suit just fine
Day 1: Chandigarh - Mandi - Janjelhii (~250 kms). From Mandi take a left from chail chowk and continue on the state highway. The wider NH-21 gives way to narrow roads and you start ascending. Janjehli is at around 2100m.
Day 2: Visit the shikari devi temple, which is famous for its roofless top. Situated at a height of 3300 m, the road to it is semi-
kaccha making it a good offroading option. You can spend the rest of the day in isolation, with yourself.
There is an accomaodation problem as there are only few guesthouses. A FRH is setup, but you need to file an application to the D.F.O Mandi. I just happened to drop in, hence i coudnt get accomodation there. Had to look for other options. Only a few guest houses, majority of them where closed! Did manage to source one somehow!
Day 3: Janjelhi - mandi - Sundernagar - karsog - Naldehra - Shimla - Chandigarh.
The return is equally exciting via the enchanted karsog valley and swirling hot waters at tattapaani to the splendid golf-course at naldehra!
Folks from Delhi can add another 250 kms (4 hrs) one way
Note: Not a place for folks who prefer tourists spots, glittering malls and fancy shows. Also, huge groups would find it difficult to get accomodation unless booked in advanced with the DFO. Plus, its not a place to make base and go around for sightseeing, as it is just a valley, very beautiful nonetheless. Ideal if you are solo or just 2-3 bikers who are looking for some solace and are keen in exploring rural himachal, not so far away.
Also, kindly avoid if you are a first timer. Neither would the location excite you much, nor are the roads that suitable..
I had some fun time interacting with the locals there, eating the not-so-cooked meat and drinking the home-made rice beer after dinner.
Reminded me of the Pangi valley, which I highly recommend you pay a visit ..., it being the most rural part of himachal and the most under-developed/at par with doda-kwar.
Their gesture shows how pure-hearted these folks are. Are happy with in their own world, far from the urban way of life.
Thats about it from my side. Will be back with more weekend getaways, as soon as i discover them
