Himachal Pradesh, popularly referred to as the ‘Land of the Gods,’ is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, greenery, and snow-clad mountains. Although popular spots like Manali, Shimla, and Dharamshala are crowded with tourists, there are still some unexplored and offbeat destinations yet to be discovered. One such secret paradise is Sangarh, a stunning village surrounded by nature.
Where is Sangarh?
Sangarh is a tiny but enchanting village in the Seraj Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The village lies at an elevation of about 7,500 feet above sea level and presents some of the most stunning vistas of the surrounding hills and forests. It is out of the regular tourist circuit and hence a suitable place for people who are looking for solitude and peace.
The area is famous for its serene environment, pure air, and unspoiled beauty. Contrary to the crowded tourist spots, Sangarh provides a real taste of Himachali village life. The lack of commercialization here makes it a perfect destination for travelers who seek to leave behind the commotion of city life and indulge in nature.
Why Visit Sangarh?
If you want a serene retreat from the din and bustle of urban life, Sangarh is the ideal destination to revive your spirit. Here’s why you must go to this offbeat gem:
1 Pristine Natural Beauty
Sangarh is gifted with untamed landscapes, lush meadows, and mighty deodar trees. The rich green foliage and peaceful setting make it the perfect place for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Panoramic scenes of snow-crested mountains, deep valleys, and forests that are populated with varied fauna and flora present themselves from the village.
The most fascinating view in Sangarh is the sunrise and sunset. Seeing the golden sun rays light up the mountains and forests is a breathtaking view that all tourists should experience. The night sky filled with stars is another view, which presents a beautiful view of the Milky Way and stars.
2 The Great Himalayan National Park
Sangarh is the gateway to the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The national park is a habitat for rare flora and fauna such as the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear, blue sheep, and several bird species like the Western Tragopan.
The GHNP is a treat for wildlife experts and scientists. It provides the possibility of sightseeing some of the most sought-after species of the world in their natural conditions. The green forests, glacial valleys, and alpine meadows in the park promise a memorable excursion to nature admirers.
3 Adventure and Trekking
Trekking lovers will enjoy Sangarh as a good base for some of the treks into the GHNP. The treks pass through lush forests, quaint villages, and beautiful valleys, providing an experience of a lifetime for adventure enthusiasts. Some of the popular treks in the area are:
Raktisar Trek: A difficult trek to the Raktisar Glacier, with spectacular views of snow-capped peaks.
Tirthan Valley Trek: A visual treat of green valleys and heavy forests culminating into the spotless Tirthan River.
Shilt Hut Trek: One of the simplest treks but reaching a good height with majestic views of the Himalayas.
Besides trekking, people can enjoy activities such as rock climbing, camping, and walks through nature trails. The purity of the surrounding region ensures all outdoor activities blend seamlessly into it.
4 Rich Cultural Heritage
Sangarh has a distinct combination of Himachali customs and traditions. The people, who are famous for their hospitality, celebrate different traditional festivals with great fervor. Tourists can enjoy pure Himachali culture, such as local music, dance, and food.
The village is scattered with tiny wooden temples and shrines for local gods. The temples’ architecture is a testament to the traditional skills of the area. Attending local festivals such as Fagli and Dussehra enables tourists to experience the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
5 A Perfect Offbeat Destination
Unlike the usual tourist destinations, Sangarh is not touched by commercialization. It provides an alternative travel experience where you can be in touch with nature and feel the simplicity of rural life. The people practice sustainable living, and the village itself is a great example of green tourism.
There are few homestays and guesthouses, which make sure that the natural surroundings of the location are not disturbed. Slow travelers who want to visit locations outside the common tourist map will love Sangarh as a holiday destination.
Best Time to Visit Sangarh
The ideal period to visit Sangarh is from March to June and September to November. These months are pleasant, which makes it a great time for trekking and other outdoor activities. Springtime brings rhododendrons in bloom and lush green scenery, while autumn has clear skies and breathtaking views of the mountains.
Winter months experience heavy snowfall, and the area is covered in a white blanket of snow, making it a winter wonderland. The snow-covered hills are breathtaking to look at, but reaching the village may not be easy at this time. But for people who enjoy winter sports and quiet snowy scenery, Sangarh in winter is an enchanting experience.
How to Reach Sangarh
Sangarh is accessed through a combination of road and local transport. Here’s how you can reach Sangarh:
By Road: Sangarh is well linked by road from big cities such as Shimla and Kullu. Banjar is the nearest town, from which you can rent a local taxi or board a bus.
By Air: The closest airport is Bhuntar Airport in Kullu, which is about 80 km away. You can rent a taxi from the airport to go to Banjar and then proceed to Sangarh.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, which is about 140 km away. You can take a taxi or a bus from there to Sangarh.
Once you arrive in Banjar, the last part of the journey to Sangarh is best covered by local transport or trekking if you want an adventurous route.
Accommodation and Food in Sangarh
As Sangarh is a non-touristy place, the options for staying here are not many. Still, visitors can stay in comfortable homestays and local-run small guesthouses. A homestay offers a chance to taste Himachali culture’s traditional hospitality and relish homemade food.
Traditional Himachali food features Siddu, Dham, Chha Gosht, and Bhature Chole, which are mouthwatering dishes. Fresh, organic produce is used in cooking the food, making the dish all the more authentic.
Final Thoughts
Sangarh is a waiting-to-be-explored paradise. Whether you are an adventure buff, nature lover, or just someone who wants to get away from the city mayhem, this Himachal Pradesh gem has something for all. The unspoiled beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly people make it a destination of choice for those who want an offbeat holiday experience.
