Although, I’m one of the youngest travellers that you would come across, I have found my own unique style of exploring our beautifully diverse country. With my newfound freedom, it feels amazing to explore places that are still less trodden, lesser known and remain less populated. I always find my solace among peaceful places away from the cacophony of crowds, and that is the reason I’m always looking for less-crowded, off-beat destinations to explore.
Ditching Shimla or Manali- Staying Amongst the Peaceful Valley of Narkanda
Everyone who come to visit Himachal always get distracted by the more popular destinations, mainly Shimla and Manali. But little do they know that there are plethora of small, lesser-known villages nearby, blessed with much more natural beauty. And that is the reason I chose to stay at Narkanda.
Though it becomes dangerous to travel to the hill stations of Himachal during monsoons, I must say Narkanda is the safest place to stay. Perfect for Staycations and Work-From-Home, or simply holidaying, Narkanda is a little piece from heaven. You can book your hotels prior online, but there are better and affordable options if you look in person.
Travel Tips:
1. Choose Public Vehicles to Travel to Narkanda to cut down your costs.
2. Book Hotels prior if you are travelling during peak season.
3. Always carry umbrellas while travelling in Monsoons.
Exploring Nearby Attractions of Narkanda
When you are in Narkanda, you must explore its nearby attractions popular among locals for its scenic beauties. I interacted with the locals to know about attractions that are worth visiting, and began my exploration according to that.
1. The Hatu Peak
Hatu Peak named after its age-old Hatu Temple, is a must-visit destination in Narkanda to enjoy a bird’s-eye view from the top. The easy trek to Hatu Temple is exciting, and offers equally beautiful views during Summers, Monsoons and Winters. This ancient temple situated at the peak is one of its kind, and will give you that “peace of mind and soul” you have been searching for.
Travel Tips:
1. For visiting Hatu Temple you can either trek for 10kms or take a local cab from Narkanda market.
2. Do not take your personal vehicle because the roads are dangerously steep.
2. Buying Some Souvenirs at the Tibetan Market
The little Tibetan Market at Narkanda is the best place to buy some souvenirs to take back home, and also try some local food. You will find stalls of Maggi and Tea everywhere, but don’t forget to try the authentic Tibetan Thukpa, which is absolutely delicious.
There’s a place just behind the Tibetan Market that I had to mention, a place that only locals know about. Though it may seem a flat ground where kids usually play cricket, but it is much more than that. You can trust on my words, I watched the most peaceful and mesmerizing sunset of my life from there. So, if you’re staying at Narkanda for work or for a change, this place would be your regular visit during sunsets.
3. Visiting Intoxicating Apple Orchards
While travelling by road, you will come across many Apple Orchards in Narkanda. With the advices of locals, I headed to some intoxicating orchards and enjoyed picking a few apples. And, these apples were the sweetest and the freshest ones I’ve ever had. What can be better than picking sweet apples, breathing fresh air and staying amidst mountains?
– Visit Orchards with the help and permission of locals, and pick apples only if you are intending to eat them.
4. Taking a peaceful stroll along the Tannu Jubar Lake
Tannu Jubar lake is a small, popular destination of Narkanda where you get to see seasonal birds and varied species of flora and fauna. I was enticed by the peaceful aura of this place, and had a splendid time admiring the view. Tannu Jubar is also a perfect spot to do camping, you can contact local authorities to arrange that.
Bidding Adieu!
After exploring Narkanda by road and foot, visiting its hidden gems, and tasting the most delicious Thukpa of my life, it was finally time to bid adieu to the beautiful destination. In these days of exploring Narkanda, I’ve discovered that it is truly a little heaven for those who love solitude and the ever-presence of nature. The locals are very friendly here, and stays are affordable if you opt for Homestays. I have left my traces on Narkanda while exploring it, and I will return back to find them someday…
Road Map:
