Shangarh: The Only Travel Guide You Need (2025 Updated)

Relax at the Shangarh meadows:

One of the biggest attractions is the meadows of Shangarh, an open ground where you can sit, relax, read, work, and picnic with friends. Additionally, you can pack lunch from where you are staying. Located near the meadows is the Shangchul Mahadev temple, built in the traditional Katha Kuni architecture style.

Sunset Point, Shangarh:

Sunset Point in Shangarh is a peaceful spot where you can watch the sun go down behind the mountains. It takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to walk there from most homestays and guesthouses in the village.

The walk is along a quiet road with beautiful views along the way. At the end of the road, you’ll reach a small open area where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the changing colours of the sky as the sun sets—making it a simple yet beautiful experience.

Gmap Link: (walk straight for about 5-8 mins from here)

Early morning hike to Barshangarh waterfall:

It’s an easy hike, a mere 2-hour journey (both ways) from the main village, which will take you to the magnificent Barshangarh waterfall. The last 10 minutes of the hike include a short ascent to the waterfall. It is a perfect spot to spend a couple of hours before returning to your accommodation for breakfast.

Note: You can even drive till the start point of the climb which saves you time and effort. But the walk is absolutely worth it.

Rupi Raila waterfall & the Raila twin towers: 

For those seeking more exploration in Sainj Valley, the Raila twin towers are an excellent option. This temple holds great significance for the locals. After visiting the towers, you can proceed to the Rupi Raila waterfall, providing a unique and less-visited experience. It is an ideal place to spend some time. Upon your return, you can indulge in a snack at the small dhaba at the entrance.
To reach Raila, you can hire a cab, which typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours. It is advisable to begin this journey after breakfast, allowing ample time to enjoy both places. The cab fare can range anywhere between ₹2500 – ₹3000.

Deohari village & hike to Pundrik Rishi Lake:

Deohari is a quaint village in Sainj Valley with limited accommodation options. You can take a leisurely stroll around the town, interact with the friendly locals, and unwind. Additionally, you can embark on a hike to the picturesque Pundrik Rishi Lake from Deohari village.

The walk lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours and takes you through dense forests, offering a fantastic experience. At the end of the trek, you will find a temple dedicated to Pundrik Rishi. Apart from the Pundrik Rishi lake, you can even visit the village of Upper Neahi & Sarahan, hands down the prettiest village in all of Sainj valley with a small meadow.

You can combine this trip with a visit to the Rupi Raila waterfall.

Buses from Sainj to Deori are available at 11 AM, 1 PM, and 6 PM.

Shanshar & Manu Rishi Temple:

Shanshar is a quiet and beautiful village in Sainj Valley, not too far from Shangarh. It’s surrounded by tall trees and mountains, making it a peaceful place to visit.

In the village, you’ll find the Manu Rishi Temple, an old wooden temple dedicated to Manu Rishi, who is believed to be the first man in Hindu mythology. The temple is calm and peaceful, and it gives you a chance to see the local culture and enjoy nature at the same time.

It gives you the best views of the entire valley and one can even see the entire village of Shangarh from here.

Overnight trek to Lapha village: 

Lapha village is easily accessible through a 4-5 hour easy to moderate hike. Local guides can assist you during this beautiful trek. Although the village offers limited stay options, we recommend camping here for a unique experience. For more details about this trek, visit the Great Himalayan National Park office in Sainj.

Jiwa Nala Trek: 

For seasoned trekkers, Jiwa Nala offers a challenging 7-day trek from Neuli village and concludes in Parvati Valley. It is highly recommended to undertake this trek in a group or with experienced local guides who are familiar with the routes and terrain. Due to its high altitude and multi-day duration, this trek is suitable only for experienced trekkers.

Thini Thatch Trek:

The Thini Thatch trek can be completed within a day or extended to a 2-day if you plan to camp overnight. The journey commences from the village of Shangarh. It ascends to Thini Thatch, an alpine meadow situated at 11,500 feet. Throughout the trek, you will be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

It is important to note that this trek is moderately challenging. If you are not accustomed to trekking in Himachal, it is advisable to enlist the assistance of a local guide.

Explore Local Himachali Villages

As you prepare to explore Shangarh, make sure to extend your journey to the nearby villages. Goshati and Darari, in close proximity, invite you with charming apple orchards and vibrant Kullu Topis dotting the landscape, showcasing the simplicity of mountain life. Wander through fields of wheat and vegetables cultivated using traditional agricultural methods. The distinctive wooden Himachali homes add a touch of uniqueness to the scenery.

The friendly locals are welcoming and open to engaging in pleasant conversations or sharing intriguing local mythological stories, providing ample opportunities for immersive experiences.

Most of the accommodations can help you out with cabs and contacts.

More interesting places & hikes:

• Shakti-Maror trek
• Sara Lake hike
• Sarikanda hike (it can be done from the village of Deohari)

To go anywhere in & around Sainj valley it will typically cost you between ₹2000 – ₹3000)