The Dev Kanda Temple Walk: A strenuous trek uphill to the Devkanda mandir on the highest peak in the Valley. The reward at the top is a spectacular view of the valley below and of snow peaks and Himalayan Forest on the other side. To reap maximum benefits one should ideally camp up there on the peak on a full moon night and come down the day after. Though the descent is quicker and less tiring it takes skill and a keen sense of balance. Recommended only for skilled walkers/trekkers with stamina and perseverance.
Suggested Itinerary:
1. Departure in the morning as early as possible from the The Tirthan Valley, the first stretch up ( 3 hours ) is unshaded and so its best to avoid midday sun.
2. Lunch and rest at Nadaar the last village below the peak. Take in some spectacular views of the river through the valley below.
3. Continue to the peak (2 hours) to arrive there by 4 p.m. Set up camp and explore surroundings. Enjoy 360 degree views. Rest.
4. Bonfire and dinner
5. Spend the next morning exploring the peak. Start down for Nadaar by 11 a.m. Lunch at Nadaar. Continue down to the The Tirthan Valley to arrive by 5 p.m.
The Nature Walk:
From Gushaini walkers climb for about 20 minutes to the village of Bandal. After a brief visit to the Devi's temple one continues at the same level along the mountainside through thick virgin forest before it descends again to end at the The Tirthan Valley. Along this pleasant jungle walk one may pick up pine cones and woodroses, barks and sticks and flowers and nuts and bird feathers for craft items.
Suggested Itinerary
1. Depart as early as possible as the entire walk could take 8 – 10 hours with stops.
2. Stops and food breaks as you wish. Return to the The Tirthan Valley by 6 p.m.
Great Himalayan National Park:
On the other hand one could walk past Gushaini along the Tirthan to the entry of the Great National Himalayan Park. The Park is one of the most extensive preserves of Himalayan Flora and fauna in the country. There are various classic Himalayan treks through the park. It is necessary though to take daily permits from Sai Ropa before entering the park there and to carry all your own living arranements as there is only one hut in Shilt and that is for the guides.
Recommended for nature lovers and trekkers with a few days to spare.
For details on the park log onto www.greathimalayannationalpark.com
The Road Stroll:
Catch the local bus to either Bathad (9 km) or Banjar (6 km) and walk back along the road beside the river passing little villages and interacting with the local folk along the way. Other smaller walks include a brisk twenty minute climb to Calorie Rock on the mountainside behind the The Tirthan Valley or along the road to the Gushaini bridge and back or even to the offices of the Great National Himalayan Park at Sai Ropa and back.
Observation and reading up on birds, insects and reptiles, flowers, fruit, trees, rocks and mountain formations, agriculture and gardening, visits to the trout fisheries
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