The Ecozone areas are adjacent to the
Great Himalayan National Park and provide a combination
of natural and cultural experiences. The trails go through
villages and are generally easy to moderate. The best
time to visit is during the Dushera Festival (usually
in October). This is a major Hindu cultural and religious
event celebrating the victory of good over evil in the
“Ramayana”. Hundreds of local village deities are brought
to Kullu from the surrounding villages. An exciting display
of people, music, costumes, special exhibitions, foods,
etc., fill the mountain roads and towns. Not to be missed!
The Spring festivals (generally in April) also offer opportunities
to watch and participate in important, local cultural
events. Holidays include: Basant Panchami, Phagli, Sainj
mela, Banjar mela. (Please see section below on festivals).
Half and One-Day
Tours
These tour after these offer an opportunity to interact
with villagers and observe their daily activities, including
weaving, basket-making, cooking, farming, etc. Check with
SAHARA for options and availability.
Multi-day
Tours
These combine trekking in the Ecozone
countryside and through villages. They offer a glimpse into the general
habitat of the Park but have easier trails and often include sleeping in
Rest Houses rather than tents.
Neuli-Shangarh Loop
A three day trek traversing mountain trails and the
villages of Shangarh and Lapah. Includes a visit to
a GHNP nursery where medicinal plants and tree are cultivated.
Opportunities for interactions with students, farmers,
and women weavers. Hiking through traditional villages
and architecture, beautiful vistas, meadows, sacred
groves, and terraced fields. Moderate elevation gain.
Distance: 24 km
Neuli-
Manu Temple
One- to two-day trek visiting a 200 year old Hindu
temple with intricate wood carving. Opportunity to
listen to Hindu prayers (puja) if a local pujari (priest)
is available. Moderate to steep elevation to the temple.
Distance: 12 km. (round trip). An additional side
trip of 4 km takes you to a tower-like monument at
Talyara village, built about 250 years ago.
Gushaini-Tinder Village
One or two days trek from Gushaini to Tinder
village which offers an insight into the village life, its cultural
aspects and a walk through forests up to Kharongcha.
Distance: 12
kms.
Siund-Saran-Ghat Seri-Pashi Villages
One- or two-days treks in Sainj River valley which
includes steep climb to the ancient villages of
Saran and Pashi with very old houses and distinct
local architecture. Ghat Seri has a 6 hectare (appox.
12 acres) sacred grove and is an example of local
biological diversity conserved in the forest area.
Distance: 10 kms.
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