When I first heard about Barot Valley, I was intrigued by its promise of untouched beauty and tranquility. Tucked away in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, this hidden gem is a world away from the crowded tourist hotspots.
My recent trip to Barot was nothing short of magical, and I’m excited to share my experiences, tips, and insights to help you plan your own adventure to this serene valley.
I happened to visit this place in the month of March during my one-week trip across a few places in Mandi and Kangra district. I also visited Bir, Rajgundha and Parashar Lake.
You can also watch the Youtube video of my 2-day stay in Barot in the Youtube video below. I have also recommended a hotel in Barot where you can find a room for less than 1000 Rupees per night. Here’s the video from my Youtube channel:
A Glimpse into Barot Valley
Barot is a quaint village nestled along the banks of the Uhl River, surrounded by dense forests and the towering Dhauladhar Range. What makes it special is its raw, unspoiled charm. Unlike the bustling towns of Manali or Shimla, Barot feels like a step back in time, where life moves at a slower pace, and nature takes center stage.
One of the first things that caught my eye was the Shanan Hydel Project, an old hydroelectric power station that adds a unique character to the valley. The project, set against the backdrop of lush greenery, is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of human ingenuity and nature.
How To Reach Barot Valley
By Air
Fly into Bhuntar Airport in Kullu, which is about 120 kilometers from Barot. The drive from the airport takes around 4-5 hours, and the journey is anything but tedious. The winding roads offers breathtaking views of the valleys, rivers, and snow-capped peaks.
By Train
If you prefer trains, the nearest railway station is Chandigarh, about 10 hours away. In Joginder Nagar, you also find the narrow-gauge train which is an experience in itself, with stunning views of the Himalayas. From Jogindernagar, hire a taxi to Barot, which took about an hour.
By Road
For those who enjoy road trips, Barot is well-connected by road. I drove from Manali to Barot, and the journey took around 6 hours. The route via Mandi is scenic, with plenty of stops for chai and snacks along the way. You can also avoid Mandi by taking Banjara Road via Kamand and Kataula.
What To Do in Barot Valley
Barot is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Here’s a glimpse of how I suggest you spend your days in this beautiful valley:
1. Trekking Through Paradise
One of the highlights of Barot is Bada Gran Trek. The trail takes you through dense forests, meadows dotted with wildflowers, and small, picturesque villages. The trek is moderate in difficulty and takes about 4-5 hours, but the views of the Uhl River and the surrounding valleys make every step worth it.
2. Trout Fishing by the Uhl River
Barot is famous for its trout fishing, but since I don’t eat Fish, I did not try my hand at it. Having said that, I cannot define the place, but I have heard, eating Trout Fish is one of the recommended things to do for those who eat Fish. The Barot Trout Farm, run by the Himachal Pradesh Fisheries Department, is a great spot for fishing enthusiasts. I didn’t catch much, but the experience of sitting by the river, surrounded by nature, was incredibly relaxing.
3. Camping Under the Stars
Though I hated how many campsites in Barot was spoiling the nature, and I have also discussed it in the video shared above, camping in Barot is still a highlight. Spend a night camping by the Uhl River, and it will be an experience you will never forget. The sound of the flowing river, the crisp mountain air, and the starry sky make for a perfect evening. Local operators offer camping packages that include tents, bonfires, and meals, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
4. Exploring the Shanan Hydel Project
The Shanan Hydel Project is a must-visit in Barot. I took a leisurely walk around the project, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and learning about its history. The surrounding greenery and the sound of the flowing water made it a perfect spot for some quiet reflection.
5. Visiting the Offbeat Villages
About 10km lies the offbeat village of Lohardi that offers a beautiful drive next to Uhl River. The village itself is a beautiful treat to the eyes. You can also choose to stay at one of the few homestays available in Lohardi if you are looking for something even more offbeat than Barot itself.
Nearby Attractions I Explored
Barot is surrounded by several beautiful villages and attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the places I visited:
1. Bada Gran
This small village is known for its scenic beauty and peaceful ambiance. I stopped here during my journey from Barot to Rajgundha and was captivated by the stunning views of the surrounding valleys. Here you can find the valley widening and meadow-like views. While in most of the Barot Valley you don’t get to find big grasslands as the valley is comparatively narrower, here in Bada Gran and until Rajgundha you see big grasslands and meadows.
2. Chuhar Valley
Located about 20 kilometers from Barot, Chuhar Valley is known for its apple orchards and traditional Himachali culture. Visit a local temple and enjoy a hearty meal of Himachali cuisine at a small village eatery. Expect very basic amenities as Chuhar Valley is very unexplored with few tourists visiting this place.
3. Bir-Billing
Famous as the paragliding capital of India, Bir-Billing is about 60 kilometers from Barot. I didn’t try paragliding, but I did visit the Tibetan monasteries and enjoyed the serene environment. You can also read this blog on things to do in Bir Billing for a more detailed guide on what to see and do there.
4. Rajgundha
A hidden gem near Barot, Rajgundha is a small village nestled in a lush green valley. I rode my motorcycle from Barot to Rajgundha, and it was one of the most memorable experiences of my trip. I even found some snow on the way. The ride also took me through dense forests, open meadows, and quaint villages. Rajgundha itself is a peaceful retreat, perfect for camping and stargazing. The simplicity of life here is truly refreshing.
5. Waterfalls
Barot and its surrounding areas are home to several beautiful waterfalls. I visited the Lapas Waterfalland located 5km from Barot town and it was beautiful. You can also find a few places to stay around Lapas village. Other than Lapas, Palachak Waterfall is another popular waterfall in Barot. Both waterfalls are perfect for a refreshing dip and a picnic, especially if you are visiting Barot in summer season.
The Best Time to Visit Barot Valley
The best time to visit Barot depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for:
- March to June (Spring and Summer): This is the ideal time for trekking, camping, and outdoor activities. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.
- July to September (Monsoon): The valley turns lush green during the monsoon, but the rains can make trekking and outdoor activities challenging.
- October to February (Winter): Winter is perfect for those who enjoy cold weather and snow. The temperatures can drop to as low as 0°C, and the valley is often covered in a blanket of snow.
Travel Tips from My Experience
- Pack Wisely: Carry warm clothing, especially if you’re visiting during the winter months. Don’t forget trekking shoes, a raincoat, and a first-aid kit. Weather in Barot remains mostly cold throughout the year.
- Stay Connected: Mobile network connectivity is limited in Barot, so inform your family and friends about your travel plans in advance. You can find good network in the main town but anywhere outside of the town, the reception gets weak.
- Respect Local Culture: Barot is a peaceful village with a simple way of life. Respect the local culture and traditions. You can find most locals still not very accustomed to outsiders so be prepared.
- Eco-Friendly Travel: Avoid littering and carry reusable water bottles to minimize plastic waste. As seen the vlog above, many tourist accommodations, especiallyy campsites located next to the river can damage the nature. So be cautious and try to reduce your carbon footprint as much as possible.
- Book in Advance: Barot has limited accommodation options, so it’s advisable to book your stay in advance, especially during peak seasons. Most hotels get sold out 100% during the season.
My Final Thoughts on Barot Valley
Barot Valley is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility. My trip was a much-needed escape from the chaos of my life in Manali and I returned feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Whether you’re a trekking enthusiast, a nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, this place has something for everyone.
So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this offbeat paradise. Barot Valley is waiting to welcome you with open arms!
