Lazing in the lap of nature, chucking all the office chores, and shutting out the toxic pollution, our escape to Tirthan valley was coming out to be more than just fine.
We had parked ourselves at Gushiani, at a homestay by the breathtaking Tirthan river. While there were lots of things to do in our bucket list, the first one obviously was the trek to Great Himalayan National Park.
The site is declared as World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Situated in the Kullu region, it is one of the most scenic national parks of the world boasting rich alpine flora and fauna. Both Abhishek and I have over the past switched to active lifestyles so we’re quite confident about concluding the long treks.
How To Reach
The trek starts from Gushaini. Since we were traveling from Delhi, we took a bus to Aut and from there a local taxi to Gushiani.
From the Gushiani market, there is a straight trail to the GNHP gate. It is mandatory to take a guide inside GNHP for safety reasons. The guide would cost you approximately 500 bucks.
The Adventure Trails
Abhishek and I had quite an adventure on the trails. We lost our way thrice. Thanks to our trekking shoes, the slippery treks weren’t a problem. Also, we had started early so we were safe in the broad daylight. It is advisable to start early morning, to not only enjoy the beautiful views but also for safety reasons.
Also, it is better to trek in groups as the paths are quite puzzling and there are chances of getting lost in the dense jungles. Once you reach the GNHP gate, it is mandatory to hire a guide to trek further.
Even if you choose not to go further into GNHP, you must trek to its gate for the beautiful views and mesmerizing journey. Engulfed in rich flora and fauna, we came across many waterfalls, streams and panoramic views of the Tirthan river from the top. The beautiful birds and colorful flowers had a hypnotic effect on us.
The natural resources are abundant here. The clear streams, the wildflowers, and beautiful birds hum the addictive paeans, making the long trek worth all the pain and sweat.
We came across many local villagers. Life here is simple and people too very friendly. In fact, on our way when we asked an old lady for a mineral water bottle, she was taken by surprise and quipped – Paani Bhi Koi Khareedta hai Kya? ( Who even buys water?) We couldn’t help smiling. She offered us the clear stream water that was pure and tasted divine.
Also, Abhishek took this incident a bit too seriously and opted to fill bottles straight from the streams, whenever he got a chance. After all, really, who buys water, especially here!
By the time we came back, it was early evening. There’s nothing much to do in this quietude, except of course stare at the river for hours. And we loved doing that. The piping hot tea and snacks were ready and we grabbed our chairs in the garden.
As the flowing streams played the perfect orchestra, we relished tea and pakodas.
Our feet were hurting, but our hearts were indeed content. I would rate my experience 8 out of 10 for this place.
