6 scenic villages near Jibhi every backpacker must explore!

For backpackers looking for some peace & quiet on their next adventure, Himachal Pradesh has a lot to offer. That said, Jibhi, located deep inside Banjar Valley, is one that still remains untouched. If visited correctly i.e. in the right time, with adequate time in hand, these places near Jibhi can make it worth your while.

Here’s why!

1. Shoja

Shoja, known as the starting point of Jalori Pass, is a pleasant village with striking views and peaceful atmosphere. The village is within the thickest of the woods and it has several trekking routes too. One such trek, the popular Serolsar Lake trek, starts from Shoja itself, and is most frequented in the region. It is a holy lake and surrounded by hilly terrain with pine trees, ideal for meditation. The stunning village of Shoja features traditional huts and warm people. It’s a perfect destination where you can relax and soak in the beauty of nature. 

• What to explore here? Shoja Waterfall, Serolsar Lake, Raghupur fort, Shringa Rishi temple
• Best time to visit: March to November
• Drive time from The Hosteller Jibhi: 18 minutes (5.7 km) 

Shoja | Credits: Canva

2. Chehni Kothi

Chehni Kothi is a beautiful Himalayan village that is about a short trek from Jibhi. The centre of attraction of this Village is an ancient tower, a structure which is 1500 years old, showcasing the architecture of the region. The Chehni Kothi trek passes through thick forest, small streams and outstretched views of the valleys. The traditional wooden and stone houses of Himachal people here are just too gorgeous. Spending a day or two to mingle with the locals and soak in the authentic atmosphere of this place.

• What to explore here? Chehni Kothi tower, Chhoie temple, Murli manohar temple
• Best time to visit: April to June
• Drive time from The Hosteller Jibhi: 34 minutes (9.3 km) 

Chehni Kothi | Credits: Canva

3. Gushaini

Gushaini is a small village, situated on the banks of the Tirthan River, which marks the entry point into the Great Himalayan National Park. This village is good for nature and adventure lovers. Opt for fun-filled activities like trout fishing, trekking, and bird watching. Gushaini is indeed a place where you can feel relaxed and refreshed because of the beautiful green fields, thick woods and the soft sound of a river.

• What to explore here? Bashleo pass trek, Falachan valley, Chhoie waterfall
• Best time to visit: April to September
• Drive time from The Hosteller Jibhi: 1 hour 7 minutes (19.4 km) 

Gushaini | Credits: Canva

4. Tirthan Valley

Tirthan Valley is a popular region that consists of several tiny hamlets and is among the most picturesque places in Jibhi. The Tirthan River and its tributaries flow through the region, making the valley a perfect spot for fishing, trekking and nature walks, all named after the river itself. The Tirthan valley villages like Nagini, Chalogi, etc are a delightful journey for backpackers who wish to explore offbeat places and experience rural Himachal in all its glory.

• What to explore here? River crossing and fishing in Tirthan River, Bird watching at Great Himalayan National Park, Gaidhar waterfall
• Best time to visit: October to May
• Drive time from The Hosteller Jibhi: 1 hour 30 minutes (25 km) 

Tirthan Valley | Credits: Canva

5. Sarchi

Sarchi is yet another treasure in the Jibhi region that has retained most of its traditions and values. The local architecture features wooden houses adorned with beautiful carvings that depict the cultural background of the area. The way to Sarchi itself is a trek through the wilderness with dense forests and many small rivers to cross. Sarchi is also a base for many other treks including Lambri Top which is popular amongst tourists for its spectacular views of the Himalayas.

• What to explore here? Local apple orchards, Bandal and Jamala village, Lambri Top
• Best time to visit: April to September
• Drive time from The Hosteller Jibhi: 1 hour 37 minutes (28.2 km) 

Sarchi | Credits: Canva

6. Pekhri

Pekhri is an offbeat spot close to Jibhi which is ideal for backpackers who want to escape the crowd. This village is situated on high ground from where you can see the valley. The hike to Pekhri is an easy walk through apple orchards and pine forests. The village itself is very less populated, with just a few houses, and the locals warmly welcome visitors.

• What to explore here? Rangthar trek, Nature walks in Baggi and Ghyagi villages
• Best time to visit: April to September
• Drive time from The Hosteller Jibhi: 2 hours 19 minutes (38.8 km) 

Pekhri | Credits: Canva

How to reach Jibhi

Before setting off on your adventure, it's important to know how to reach Jibhi. This peaceful village is well-connected by various modes of transport, including air, train, and road.

By Air

The nearest airport to Jibhi is Bhuntar which is located in Kullu, approximately 60 kms away. From there you can take a taxi to reach Jibhi within 2 hours. Since there are not many flights to Bhuntar, go to Chandigarh (250 kms) or Delhi airport (500 kms) and then take a car or bus to Jibhi. There is an efficient road network connecting both the cities to Himachal Pradesh.

By Train

The closest major railway station to Jibhi is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, situated around 100 km away. Alternatively, you can travel to Chandigarh railway station and then continue the journey by road, which is around 270 km from Jibhi. The scenic drive through the hills adds to the charm of the trip.

By Road

Reaching Jibhi, Banjar Valley by road is often the most popular option, especially for those who enjoy scenic mountain journeys. You can take a bus from Delhi to Manali and get off at Aut, which is about 32 kilometres from Jibhi. Alternatively, if you are a fan of road trips, you can drive directly from Delhi or Chandigarh for a more personalised experience.

Best time to visit Jibhi

In Jibhi, every season has something unique to offer. But, to truly experience its charm, we recommend visiting during March to June.

Jibhi and its surrounding villages will surely bring you closer to nature, offering unforgettable experiences for every backpacker. After the day’s exploration, when you're looking for a comfy place to rest, The Hosteller Shoja—just 21 minutes from Jibhi—is the perfect stay option for you. The Hosteller is soon coming to Jibhi, offering an affordable retreat amidst the serene mountains.

Ready for this Jibhi adventure? Set out and explore these untouched hamlets and book your stay at The Hosteller today!