Chanshal pass is a high altitude mountain pass which links the Rohru and Dodra-Kwar Tehsil of Shimla. Nestled at an altitude of around 4500 meters about sea level, making it one of the highest motorable passes in the country, this place offers breathtaking and scenic views of snow capped peaks and lush green valleys.
Not many people are acquainted with this hidden gem, which adds to its allure as an offbeat destination ideal for those who cherish solitude and tranquility amidst nature’s embrace.
Chanshal Pass
Chanshal Pass, perched atop the majestic Chanshal Peak, plays a crucial role in connecting the remote areas of Dodra Kwar to Rohru. Historically, the absence of connectivity between these two locales posed a significant challenge for residents, particularly those in Dodra Kwar, who had to undertake a strenuous two-day trek across the rugged terrain of Chanshal hill to traverse the distance. There were many challenges on this long expedition, particularly in the severe winter months when trekking was almost impossible. The use of helicopters emerged as a lifeline for the inhabitants, offering a vital mode of transport during the inclement weather conditions.
The long-awaited solution to the transportation dilemma came in 2006 with the initiation of the ambitious road construction project spanning 90 kilometers between Rohru and Dodra Kwar. However, the formidable task of carving out a road amidst the rugged mountainous terrain posed significant challenges, leading to the project’s completion after three long years in 2009.
Table of Contents
Journey
Hatkoti
Commencing my expedition from the scenic town of Shimla, my beloved abode nestled amidst the verdant hills of Himachal Pradesh, I embarked on the first leg of my journey by boarding a bus to my cousin’s residence. With eager anticipation and a sense of enthusiasm, I eagerly awaited the adventure ahead as I joined my cousins. Next day, as the sun cast its first golden rays upon the horizon, signaling the dawn of a new day, we commenced our journey promptly at 5 am, ready to explore the wonders that awaited us on the open road.
After a serene drive through winding mountain roads, we reached Hatkoti temple around 6:30 in the morning. Steeped in myth and legend, this sacred site is believed to have been constructed by none other than the Pandavas themselves during their exile. Nestled amidst breathtaking natural beauty, the temple stands proudly on the banks of the gurgling Pabbar river, its ancient stones whispering tales of bygone eras.
Taking a moment to offer our prayers and reverence, we soaked in the tranquil ambiance before resuming our journey, eager to uncover more hidden gems along the way.
Also Read – Mystique of Kamakhya Temple.
Rohru
After a pleasant drive of about half an hour, we arrived at Rohru, a charming town nestled amidst verdant hills and lush greenery. Here, we took a delightful break to enjoy a hearty breakfast, replenishing our energy for the journey ahead. With satisfied appetites and renewed spirits, we eagerly resumed our adventure, eager to explore the wonders that awaited us along the scenic route to Chanshal Pass.
Chirgaon
Our next stop was the picturesque village of Chirgaon, located approximately 15 kilometers from Rohru. Despite the short distance, our journey took an hour to navigate through the winding roads and occasional traffic delays. Nonetheless, the scenic beauty surrounding us made the drive enjoyable, with every twist and turn offering breathtaking views of the lush valleys and mighty river pabbar flowing side by side.
Chanshal Valley
Tikri Nala
Setting off from Chirgaon, our journey continued as we made our way towards a point known as Tikri Naala, marking the beginning of the road leading to Chanshal Peak. Along this route, we were greeted by the picturesque banks of the Pabbar River, whose tranquil waters flowed gracefully amidst the lush greenery that enveloped the surroundings. The soothing ambiance of the river’s gentle murmurs provided a serene backdrop as we ventured deeper into the heart of nature’s embrace.
Shiladesh
Along the way, our journey led us to a quaint village named Shiladesh, where we were greeted by the sight of lush apple orchards stretching as far as the eye could see, adorning both sides of the road. The sight of these vibrant orchards added a touch of natural splendor to our journey, with the trees laden with ripe fruit creating a colorful spectacle against the backdrop of the mountains.
As we journeyed through this picturesque landscape, the narrow road presented us with both awe-inspiring vistas and navigational challenges. Despite its accessibility, the road’s limited width demanded our utmost attention, particularly in sections where passing another vehicle proved impractical. Maneuvering our vehicle through these winding paths required careful precision, as we navigated past lush greenery and towering mountains.
As we ascended higher along the road, we were treated to enchanting vistas of the surrounding mountains cloaked in lush greenery. The panoramic views offered a glimpse of the untamed beauty of the Himalayan landscape, with each turn revealing a new facet of nature’s grandeur.
Along the route, we had the opportunity to catch glimpses of the local culture and lifestyle of the region. Passing by quaint villages and hamlets, we observed glimpses of daily life, from villagers tending to their fields to children playing in the streets. These encounters added a layer of authenticity to our journey.
As we traversed the winding mountain roads, we encountered various challenges and adventures typical of mountain travel. From negotiating sharp bends and steep inclines to navigating through rocky terrain, each twist and turn presented its own set of obstacles to overcome. However, the thrill of adventure and the promise of discovery spurred us on, fueling our determination to reach our destination
Arrival at Chanshal Pass
Finally, after hours of winding through the mountainous terrain, we arrived at our destination. As I stepped out of the car, a chilly breeze welcomed me to the enchanting realm of Chanshal. As we gazed upon the majestic panorama spread out before us, a sense of awe washed over us. At that moment, we realized that the journey itself had been as rewarding as the destination.
As we moved further, we encountered two men with guns, initially filled us with a sense of apprehension, their presence stirring a momentary fear within us. However, upon engaging in conversation with them, we soon realized that they were shepherds tending to their cattle. The guns they carried were not intended for harm but rather served as tools of protection against potential threats from wild animals lurking in the vicinity. Assured by their explanation, we learned that they possessed valid licenses for their firearms, legitimizing their use for safeguarding their livestock amidst the wilderness.
A sudden thirst overcame me as I saw a pickup truck filled with eateries and drinks, prompting me to seek refreshment. I decided to quench my thirst with a cold drink, noticing that although it was priced at 40 rupees, the vendor was selling it for 50 rupees. Curious about the markup, I inquired about the reason behind the price difference. The vendor explained that they had to purchase the cold drinks from the market all the way from chirgaon, which incurres additional costs for their vehicle. Understanding the logistical challenges they faced, I obliged and purchased the cold drink and some packets of chips, appreciating the effort required to provide such amenities in remote areas.
As I explored the surroundings, my gaze was drawn to a small lake nestled amidst the rocky terrain. It was a serene sight, reflecting the tranquil beauty of the mountains. I observed various animals quenching their thirst from the clear waters, adding to the peaceful ambiance of the place. Everywhere I looked, rugged rocks adorned the green landscape.
However, the ethereal atmosphere was further heightened by the enveloping fog, which enveloped us like a soft blanket, obscuring the distant vistas and creating an illusion of being suspended in the clouds.
The aspect that resonated most with me was the offbeat nature of Chanshal Pass. Personally, I have always been drawn to such secluded destinations, as they exude an unparalleled sense of tranquility and authenticity. Away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist spots, these hidden gems offer a serene escape into the lap of nature, untouched by commercialization and crowds.
It is in these secluded corners of the world that one can truly immerse oneself in the purity of the surroundings, allowing for moments of introspection and connection with the essence of the natural world.
Chanshal Pass embodies the charm of unconventional travel locations with its unspoiled beauty and unspoiled sceneries, beckoning visitors to experience exploration and tranquilly within the peaceful embrace of the mountains.
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