Discover Serene Beauty in Shoja, Himachal Pradesh

Of the many offbeat places near Manali, Shoja is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s a serene location that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The town is situated in Seraj Valley and offers some fantastic trekking experiences such as the popular Jalori Pass and the mystical Serolsar Lake. 

It’s also an excellent spot for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. With gentle slopes, lush green forests of conifers, friendly locals, and lovely weather, Shoja himachal pradesh is a must-visit place for backpackers.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for a trip to Shoja: how to get there, where to stay, what to eat, the best time to visit, and tons of things to do. Get ready for a memorable adventure in Shoja Himachal Pradesh! Let’s dive in!

Places to Visit at Shoja

1. Jalori Pass

2. Tirthan Valley

3. Great Himalayan National Park

4. Serolsar Lake

5. Jibhi

6. Raghupur Fort

7. Shringa Rishi Temple

8. Chehni Kothi

Adventure Activities at Shoja

• Trekking: Shoja Himachal Pradesh has many scenic trails that are perfect for trekking. You can trek to Jalori Pass, and Serolsar Lake, or explore nearby villages and forests while enjoying breathtaking views of the Himalayas. When planning a visit here, treks in Shoja should not be missed. 
• Bird Watching: The area around Shoja Himachal pradesh has a wide variety of birds, especially during the spring and summer months. You can spend time observing and photographing different bird species in their natural habitat.
• Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks around Shoja to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Explore the lush forests, meadows, and small streams while enjoying the fresh mountain air.
• Photography: Shoja offers endless photography spots near Shoja for photography enthusiasts. Capture the majestic Himalayan peaks, colourful sunsets, and charming village life.
• Camping: Experience the tranquillity of the Himalayas by camping under the starlit sky. There are several campsites near Shoja that offer a chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy bonfires under the open sky.
• Village Walks: Immerse yourself in the local culture by taking walks through nearby villages. Interact with the friendly locals, explore traditional houses, and learn about their way of life.
• Fishing: The Tirthan River, located close to Shoja, is known for trout fishing. Spend a peaceful day by the riverside, trying your hand at angling amidst the scenic surroundings. Fishing permits are required, and there are designated spots for fishing along the river.
• Picnicking: Pack a picnic basket and head to serene spots like Serolsar Lake or the banks of the Tirthan River for a relaxing day out with family and friends.
• Yoga and Meditation: Rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul amidst the tranquil Himalayan surroundings. Find a quiet spot in nature to practise yoga and meditation, or join a yoga retreat in the area.
• Exploring Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to savour the delicious local food of Himachal pradesh. Exploring traditional dishes like Siddu, Chana Madra, and Dham is one of the best things to do at Shoja.

Best Time to Visit at Shoja

• Spring from March to May is lovely, the weather is pleasant, and the flowers bloom. It’s a great time for hiking, bird watching, and nature walks. 
• Summer from June to August is mild and comfortable, perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. However, there may be occasional rainfall. 
• During the monsoon season from July to September, Shoja experiences moderate to heavy rainfall. The surroundings become more vibrant, but outdoor activities like hiking and trekking may be limited due to slippery trails and landslides. 
• Autumn from September to November is considered one of the best times to visit Shoja. The weather is pleasant, and the foliage turns shades of gold and orange, perfect for activities like trekking and photography. 
• In winter from December to February, Shoja experiences cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, especially at higher altitudes. It’s an excellent time to experience the cosy ambience of mountain lodges, enjoy bonfires, and engage in activities such as snow trekking.

Best Places to Stay at Shoja

1. Shoja Retreat

2. Tirthan Anglers Retreat

3. Tirthan View Homestay

4. Jalori Pass Eco Resort

Suggested Read: 10 best Airbnb in Jibhi, Escape to Paradise

How to reach Shoja

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Bhuntar, which is located at a distance of 58 km from Shoja. You can take a taxi from Bhuntar Airport to reach Shoja. 
• By Road: If you prefer to travel by road, then you can take a bus from your city to any city of Himachal Pradesh such as Kullu, Manali or Shimla, and from there you can either take a taxi or a local bus to reach Shoja. 

By Rail: The nearest railway station to reach Shoja by train is Chandigarh. After reaching Chandigarh, you can take a bus going to Himachal Pradesh to reach Shoja.

Best Places to Eat in Shoja

• Ghar 1964: A quaint eatery offering a ₹200 home-style thali and delicious hot chocolate.
• Odin Hostels & Cafe: A cosy gem with tasty Dal Makhni.
• Rustic Cafe: A new favourite among locals.
• Firgun Cafe: A pricier option with noteworthy pizza, peri-peri fries, and white pasta with mushrooms.
• Manzana Woodlet Cottage: A venue that houses a Subway and offers a great view.