Supriya Bhardwaj Falachan Valley: A Hidden Paradise of Waterfalls, Rivers, and Serenity
Tirthan valley has its own charm and serene atmosphere. But we always prefer a place away from tourist crowd. Tirthan valley is still an offbeat location of Himachal Pradesh however, we have seen many tourists in summer season during our visit to the valley. So, we preferred Falachan valley (due to secluded location) over Tirthan valley and our stay in Ghalingcha village (The Last Village of Tirthan Valley). In addition, it gave us chance to explore the unexplored part of the valley and we have enjoyed the treats given by hidden paradise of nature. We would say that Falachan Valley is the valley of waterfalls, rivers, hikes, several bridges (wooden & iron), and pulley transport systems (rarely seen in offbeat hilly regions of Himachal Pradesh) that are connecting people to nearby villages.
Conquering the Fear on the Road Less Traveled
Embarking on a heart-pounding offroad journey from Bathad to Ghalingcha village (5 km) was an experience like no other. With barely any actual road, our own car became our trusted steed to navigate the rugged terrain. The path ahead was untamed, presenting us with obstacles and challenges at every turn. Amidst the rugged terrain, we found ourselves immersed in nature’s raw magnificence.
Each twist and turn revealed breathtaking vistas, rewarding our daring spirits with awe-inspiring panoramas. Our offroad odyssey was a transformative experience, leaving an indelible mark on our souls. The memories of conquering the untamed path and basking in the beauty of nature will forever be etched in our hearts. For those seeking an unforgettable escapade, this offroad drive unveils the enchanting allure of nature’s raw magnificence.
Homestay: Wooden Cottage at Secluded Place
During our visit to Falachan Valley in Tirthan, we had the pleasure of staying at the enchanting ‘Green Oak Cottage.’ Nestled in a secluded area, the wooden cottage offered a serene and peaceful retreat amidst nature’s beauty. The moment we arrived, we were captivated by the charming architecture and the picturesque surroundings.
Mr. Diwan, the warm and hospitable owner of the cottage, greeted us with a heartfelt welcome. He had carefully designed and built the cottage with a perfect blend of traditional aesthetics and modern comforts. The interiors exuded a rustic charm, with wooden furnishings, and large windows that provided stunning views of the valley and surrounding hills.
We had the foresight to book this idyllic homestay a month in advance, and Mr. Diwan was prompt in responding to our inquiries and accommodating our requests.
Throughout our stay, Mr. Diwan took care of us like family, making sure we had everything we needed. He shared fascinating stories about the valley, its culture, and its hidden gems. His knowledge of the region enriched our experience and made us feel deeply connected to the place.
In the evenings, we had gathered around a bonfire, shared laughter and made unforgettable memories. The tranquil ambiance of the cottage and the soothing sounds of nature around us made for a truly magical experience.
‘Green Oak Cottage’ provided us with a perfect base to explore the surrounding beauty of Falachan Valley. Each day, we would set out on exciting adventures, knowing that we would return to the comfort and warmth of the cottage.
Our stay at ‘Green Oak Cottage‘ was nothing short of a dream come true. The combination of genuine hospitality, charming accommodation, and the untouched beauty of the valley made it an experience we will cherish forever. If you seek an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and wish to immerse yourself in the lap of nature, we highly recommend this hidden gem in Falachan Valley.
You may contact the local guide and owner of the stay Mr. Diwan at +91 9805454572
Delightful Local Cuisine: ‘Seedu’ and ‘Wild Strawberries’
One of the highlights of our stay was the delectable local cuisine prepared by Mr. Diwan’s family. We enjoyed the local food like ‘Seedu,’ which is prepared from wheat flour, similar to baking bread and then stuffed with a potato mixture or any other vegetable of choice. One ‘Seedu’ was sufficient to fill our stomachs.
While exploring the village, we discovered wild strawberries growing along the hills. Our local guide picked some and offered them to us. These strawberries were delightful, though smaller in size compared to the cultivated ones.
Village Tour: Explored Local Culture
During our stay in Ghalingcha Village, we were fortunate to embark on an exclusive village tour guided by our gracious host, Mr. Diwan, and a knowledgeable local guide. This unique experience allowed us to immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of local culture. From interacting with the friendly villagers to witnessing their age-old traditions, we gained a deeper appreciation for the community’s way of life.
The tour unveiled the authentic essence of the village, its customs, and its close bond with nature. It was a rare opportunity to connect with the heart and soul of Ghalingcha Village, leaving us with cherished memories of the genuine warmth and hospitality of its people.
Trekking: Bagori Meadows Trek
On the morning of June 13, 2023, we embarked on the Bagori Meadows Trek, led by our knowledgeable local guide. This trek promised an adventure into the heart of nature’s grandeur, and it did not disappoint.
As we set off from Ghalingcha Village in the tranquil Falachan Valley, the air was filled with the earthy aroma of tall pine trees that towered above us. The trail meandered alongside babbling rivulets, their crystal-clear waters adding a refreshing touch to the journey.
Crossing over quaint wooden bridges, we marveled at the picturesque landscapes that unfolded before us. The meadows, adorned with a vibrant carpet of local vegetation, created a stunning mosaic of colors that was a feast for the eyes.
Venturing deeper into the dense forest of the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) eco zone region, we found ourselves in the embrace of nature’s wilderness. The symphony of bird songs and the rustling of leaves heightened our sense of immersion in this natural sanctuary.
With each step, the anticipation grew, and finally, we reached the jewel of our trek – the captivating Bagori Meadows. The sight was nothing short of awe-inspiring serene beauty of meadows.
We soaked in the tranquil atmosphere, rejuvenating our souls amidst the untouched beauty of the Himalayan wilderness. The sense of accomplishment filled us as we realized the rewarding nature of our trek.
The Bagori Meadows Trek was a symphony of sights, sounds, and emotions. It not only offered a chance to reconnect with nature but also provided a glimpse into the profound magnificence of the Great Himalayan National Park. As we bid farewell to this enchanting journey, we carried with us memories of the mesmerizing vistas and a newfound appreciation for the splendor of the natural world.
Hidden Gem: Ghalingcha Waterfall
In the evening of June 13, 2023, we enjoyed our expedition to the hidden gem of Ghalingcha village – the Ghalingcha Waterfall. Tucked away in the heart of the village, this mesmerizing waterfall bears the name of its surroundings.
The hike to reach the waterfall spanned around 250-300 meters from our cottage stay. The experience was a delightful discovery, surrounded by the untouched beauty of nature, leaving us enchanted by the allure of this hidden treasure.
Hiking: Falachan River Hike
On the sun-kissed morning of June 14, 2023, we set out with eager anticipation to explore the enchanting Falachan River. The hike followed by Ghalingcha waterfall along with some other small waterfalls, rivulets, and bridges. The air was crisp, and the rhythmic sound of flowing water accompanied us throughout our journey.
Finally, we reached a small meadow region where we decided to pause for a well-deserved breakfast. The idyllic setting of the riverside made the meal even more enjoyable. The tranquil sound of the flowing water, the melodious birdsong, and the sight of the surrounding wilderness made this moment truly magical.
As we reluctantly concluded our river trek, we knew that this experience would be etched in our memories forever. The Falachan River Hike gifted us not only with splendid views of nature’s splendor but also with a sense of tranquility and harmony with the pristine environment.
Do’s & Don’ts
- It is always a good idea to plan your trip in advance, book accommodations, and check for any local restrictions or permits required for travel to the region.
- Always check online reviews and ratings to gauge the quality and service of the accommodation before making a reservation.
- Always respect Nature and don’t litter anywhere.
- Be a responsible traveller and always seek guidance of locals to explore the region well.
Suggested Read: Tirthan Valley’s Hidden Gem
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