Things To Do In Shoja For A Enjoyable Outing In Himachal

A castle with traditional architecture clicked during day time

One of the most well-liked locations in Himachal Pradesh for adventure seekers who love hiking and exploring the surrounding area is Shoja. It is well-known for its foliage, wildlife, and nature trails and is situated in Himachal Pradesh’s Seraj Valley. Make sure to start your next trip to this remote village with a well-thought-out itinerary that includes all the best things to do in Shoja. Take a route to Shoja the next time you are in Himachal Pradesh, and you will truly understand what leisurely mountain life is all about.

13 Best Things To Do In Shoja

Despite its small size, there are many places to explore and things to do in Shoja, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful yet adventurous getaway.

1. Trek To Jalori Pass

A campsite on a tall mountain

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The majority of your trip will be spent visiting the various trekking locations, such as Jalori Pass because Shoja is largely known for its adventure activities. One of the most scenic passes in Himachal Pradesh, it is at an elevation of 10,800 feet. Both adventure seekers and photographers know it well. Both novice and expert hikers can complete the comparatively easy climb to Jalori Pass. Trekking through woods of oak and rhododendrons, meadows, and quaint villages adds to the adventure of the journey. In addition, the pathways are typically blanketed in snow if you undertake this walk in the winter.

Location: 5 Km from Shoja

Suggested Read: Trekking In Himachal

2. Witness The Beauty Of Serolsar Lake

A lake surrounded by dense forest

Photo: Sukhjiwan Singh / Wikimedia Commons

One of the best things to see in Shoja is Serolsar Lake, which is surrounded by dense forest. In addition to its pristine waters, the lake is revered by the community for its spiritual qualities. It is 3,100 meters above sea level and situated in the outer Seraj Valley. About 5 miles from Jalori Pass, the walk to Serolsar Lake gives breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The adjacent shrine honouring the lake’s mythological guardian, Budhi Nagin, is also open for exploration by guests. The lake’s tranquil surroundings are excellent for resting and relaxing.

Location: 5 Km trek from Jalori Pass

3. Adventure Activities At Tirthan Valley

One of the most adventurous things to do in Shoja

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Tirthan Valley, located near Shoja, is another thrilling location that adventure seekers should not miss. It provides a tranquil haven and is well-known for offbeat pursuits, including river rafting, fishing, and camping. The Tirthan River is another location in the vicinity of this valley that you should see and explore. Additionally, the Valley prepares the way for the well-known Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also several wildlife species that you can observe and spot. In addition to offering fantastic trekking opportunities, the routes surrounding Tirthan Valley also allow you to access the neighbouring Chhoie waterfall.

Location: 25 Km from Shoja

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Tirthan Valley To Explore The Pristine Nature

4. Trek To Raghupur Fort

A mountain with a misty weather during daytime

Photo: Shubhra Poddar / Shutterstock

Trekking to the Raghupur Fort is only one of the many activities available in Shoja that you really must undertake. Perched atop a hill that encircles Jalori Pass, the fort provides stunning views. Although the fort is now in ruins, it provides a window into the area’s rich historical past. The fort’s location is an excellent place to take in the breathtaking vistas of the neighbouring Shoja Valley. The somewhat difficult walk to Raghupur Fort winds through both open meadows and deep woodlands. You are welcome to stay near the fort to take pictures and see the breathtaking sunset.

Location: 3 Km trek from Jalori Pass

5. Waterfall Point

A waterfall surrounded by beautiful greenery

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Another destination is the Waterfall Point, a captivating natural beauty that leaves travellers in awe. It’s about a kilometre from the town centre. A life without it would be dull. It provides a welcome diversion and one of the best waterfalls in Himachal Pradesh. You can reach this lovely waterfall, surrounded by peace and lush vegetation, with a short walk from the main settlement. To get here, most visitors schedule a morning stroll. It’s safe to claim that the winding paths promote a closer connection between you and the natural world because they are so enthralling. After the short hike, you can revitalise, relax and unwind by the waterfall.

Location: 1 Km from Shoja

Suggested Read: Rahala Waterfalls

6. Visit Jibhi Waterfall

A quiet waterfall cascading through rocks

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One of Jibhi’s top attractions is the Jibhi Waterfall, which enhances the allure of the journey up the Jalori Pass. There are wooden bridges along the trail that lead to this waterfall, so go with caution and avoid trying to go too fast across them. Regarding the route, the nature trails wind through rocky terrain and dense forests, which enhance the waterfall’s beauty. Be prepared to see a rainbow in the waterfall if you visit there early in the morning.

Location: 10 Km from Shoja

7. Indulge In Bird-Watching

One of the most popular things to do in Shoja

Photo: Timothy Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons

Shoja’s varied bird population and serene natural setting make it a bird watcher’s dream destination. This village’s surrounding dense forests and verdant surroundings provide an excellent opportunity to observe a variety of avian species, including both native and migratory birds like woodpeckers, pheasants, and warblers. Late afternoon or early dawn are two of the greatest times to see birds. A local guide can assist visitors in identifying the different species and provide insights into their habitats and behaviours. They can also recommend better areas for bird viewing so you can make the most of your time there.

Location: Throughout Shoja

Suggested Read: Top Offbeat Places In Himachal Pradesh For Fresh Mountain Air

8. Camping In Shoja

One of the most thrilling things to do in Shoja

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Camping is yet another excellent activity in Shoja, Himachal Pradesh. You can choose to camp on your own or use one of the two camping tour companies in the Shoja area, which will relieve you of the hassle of lugging all your stuff. Sleeping beneath the stars in Shoja’s tranquil surroundings is an incredibly captivating experience. As a bonus, a lot of campgrounds provide guided hikes, bonfires, and other recreational opportunities. Additionally, there are camping experiences tailored for families, friends, and single travellers, so you may choose the providers who most closely match your preferences.

Location: Tirthan Valley and Great Himalayan National Park

9. Day Trip To Jibhi

A temple near a lake in Jibhi's hills

Photo: Phototraveller1 / Wikimedia Commons

After visiting Shoja, consider spending a day trip to Jibhi, which is a short drive away and is well-known for its picturesque scenery and traditional Himachali architecture. A trip to Jibhi is essential if you wish to discover more about Himachal Pradesh’s Seraj Valley. There are plenty of Things To Do In Jibhi like hiking, fishing and discovering the native way of life in the town. Amazing, helpful, and incredibly kind folks work there. To support the community’s economy, you can stay at one of the many homestays managed by the residents. Try the food that the natives cook for you while you’re there.

Location: 8 Km from Shoja

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Jibhi To Make Your Trip Memorable

10. Visit Chehni Kothi

A castle with traditional architecture clicked during day time

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Located near Jibhi, Chehni Kothi is another one of the must-visit spots near Shoja. It provides a glimpse into the traditional Himachali architecture with its tower-like structure. The entire structure is made out of wood and stone, which adds to the rustic beauty of the place. It served as the residence of the local chieftains back in the day and requires a steep trek to reach this spot. Once you are done exploring the structure, take your time to explore the nearby Chehni village, interact with the locals and enjoy the views around. Hiring a local guide is recommended.

Location: 14 Km from Shoja

11. Shopping At Local Market

Image of the people walking in the local market in Himachal– Things to Do in Shoja

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Shopping at the local market in Shoja is a fun and relaxing experience. You can find handmade woolens, wooden crafts, and local spices. The small shops and stalls reflect the culture of the region. Buying from local sellers also supports their livelihood. Don’t forget to try some homemade pickles and jams. The peaceful setting makes the shopping even more enjoyable. It’s a great way to end your day and one of the best things to do in Himachal Pradesh.

Location: Shoja, Teshil, Banjar, Himachal Pradesh

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Himachal In August During Your Next Trip

12. Experience The Local Cuisine

Mouthwatering image of the local cuisine of Himachal in a plate

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Experience the local cuisine in Shoja for a true taste of Himachali culture. Try simple and tasty dishes like siddu, rajma, and madra. Most meals are homemade and served hot with love. You can find these in small cafes or local homes. The food is fresh, mildly spiced, and full of flavor. Don’t miss the local chai with a mountain view. Tasting these dishes is one of the best ways to enjoy village life and feel the warmth of Shoja.

Location: Shoja, Himachal Pradesh

13. Visit Gushaini And Sharchi Village

Panoramic image of the beautiful river and settlement on its bank amidst Himalayas

Photo: ArmouredCyborg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Visit Gushaini and Sharchi village for a peaceful break near Shoja. These small villages are full of charm, wooden houses, and smiling locals. Walk through quiet trails, watch birds, and enjoy views of apple orchards and forests. Gushaini is also known for fishing in the Tirthan River. Sharchi, a less-visited gem, offers calm and fresh air. These villages show the slow and simple life of Himachal. Exploring them is one of the best things to do in Shoja.

Location: Tirthan Valley (Banjar), Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, India

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Kullu

Shoja is one of the unexplored and unspoiled spots in Himachal Pradesh that offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventurists. Among the many things to do in Shoja, trekking, exploring historical spots and indulging in the local culture happen to be a few popular activities. As you plan and book your next trip to Himachal Pradesh with TripXL, plan to spend a few days in this quaint and offbeat village too.

Cover Photo: Simi4304 / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Summers, from April to June, are one of the best times to visit Shoja. You can also plan a visit between September and November.
Albeit limited options, you can find a few different types of homestays and hotels around Shoja that you can stay in.
Yes, Shoja can be visited in winter. However, be prepared for cold weather and possible snowfall.
Yes, local festivals like Kullu Dussehra and Pipal Jatra are celebrated with much enthusiasm. These festivals provide a glimpse into the local culture.
Mobile network connectivity is available but can be patchy in some areas. So, avoid exploring offbeat spots without a local guide.
Shoja is just 5 km from Jibhi and can be reached easily by taxi, local bus, or a short and scenic drive through pine forests.
Shoja Waterfall is a short trek from the village center. Follow the marked trail through the forest for a peaceful 15-20 minute walk.
Enjoy local cuisine, trek to Serolsar Lake, visit waterfalls, explore Jalori Pass, and shop handmade items in the peaceful mountain village.
In Shoja, you can trek to Serolsar Lake, visit Jalori Pass, explore waterfalls, enjoy local Himachali food, and relax in peaceful mountain surroundings.

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