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.
10 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
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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
Timings: 24 hours
Entry Fees: None
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2. Witness The Beauty Of Serolsar Lake
Photo: Sukhjiwan Singh / Wikimedia Commons
One of the best things to do in Shoja is to visit 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
Timings: 24 hours
Entry Fees: None
3. Adventure Activities At Tirthan Valley
Photo: Ankitwadhwa10 / Wikimedia Commons
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
Timings: 24 hours
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4. Trek To Raghupur Fort
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
Timings: 24 hours
5. Waterfall Point
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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. 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
Timings: 24 hours
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6. Visit Jibhi Waterfall
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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
Timings: 24 Hours
7. Indulge In Bird-Watching
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
Timings: Early morning and late afternoon
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8. Camping 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
Timings: 24 Hours
9. Day Trip To Jibhi
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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 options for 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
Timings: 24 hours
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Tirthan Valley
10. Visit Chehni Kothi
Photo: Shubhankar Sakalkale / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
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
Timings: 24 hours
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