Rajgarh lies on the Solan – Nahan route in the remote and highly unexplored Sirmour district of Himachal Pradesh. Home to some of the most beautiful nature-centric stays and adventure centric camps, Rajgarh is full of apple and peach orchards.
In fact, it is often known as the Peach Valley of Himachal Pradesh and has some of India’s finest stone fruits, including peaches, plums, and apricots. Perched at a comfortable height of 2170 meters, Rajgarh is a gem waiting to be explored.
You’ll be far enough from the world to feel the pristineness of nature, yet, close enough to travel comfortably and reach easily. Also, I must add that with considerable natural beauty, this tiny hamlet is also the base for several trek routes – including one that leads to the peak of Chur Dhar (Chur Chandni).
Let's quickly dive into the details:
About Rajgarh
Situated in the Sirmour district, Rajgarh is a popular camping getaway ex-Chandigarh (105 km). Here camps offer guests walks, treks, and a range of adventure activities. Thus, making for positively a beautiful experience. You may choose to visit for a quick getaway, a long weekend destination, or even longer to enjoy the slow and steady pace of mother nature.
Rajgarh Weather
As with Himachali destinations, weather in Rajgarh experiences snow in the winter months of January to March, and the temperatures are usually close to freezing points during this time period. Thus, remember to pack up and layer your clothes when enjoying this winter wonderland.
Also, Summer months are beautiful and experience the Himalayan summer temperatures – however, it is still important to layer up. Weather in the hills can change quickly and just with a turn in the direction you might be away from the super warm sun into shady regions. Thus, it is imperative to keep at least a light jumper available with you at all times.
Best time to visit Rajgarh
As with most Himalayan destinations, the best time to visit is the pre-monsoon months if you’re looking to get in a lot of activities. Alternatively, winter months make for magical snowy days and will definitely be memories to remember.
However, at all times – it is usually advisable to avoid the monsoon months of May to July/August. While the hills are pretty and at their most luscious during this time – it is also a time when the hills are prone to landslides and you might get stuck.
How to reach Rajgarh
Rajgarh is situated on the Solan – Nahan route. While there are no direct airports or railway stations in the town itself, here are the details of the nearest stations.
By Air
The nearest airport to Rajgarh is Shimla, situated at 90 KMs from the town. However, the airport has exceptionally limited connectivity and you still have to travel a lot to get to Rajgarh.
Chandigarh Airport is situated 105 KMs from the town and experiences far better connectivity as compared to Shimla. Another alternative that can be considered is Dehradun, 180 km from Rajgarh, and takes the route from the Nahan side.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is Solan, situated 40 km from Rajgarh. However, again, the trains to Solan are limited. Kalka would be the best option if considering covering part of your journey by train. Kalka Railway Station is at a distance of 90 km and Chandigarh is 130 km away. If you are traveling on the Kalka Shimla toy train, you should get off at Solan and hail a bus/ cab to Rajgarh.
By Road
Chandigarh is 130 km, Delhi is at a distance of 374 km and Shimla lies 96 km away. From Chandigarh, it will take you approximately 3 hours to reach, including pit-stops. The journey is beautiful, yet uneventful. The roads are easily manageable for anyone who has some experience in the hills.
Things to do in Rajgarh
Being an integral, yet highly known, part of the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh – you know you’ll not be disappointed by Rajgarh. Whether you’re inclined to explore nature and its many trails, calm your soul with the views or are into spiritual getaways – Rajgarh has you covered.
Rajgarh is one such place that charms its visitors with its natural beauty, the peaceful ambiance, and much more; it is a herculean task to describe its charming nature in words but it must be experienced.
Churi Chandni Dhar
Churi Chandni Dhar, translating literally to bangles of the snow ridge, is a peak considered to be the highest peak away from the Himalayan ranges of the state. And, Rajgarh is the base for this trek.
The trek to its summit begins with a steep and inclined hike through dense deodar forests, terraced farmlands, and pasture lands. The peak is located within 56 sq. km forest sanctuary which further adds on to its charm.
Haripur Dhar
Haripur Dhar situated 56 km away is famous for the ancient temple of Mata Bhangyani Devi, a god sister of Lord Shirgul, the I principal deity of the area, whose seat is at Churdhar. On way to Haripurdhar, Nohradhar is 28 km and is a base for trekking to Churdhar.
There are many trek routes in the valley to Churdhar, like Sailpaw-Dhokhta~Churdhar (7km), Haripurdhar-Churdhar (17), Nohradhar-Churdhar (14km), Sarahan-Churdhar (7 km), Habban-Churdhar (15 km).
Baru Sahib
Baru Sahib is a Gurudwara and located about 26 km from Nalagarh. Situated in beautiful lush Shivalik, the calm tranquility of the region is a must!
Dolanji Bon Monastery
Dolanji Bon Monastery, also called the ‘Yungdrung Bon Monastery has situated around 28 km from Nalagarh. The monastery is run by the Yungdrung Bon Monastic Centre and was founded in 1969 by the Naoot Lungtog Tenpai Nyima. While the Monastery is simple – the peace it offers through its location and the Zen of spirituality is incomparable.
Lord Shiva Shrine
Situated at an altitude of 3640 m, there is a gorgeous 5000-year-old shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. This place is often known as the Shirgul Maharaja and is a major draw of the region. Once you visit this place, you’re assumed to be washed off of your sins. Hence, it is no surprise that a lot of pilgrims visit the shrine yearly.
Trails around the region
If you’re an explorer- you’ll be blessed here! One can easily spot many a waterfall every 10-20 Kms. However, views are to be earned when in the hills, they are not presented to you.
You’ll have to go out and explore – climb some hills and search across the hidden trails to be blessed with the views. I should mention here that the route from Rondi offers a series of waterfalls one after the other each one more attractive than the other.
Food Options
Hotels in the region have some hotels. And, this is also accompanied by a lot of dhabas as well along the roadside. However, one place I MUST recommend which is slightly out of the city (around 13 KMs) is the Chail Palace.
And, if you are heading in this direction – this is a place you won’t want to miss out on. Also, the yesteryear charm and the colonial feel from the British Raj is an experience all on its own. Do visit.
Stay Options
You’ll find all sorts of hotels here from luxury to budget. The Tourist Inn is a budget hotel and provides a great base for all your needs in exploring the cute quaint town of Rajgarh.
Also if you’re in the mood for camping then do try out the Peach camps with their comfy tents and a beautiful view!
Conclusion
Waiting to experience the wilderness? Of course, then this is the place for you to get the feel and thrill of being in a forest which is home to a wide range of flora and fauna.
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The forest here comprises predominantly of rhododendron and pine trees where one can capture various avian species and if you are lucky enough, even a leopard. Also, this place is a haven for all your nature needs – whether it is an adventure setting or a spiritual escape! Rajgarh is awaiting.
