TREK TO CHURDHAR, HIMACHAL PRADESH – CONQUER THE HEIGHTS, EMBRACE SERENE BEAUTY

Churdhar, also known as Chur Chandni, is a picturesque peak located in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Standing tall at an elevation of 3,647 meters (11,965 feet), it is a revered destination for trekkers, nature enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers. The Churdhar region is blessed with stunning natural beauty, encompassing verdant valleys, dense forests, gushing streams, and panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. The highlight of the trek is reaching the summit, where the Chureshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated. The trek offers a perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and tranquility, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking a unique and memorable experience amidst the majestic Himalayas.
The Churdhar Trek is a popular trekking destination located in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It offers a thrilling and rewarding experience for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here’s what you can expect from the Churdhar Trek:
- Scenic Beauty: The Churdhar Trek is known for its breathtaking natural beauty. As you ascend towards the summit, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of lush green valleys, dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. The trek offers a chance to immerse yourself in the pristine Himalayan landscape and witness the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
- Churdhar Peak: The highlight of the trek is reaching the majestic Churdhar Peak, which stands at an elevation of 3,647 meters (11,965 feet). The summit rewards trekkers with mesmerizing vistas of the surrounding mountains, including the Dhauladhar and Greater Himalayan ranges. On clear days, you can even catch glimpses of the Gangetic plains.
- Religious Significance: Churdhar Peak holds immense religious significance as it is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. The summit houses the Chureshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracting devotees from far and wide. The trek provides an opportunity for spiritual seekers to visit the temple and experience the divine aura of the place.
- Trekking Difficulty: The Churdhar Trek is considered moderately challenging, suitable for both experienced trekkers and beginners with good physical fitness. The trail passes through steep ascents, rocky terrain, and forested sections, requiring stamina and endurance. However, with proper preparation and guidance, it is an achievable trek for adventure enthusiasts.
- Cultural Immersion: Along the trekking route, you will encounter remote villages inhabited by the local community. Interacting with the villagers provides an opportunity to learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life. You may get a glimpse into their farming practices, local cuisine, and hospitality, adding a cultural dimension to your trekking experience.
- Flora and Fauna: The Churdhar region is rich in biodiversity, housing a variety of plant and animal species. During the trek, you may come across dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron trees. Keep an eye out for wildlife like the Himalayan black bear, leopard, barking deer, and a variety of bird species. The trek provides a chance to appreciate the natural heritage of the region.
- Camping and Stargazing: Camping is a popular activity during the Churdhar Trek. Set up your tents amidst the serene surroundings and spend the night under the starry sky. The clear mountain air and lack of light pollution make it an ideal spot for stargazing, offering a breathtaking celestial display.
Suggested Itinerary
Here’s a suggested itinerary for the Churdhar Trek:
Day 1: Arrival in Nohradhar
- Arrive at Nohradhar, the starting point of the Churdhar Trek.
- Settle into your accommodation and spend the day exploring the village.
- Visit the local market and interact with the friendly locals.
Day 2: Nohradhar to Churdhar Base Camp
- Begin your trek from Nohradhar towards the Churdhar Base Camp.
- The trail passes through lush green meadows, dense forests, and charming villages.
- Enjoy the scenic beauty and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.
- Reach the Churdhar Base Camp and set up your camp for the night.
Day 3: Churdhar Base Camp to Churdhar Peak and Back
- Start early in the morning for the summit push to Churdhar Peak.
- Trek through rocky terrains and steep ascents, enjoying panoramic views along the way.
- Reach the summit of Churdhar, offering breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan ranges.
- Explore the Chureshwar Mahadev Temple and take in the spiritual ambiance.
- Descend back to the Churdhar Base Camp for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Churdhar Base Camp to Nohradhar
- Descend from the Churdhar Base Camp to Nohradhar.
- Take your time to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and capture memorable moments.
- Arrive in Nohradhar and spend the evening relaxing and reflecting on your trekking experience.
- Explore the local market and savor some delicious Himachali cuisine.
Day 5: Departure
- After breakfast, check out from your accommodation in Nohradhar.
- Depart with wonderful memories of the Churdhar Trek and the beautiful Himachal Pradesh.
- You can either head back to your home destination or continue your journey to explore other nearby attractions.
Note: The suggested itinerary is subject to change based on the duration of your trek, weather conditions, and your physical fitness. It is recommended to consult with local trekking agencies or guides for the most up-to-date and suitable itinerary for your Churdhar Trek experience.
Other Attractions Nearby
While trekking towards Churdhar, there are several attractions en route that you can explore. Here are some notable attractions:
- Kala Amb: Located on the way to Churdhar, Kala Amb is a scenic spot known for its lush green surroundings and a small stream. It is a perfect place to take a break, relax, and soak in the natural beauty.
- Sirmour Retreat: Situated near Nohradhar, Sirmour Retreat offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. It is an excellent spot for nature lovers to enjoy the serene ambiance and capture breathtaking photographs.
- Chureshwar Mahadev Temple (Nohradhar): Before starting the Churdhar Trek, you can visit the Chureshwar Mahadev Temple in Nohradhar. It is a revered temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and provides a spiritual setting to seek blessings before commencing your trek.
- Ashwani Khad: Ashwani Khad is a beautiful waterfall located near Nohradhar. Trekking enthusiasts can take a short detour to witness the cascading waterfall and enjoy the refreshing surroundings.
- Bhureshwar Mahadev Temple (Gadkhal): Situated en route to Churdhar, the Bhureshwar Mahadev Temple in Gadkhal is a significant religious site. It is believed to be one of the oldest temples in the region and attracts devotees throughout the year.
- Kharapathar: Located on the way to Churdhar, Kharapathar is a scenic hill station known for its apple orchards and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Take a break here, enjoy the cool mountain breeze, and relish some freshly plucked apples.
- Sirmour Retreat: Situated amidst lush greenery, Sirmour Retreat is a beautiful resort offering a serene ambiance and picturesque views. It’s a perfect place to unwind, relax, and soak in the natural beauty of the region.
- Habban Valley: The mesmerizing Habban Valley is a picturesque valley that falls en route to Churdhar. It is known for its terraced fields, pine forests, and gurgling streams. Take a leisurely walk and capture some stunning photographs of this scenic valley.
- Chopal: Chopal is a small town located on the way to Churdhar. It is known for its serene environment and apple orchards. Take a short break here, explore the local market, and savor some delicious Himachali snacks.
- Sarahan: Although slightly off the main route, Sarahan is a charming village that you can visit if you have additional time. It is famous for the Bhimakali Temple, an architectural marvel with intricate carvings. Enjoy the tranquility of the village and the stunning views of the Himalayas.
Best Time to Go
The best time to go for the Churdhar Trek and explore the Churdhar region is during the following seasons:
- Spring (April to June): This is an ideal time to visit Churdhar as the weather is pleasant and the surrounding landscapes are in full bloom. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it comfortable for trekking. The forests come alive with vibrant flowers, and the clear skies offer breathtaking views of the mountains.
- Autumn (September to November): Another favorable time to visit Churdhar is during autumn. The weather remains pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The post-monsoon season leaves the surroundings fresh and green, and the clear visibility offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks.
It’s important to note that weather conditions can be unpredictable in the mountains, so it’s advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your trip. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season (July and August) as heavy rainfall can make the trekking trails slippery and unsafe.