Nestled in the outer Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh, Churdhar stands tall and majestic at 12,000 feet, casting its spiritual and natural charm over everyone who dares to tread its ancient trails. My journey to Churdhar wasn’t just a trek; it was an awakening of the senses and a rediscovery of simplicity.
The Sights That Take Your Breath Away
The trek began from Nohradhar, a quaint village that felt frozen in time. As I ascended through thick deodar forests, the sunlight danced through the trees, casting dappled patterns on the forest floor. The deeper I went, the quieter it became—just the rustle of leaves underfoot and the distant call of a Himalayan Monal, its vibrant feathers flashing like jewels in the greenery.
Halfway up, I found myself walking through meadows dotted with wildflowers. Rhododendrons in full bloom splashed shades of red and pink across the landscape. As I gained altitude, the air thinned and cooled, carrying the faint, sweet scent of pine.
And then there was the summit. Standing atop Churdhar, with clouds swirling beneath and the mighty peaks of Kinnaur and the distant Badrinath ranges in sight, was humbling. The 360-degree panoramic view made every step worth it. At the summit sits the ancient Chureshwar Mahadev temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, radiating serenity and devotion.
Sounds and Flavors of the Mountains
Churdhar isn’t a place of bustling eateries, but the simple food served in the few dhabas along the route tastes divine after hours of trekking. Hot rajma-chawal, freshly made paranthas, and steaming cups of tea felt like a feast. The dhaba owners, warm and welcoming, shared local stories as we rested. I still remember the quiet evenings, where the only sounds were the crackling fire, murmured prayers from the temple, and the wind whispering through the cliffs.
Hidden Gems and Special Spots
One of my favorite spots was Teesri, a small flat area before the final ascent. It offered the perfect spot to camp under a sky studded with stars, away from all city lights. Early morning from Teesri was magical, with mist rising from the valleys and sunlight slowly gilding the snow-capped peaks.
Another hidden gem was the natural spring near the temple—a place where many trekkers stop to refresh. The icy cold water, believed to be sacred, felt like an energy boost after the climb.
Practical Tips for Fellow Travelers
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to November. The trails are clear, and the weather is pleasant. Avoid the monsoon season as the path can get slippery.
- What to Pack: Good trekking shoes, warm clothing (it gets cold at night even in summer), a sturdy walking stick, water bottles, energy snacks, and a basic first-aid kit. A flashlight and extra batteries are a must if you plan to camp.
- Getting There: The base point is Nohradhar, about 130 km from Shimla. You can hire a cab or take a local bus. From Nohradhar, the trek is around 18 km one way.
Personal Reflections
Churdhar taught me patience and resilience. There were moments during the steep climb when my legs ached, and I wondered if I could make it. But each time I paused, I noticed something beautiful—a unique flower, an ancient tree, or the laughter of fellow trekkers pushing forward together.
I met locals who told me stories of Chureshwar Mahadev, how the peak is believed to be where Lord Hanuman found the life-saving herb for Lakshmana. These tales added layers of spiritual significance to the landscape.
By the time I descended, I felt lighter—not just physically, but mentally too. Churdhar had gifted me silence, reflection, and a renewed love for the mountains.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a trek that’s not crowded, offers spiritual serenity, and rewards you with unmatched vistas, Churdhar is your calling. It’s more than a destination—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you return.