The Ecozone areas are adjacent to the Park and provide a combination of natural and cultural experiences. The trails go through villages and are generally easy to moderate. The best time to visit is during the Dushera Festival (usually in October). This is a major Hindu cultural and religious event celebrating the victory of good over evil in the “Ramayana”. Hundreds of local village deities are brought to Kullu from the surrounding villages. An exciting display of people, music, costumes, special exhibitions, foods, etc., fill the mountain roads and towns. Not to be missed!

The Spring festivals (generally in April) also offer opportunities to watch and participate in important, local cultural events. Holidays include: Basant Panchami, Phagli, Sainj mela, Banjar mela.
(Please see section below on festivals).

Half- and One-Day Tours
These offer an opportunity to interact with villagers and observe their daily activities, including weaving, basket-making, cooking, farming, etc. Check with SAHARA for options and availability.
top

Multi-day Tours
These combine trekking in the Ecozone countryside and through villages. They offer a glimpse into the general habitat of the Park but have easier trails and often include sleeping in Rest Houses rather than tents.

Neuli-Shangarh Loop
A three day trek traversing mountain trails and the villages of Shangarh and Lapah. Includes a visit to a GHNP nursery where medicinal plants and tree are cultivated. Opportunities for interactions with students, farmers, and women weavers. Hiking through traditional villages and architecture, beautiful vistas, meadows, sacred groves, and terraced fields. Moderate elevation gain.
Distance: 24 km

Neuli- Manu Temple
One- to two-day trek visiting a 200 year old Hindu temple with intricate wood carving. Opportunity to listen to Hindu prayers (puja) if a local pujari (priest) is available. Moderate to steep elevation to the temple.
Distance: 12 km. (round trip).

An additional side trip of 4 km takes you to a tower-like monument at Talyara village, built about 250 years ago.

Gushaini-Tinder Village
One or two days trek from Gushaini to Tinder village which offers an insight into the village life, its cultural aspects and a walk through forests up to Kharongcha.
Distance: 12 kms.

Siund-Saran-Ghat Seri-Pashi Villages
One- or two-days treks in Sainj River valley which includes steep climb to the ancient villages of Saran and Pashi with very old houses and distinct local architecture. Ghat Seri has a 6 hectare (appox. 12 acres) sacred grove and is an example of local biological diversity conserved in the forest area.
Distance: 10 kms.
top