Himachal, the crown jewel of northern mountains in India is mostly famous for its nose hill stations such as Shimla Manali and Dharamshala. But the true essence of this Himalayan state lies in its offbeat villages, hidden away from commercialisation and particularly culturally rich. It is just a peaceful little getaway in the hills for those who want to experience Himachali life! Here is a look at some of the enchanting silent villages in Himachal Pradesh, each with its own exceptional charm.

1. Kalap – A Step Back in Time

Kalap, in superseded timesOne of Kalaphungri wafted weirdly into my cranium while minding a posse on the switchback to Kandi Machal. Kalap Located amidst snow-capped peaks and canopied with thick forests, Kalap is famous for wooden houses built in traditional style, terraced fields and its untouched serene beauty. Best time to visit: The village is a must-go place for all the trek addicts as well as people looking forward to experiencing an offbeat slow life in Rural Himachal.

One of the most enjoyable parts about visiting Kalap is that you meet the people who live there in their homes, and are very friendly. The villagers here are still living according to their long held tradition and dress in their traditional costume, thereby enhancing the village value. As for trekkers, Kalap offers trekking trails in dense pine jungle and a clear view of the Garhwal Himalayas.

2. Chitkul – The Last Village on Indo-Tibetan Border

In the lovely Sangla Valley, Chitkul is an Abode Atop with the last Inhabited Village right close to the India-Tibetan border. Chitkul, at an elevation of 3,450 metres provides stunning perspectives with the snow-clad Himalayas and a stream entitled Baspa River flowing torrentially within the hollow. Chitkul is special because even though it attracts a lot of visitors, its untouched landscape still makes you feel like you're cut off from the world.

The village is hemmed in by apple orchards, pine forests and fields of barley and potatoes. In the summer, The village is full of bright wildflowers and it just looks like heaven for a photographer. Chitkul is also known for ancient temples of local goddesses such as Chhinnamastika and Mathi, which promote the spiritual history among the local people. ChitkulThere are very few secret locations left in Himachal Pradesh, but this bogey is included among those emerging from the snake box of tour operators.

3. Malana – A Taboo Custom Ancient Village

Malana is a village that lies in the Parvati valley amidst all of the other villages but makes up for being different from them. Malana, an odd customs and lifestyle village, is also said to be the world 's oldest democracy. Major Robin Jeremiah, 47, an army dentist deployed near firing line (LoC), exposed the code of honour in this belt where every second village claims to be part-related to Alexander the Great's Army and will remind you how their manners even differ from neighbouring villages.

Rules for those visiting Malana tell them not to even touch any structure or item of the village. Now because of these restrictions, Malana gives us a cultural insight like no other. Situated amid lush green forests, the village is an excellent place to enjoy marvellous views of Deo Tibba and chandrakhani range which makes this a perfect destination for trekking

Malana, famous for its weed that comes from Malana plants and brings people all over the globe. Nonetheless, the real charm of Malana is not its isolation but that this community has been living like it for centuries.

4. Gushaini — Gateway to the Serai of The Grateful National Park

For the people who love natural beauty Gushaini adds an extra charm to visit Tirthan Valley as it is located on the riverside of river Tirthan. Just the gateway to one of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, The Great Himalayan National Park, Gushaini is a cosy village filled with adventures and tranquillity.

The village is situated amidst lush green forests and gives opportunities for trout fishing, bird watching & trekking. The Great Himalayan National Park is also a paradise for nature enthusiasts who wish to partake in the rich flora and fauna of the broad range; you might be lucky enough saunter upon impossible habitats like those inhabited by highly endemic species such as Himalayan tahr, snow leopard east.

It is a great place for the seekers of tranquillity… Gushaini The village, with its eco-friendly homestays and rustic charm lets one disconnect from the hustle & bustle of city life to connect back with nature.

5. Barot – Valley of Adventure

Located in the district of Mandi, Barot is a peaceful village which has become quite famous among travellers venturing offbeat recently. With dense forests all around and the river Uhl rising from here, this quaint little village is perfect for those who like adventure sports since a lot of fishing spots, trek camping sites are available right away.

It is the habitat of many rare species like ghoral, black bears and Himalayan monals As it houses Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary. However, history too did not disappoint with Barot turning out to be a place that was first developed during the British era as a hydroelectric project. The village with narrow paved streets, wooden houses and terraced fields looks refreshingly colourful here.

For the fans of trekking, trails to several nearby villages like Kothi Kohar and Lohardi are also well laid for amazing views of Dhauladhar range above. With the quiet backdrops and adventure opportunities, Barot is also an excellent place for Himachal offbeat trail seekers.

6. Thanedar — The Apple Valley of Himachal

A small village situated near Shimla, Thanedar is famous for its lovely apple orchards and colonial character. Credit to Samuel Stokes, an American missionary who planted the first apple trees in this now-beautiful village giving birth to these orchards and making itself recognized as one of the largest producers (by quantity) around India. Today, Thanedar is ringed by orchards that grow some of the best apples in India.

Swirling sounds come from the apple orchards, as one gets a succulent taste of fresh apples in Thanedar which has got different varieties and it even offers home stays at homely lodging right amidst all these fruit laden trees. The village also overlooks the stunning snow-clad Himalayan ranges on one end and pine covered mountains on the other, which is what makes this tiny hamlet so charming to travellers who wish a quaint retreat close to nature.

The nearest attractions are Tani Jubbar Lake, and Hatu Peak, both at a distance of about 4-5 kms, where one can take picnics or short treks. The village is a hidden gem of Himachal Pradesh owing to its age-old architecture coupled with the solitude that it has.

7. Rakcham — A hamlet in the Baspa Valley

Rakcham, a quaint town between Sangla and Chitkul in the Baspa Valley is usually overshadowed by its touristy siblings. But Rakcham has that unique appeal to it and hence, you should visit here once. The village is perched in the bosom of high mountains, thick forests and surrounded by Baspa river which makes this place a heaven for nature lovers as well as people searching solitude.

It is not as touristy of a village, which makes it even more special. The valley around must be some great for trekking and Rakcham can continue as a base point. Travellers can also observe the traditional living of Kinnauri people who are famous for their rich culture and warm hospitality.

A quiet place, a peaceful town Gurudwara at Rakcham valley surrounded by the great view makes it an ideal destination to reduce pressure and feel free from city life stress.

Conclusion

Off the beaten path- Himachal Pradesh has some incredibly serene villages that will make you wonder why instead of Shimla and Manali has found these hidden jewels for the benefit of discerning travellers who want to veer off from well-trodden touristy trails and yet not miss out on experiencing the raw Himalayas but also indulging in its rich cultural heritage. Be it for adventure, isolation or exploring the typical rural Himachali way of life; these villages will cast a spell on you! Pack your bags and venture into the quietude of Himachal Pradesh's vivid villages, where minutes appear to be stopped at this point nature dominates.

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