Arghadipa Chakraborty

You have to go through those mountains and valleys- because that’s what life is: soul growth.

_Wayne Newton

We were done with our first morning tea date with Manali in our hotel amidst of mesmerizing snow-clad mountain ranges while the travel agent informed us about the timing to start our journey for the valley of Sholang, which seems a place of fairytale. Greenery against the white mountains has made the place somewhat unearthly and its magical aura has made it either a painting of a careful painter or a place of poet’s imagination.

How much does Sholang Valley trip cost?

As Manali is the nearest hill station, a tourist has to come Manali at first from anywhere of the world to travel for Sholang. If you are going by traveller, it will charge Rs.250 per head; otherwise travel will be costlier than it. The place where the car will drop you, you can borrow a horse(Rs. 250/head), a ropeway or mountain bike(Rs.1000/head) in order to explore the whole valley. If bargaining is your cup of tea, the price is upto you.

Detailed itinerary:-

Nestled in the lap of Himalayas, Sholang Valley is one of the most visited places in Manali, “the lovers’ paradise”. Situated in the distance of 11 kms. from Manali and 8500 feet above the sea level, the valley has been recognized as a treat for the eyes of the tourists as well as the lens of their cameras for its mesmerizing natural beauty.

Manali is the nearest hill station to start journey for the valley of Sholang. So, one has to reach Manali at first either from Delhi or Chandigarh. The nearest airport to reach Sholang lies in Bhuntar which is 63 kms. away from Sholang. It is suggested to stay one night at Manali and then start journey for Sholang Valley in the next morning.

The driving path from Manali to Sholang is as picturesque as the valley itself. One has to come across the Bus stand after crossing the town of Manali and then has to cross the bridge to take the road towards Rohtang Pass. After 11 kms. of driving, one will reach in the village of Palchan where the road take two turns. The right turn will lead towards Rohtang Pass and the left one will take towards the valley of Sholang. Driving towards the left turn will let see a bridge which is the entrance of Sholang Valley. Horse riding and ropeway are available to witness the beauty of the whole valley.

Also read:- https://arghadipachakraborty.travel.blog/2019/10/09/incredible-himachal-shimmering-shimlamajestic-manalimesmerizing-kullu/

Things to do in Sholang Valley:-

Before booking your Sholang Valley package, have a glance at things to do in Sholang Valley–

• Paragliding:-

Paragliding is the most exciting activity that one can indulge in paying just INR 600 to INR 800. Having two jump stations- one on the high and the other on low, it provides a thrilling experience to the tourists.

• Zorbing:-

Rolling up and down amidst the lush green of Sholang is certainly a thrilling experience.

• Skiing:-

The skiing location of Sholang Valley, Manali is situated about 14 km away from Manali mall road and this is famous because the trainers have certificates from several institutions. Here skiing starts from February and continues upto mid-April.

When to travel?

Having awe-inspiring and magnificent look throughout the year, the fairyland Sholang Valley is open for the tourists whenever they want to visit it. The best time to visit Sholang Valley depends on the purpose of your visit. If you are an activity lover and wish to enjoy the activities such as paragliding, gondola amidst the lush green vistas, summer is the ideal time for you. In winter, that is, from November to February, the mountain is decorated with the milk white veil of snow and the valley looks somewhat unearthly. If you find happiness in the snowfall in the snow-covered valley, winter is the perfect time for your visit. You can indulge yourself in some activities like skiing and skating too.

Where to eat?

Appropriate food is necessary when you are enjoying your holiday vacation or your dream destination and that’s why I have listed here top 5 places to eat in Sholang Valley-

• Dham Restaurant (0.5 km from Sholang Valley)
• Café 1947 (3.7 km from the valley)
• Ride Inn Café (3.4 km from the valley)
• Casa Bella Vista (7 km from the valley)
• Drifter’s Café (6.7 km from the valley)

Must Carry:-

• A good camera with extra batteries
• Essential medicines
• Light cotton clothes with warm woolens

I went Sholang Valley on the month of October, 2018 but still the incidents are fresh and lively in my head. The place is like that; it is as beautiful as a painter’s own paintings. If you haven’t gone, pack your bags and start your journey now!