What to experience in: Sarahan, Himachal Pradesh
Sarahan is an uphill village near Rampur in Himachal Pradesh. It gives a panoramic view of the Pin Valley. It is also known as the Gateway to Kinnaur and Spiti Valley. The Sarahan village is at an altitude of 6889 feet above sea level and seven kms uphill from the River Satluj.
It’s a small village where both Hinduism and Buddhism get equal respect. Some people who live here have in ancient times migrated from Tibet and Ladakh. This place is more lively to see at Dusshera time as there is a mela.
Legends state that Sarahan was earlier known as Sonitpur. After the Bushahr Dynasty, it was named Sarahan. Here’s what you can experience in Sarahan, the gateway to Spiti Valley.
1. The Pin Parvati Valley
Sarahan is a place which gives you a stunning view of the Pin Parvati valley. The valley is right opposite the village. Enjoy moments of some great view at sunset time. The valley looks golden at that time.
2. Bhima Kaali temple
Many people know the village of Sarahan because of this temple. It is believed that a king known as Daksha angrily cut the ear of Sati and it fell down here in Sarahan. A temple was made around it which is 800 years old. This temple is maintained by devotees in the village. They believe in Goddess Kaali and Parvati, the daughter of the Himalayas.
3. Local market
The local market of Sarahan is full of winter wear and local items. The best time to visit the market is in the evening when you can see the glittery lights and people having more fun compared to daytime.
4. Food
Jalebi and pakodas are the best dishes in Sarahan. The bhajiyas are served hot with green and red tomato chutney and goes perfectly well with a hot cup of ginger tea.
5. Woolen wear
In the market, you get a variety of woolen clothes which are both hand knitted and machine made. People here have been knitting and producing winter wear for ages.
6. Roam around the apple orchard
The apples of Sarahan are so good and juicy that even their size is huge compared to other apples. The valley has many apple trees.
7. The woods
The woods nearby are lush green and the hike to the forest where the glacier water makes it way through the mountains is divine. It gives you the best view of the valley.
8. Dussehra Mela
In the month of October, there is a local carnival that happens for four days where people all over Rampur and nearby places come to see the evil Ravan defeated by Lord Rama. There is a market with stalls, joyrides and sweetmeats.
9. Stay a couple of nights
The best perk of staying here more than a day is to spot a number of stars while stargazing in the night. There is also a thrill of living the simple moments with the villagers. Some nights are so great with the locals that you can talk to them and hear their stories.
10. Interact with locals
Locals are the best to get to know the place and the events happening in a more lively manner. Do visit this village where nature and the sky look beautiful every time.
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