Jalsu Pass Trek

Uttrala lies near Palampur and was created as part of road plans and surveys. However, political disputes impeded any construction work. Tourists can access Uttrala via taxis or buses and continue onwards towards Binbanagar, where a temporary establishment will operate for an interim period. On this journey, one may come across bears; however, monkeys should provide ample entertainment. It is recommended to use an exercise pole as protection while traversing through thick woodland areas.

Jalsu Pass offers beautiful fields for trekkers to enjoy during their trek and along its route, making this region of Himachal Pradesh known as “The Flower Valley” by trekkers and pilgrims alike. It is open from April until late October, with peak activity occurring between July and August when Jalsu Pass is lush and lively—an experience not soon forgotten!

Uttrala, located near Paprola town and Palampur, is the starting point of this trail. Plans were drawn up for a road through this region with initial surveys done. However, political issues that have delayed further construction work have prevented construction efforts from commencing. Tourists can get to Uttrala using taxis or buses and then proceed to Binbanagar, where an unfinished road leads directly to an initial temporary establishment that will open throughout the year for part of its duration. Roads are smooth and gentle through thick forest, while bears may prove annoying along their journey – be sure to bring along an extra pole for protection!

An alternative route near the bridge will lead directly to Fatahar Village, so you must follow the correct path if traveling alone. After approximately 15 km, you will reach the second shop on the opposite bank of the river. Although you may not plan on stopping here for afternoon tea, you must cross a stream, which may prove challenging. When I crossed it in October, it was freezing cold and deep to my knees—for best results in monsoon season; it would be wiser to start later in the day.
As I walked onward, my anxiety increased as word spread that a black bear and her two cubs had been seen nearby, further increasing my sense of danger. While walking, the terrain gradually increased in elevation, as did my surroundings; gradually, more details of Dhauladhars began emerging. Although its famous barren, rocky landscape hadn’t fully become evident yet, its abrupt ascent towards Indrahar Pass could now be seen.

Prei is only three kilometers away and is open during the pilgrimage season. The next two kilometers can be exhausting but stunning as they cover 22-24km from your starting point to Yada Camp; your choice of how you travel these distances is ultimately up to you. Once at the summit, there’s an uphill slope until reaching Yada Camp. An uninviting Forest Rest House at this camp might provide refuge; however, if you have your tent, that could also be put up here.

On a sunny and clear day, Yada Goth offers spectacular views of Manimahesh Kailash and Kuja Peak—two iconic Himalayan mountains—from a sunny, clear sky. After a tiring trek day, setting up camp at Yada is one of the highlights of your journey amid the beautiful meadows surrounding you. Another five-kilometer trek brings you to Channi, which becomes a bustling bazaar during pilgrimage season; thereafter, the trail becomes more challenging with several steep ascends/ descends that can become physically demanding for mule riders after Channi.

From the “Bella Wali Mata’ temple, the Chamba roadhead can be seen and is marked by remnants of an uncompleted road project. At its other end is Laaqa Mandir, which marks your destination – here, the Ravi River originates in the Bada Bhangal Mountains before winding its way across a rough landscape to meet with crystal clear waters that weave their way into rough terrain and eventually meet up at road-head after an ascent upstream; visitors have the choice between using taxi or taking 5 km walk towards Nayagraan Village from Laaqa Temple.

Once in Holi Village, visitors have two options for exploring. They can travel towards Chamba or embark on a trek that leads to Manimahesh Kailash, Lord Shiva’s holy home.