Beyond Manali: Why Barot Valley  Is Himachal’s  Best-Kept Secret

9 June 2025

Pic: tanisha bhandari

Tucked away in Himachal’s Mandi district, Barot is a hidden valley wrapped in pine forests and silence — once built for a British-era hydel project, now a retreat for those craving untouched stillness.

Pic: tanisha bhandari

But Barot Valley is not just about stunning landscapes — it’s a gateway to unique adventures, hidden gems, and authentic local culture.

Pic: Real Himachal

The Uhl River is known for trout fishing. With a permit, you can spend hours by the water, enjoying the calm and maybe even catching your own dinner.

Pic: Team Bir Billing - Youtube

Trek through cedar forests and high-altitude trails that open into stunning views, leading you to villages where life moves at a slower pace.

Pic: Rajgundha Trek | Photo by DK Thakur

Walk through villages like Multhan and Chota Bhangal, and enjoy the local life that unfolds simply with stories, smiles, and cups of sweet chai.

Pic: Tales of the Hidden Trails

Set up camp near the river or in open meadows, and fall asleep under a sky full of stars. Barot at night is quiet, crisp, and deeply calming.

Pic: Arya Kaushal - Tripoto

Explore the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary across the Uhl River,  home to Himalayan black bears, ghorals, and rare birds. A must-visit for nature lovers.

Pics: Mandi District, Native Land

A quieter river than Uhl, Lamba Dug offers peaceful birdwatching and moments of solitude far from usual tourist paths.

Pic: Tales of the Hidden Trails

Try Siddu stuffed with walnuts, and Madra rich with spices — meals here are slow-cooked, hearty, and rooted in Himachali tradition.

Where to Stay Barot offers riverside camps, wooden homestays, and forest lodges — all run by locals who know the valley best and host with heart.

Pic: Tripoto

Best Time to Visit Visit in spring (Mar–May) for wildflowers, autumn (Sep–Nov) for golden trails, or winter (Dec–Feb) for snow. Each season offers something special.

How to Reach Barot is 66 km from Mandi. Take a bus or drive via Ghatasani, just 25 km away. Or Nearest railhead: Joginder Nagar, or Closest airport: Kangra Airport, Dharamshala, and take a cab.

Pic: Travel with Kool

Barot doesn’t shout for attention — it simply waits to be found. When you’re ready to slow down, it’s already there.

Pic: navigating.world on Instagram