Only 5 km from Jalori pass is Shoja, a quaint little town nestled in Seraj Valley. Shoja is what it feels like if the universe handcrafted a tiny village and placed it in the lap of the Himalayas.  Surrounded by greenery and snow-clad mountains around, this little town of about 2530 people is one of the places that has prolonged winters, which gives you more reasons to stay longer.

Shoja is located between Jalori Pass and Jibhi. So, if you wish to move away from the now-commercial Jibhi, this little hamlet is the perfect place to go. You will also bump into fellow backpackers, YouTubers, people working remotely, and some just chilling away from the city.

Shoja is also home to a few of the most beautiful and cosy homestays and cafes. One of them is the ever-popular among the travel community, Firgun. Loosely meaning ‘unselfish joy in the accomplishments of the other person’, Firgun has stunning vintage interiors and a beautiful balcony view. Try their hot chocolate, known to be one of the best. The chicken curry and rice are also a must-try on a cold evening in Shoja. The property boasts cosy private rooms and is also a hostel for backpackers who wish to enjoy a comfortable stay with a view that can beat the  Swiss Alps. You can also make this a centre point for Tirthan Valle; Jalori Pass is relatively close and the gateway to Raghupur Fort, Serolsar Lake, and other stunning hikes.

Firgun café in winter

Another trendy place among travellers is Ghar 1864. This place will make the most anxious lot feel right at home. Sip on a warm cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows while spending time with the crowd’s favourite pepper, Machli. Ghar 1864 was built entirely by word of mouth by a young man from Delhi who had a knack for travelling. It is a small place with two dorms and private rooms. History shows that most people who visit Gharstayg go there way longer than expected. You’ll have to go there to learn more!

Ghar 1984

August is the ideal weather for all adventure enthusiasts to visit Shoja. Winter calls for a lot of snowfall, but the panoramic view of the Himalayas is beyond imaginable, with hundreds of pin trees covered in snow. Located 3520 ft above sea level, Shoja is known as the ‘best-kept secret of  Himachal Pradesh’. There are multiple backpacker hostels now operating in Shoja apart from  Firgun and Ghar 1964, like The Hosteller, Zostel, Moustache, Madpackers, etc that’ll give you great experiences while meeting fellow backpackers you can travel with. 

While you’re there, you can also visit Shangarh, another jaw-dropping location in the hills, about  65 km from Shoja. Spend a couple of days relaxing in the lap of the Himalayas, and don’t forget to grab some fresh trout fish while you’re there.  

So pack your backpack with warm clothes and book your stay in Shoja with us at  https://www.tirthanvalleystay.com/ or +919888334809