Just 160 Kms from Shimla enroute the Hindustan-Tibet National highway lies this
mythological land above the Sutlej valley in the pine forests of southeast
Himachal, the capital of the erstwhile Bushahr princely state and a land locked
and embedded deep in the Hindu mythological folklores, it stands spectacularly
against the snow covered Shrikhand Himalayan range serving as the perfect
gateway to explore the spellbinding valleys of Kinnaur, Sangla, Kalpa and
Spiti.
The sheer geographical proximity of Sarahan to two diversely rich wild life sanctuaries makes this place special, not to mention the innumerable virgin treks and trails that take on from here.
The sheer extravagant display of cultural heritage still intact in the form of old structures, palaces, Vedic era villages, temples, and traditions, is a rare sight.
The centuries old Bhimakali Temple is one such resplendent example of the preservation of ancient architecture, heritage and culture.
Bhimakali Temple Complex and the Palace: 7 Kms or 1.5 Hrs Trek
About 700 years old Bhimakali temple with the Shrikhand range in the backdrop is the main landmark and attraction of Sarahan town, the unusual architecture with slate roofs and pagodas is a resplendent example of the “Indo-Tibetan” style, the artistry depicted in the carvings on wood and silver doors is a shining example of the depth of local artistic talent, the temple complex even has a small museum containing artifacts, implements and weapons of the bygone era. Just a minute's walk away from the temple complex is the magnificent palace of the Bushahr King, it serves as a perfect example of stylish hill architecture, and the neatness in the walnut carvings leaves one spellbound.
Temples with historical and architectural excellence are in abundance in the vicinity of Sarahan, the Bondaa Naag and the Luxmi Narayan temple are two good examples.
Hawa Ghar and Rangori village: 9 Km or1.5 Hrs Trek
The Hawa Ghar is a tiny view point built in a secluded and commanding location surrounded by majestic Deodars by the erstwhile queens of the princely state, the Hawa Ghar offers splendid views of the Himalayan ranges and also serves as a perfect picnic spot.
Just a KM further is the Rangori village known for its slate roofed ancient pahari styled houses, where traditionally clad villagers greet travelers with Himalayan hospitality.
Shrai Koti Temple and Meadows: 32 Kms+1.5 Hrs trek
One and a half hours trek through virgin pine forest and meadows from Daranghati is the eras old Shrai Koti Temple, built completely in stone structure the temple stands proudly at 12000 + ft on top of the Shrai Koti Peak and one is compelled to reminisce of the by gone era, the history of the temple is also surrounded in various mythological folklores.
Kinoo water fall and Stream: 15 Kms
Enroute the Daranghati drive and 15 Kms from the Retreat one encounters a beautiful perennial waterfall and a stream flowing nearby, it is a favourite spot for many of Wild Side's guest for a perfect water side lunch and Picnic, with the towering snow clad Ýam Kanda' hovering over you.
The pheasantry complex and Breeding centre: 7 Kms+15 Mts walk or 1.5 Hrs Trek
As an extension to the bird life habitation nearby, the pheasantry complex houses the very rare pheasants, it stands alone in the world to claim the presence of the ultra beautiful western tragopan-in captivity. The pheasantry acts as a perfect souvenir to the rare species of pheasants in the vicinity of Sarahan, the not so adventurous can have a peek at the extinct Western Tragopan, The Himalayan Monal, The White Crested Kalij and The Common Koklass, without having to tread the wilds. The Sarahan Pheasantry and breeding centre also achieves distinction in breeding of the rare Western Tragopan in captivity.
Daranghati wild life sanctuary
A vast expanse of land measuring hundereds of sq Kms is within an hours drive from The Wild Side Retreat and Camp site and is home to numerous Himalayan bird and animal species, untouched bio-diversity combined with unparalleled natural beauty makes this sanctuary a natural habitat for many an extinct species.
The Himalayan tahr, Musk Deer, Barking deer, Goral, Leopard and Himalayan black and brown bear are a few animal species, whereas The Monal, Western Tragopan, white crested kalij, cheer and koklass are a few pheasant species who have made this diversely rich sanctuary as their natural habitat area, not to mention the numerous other Himalayan bird, animal and plant species present.
The sanctuary areas have a network of bridled pathways providing ample opportunities for a dedicated nature lover and adventure seeker to fully explore nature's bounty, certain areas of Daran Ghati sanctuary can be accessed in a vehicle. Another diversely rich wild life sanctuary ‘The Rupi-Bhaba' wild life sanctuary is also accessible from the retreat.
