Shoja

Shoja is in the upper Tirthan or Seraj area of Kullu district. It lies a few kilometres below Jalori Pass, at about 2,680 m. A small cluster of guesthouses and homestays sits among oak, deodar and spruce forest. On clear days you get long views across the Himalayan ranges. The main walks go up to Jalori Pass, on to Serolsar Lake and to Raghupur Fort. Waterfall Point and short forest paths are closer by. Shoja is cool even in summer, so bring warm layers. The area is quiet with little nightlife, and that is part of its charm. Many travellers stay one or two nights here on a Tirthan valley and Jibhi circuit, after Banjar. Facilities are limited and mobile coverage can be patchy. Snow usually closes the road over Jalori Pass in winter. The best time is April to November, with rhododendrons in spring and clear skies in autumn.