Hello travelers, welcome to Trip Trek Tales. Today in this blog we will talk about a quaint village and the perfect place to escape the fuss of city life. We are talking about Jibhi.
Jibhi is situated in the Banjar Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is a small village and adventure spot for tourists. The place is famous for its mesmerizing natural beauty, pristine rivers, and charming wooden houses.
In this travel blog, we will cover the best places to visit in Jibhi, Things to do in Jibhi, and some tips that you should follow while visiting this charming town in Himachal Pradesh.
Getting to Jibhi
If we talk about the location of Jibh from the famous tourist places nearby then it is is located approximately 160 kilometers from Shimla, 100 kilometers from Manali, and 70 kilometers from Mandi. Bhuntar Airport is the nearest to this place which is again 60 km away and Joginder Nagar railway station is for those who want to come to this place by train. To reach Jibhi from these points, you have to take a bus or taxi.
Best Time to Visit Jibhi
Jibhi is a hill station in Himachal Pradesh; therefore, you must plan your journey to avoid emergencies. You can visit this beautiful hamlet from March to June and September to February.
During July to August, the place receives heavy rainfall. You may witness landslides and blocked roads during this period and thus not a good time to visit. In the winter months, the place turns out white, and for snow lovers, it is the best time to visit. From March to June, you will enjoy slightly cold weather and sporadic rainfall and it is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities.
Where to Stay in Jibhi: Jibhi Hotels, Hostels and Lodges
You will not find issues in finding good hotels, hostels, and lodges in Jibhi. The place has a good range of accommodation options for different budgets. From cozy homestays to guesthouses, and tree houses to luxurious resorts, the place has everything for everyone. Below we are mentioning some popular staying options.
- The Hidden Burrow: It is a charming Jibhi tree house offering a unique stay experience.
- Mudhouse Experiential Hostel: Mudhouse Experiential Hostel is a perfect stay for budget travelers. This hostel provides a comfortable stay with a touch of rustic charm.
- Latoda Eco Lodge: Latoda Eco Lodge is a beautiful eco-friendly lodge surrounded by nature, ideal for those looking for a peaceful retreat.
Things to Do in Jibhi
As we said earlier, Jibhi offers plenty of activities for tourists. Here is a list of things to do in Jibhi.
1. Explore Jibhi Waterfall
Jibhi waterfall is a popular attraction for many tourists. The waterfall is hidden within a dense forest and serves as a picturesque spot. The sound of water, cool breeze, and surrounding greenery altogether create a magical scenery. The way towards the waterfall has a wooden bridge making the walk more beautiful.
2. Visit Jalori Pass
Jalori Pass is located about 12 kilometers from Jibhi. It is the highest motorable pass in the region at an altitude of over 3000 meters. At Jalori pass you will get a chance to capture the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trek to Serolsar Lake and some other treks starts from Jalori Pass. Driving to Jalori Pass is an adventure for sure, it has steep climbs and narrow roads.
3. Trek to Serolsar Lake
It is a must do activity for the adventure lovers. Serolsar Lake trail starts from the Jalori Pass, you will go through the dense forests, meadows and rocky terrains. Serolsar lake is famous for its crystal clear waters and beautiful surroundings. According to local legends, the lake is home to a mythical serpent deity, and it’s considered sacred by the locals. The trek is moderately challenging and takes about 2-3 hours each way.
4. Explore Chehni Kothi
For those who love to delve in historic past, Chehni Kothi is a historic tower in Chehni village. This tower is made of stone and wood and is a tall standing tower. Initially this tower was a defensive structure but later on changed to a temple. You have to do a small trek to reach this tower, it is an easy trek and offers amazing views of the valley and mountains.
5. Enjoy Local Cuisine
No trip to Jibhi is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Himachali food is known for its rich flavors and unique ingredients. Here are some must try dishes in Jibhi:
- Siddu: A steamed bread stuffed with a mixture of poppy seeds, walnuts, and spices.
- Dham: A traditional feast served during festivals and special occasions, consisting of rice, lentils, and various curries.
- Chana Madra: A chickpea curry cooked in yogurt and spices.
If you stay in homestays and guesthouses, then you may get a chance to enjoy the local cuisine of Himachal Pradesh.
6. Experience Local Culture
Natural beauty is not the only thing to enjoy in Jibhi, you can also experience the rich culture of Himachal Pradesh. Here the locals are welcoming in nature, they are mostly engaged in traditional activities like weaving, farming and cooking. You can also be a part of these activities and learn more about the local life of this place.
7. Fishing in Tirthan River
The Tirthan River, which flows near Jibhi, is known for its trout population. Fishing is a popular activity here, and you can spend a relaxing day by the river, trying your luck at catching some trout. Make sure to get the necessary permits and follow the local guidelines for fishing.
8. Bird Watching
Jibhi is a perfect place for bird watchers. It has a diverse avian population. You will get to see a lot of birds here in Jibhi, thanks to the dense forests and clean environment. Some of the birds you might spot include the Himalayan Monal, Western Tragopan, and various species of pheasants and partridges.
Jibhi Itinerary- A 3 Day Plan
If you want to make your Jibhi trip memorable one, then here is a small 3 days itinerary for you. Follow this itinerary to cover all the important places and enjoy to the fullest.
Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration
- Morning: Arrive in Jibhi and check into your hotel or your booked accommodation.
- Afternoon: Now, you can visit the Jibhi Waterfall on day 1 and spend some time soaking in the natural beauty.
- Evening: Explore the local market and enjoy dinner at a local cafe. Try the traditional Himachali dishes like Siddu.
Day 2: Jalori Pass and Serolsar Lake
- Morning: On the day 2, head to Jalori Pass. Enjoy the scenic drive and capture the panoramic views.
- Late Morning: At the late morning, start your trek to Serolsar Lake from Jalori Pass. The trek takes about 2-3 hours each way.
- Afternoon: Spend some time at Serolsar Lake, enjoying the serene surroundings and having a packed lunch.
- Evening: Return to Jibhi and relax at your accommodation. Enjoy a home-cooked meal at your homestay or guesthouse.
Day 3: Chehni Kothi and Departure
- Morning: In the morning time, visit Chehni Kothi and explore the historic tower. The trek is easy and you can enjoy the stunning views.
- Afternoon: Return to Jibhi and have lunch. Spend some time relaxing by the Tirthan River or go fishing.
- Evening: Depart from Jibhi and head back to your next destination.
Tips for Traveling to Jibhi
- Pack Wisely: Pack your cloths as per the season. In winters, it is too cold here in Jibhi, so keep jackets and woolens. Even in summers, keep warm cloths as Jibhi weather is unpredictable at times. Also, keep trekking shoes and torch.
- Stay Connected: Staying in connection is a wise decision. Most of the hotels and stays provide the wifi connection. You may lose connectivity in remote areas, so be careful at that time.
- Respect Local Customs: The locals in Jibhi are known for their hospitality. Respect their customs and traditions, and always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their property.
- Travel Responsibly: Jibhi is a pristine destination, and it’s essential to keep it that way. Avoid littering, use eco-friendly products, and follow the principles of responsible tourism.
Read More: Janjehli Valley
Conclusion
Jibhi is truly a gem in Himachal Pradesh and is a perfect mixture of natural beauty, adventure and culture. It is a peaceful place for sure, but offers adventure activities too. You will not going to get bored in Jibhi for sure. You can explore waterfalls, do trekking to lakes, and experience the local culture of this place. If you are looking for an unforgettable trip in Himachal, then Jibhi surely should be in your itinerary.
