Explore The Beauty Of Uttarakhand

A Journey Through the Enchanting Harsil Valley of Uttarakhand

The Hidden Gem of Uttarakhand

There is a beautiful side of Uttarakhand, which remains unknown to many people. It is a place where stunning blue rivers emerge from vast glaciers, flowing alongside picturesque villages. Welcome to the Harsil Valley of Uttarakhand, located 200 km away from Dehradun.

A Glimpse of Nature's Masterpiece

The Harsil Valley starts where India's largest river, Ganga, flows from the majestic Himalayas to Gangotri and converges with its first stream, Bhagirathi. Nestled on the banks of Bhagirathi, this valley is surrounded by dense Deodar forests and snow-covered mountains. The breathtaking beauty of this place resembles a painting come to life.

A Splash of Vibrant Yellow

Stepping into Harsil, you will be greeted not only by tranquility but also by a burst of yellow. Many buildings in the village have been painted yellow and adorned with beautiful paintings. These unique artworks showcase the local culture, activities, and the faces of the local people.

Comfortable Travel with HAMMO

Exploring Harsil's wonders requires proper attire, especially since the temperature can be as low as 3 degrees Celsius. Luckily, HAMMO provides comfortable wear, including jackets, shorts, and their unique sweatshirt, HAMMO Original. With HAMMO, you can travel in style and comfort.

Bagori Village: A Glimpse of Tradition

In Harsil Valley, you will find numerous small villages, and one of them is Bagori Village. This village stands out with its wooden houses, a rare sight in Uttarakhand. These beautifully crafted houses, numbering around 150, are lined up in perfect symmetry, complemented by apple trees. As you wander through the village, the sound of ringing bells will lead you to the local monastery.

The Mystery of Locked Houses

Curiosity sparked, I asked a local resident about the abundance of locked houses. She revealed that most of the villagers migrate to a nearby village called Dunda during the cold winter months, returning to Bagori when the weather warms up. Only a few caretakers remain in the village. This migration allows them to enjoy the peacefulness of Harsil Valley, surrounded by organic vegetables, clean water, and fresh air.

Unity in Spirit

As I conversed with the locals, I discovered a beautiful blend of faith. The villagers believe in both Lal Devta and Buddha. They worship at the nearby monastery, while also practicing the rituals and traditions of Lord Shiva and Goddess Lakshmi. This harmonious coexistence of religious beliefs exemplifies the unity found within the community.

A Heartwarming Welcome and Generosity

In Harsil Valley, the warmth of the people matches the beauty of the surroundings. Everywhere I went, I was greeted with open arms and offered a cup of tea. The kind-heartedness extended beyond gestures, with numerous invitations to join them for meals. Their generosity knows no bounds.

An Apple Paradise

Harsil Valley is known for its abundant apple orchards. In Mukhwa village, apples can be found in abundance, hanging from the trees. The locals, however, are not overly concerned with picking every apple, as there are simply too many to consume. They welcome visitors to enjoy the apples, showcasing their hospitality and pride in their produce.

A Historical Connection to Tibet

Before the Indo-China war, the people of Bagori Village resided in Nelong Valley. They engaged in trade with Tibet, embarking on a journey from Nelong to Tibet. However, due to the war, Nelong Valley now falls within the line of actual control. Consequently, the villagers were relocated to Bagori from their ancestral home. Remnants of their historical trade route can still be experienced through a trek to the ancient Gartang Gali wooden bridge.

Mukhwa: Where Gangaji Resides

Mukhwa village holds a special place in the hearts of the locals. It is home to the Mukhwa temple, known as the second dwelling of Gangaji (Mother Ganga), after Gangotri. People refer to it as Gangaji's Maika (ancestral home). This sacred temple serves as a spiritual hub, connecting the villagers with the divine.

A Serene Escape

As I strolled through the picturesque mountains and made my way to Mukhwa village, I was captivated by the serene surroundings. The beauty of the trees, snow-capped peaks, and the gentle sound of the flowing river created an atmosphere of tranquility. It felt like a true escape from the chaos of daily life.

Homage to Nature's Bounty

Harsil Valley's inhabitants have a profound appreciation for nature. They are content with the bountiful apples on the trees, cherishing the beauty of the valley rather than solely focusing on material possessions. This simple way of life is a reminder to be grateful for the blessings bestowed by nature.

A Farewell with Gratitude

As my journey through Harsil Valley came to an end, I left with a grateful heart. The people of Bagori and Mukhwa villages had welcomed me into their homes, offering me tea, apples, and even a place at their dinner table. Their kindness and generosity left an indelible mark, reminding me of the beauty that lies within human connections.

Although Harsil Valley remains a hidden gem, its allure is undeniable. It is a place where nature's masterpiece unfolds, complemented by the warmth and hospitality of its people. A visit to this enchanting valley is an invitation to reconnect with simplicity and find solace in the embrace of the Himalayas.