Nestled in the district of Mandi, lies the captivating village of Janjehli, a visual delight for all visitors.
Nestled in the picturesque district of Mandi, the quaint village of Janjehli offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of modernity. This untouched haven, located 95 km from Mandi, serves as the perfect starting point for some of the most enchanting treks in the region. Among these, the Shikari Devi trek stands out for its accessibility and breathtaking beauty.
The Shikari Devi trek, a popular one-day excursion, begins from Janjehli and ascends approximately 16 km further up the mountains. Most of the way is accessible by jeep, followed by a short trek of around 500 steps from the roadside to the shrine situated at an altitude of around 3,359 meters. The route passes through thick forests, offering wonderful views and vast green pastures, making it an invigorating one-day trek.
The Shikari Devi temple, known as the "Crown of Mandi," is located at the summit of the district and is surrounded by the Shikari Devi wildlife sanctuary, recognized by the government of India in 1962. This sanctuary is home to various species such as Goral, Monal, Black Bear, Barking Deer, Musk Deer, Cat Leopard, and Himalayan Black Bear.
The temple, an open structure with no roof, is believed to have existed since the time of the Pandavas and is associated with legends of Sage Markandaya and the goddess Durga (Mahishasur Mardini). It is dedicated to the Goddess of Hunters and is surrounded by captivating views of tall deodar trees, apple orchards, lush green meadows, small streams, and enchanting vistas.
Besides the Shikari Devi trek, the region around Janjehli offers peaceful treks to nearby temples and serene natural spots, such as the Mundsan Mata Mandir. These treks typically involve forest paths and unpaved narrow trails, suitable for a day excursion.
For adventure enthusiasts, the area near Janjehli also serves as a gateway to longer treks like those involving the Yulla Kanda region and the Buran Pass, though these are more demanding and may go beyond a one-day trek.
Whether you're seeking a peaceful one-day hike or an adventure that lasts several days, Janjehli and its surrounding areas offer a treasure trove of trekking opportunities. So, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas.
[1] "Shikari Devi Trek: A Trekker's Delight Near Janjehli." Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, n.d. Web. 15 Mar. 2023. [2] "Shikari Devi Temple Trek." Trek the Himalayas, n.d. Web. 15 Mar. 2023. [3] "Shikari Devi Trek: A Himalayan Adventure." Indiahikes, 18 Nov. 2020. Web. 15 Mar. 2023. [4] "Yulla Kanda Trek: A Challenging Adventure in Himachal Pradesh." Indiahikes, 18 Nov. 2020. Web. 15 Mar. 2023. [5] "One-Day Treks Around Janjehli." Trek the Himalayas, n.d. Web. 15 Mar. 2023.
Embarking on the Shikari Devi trek, a one-day excursion from Janjehli, provides an excellent opportunity to merge travel with lifestyle as you traverse through verdant landscapes and enjoy the captivating views. Afterward, you can explore other treks in the region, such as the peaceful treks to nearby temples or more challenging treks like the Yulla Kanda region and the Buran Pass, allowing you to tailor your adventure to suit your preference and interest in travel and lifestyle.
