Remotest Village in Himachal

As a seasoned traveler and photographer, the allure of uncharted destinations always excites me. This time, my compass pointed towards Kwar, one of the remotest villages in Himachal Pradesh. Embarking on this journey in my trusty Hyundai i10, I was ready for an adventure that promised stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and the kind of tranquility that only untouched nature can offer.

Our Route and Itinerary for Delhi to Kwar

Day 1: Departure from Delhi

I set out from Delhi at the break of dawn, my Hyundai i10 packed with essentials for the journey. The route to Kwar was challenging, with the promise of both paved highways and rugged mountain roads ahead. Leaving behind the city’s hustle and bustle, I drove towards the serene beauty of Himachal Pradesh.

Route Overview

The route from Delhi to Kwar involved traversing through several major landmarks:

1. Delhi to Shimla (345 km, approx. 7-8 hours)
2. Shimla to Rohru (110 km, approx. 4-5 hours)
3. Rohru to Kwar (40 km, approx. 2-3 hours)

Day 1: Delhi to Shimla

The drive from Delhi to Shimla was a comfortable one, with smooth highways making for a pleasant journey. I made a pit stop at Murthal, famous for its dhabas, where I relished a hearty breakfast of parathas and chai. As I approached Shimla, the air became crisper, and the landscape began to transform from urban sprawl to lush greenery and rolling hills.

Day 2: Shimla to Rohru

After a restful night in Shimla, I continued towards Rohru. The road narrowed, and the journey became more adventurous. En route, I passed through charming towns like Theog and Kotkhai, where apple orchards dotted the landscape. The winding roads offered breathtaking views of terraced fields and dense forests.

In Rohru, I took a break to explore the town. Known for its trout fishing and apple orchards, Rohru provided a glimpse into the agrarian lifestyle of the region. I stocked up on supplies and continued my journey towards Kwar.

Day 3: Rohru to Kwar

The final leg of the journey was the most challenging. The road from Rohru to Kwar was narrow and steep, testing both my driving skills and the capabilities of my Hyundai i10. The car handled the rough terrain admirably, though I had to be cautious of the sharp turns and occasional landslides.

As I neared Kwar, the landscape became increasingly rugged and remote. The village, nestled in the embrace of towering mountains, was a sight to behold. The simplicity and beauty of Kwar were immediately evident, with traditional wooden houses and terraced fields painting a picturesque scene.

Exploring Kwar

Kwar is a hidden gem, offering an authentic experience of Himachali culture and pristine nature. The villagers, warm and welcoming, shared stories of their lives in this secluded part of the world. Here are some highlights of my stay:

1. Village Walks: Strolling through Kwar, I marveled at the traditional architecture and the serene lifestyle. The villagers were eager to share their customs and traditions, giving me a deeper understanding of their way of life.
2. Hiking Trails: The surrounding mountains offered numerous hiking trails. One notable hike was to the nearby peak, which provided panoramic views of the village and the valleys below. The tranquility and untouched beauty of the area were truly mesmerizing.
3. Local Cuisine: I indulged in local Himachali dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from the village. The simplicity and flavor of the food were a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage.
4. Starry Nights: With minimal light pollution, Kwar’s night sky was a canvas of stars. I spent my nights capturing timelapse photographs of the Milky Way, a sight that was nothing short of magical.

The Return Journey

After spending several days immersing myself in the beauty and culture of Kwar, it was time to head back. The return journey was equally adventurous, retracing my steps through the challenging mountain roads to Rohru, and then back to the bustling city life of Delhi.

Conclusion

Traveling to Kwar in my Hyundai i10 was a journey of discovery and adventure. It reaffirmed my love for remote destinations and the simple, profound experiences they offer. Kwar, with its pristine beauty and rich culture, is a testament to the untouched wonders that still exist in our world. For anyone seeking an offbeat adventure, this remote village in Himachal Pradesh is a destination worth exploring.