CULTURAL TOURS
Upcoming Fixed Departure
A journey into the land of holy spirits, Shamans and amazing landscape
The mystery of Himalayas remains elusive even to those who have ventured deep into its inner space millions of times. For beyond the mountains, beyond the sea, beyond what meets the eye, lies space where the infinite churns through eternity, endlessly, ceaselessly and yet visible. For the real Journey is the one that takes you into the depth of the self and makes you conscious of why you are here. The Himalayas the land of high mountains and deep valleys one can fall in love with its diverse landscape rivers, lakes dense forest, and very interesting culture. During our trip, we will be visiting Banjar valley one of the most stunning regions in the Seraj area of Kullu District with beautiful valleys, stunning ridgelines, forests, waterfalls, mountains, meadows lakes and more. We will be witnessing one of the most exhilarating and traditional local festivals Faguli.
Faguli is very unique festival, celebrated in Seraj region of Kullu district, this celebration goes on for four days. During these four days villagers from all around gather and take the processions of deities through the different villages dancing, chanting and sometimes the Shanmanes come in trans and perform some extraordinary acts which seem very illusionary and it’s hard to believe at first sight, that what humans bodies are capable of.

There is a lot of drumming dancing and various kinds of local musical instruments are being played. This festival is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and also people are welcoming the spring and the working season after long winter hibernation. Although we are living in a modern age but experiencing these moments seems like time stood still and we traveled back to some old time. The dresses to dance are made out of some grass and the dancers are dressed very colorfully.
This local festival is a very good opportunity to experience the local authentic local culture and be part of this occasion, Local People around are very welcoming. Although there are some do’s and don’t which you will have to take care while roaming around like a local to be accepted as a local.
Total cost per person – INR 6400
JOURNEY ESSENTIALS
Dates
13th- 16th February 2020
Duration
4 Days / 3 Nights
Location
Location Banjar ( ecozone of Great Himalayan National Park) Kullu / Himachal. Tour starts Ex. Jibhi
Physical Challenges Easy
Altitude
1700- 3132m
Climate
Bright sunny days with cold morning/ Nights
Temperature
-5 to 25 degree celcius
Tour Style
Drive, hike, Recreational activities, cultural interpretation and Photography
Interested ?
The Journey
Day 01
Aut – Jibhi / 1 Hrs By car
One hrs drive along the Beas and Tirthan rivers from Aut will take you to a beautiful village Jibhi (1784 Mt.) located at the lap of Jalori Pass in the inner- Seraj region of Kullu District. The entire area offers some great opportunities for a lot of hikes/Treks. Overnight stay at Wilderness Home Jbhi.
- Highlight of the day – Drive along the roaring and rushing streams / Beas and Tirthan
- Bonfire at Wilderness Home Jibhi
- Local cuisine
- Visit to the waterfalls and the Local temple and village around Jibhi.
Day 02
Jibhi – Chehani Kothi (trip/day – 8 hrs (5 hrs hike, 12 km drive )
A walk towards Chehnni Kothi through the dense cedar and pine trees, this 4-5 hrs walk offers a lot of opportunities to spot some of the most amazing species of birds like; different kinds of tits, finches, dippers, drongoes, Himalayan bulbuls, maina, blue bird, magpie, doves, pigeons, fork tails, flycatchers etc. And if you are lucky you might come across some pheasants and wildlife as well. This trail is very scenic and it will lift you gradually from the basin to top of the mountain from where you will have a great view of the whole Banjar valley, at the end a historical fort called “Chenni Kothi” will be a real reward for your days toil. We will be witnessing some of the most amazing cultural and traditional practices during the festival FAGULI in some of the villages.
Highlights of the day
- A lecture by the guide about the history/culture/architecture an overview of the region
- Lecture/ introduction about SHAMANISM in this region
- Local cuisine
Day 03
Jibhi
After early breakfast drive around the village, an excursion to Jaroi Pass, and later be part of the colorful ceremonies and gathering of the villagers
The highlight of the day – Witness the local festivals
Day 17th Feb – Departure
Inclusions –
- Transport from and to Aut ( Volvo Bus station )
- Accommodation on MAP basis on double/ twin/ occupancy
- English speaking Local guide
- All local transport
- All permits and permissions.
Exclusions –
- Any Alcoholic beverages
- Any expense of personal nature/ laundry, telephone calls, tips and donations.
- Any air tickets
- Any expense caused by unforeseen situations.