Everyone knows Manali. Everyone knows Kasol. And that's kind of the problem, because by the time you get there on a long weekend, it feels like half of Delhi or Gurugram followed you up the mountain. Some of the lesser-explored Himalayan villages near Delhi, like Gushaini, Chopta and Shangarh, are just an overnight bus away. And the best part is you get to experience the authentic mountain life minus the crowd, the traffic and everything already occupied. And don't miss the dreamy view of the mighty Himalayas, the authentic food, getting to know the local people, trying authentic Himachali dishes from the regions and so much more.

7 Lesser-Known Himalayan Villages Near Delhi

If you want the hills without the crowd, these villages are a better bet. Most of them are just an overnight bus away.

1. Gushaini Valley, Himachal

Gushaini sits on the Tirthan river, and most stays here are homestays right by the water. You can go trout fishing, take long walks, or just sit and listen to the river. It's also the entry point to the Great Himalayan National Park.

Take an overnight Volvo to Aut and then a taxi for about an hour. Good for anyone who loves rivers and easy nature walks.

2. Rashol, Parvati Valley

There's no road to Rashol. You take an overnight bus to Kasol and then trek for three to four hours to reach it. The views over the valley are huge, and life in the village still feels very traditional. If you want a trek and a village stay in one trip, this works well.

3. Barot, Mandi

Barot is built around the Uhl river. There are trout farms, a vintage haulage trolley and quiet camps in the forest. Get an overnight bus to Mandi or Joginder Nagar, then drive for around two hours. It's a nice pick for camping and doing very little by the river.

4. Prashar Lake, Mandi

The lake has a small floating island in it, and right next to it is a pagoda-style temple. Open meadows spread out all around. Take an overnight bus to Mandi and then drive for two hours. Campers and photographers will enjoy this one the most.

5. Chopta, Uttarakhand

People call it the "Mini Switzerland of India", and the meadows and mountain views do make you see why. Chopta is the base for the Tungnath and Chandrashila treks. It's a long drive of nine to ten hours via Rishikesh, so keep that in mind. Trekkers and sunrise lovers won't mind.

6. Kalga, Parvati Valley

Kalga is a group of tiny villages with orchards and thick forests around them. Take an overnight Volvo to Bhuntar, then a taxi to Barshaini. It's much calmer than Kasol, which makes it a good choice if you plan to stay for a while. Backpackers tend to love it.

7. Shangarh, Sainj Valley

The big attraction here is a huge green meadow with deodar forests all around it. There's also the old Shangchul Mahadev temple and small village homestays. Take an overnight Volvo to Aut and then a taxi for about an hour and a half. If you liked the quiet of Sojha, you'll like this too.

You don't have to travel far to find a quieter side of the mountains. Whether you want a riverside homestay in Gushaini, a long trek to Rashol, or a sunrise in Chopta, there's a village here to match your mood. Most of them are an overnight bus away, so a long weekend is enough. Pack light, book a homestay early, and give the crowded spots a break this time and enjoy the real mountain peace. 

(Image Credits: Pinterest)
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