Barot Valley

In Himachal Pradesh, India, the Barot Valley is a picturesque and unusual tourist site that is well-known for its trout fish farm and natural beauty. At an elevation of 1835 meters, it is situated on the banks of the Uhl river in the Mandi district. It was first created for the Shanan Hydel Project and is now a well-liked location for hiking and outdoor recreation.

Originally built as a village for the Shanan Hydel Project in the 1920s, Barot Valley is today a popular tourist destination in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh's Mandi district. Prior to the opening of a road in 1975, Barot was inaccessible. It is located 65 kilometres from Mandi, the district headquarters, and 40 kilometres from Jogindernagar.

🏛️ Barot Valley History

Origin and Early Use-

Early in the 20th century, during the British colonial era, barot was first created.
It was constructed primarily to support the Shanan Hydroelectric Project, one of India's first hydroelectric power projects, rather than as a tourist destination (Wikipedia).

Project Shanan Hydel (1920s–1932)-

When British engineer Colonel B.C. Batty created the Shanan Power House in Jogindernagar in 1926, the valley gained importance.
For this project, Barot was selected as a reservoir and catchment area.
Among the components of the construction were:
Mountain tunnels
An uncommon example of colonial engineering that is still in use today is a haulage trolley system (aerial ropeway) for moving items up steep hills.

Access by Road

Barot was only reachable by foot or by mule track for many years.Much later, in 1975, the motorable road improved access and gradually opened the area to tourists.

Barot Valley's Cultural Life

 🏞 Local Communities

There are native hill tribes in the valley, including,Gaddis are shepherds who raise sheep and goats and are typically semi-nomadic.Another pastoral group renowned for their distinctive traditions and ability to withstand high altitudes are the Bhotiyas.

🏠 Architecture Traditionally

Dwellings are constructed with slate roofs, stone, and wood, which are appropriate for the cold environment.
You'll witness Kath-Kuni architecture, a regional method that combines stone and wood without the use of cement, making it sustainable and earthquake-resistant.

🌾 Farming & Existence

Terrace farming is their main source of income, and they plant crops like
Kidney beans, or Rajma
The potato
Vegetables in season

Important activities include trout farming (aided by a government trout hatchery), wool production, and hand weaving.

🙏 Spirituality & Religion

Small temples honouring local kuldevis (clan goddesses) and deities like Lord Shiva are prevalent in the valley, which adheres to Hindu customs.
There is also a lot of reverence of nature; mountains, rivers, and forests are revered.
Pahari customs, agricultural traditions, and seasonal cycles are all reflected in local celebrations.

🎉 Holidays and Customs

Important festivals include of-
Shivratri is observed with folk performances, fairs, and devotional evenings.
Harvest and New Year celebrations are Phagli and Baisakhi.
Every event includes folk music and dance, frequently featuring instruments like the dhol, nagara, and shehnai.

Read More: Spiti Valley 👈

Where is Barot Valley located?

Location: Himachal Pradesh's Mandi District
Elevation: about 1,829 meters (6,000 feet)
Cities in the vicinity:
From Jogindernagar, 40 km
Mandi is 66 kilometres away.
110 kilometres from Bhuntar, or Kullu
From Dharamshala, 100 km

1. By Road (The Most Popular & Suggested) 

🧭 From Delhi/Chandigarh: around 500 miles from Delhi to Barot (approximately 12–14 hours)
Approximately 280 km from Chandigarh to Barot (approximately 8–9 hours)

There are two primary routes: 

📍 Route 1 (the more picturesque):

Chandigarh to Delhi to Mandi to Ghatasani to Barot

📍 Route 2: (faster if via Jogindernagar)

Chandigarh to Delhi to Una to Palampur to Jogindernagar to Ghatasani to Barot

A little but driveable road (about 25 km) takes you uphill from Ghatasani to Barot.
From Jogindernagar and Mandi, private cabs or HRTC (Himachal Road Transport) buses travel to Barot.

🚆 2. By Train

Jogindernagar (JDNX), about 40 km from Barot, is the closest railway station.
The Kangra Valley narrow-gauge line ends at this station (from Pathankot).

(By express train) Delhi → Pathankot
Using the Kangra Valley toy train, Pathankot to Jogindernagar
Jogindernagar to Barot (by local bus or taxi)

For leisure travellers, the slow but picturesque miniature train journey is ideal.

3. By Air 🛫 

Airports Closest to You: Airport Barot Notes' distance
Gaggal (Kangra) ~97 kilometres The best choice
~110 kilometres to Bhuntar (Kullu) Fewer flights
Chandigarh ~280 kilometres Large international airport

It is advised to take a plane to Bhuntar (Kullu) or Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala).
From Jogindernagar or Mandi, take a taxi to Barot.

4. By Bus

Private Volvos and HRTC buses depart from:
Mandi or Jogindernagar from Delhi/Chandigarh

From there, take the Ghatasani–Barot route to Barot by local bus or shared taxi.

🛑 Take caution when driving the final, mountainous stretch from Ghatasani to Barot, or employ a skilled local driver.

The Top Ten Destinations in Barot Valley 

1. 🏞️ The Uhl River

Barot is traversed by a pure river.
Excellent for picnics by the river, trout fishing (with a permit), or just lounging by the water.
Great locations for photography, particularly at dawn or dusk.

2. 🐟 Fish Farm for Trout

One of the earliest government-run trout breeding facilities in Himachal Pradesh.
In addition to purchasing fresh trout, visitors may learn about fish husbandry.
Perfect for youngsters and families.

3. 🏕️ Thandi Golai (Camping Area by the River)

Only around 1.5 km from the main settlement is a calm, level meadow.
Ideal for camping and listening to the river's music under the stars.
Tent sets are provided here by numerous homestays or guides.

4. The Wildlife Sanctuary of Nargu

Across the Uhl River, this area is home to a variety of Himalayan animals, including
Monal (state bird) of the Himalayas
Bear in black
Ghoral
Excellent for birdwatching, hiking, and natural hikes.

5. The Shanan Hydel plant & Haulage Trolley Track 

Historic hydroelectric plant from the colonial era.
Equipment was originally moved up high mountains on the haulage tram track, which is currently off-limits to the public.
provides breathtaking vistas and an impression of British-era Himalayan engineering.

6. 🥾 Trek Barot–Kothi

A picturesque 13-kilometer track that winds through cedar and pine woodlands.
Excellent for walkers with varying skill levels.
passes through broad meadows, small settlements, and the ridgelines of forests.

7. Trolley Top Station (Winch Camp)

About 5–6 miles uphill from Barot lies a historic cable haulage top station from the British era.
provides sweeping views of the valleys of Chamba and Kangra.
Reachable by off-road trail or a moderately difficult walk.

8.Billing (Bir–Billing Paragliding Site) 

Nearby attraction approximately 45 to 50 kilometres away from Barot.
hosts the Paragliding World Cup and is well-known for paragliding.
Barot and Bir-Billing can be done on the same trip.

9. Local Villages & Temples 🕉

Visit serene temples such as:
Temple of Dev Pashakot
Temples in Luhardi village
gives a flavour of the architectural and spiritual life of the Paharis.

10. Rajgundha Valley (Barot or Billing Trek) 🌄

A secret valley that is only reachable on foot and lacks motorised roads.
Open meadows, wooden houses, and total seclusion from the outside world.
Perfect for adventurous hikers and photographers.

Read More:Ooty-The Queen of Hill Stations 👈

Authentic Himachali Foods to Sample in Barot 

1. 🥟 Siddu

What it is: a steamed bread with walnuts or lentils within, accompanied by chutney or ghee.
Why give it a try? Traditional Himachali comfort cuisine that is flavourful and filling.
Where: Homestays or local dhabas (homemade food is great).

2. 🍲 Madra

What it is: A thick curry cooked with chickpeas, black-eyed beans, or kidney beans (rajma) and yoghurt.
Flavours:Tangy, creamy, and subtly flavoured with regional ghee.
Best paired with: chapatis or steamed rice.

3. 🍛 Tudkiya Bhath

What it is: Lentils, potatoes, yoghurt, garlic, and regional spices are combined to make Himachali-style pulao.
Served with mash dal or curd.
Why it's unique: A special combination of zesty masala and rice.

4. 🫘 Rajma-Chawal Himachali

What it is: Traditional spices are used to prepare rajma, or kidney beans, that are grown locally.
Barot's speciality: Because of the soil and altitude, the rajma here is small, red and extremely flavourful.
You have to try!

5. 🐟 Fresh Fish Trout

What it is: Barot is known for growing trout, which you may have grilled, fried, or curry-style.
Serven at: Homestays, neighbourhood restaurants, and sometimes government cafeterias on trout farms.
For a regional touch, request "tandoori trout" or "trout masala fry."

6. Chana Madra 🍲

This dish, which is a component of Himachali Dham (feast), is a thick, creamy chickpea curry in yoghurt gravy.
Ideal with: rice or chapati.
Where to find: Homestays by request or local kitchens.

7. 🫓 Roti & Gahat (Kulthi) Dal

What it is: A hearty and nourishing mountain dish is horse gramme lentil curry.
Goes nicely with: Mandua roti (finger millet).

✅ Conclusion

Barot Valley: Himachal Pradesh's Undiscovered Treasure

A tranquil, unusual location in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi district, Barot Valley offers the ideal fusion of adventure, cultural diversity, and scenic beauty. Barot is perfect for those looking for authenticity, tranquilly, and seclusion because it is still relatively unexplored compared to popular tourist destinations.

Why Go to the Barot Valley? 

✅ Unspoiled Nature: Terraced fields, the glistening Uhl River, dense cedar forests, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas.

✅ Rich Culture: Home to historic temples, traditional Gaddi communities, and real Himachali cuisine.

✅ Adventure Hub: Rajgundha and Bir-Billing, Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary exploration, Winch Camp trekking, and trout fishing.

✅ Calm Retreat: It's ideal for a weekend getaway or digital detox because there are less tourists, friendly locals, and comfortable homestays.

🌿 The Barot Valley provides a tranquil haven away from the bustle, whether you choose to camp by the river, hike mountain paths, or enjoy tea with locals. It's an experience of unspoiled Himachal; it's more than just a place to visit.