Mixing culture and mountainous nature in the Churah valley

Places to visit in the Churah valley

The Churah Valley is not just one valley but a network of interconnected valleys, each with its own unique charm and identity. Fed by the waters from the Sach Pass region, these valleys collectively form a breathtakingly beautiful and culturally rich landscape that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. While they share common features such as climate, ecology, and cultural heritage, each valley tells its own story, with distinct landscapes and histories waiting to be discovered.

For travelers willing to go beyond a cursory drive-through, the Churah Valley offers countless opportunities for exploration. Whether on foot or by car, spending several days here will reveal hidden gems – from centuries-old temples and pristine lakes to cascading waterfalls and picturesque villages nestled in the mountains.

Each corner of the Churah Valley has something special to offer, whether you’re seeking adventure, spiritual retreats, or simply a peaceful escape into nature. With every turn, you’ll encounter landscapes that rival those of the more famous Himalayan destinations but with none of the crowds.

If you’re planning your trip to the Himalayas and are intrigued by the allure of this undiscovered jewel, we’d be delighted to help you craft your perfect itinerary. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the valley’s natural wonders or simply add Churah as a meaningful stop on your Himalayan journey, this page will guide you to the must-see places and experiences that make the Churah Valley so special.

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Devi Kothi temple

Location and Significance
The Devi Kothi Temple, dedicated to Chamunda Devi (sometimes referred as Kali Devi in the Hindu mythology) is located in the village of the same name, 11 km away from the central small town of Bairagarh, in the valley of the majestic Gadasaru peak and sacred lake. It is renowned for its striking architecture, ancient murals, and vibrant cultural traditions. The temple is a revered site for the locals who consider Goddess Kali the protector of the region.

Architectural Marvel
The temple showcases the Kath-Kuni style of architecture, a traditional Himachali building technique that uses interlocking wooden beams and stone to create earthquake-resistant structures. The intricate carvings on the wooden pillars and doors reflect the artistic skills of the craftsmen.

Murals and Paintings
Inside the temple, the walls are adorned with beautiful murals painted in the Pahari style, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, particularly stories of Chamunda Devi. These paintings are believed to date back to the 18th century and provide a glimpse into the region’s rich artistic heritage.

Mythological Connections
According to local folklore, Devi Kothi was chosen as the abode of Chamunda Devi after she descended from the heavens to protect the valley. People from surrounding villages still gather here during festivals to seek her blessings.

Festivals and Rituals
During Navratri, the temple becomes a hub of activity with special prayers, offerings, and rituals. A large number of devotees, both local and from afar, visit the temple to participate in these celebrations.

Devi Kothi temple with majestic mountains as backdrop in the Churah valley

DEVI KOTHI TEMPLE
Located at a wonderful location, the temple is dedicated to the Goddess Kali who protects the region.

Someone praying at the Devi Kothi temple (Mandir) in the Devi Kothi temple, Churah valley

The main entrance of the temple

Wall painting in the Devi Kothi temple, Churah valley

Murals depicting Hindu mythology

Traditional house with the family in Devi Kothi, Churah valley

In the village Devi Kothi

Mangli village and its waterfall

Places to see in Churah - The Mangli village

MANGLI VILLAGE
Mangli has given its beautiful name to the river and the valley in which it lies.

Mangli is perched at the very edge of the valley opposite Devi Kothi. This peaceful hamlet offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life that seems untouched by time. The road ends just before the village, preserving its tranquility and ensuring an escape from the hum of modernity.

Life in Mangli revolves around the essentials – cultivating pulses and vegetables, grazing livestock such as cows, buffaloes, and sheep, and gathering wood and medicinal herbs from the surrounding lush forests. The villagers live harmoniously with nature, embracing the relaxed rhythm of life in this remote Himalayan paradise under the sun.

One of Mangli’s highlights is the stunning cascading waterfall that graces the opposite side of the valley. While it appears deceptively close, reaching the waterfall is an adventurous three-hour trek, making it an excellent day excursion for those visiting the village. The journey rewards you with not just the waterfall but also breathtaking views and a deeper connection with the pristine environment.

Although Mangli doesn’t yet have homestay facilities, Himalayan Ecotourism is collaborating with villagers to open their homes to respectful visitors. Starting in the summer of 2025, a few families plan to welcome guests, offering an authentic experience of Himalayan village life. Whether you come for a day hike or to stay longer in the future, Mangli promises to leave an indelible impression of peace, beauty, and timeless simplicity.

The Mangli waterfall

A family with their animals and mountain backdrop in Mangli village, Churah valley

Simple but sustainable life

Children playing in the outdoor, Churah valley

Kids growing in harmony with nature

Mehal Naag temple in village Majur

Deity and Significance
The Mehal Naag Temple is dedicated to Naag Devta, the snake deity worshiped as the protector of the valley and a symbol of fertility and prosperity. Naag worship is deeply ingrained in the culture of Himachal Pradesh, and this temple is one of the prominent shrines in the region.

Location
The temple is located in the village Majur lying itself in the Mangli valley. Visiting the Mehal Naag temple can be easily associated with a visit to Mangli village. You can reach Majur village by taking a link road that is connected to the main road two kilometers before Mangli.

Local Legends
One of the legends surrounding Mehal Naag is that the deity once saved the valley from a severe drought. It is said that after the villagers performed a ritual and sought his blessings, rain fell and the crops were saved. Since then, the deity is revered as the guardian of the valley’s ecology.

Cultural Importance
The temple is a center of community gatherings during fairs and festivals, where locals offer milk, flowers, and other items to appease the deity. It is also common for people to undertake a pilgrimage to this temple to seek blessings for family well-being and agricultural prosperity.

Annual Fairs
The temple hosts an annual fair during the monsoon season, which includes traditional dances, music, and offerings to Naag Devta. This event is a blend of spiritual devotion and cultural celebration, bringing together people from different parts of the district.