Sojha- The Quietness Unexplored

Our journey began with travelling in a private traveler bus from Delhi to Manali. The snake-like roads of Himachal Valleys gave many scenic views along the way, especially on the patch just before Aut. The river (I guess Beas) flowing down the valley puts to shame countless foreign locations shown in Bollywood movies.

We got down at Aut, and continued further to our destination. Instead of a pre-hired a taxi/cab from Aut to Sojha, we preferred exploring the local transport and hence, took a bus till Banjar. Banjar, around 25 Kms. from Aut, has the local bus and taxi stand which is closest to Sojha. We hired a taxi from Banjar to Sojha (around 14 Kms.), only to find ourselves mesmerized again on the way uphill. The silent valleys spoke volumes through their beauty, yet gave a tranquilizing peace to our minds every moment.

We were enjoying the journey so much that we forgot we had reached our destination- It’s amazing how a place as beautiful as Sojha has easily countable number of houses, a couple of grocery shops and 3-4 guest houses. One might wonder, how is it possible that a place this picturesque is as quiet as it is in the month of May, when the crowds from entire North India rush to places which offer them solace.

It didn’t take us long to find a place to stay, since our taxi guy knew all of them. Travelling without reservations seemed risky to us initially, but accommodation was easily available at both the guest houses we went to. Satyam Wooden Cottage offered a wooden house on first floor, with a beautiful view of valleys. Dead silent and drop dead gorgeous- All the peace we wanted was right there!

Once we were done with our breakfast, we went out to explore the place. Since it is not a very extended and popular tourist destination, we walked around on the paths created on the valley near to the cottage we were staying in. Local shepherds were tending their sheep alongside, giving the place some rural touch. We also came across some foreigners, who apparently were living in Sojha for a long time. Fascinating to see how people from other countries have found a life in such remote places on Himachal.

The next day, we woke up to the soothing calmness of hills, sat near the window of woodhouse and sipped tea, while listening to songs and enjoying the view. Post breakfast, we headed for Jalori Pass , 5 Kms. further uphill from Sojha. We took a local bus to Jalori Pass, given we planned to trek from there to the Seolsar Lake, which is 6 Kms. further ahead.

A walkable trek of 6 Kms. from Jalori pass leads to the secluded Seolsar lake, which offers a rare view of water amidst hills so high. We sat there for a while, and then went to the ‘Budhi Naagin Temple’ right beside the lake. Apparently there are many legends attached to the temple, and it sure adds to the charm of this location.

There are many dhabas near the lake, and we decided to have Maggie at one of them. Pleasantly surprising it was, all brands of soft drinks and snacks are available at these dhabas, which shows how efficiently people in hilly areas manage their supplies. Also, there are a number of scenic locations and views on the way to and back from the trek to lake.

After returning from Jalori pass, we rested, had dinner and enjoyed one last night at Sojha, before the break of dawn. The very next morning, we hired a local taxi (directly to Aut this time), and bid adieu to an amazing experience, one which will be fresh in memory for a long time!