CHURDHAR

Churdhar Trek – Complete Guide for Trekpackers

📍 Overview

Churdhar Peak (3,647 meters / 11,965 ft) is the highest peak in the outer Himalayas (Shivalik range) located in Sirmaur District, Himachal Pradesh. It's a revered site associated with Lord Shiva (locally worshipped as Shirgul Maharaj) and offers stunning 360° panoramic views, including glimpses of the Kedarnath and Badrinath ranges on clear days.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

May to June and September to early November
Avoid monsoon season (July–August) due to slippery trails and leeches.
In winter (Dec–April), the trail is snowbound—possible for experienced trekkers with snow gear.

🧭 Trek Routes

1. Nohradhar–Churdhar (Most Popular Route)

Distance: ~18 km one way
Duration: 2 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Start Point: Nohradhar village (2,100 m)
Trail Features: Dense forests, meadows, Gujjar huts, and a long ridge trail to the summit.

2. Chaupal–Churdhar (Alternative Route)

Distance: ~8 km one way
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Less crowded but with a steeper gradient.

🧳 What to Pack

Good trekking shoes
Warm layers (weather is unpredictable)
Waterproof jacket/rain cover
Torch/headlamp with extra batteries
Snacks, energy bars, dry fruits
Water bottle (no water sources after halfway)
Power bank and ID proof
Tent & sleeping bag (if planning to camp)

🛕 Spiritual Significance

The Chureshwar Mahadev Temple at the summit is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Locals believe Lord Hanuman rested here while fetching the Sanjeevani herb.
Pilgrims flock during the Churdhar Mela in summer.

📌 How to Reach

🚌 By Road:

Reach Solan or Nahan, then continue to Nohradhar by local bus or taxi.
- From Solan: ~90 km
- From Shimla: ~110 km
- From Chandigarh: ~160 km

🚆 Nearest Railway Station:

Solan (Toy train on Kalka–Shimla route)
Chandigarh (Broad gauge)

✈️ Nearest Airport:

Shimla Airport (~120 km)
Chandigarh Airport (~160 km)

🏕️ Accommodation Options

Nohradhar: Basic guesthouses and dhabas.
On the trail: You can camp in meadows near Jam Nallah (halfway point) or close to the summit.
Temple Dham: Pilgrims can request to stay at temple shelters.

📡 Network & Connectivity

BSNL has patchy coverage at the summit and Nohradhar.
Carry offline maps and inform someone of your plan before going off-grid.

🚩 Trail Highlights

Spot

Altitude

Notes

Nohradhar 2,100 m

Starting village with eateries/lodges

Jam Nallah 2,700 m

Rest stop & camping spot

Teesri 3,000 m

Open ridge with panoramic views

Chureshwar Peak 3,647 m

Temple + highest viewpoint

⚠️ Trek Tips for Backpackers

Start early—weather turns unpredictable after noon.
Do not litter; carry all your waste down.
Carry your own water—streams are limited.
Light snow may persist till early May.
Avoid solo trekking—sections go through dense forests.

🌿 Wildlife & Flora

Forests include deodar, oak, pine, and rhododendron.
Wildlife includes barking deer, Himalayan monal, and even leopards (rare sightings—stick to marked paths).