Barot Valley,Himachal
Barot Valley is a scenic Himalayan valley in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, known for its tranquil landscapes, dense deodar and pine forests, and the Uhl River. It serves as an important local ecological zone supporting trout habitats and traditional alpine pastoral communities. Developed in the early 20th century around the Uhl hydroelectric project and trout breeding center, Barot has retained rural Himachali culture and architecture, offering insight into highland agrarian life and small-town mountain economies.
Places to visit
- Uhl River and trout fishing spots
- Trout breeding center
- Barot village and PWD rest house
- Jhatingri and camping sites
- Trekking routes (Barot–Jhatingri–Kullu trails)
- Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary (nearby)
- Dehnasar Lake (trekking destination)
Unique Aspects
- Idyllic river valleys with clear water and green pastures
- Dense deodar, oak, and pine forests
- Remote Himalayan village charm with limited commercial development
- Abundant birdlife and seasonal wildflowers
- Stone-built bridges and traditional Himachali architecture
Things to do
- Angling and trout fishing (catch-and-release and local fishing methods)
- Camping and bonfires by the Uhl River
- Short treks to Jhatingri, Dehnasar (longer trek), and surrounding ridges
- Nature walks, birdwatching, and photography
- Visiting the trout hatchery and learning about local aquaculture
- Interacting with local villagers and sampling home-cooked Himachali meals
Best Time to Visit
April to June and September to October for pleasant weather, clear views and comfortable trekking; winter (Dec–Feb) is cold with snow and suitable for visitors seeking solitude and winter scenery.
Weather Conditions
Mountain climate: cool summers (10–25°C), chilly monsoon with heavy rainfall and slippery trails, and cold winters often below freezing with snowfall at higher altitudes.
Accessibility
Nearest railhead: Joginder Nagar (narrow-gauge line) and Pathankot/Chandigarh for broad-gauge connections. Nearest major airport: Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali) ~80-100 km from Barot by road, or Chandigarh airport ~230 km. Barot lies about 65 km from Mandi and is accessed via a diversion near Jogindernagar; the final stretch involves steep, narrow mountain roads and sometimes small forest roads. Local buses, taxis, and shared cabs operate from nearby towns. Trek access from Jhatingri (on the other side) is an alternate route.
Recommended Duration
2–4 days to explore Barot, enjoy fishing, short treks, and nearby Jhatingri; extend if planning longer treks to Dehnasar or multi-day camping.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Warm layered clothing (including a windproof jacket), sturdy trekking shoes, rain gear in monsoon, thermal wear for winter, sun protection, insect repellent, and basic first-aid. Fishing gear may be rented locally or brought along.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Home-cooked Himachali cuisine: dham (traditional festive meal), rajma, local trout preparations, and simple vegetarian fare. Souvenirs include handwoven shawls, local woollens, homemade pickles, and small handicrafts from nearby markets.
