Churdhar Trek – Highest Peak Adventure in the Shivaliks

Introduction

For those who seek a blend of adventure, spirituality, and untouched Himalayan beauty, the Churdhar Trek is a must-do experience. Standing tall at 11,965 feet (3,646 meters), Churdhar Peak is the highest point in the Shivalik ranges, offering views that stretch from the Dhauladhars to the Gangetic plains.

Whether you’re a trekking enthusiast, a devotee of Lord Shiva, or a lover of panoramic vistas, this trail through dense deodar forests, alpine meadows, and rocky ridges will leave you awestruck.

Churdhar Trek – Conquering the Highest Peak of the Shivaliks

Trek Overview & Routes

Detail	Info
Altitude	11,965 feet / 3,646 meters
Location	Sirmaur District, Himachal Pradesh
Duration	1–2 Days
Trek Difficulty	Moderate
Trek Length	~18–20 km (depending on route)

🌲 Main Trekking Routes:

Nohradhar Route (Sirmaur side) – Most popular, well-marked trail (18 km one way)
Sarain Route (Chopal side, Shimla) – Less crowded, longer but scenic
Haripurdhar Route – Offbeat path, moderate difficulty

The Spiritual Side – Chureshwar Mahadev Temple

At the summit lies the ancient Chureshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

According to legend, this is where Lord Shiva meditated in his Chura (mountain) form.
The site holds immense religious importance for locals, who undertake this trek as a pilgrimage during the summer.

🙏 During the Chaitra and Shravan months, devotees climb barefoot to offer prayers at the temple.

What Makes the Churdhar Trek Special?

🌿 Rich Biodiversity

Trek passes through deodar, oak, rhododendron, and alpine meadows
Home to Himalayan black bears, musk deer, monals, and more

🏞️ Mind-blowing Views

On a clear day, catch glimpses of:
- Kinnaur ranges
- Shivalik foothills
- Yamuna plains
- Even Kedarnath and Badrinath peaks

🪨 Rock Formations & Cave Shrines

Near the summit, explore rocky caves, ideal for short meditations

Best Time to Do the Churdhar Trek

Season	Highlights
May–June	Green forests, clear skies, snow patches
Sept–Nov	Post-monsoon beauty, golden meadows
Winter (Dec–Feb)	Heavy snow, route closed or risky

❄️ Snow starts accumulating by late October.

Camping & Stay Options

Location	Details
Nohradhar Base	Budget guesthouses, dhabas available
Jamanala & Teesri	Campsites mid-route
Summit Area	Open camping grounds near the temple

Carry your own sleeping bags & tents
Water is available from natural springs en route

What to Pack for Churdhar Trek

Good trekking shoes with grip
Warm clothing – even in summer
Power bank, torch, personal medicine
Snacks, ORS, and light dry food
Small first-aid kit
Walking stick for support

Who is Churdhar Trek Ideal for?

Nature photographers – Stunning sunrise/sunset from the summit
Spiritual travelers – Shiva temple + meditative vibe
Adventure groups – Good for 2-day weekend treks
Solo backpackers – Safe trail with local hikers en route

Local Insights & Tips for Churdhar Trek

Hire a local guide from Nohradhar for history and navigation
Start trek early morning (~6 AM) to reach the top before sunset
Avoid monsoon season – trail gets slippery
There are basic tea stalls till halfway; carry your own food for upper trail

How to Reach Churdhar Base (Nohradhar)

Route	Distance
Shimla to Nohradhar	~130 km
Solan to Nohradhar	~75 km
Paonta Sahib to Nohradhar	~90 km
Nahan to Nohradhar	~55 km

🚕 Shared taxis and buses available from Nahan and Solan

Summary

The Churdhar Trek is more than just a hike—it’s a journey of soulful reflection, natural immersion, and divine connection. With every step through forests and clouds, you inch closer to one of the holiest and most scenic summits in Himachal Pradesh.