Do you dream of escaping the city noise and dust for a Himalayan escape? Craving fresh mountain air, breathtaking views, and a peaceful retreat? If so, Thanedar, an offbeat destination that is nestled in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, might be the perfect place for your next adventure! At Infinite Journeys, we curate unique travel experiences for our clients.
We excel in highlighting hidden gems in Himachal Pradesh and worldwide, offering a serene retreat from the chaos of everyday life. Through this ultimate guide, we are here to give you an overview of Thanedar- one of the ideal offbeat destinations for a tranquil getaway with your friends, family, or a group.
Let’s get started!
About Thanedar
Thanedar is a beautiful village nestled in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, India. It’s about 80 km away from Shimla on a historic old Hindustan – Tibet road. Imagine a place surrounded by apple, plum, and apricot trees – that’s Thanedar! This village is perfect for people who love nature. You can enjoy stunning Himalayan views, go for walks in the countryside, and experience the charm of a small village. There’s even a big river, Sutlej, that you can see flowing far below!
With its sprawling apple orchards, scenic vistas, and rich cultural heritage, Thanedar offers a unique and enchanting experience that will leave you spellbound.
A Brief History of Thanedar
Thanedar’s journey to becoming the “Fruit Bowl of Devbhoomi” is a fascinating tale that dates back to the early 1900s. A social worker named Samuel Stokes, also known as ‘Satyanand Strokes’, laid the foundation for this transformation. Stokes fell in love with the region’s natural beauty and decided to cultivate the land here. In 1916, he introduced a new strain of apples, ‘Starking Delicious,’ perfectly suited to the Himachali hills, and thus began Thanedar’s journey with apple cultivation. He generously shared his expertise with the local community, bringing economic prosperity to the region.
Interested to explore the iconic story of Samuel Stokes and Apple Farming in Thanedar? Check out our blog
The Culture and People of Thanedar
Thanedar is a farmers’ village at heart, and its people epitomise the warm and welcoming spirit of Himachal Pradesh. Interacting with the ever-smiling villagers, who are more than happy to show you around their orchards and share their way of life, is an experience. During harvest season, you can even lend a hand and pick your fruit straight from the trees.
Explore the Wonders of Thanedar
Nestled 7,700 feet above sea level, Thanedar boasts breathtaking landscapes that will leave you awe-struck. The major attractions of this offbeat destination include:
Tani Jubbar Lake
Tani (Tanni) Jubbar Lake is a must-visit scenic spot. Surrounded by cedar forests, this man-made lake offers tranquillity and beauty in its way. It’s a place where nature’s beauty surrounds you, providing a break from the chaos of modern life. Near the lake, there’s a temple dedicated to Nag Devta (the Serpent God), adding cultural significance. It’s a perfect getaway for nature lovers, just 7 km from Thanedar.
Hatu Peak
Hatu Peak is one of the highest peaks in Himachal Pradesh with an elevation of 3,400 meters. It’s a comparatively easy trek. Starting from basecamp in Narkanda (approx 16 km from Thanedar), you can hike to the top and be amazed by incredible views of the Shrikhand Mahadev mountains on a clear day. Don’t worry if hiking isn’t your thing, you can drive most of the way up and then take a short walk to enjoy the scenery. Hatu Peak is a different experience altogether.
There are many other nearby destinations that you can visit when you plan your holidays in Thanedar, such as:
Narkanda
Narkanda has long been a sought-after skiing destination and remains popular as one of the most beautiful destinations in Himachal.
Sangla
Six hours drive from Thanedar (or Narkanda), Sangla is bestowed with incredible natural beauty. Located in the Kinnaur region, it has a beautiful location next to the Baspa River and is surrounded by towering Himalayan Peaks.
Jaw Bagh
It’s a hike that is simple (45 minutes one way and begins from Hatu Peak) and can easily be included in any itinerary from Thanedar / Narkanda or Kotgarh.
Shri Bhima Kali Temple in Sarahan
On the way to Sagla, a detour leads you to a temple showcasing brilliant Himachali architecture.
Jalori Pass
At 10000+ feet altitude, Jalori Pass is a scenic pass that takes you ahead to Manali or Tirthan Valley. Two interesting treks emanate from here viz Sareolsar (Serolsar) Lake and Raghupur Fort.
You can think of Thanedar as your base camp for an unforgettable Himachal adventure!
Accommodation in Thanedar
While Thanedar may be a relatively offbeat destination, it offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. There are various eco-friendly hotels/stays with stunning views of the surrounding orchards. For a more immersive experience, we can customize your accommodation to savour authentic Himachali cuisine and hospitality.
How to Reach Thanedar
Thanedar is approximately 80 km from Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, and can be reached by road, air, or rail. The nearest functional airport is Chandigarh Airport, which is around 198 km away, while the closest railway station is in Shimla, connected by the iconic Kalka-Shimla heritage train. A good idea is to reach Chandigarh Airport by noon and a six-hour drive (via Shimla) will take you to this beautiful destination.
Let’s Plan Your Holidays to Thanedar
Thanedar, the “Fruit Bowl of Devbhoomi,” is a hidden gem that offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, this charming hamlet promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, or a chance to immerse yourself in the region’s culture, Thanedar has something to offer every traveler.
If planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh, consider exploring this offbeat destination and discover its many treasures. Embrace the slower pace of life, indulge in the local cuisine, and create lasting memories amidst the serene beauty of Thanedar.
For those seeking a hassle-free and personalized experience, get in touch with us at Infinite Journeys. We are the best tour operators in Pune and offer customized tour packages for solo travelers, families, or groups, helping you explore not only Thanedar but also nearby destinations like Narkanda and Sangla. With our expertise and attention to detail, you can rest assured that your holidays to this enchanting offbeat destination will be seamless and memorable.
Can’t wait to customize your trip to Thanedar?
Explore our customizable packages for Thanedar, Sangla, and more offbeat Himachal destinations.
With our expertise and attention to detail, you can rest assured that your holidays to this enchanting offbeat destination will be seamless and memorable! Happy holidays to you!
