Set in the lap of nature, surrounded by meadows and pine forests, Rajgarh is a lush green valley in Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh. It is the biggest subdivision of Sirmaur and has two subdivisions, one is Rajgarh itself and the other is Sarahan, another beautiful valley of Sirmaur.
The total geographical area of Rajgarh is 810 sq km and 30 per cent of the total area is under forest cover. At an average elevation of 1,555 metres (5,102 feet) and just about 30 kms from Solan, Rajgarh valley is also known as the Peach valley.
Rajgarh’s entry into the tourist circuit is relatively recent. Lush green valleys, dense forests, vibrant bird life, clean and fresh mountain air, and to top it all, the ever imposing serenity of the place will take you by surprise.
Rajgarh has fully integrated communication networks, regular supply of electricity, good transport network proximity of supply centres can make life as urbane as you like. On the other hand, the laidback village lifestyle, scarcity and spread of population allow for a quiet and relaxed time to yourself.
The people of this valley are dynamic and hardworking. They are religious and worshippers of Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga. A major tourist attraction, the local temple of Lord Shirgul, has a mammoth following. According to legend, Lord Shirgul had first come to Shaya village and later settled in Churdhar Mountain at height of 12,000 feet. About two hours from Rajgarh, Haripurdhar is famous for the Bhangayani Temple, a god sister of Lord Shirgul.
The famous Baru Sahib gurdwara also lies in this valley and is worth a visit. It is 29 km from Rajgarh and is situated beyond Kheri, a picturesque spot on the banks of a tributary of the Giri River. Baru Sahib, the land of meditation (tapobhoomi), is the realisation of a vision of Sant Attar Singh Ji (1866-1927), who, in the early twentieth century, envisaged a place in the Himalayas from where young souls equipped with the amalgam of spiritual and modern scientific education will spread the message of universal brotherhood throughout the world.
The climate of Rajgarh is cold. During winters there is snowfall in the region. The best time to visit Rajgarh is during summers but one can visit this place during winters too, if one is not averse to harsh cold weather.
The nearest airport is Shimla airport at about 95 kms. The nearest railhead is Kalka (90 kms). Country buses and tongas take you to Rajgarh. By road, direct bus services connect Chandigarh, Solan and Rajgarh.
The writer is an avid traveller