Nature · Tirthan Valley and GHNP, Himachal
Jalori Pass and the walk to Serolsar lake
Drive 25 km from Gushaini through Jibhi and Shoja to Jalori Pass at 3,120 m, then walk 5 km through oak and rhododendron forest to Serolsar, a small lake with a temple to the goddess Budhi Nagin. Easy walking with big views.
Photo: Sukhjiwan Singh · CC BY-SA 4.0 · CommonsFrom Gushaini the road climbs past Banjar and Jibhi to Shoja, a hamlet with long views over the Seraj valleys, and on to Jalori Pass at 3,120 m. The pass links the Kullu side with Ani and the Sutlej valley, and it has a small temple and tea stalls. On clear days you can see snow peaks to the north. The road is narrow and steep near the top, and it is often closed by snow from December to March.
From the pass, a broad trail runs east along the ridge through forest of oak, rhododendron and fir to Serolsar lake, about 5 km away and mostly level. The lake is small and dark, surrounded by trees, and the temple on its bank is dedicated to Budhi Nagin, a serpent goddess revered across the area. Locals believe birds keep the lake surface clear of leaves. Please do not swim, throw coins or leave offerings of plastic.
The walk takes about 2 hours each way. Start early to enjoy it before clouds build, and carry warm layers, as the pass is often 10 °C colder than Gushaini. At 3,120 m, people coming straight from the plains may feel the altitude; walk slowly. A shorter walk from the pass climbs west to the ruins of Raghupur fort for wide views.
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Tirthan, Naggar and Manali by private car
Private car with driver
Questions
Before you book
Is Jalori Pass open in winter?
Jalori Pass usually closes to traffic after heavy snowfall between December and March, sometimes for weeks. In spring it can open with snow walls beside the road. Even when open, ice makes the road risky in the morning. Check current status before you travel.
How long is the walk to Serolsar lake?
About 5 km each way from Jalori Pass, on a mostly level forest trail, taking about 2 hours each way at a relaxed pace. It is suitable for families with children who walk regularly. Snow can cover the trail in winter and early spring.
Can I stay near Jalori Pass?
Jibhi and Shoja, below the pass, have homestays and guesthouses that make good bases for an early start. Basic huts and tea stalls are on the pass itself. We prefer staying in Jibhi or Gushaini, which are lower and warmer.