A fort in Himachal Pradesh? And that too on the top of a mountain? That’s something interesting. Himachal Pradesh is primarily known for its natural beauty, mountains, and valleys. However, a famous trek starts from Jalori Pass, the Raghupur Fort trek. People who come to Jibhi or Shoja make sure that they trek to this famous fort which today exists only in ruins. Raghupur Fort is among the top activities to do in Shoja and Jibhi. This blog includes some basic information if you are looking for something on Raghupur Fort trekking.
This was the first time that I visited a fort in Himachal. And that too on the mountain top after an extremely-tiring hike. Himachal Pradesh has some good forts. The Kangra Fort is a famous one. I tried visiting there once when I visited McLeod Ganj back in Sept 2019, but it didn’t work out. And after that, I haven’t been able to visit that area. During my 13 trips in 2022, I was largely traveling to offbeat places. And Shangarh was on the top, where I ended up visiting multiple times last time. Even this year, in 2023, I have been to Shangarh twice already (January and March). I trekked to Ganjau Thatch in Shangarh this January.
How to Start Raghupur Fort Trekking – Things to Remember
Raghupur Fort trekking is among the top activities to do in Jibhi and Shoja. If you are visiting Shoja or Jibhi, make sure that you do. You can either choose to stay in Jibhi or in Shoja. When I trekked to Raghupur Fort, I stayed at Books and Flowers Cafe and Stays in Jibhi. I booked a cab from there at around 2000 INR and reached Jalori Pass. There’s a parking place at Jalori Pass near the temple. The area also has some food stalls and local dhabas.
The Raghupur Fort trek starts from Jalori Pass. There are three options to reach Jalori Pass. You can take a local bus from Jibhi or Shoja. If you have a personal vehicle, you can park at Jalori Pass or book a cab. It’s an easy drive/ride, and the views on the way to the pass are breathtaking. Stop on the way, and click some photos. Make sure that you don’t disturb nature.
Tips for Raghupur Fort Trekking
The fort is located at the top of a hill. I trekked to the fort in October, and I could see some snow there. Or maybe, it was frozen water from the night. Trekking to Raghupur Fort is not that easy and can exhaust you to extremes, especially if you are new. If you are an experienced trekker, you may not get to face that many difficulties. Here are a few things you must keep in mind if you are planning to trek to Raghupur Fort.
- Put on good hiking boots, as it is going to be an uphill hike—also comfy trekking trousers for easy mobility.
- You will barely find any tea/Maggi stalls on the way to the top. So, better to have a meal before starting the trek. There are stalls at the top, but nothing is on the way.
- Carry enough water for the way. You will not find any water source on the way.
- Make sure to come back to Jalori Pass by the evening. You don’t want to get lost in the thick rhododendron forest. There is no light. It got dark when I was returning; however, I had a flashlight I usually carry.
- Make sure that you don’t litter and keep the nature/surrounding green and clean. Be a responsible traveler.
Raghupur Fort today stands as ruins. I couldn’t find any information when I searched for the fort’s history online. There’s a temple in the fort’s vicinity, Shringa Rishi Temple, which was built in 2004. There’s an Indian Flag at the fort, which spreads a patriotic vibe when you stand next to it. Take a 360-panoramic view of the valley. It takes around 2 hours to reach the fort. Returning is an easy affair but risky at the same time.
There are a few points on the way which are instagram-worthy. Just before the fort, you will find a board with a bicycle locked to it. It’s a good place to get clicked to create some memories. You can even choose to stay for the night, camp and do star-gazing. I couldn’t do it as I had already booked a room in Jibhi. The sunset from Raghupur Fort is incredibly beautiful. It’s something you shouldn’t miss.
