Tirthan valley- considered to be one of the finest kept secrets of Himalayas; this offbeat destination is located 1600 m above sea level in the Kullu district. Popular for its green meadows, hidden waterfalls, and backdrop of snowcapped mountains, the valley leaves visitors mesmerized. The Tirthan Valley well known for its rustic charm and adventure activities; also opens the road (as a base point) to the UNESCO world heritage site – The Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP).
Deriving its name from the famous Tirthan river that originates from the GHNP park the valley and the park are home to nature's rare and endangered flora and fauna. Along with the adventure enthusiasts the valley also attracts a large number of twichers or birders (people who love watching birds). Tirthan is home to over 300 species of birds and is identified as an exemplary bird area by IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature).
The birds are an integral part of the park’s biological diversity while acting as an indicator of the diversity within the park ecosystem. The most common birds of the forest include:
Grey Treepie: also called as the Himalayan Treepie. Known to breed feet high mainly during May to July.
Red and Yellow build blue magpie:
Black throated tit
White capped redstart
Plumbeous redstart
Brown Dipper
Streaked laughingthrush
Slaty headed parakeets
Forktails
However, since the forests around are rather thick one has to walk a lot in order to find uncommon birds. There are various bird watching trips organized for bird watchers. Those who wish to explore the deeper parts of the park may also choose to camp overnight. (However, due to the breeding season of the state bird western tragopan and other bird species, some areas of the GHNP are currently closed to tourism until 31st May 2022.)
The park houses 209 species of rare birds which includes:
• Tragopan
• Monal
• Koklass
• Kalij
• Cheer pheasant
Tirthan valley also offers a wide variety of homestay options, which are away from the hustle and bustle of the city. One of such is The Daltons village a rustic riverside homestay in Banjar nestled in between a small pine forest.
The house is a 50-60 year old structure that has been restored and maintained by Mr. Ryan Dalton. The rustic & beautiful Himachali culture is reflected in the house. Located just 5 minutes from the main road, the homestay has a secluded and peaceful ambiance. There are also common areas on the property such as a bonfire area, a village bridge, a hammock and a gushing stream and waterfall and everyone who visits the village has access to these common areas. The property is basic but functional with a rural setting and no frills attached.
As the Dalton’s village is located in the buffer zone of the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP), On the grounds of the property, visitors can easily spot the common birds.
Offbeat, adventuresome and rustic, it's perfect for those seeking something different. Bird lovers, adventure enthusiasts, or even just people looking for an escape from the busy city should definitely visit here.
