Ridge & Orchard Loop Solan to Hatu via Deorighat
5 Days • Sacred Meadows, Forest Temples & Apple Valleys Download ItineraryThis 5-day circuit is a gentle yet scenic loop through Himachal’s lesser-known ridges and forested belts. From the sacred meadows of Deorighat to the panoramic summit of Hatu Peak, this route blends temple heritage, orchard landscapes, and quiet village life — perfect for slow travel and immersive storytelling.
Trip Overview
Duration→5 Days
Best Season→March to November (Hatu Peak accessible; Deorighat meadows open)
Total Distance→~400–450 km
Vehicle Type→SUV / High Clearance (small cars possible but not ideal for Deorighat stretch)
Difficulty→Easy to Moderate (steep climbs, forest roads, remote stretches)
Permits→No permits required
Mobile Network→Jio/BSNL in Solan, Narkanda, Mashobra; patchy or no signal in Deorighat and Kharapathar
Fuel Planning→Reliable pumps in Solan and Narkanda; top up before Deorighat leg
Day‑by‑DayItinerar
Day 1: Solan → Kharapathar
- Distance/Time: ~90 km 4–5 hrs
- Highlights:
- Forested ascent via Kotkhai
- Visit Giri Ganga Temple and nearby meadows
- Adventure: Short hike to Giri Ganga viewpoint
- Stay: Kharapathar guesthouse
- Tip: Carry snacks; limited food options en route
Day 2: Kharapathar → Deorighat
- Distance/Time: ~50 km 3–4 hrs
- Highlights:
- Remote ridge drive to Deorighat — sacred meadow and temple cluster
- Explore Deorighat Temple and forest trails
- Adventure: Sunset walk across Deorighat meadow
- Stay: Deorighat homestay or camp
- Tip: Respect local customs — meadows are sacred
Day 3: Deorighat → Narkanda
- Distance/Time: ~60 km 3–4 hrs
- Highlights:
- Scenic descent into Narkanda — apple orchards and ridge views
- Visit Stokes Farm (seasonal)
- Adventure: Orchard walk and photography
- Stay: Narkanda
- Tip: Try Himachali thali at a local dhaba
Day 4: Narkanda → Hatu Peak → Mashobra
- Distance/Time: ~80 km 4–5 hrs
- Pass: Hatu Peak (3,400 m)
- Highlights:
- Drive or trek to Hatu Temple
- Panoramic views of snow-capped ranges and cedar forests
- Adventure: Hatu Peak trek (7 km one way)
- Stay: Mashobra boutique stay
- Tip: Book sunset dinner with valley view
Day 5: Mashobra → Solan
- Distance/Time: ~60 km 2–3 hrs
- Highlights:
- Forested descent through pine ridges
- Return to Solan (trip end)
- Tip: Stop at Barog station for heritage photo
📍 Route Map for Your Planner
Solan → Kharapathar → Deorighat → Narkanda → Hatu Peak → Mashobra → Solan
Essentials to Carry
- Documents: DL, RC, insurance, ID proofs
- Clothing: Warm layers, rain jacket, trekking gear
- Footwear: Hiking shoes, sandals for temple visits
- Health: Basic meds, ORS, insect repellent
- Gear: Power banks, torch, offline maps, camera
- Misc: Sunglasses, SPF 50+, lip balm, reusable water bottle
Insider Tip:
- Best season: March–June for bloom; Sept–Oct for apple harvest
- Photography: Hatu Peak panoramas, Deorighat meadows, Giri Ganga temple cluster
- Local eats: Try siddu, red rice, and apple chutney in Narkanda and Mashobra
- Eco-ethic: No littering; respect temple zones and sacred meadows
- Road caution: Deorighat and Hatu stretches require slow, careful driving
Permits, fuel and checkpoints
- Permits:
- No permits required for Indian or foreign nationals
- Fuel:
- Reliable pumps: Solan, Narkanda
- Top up before Deorighat leg
- Checkpoints:
- Occasional forest check near Deorighat and Hatu
- Timing Tips:
- Hatu Peak best trekked before noon
- Temple visits close by 6 pm
