Located in the heart of Himachal Pradesh’s lesser-explored Banjar Valley, Jibhi is a peaceful village known for its raw natural beauty, traditional wooden houses, dense cedar forests, and serene riverbanks. Often described as a hidden gem in the Himalayas, Jibhi offers an ideal escape for travelers who are looking to disconnect from the urban rush and immerse themselves in quiet mountain life.
Unlike the crowded tourist hotspots in Himachal, Jibhi remains largely untouched and offers a variety of outdoor experiences ranging from trekking to cultural exploration. Below is a list of some of the top things to do in Jibhi for anyone planning a trip to this peaceful retreat.
Jalori Pass is located about 12 kilometers from Jibhi and is one of the most scenic high-altitude passes in Himachal. The journey to Jalori is as beautiful as the destination, offering winding roads, thick pine forests, and breathtaking views. It’s also a gateway to two famous treks: Serolsar Lake and Raghupur Fort.
Once you reach Jalori Pass, a relatively easy 5-kilometer trek through oak and deodar forests leads you to Serolsar Lake. The lake is known for its glassy surface, surrounded by complete silence except for the wind and rustling leaves. It’s a serene place perfect for picnics or meditative walks.
Chehni Kothi is one of the tallest standing traditional structures in Himachal, made entirely of stone and wood using ancient Kath-Kuni techniques. To reach it, you’ll need to trek uphill from Shringa Rishi Temple near Banjar. The structure is not just historically significant but also offers panoramic views of the valley below.
Located just a short walk from the main road, Jibhi Waterfall is a small but scenic spot nestled within the forest. Surrounded by moss-covered stones and wooden footbridges, it’s an ideal place to relax, take photos, or simply sit by the flowing water.
Jibhi is known for its rustic and eco-friendly accommodations, including treehouses built above the forest floor. These treehouses offer a unique stay experience, letting guests sleep among the trees with views of the river, forest, and sky.
Camping near the Tirthan River or other forest streams around Jibhi is a popular activity for those looking to enjoy nature up close. Several campsites offer tents, food, bonfires, and stargazing opportunities—ideal for solo travelers or groups.
Another scenic trek from Jalori Pass leads to the ruins of Raghupur Fort, a historical site perched on a hilltop. Although the fort structure itself is minimal, the panoramic views it offers—especially during sunrise or sunset—make the hike worthwhile.
Just a few kilometers from Jibhi lies the quiet village of Shoja, known for its meadows, forest trails, and charming wooden homes. It’s a great place to take long walks, sip tea at a local guesthouse, and enjoy unfiltered views of the Himalayas.
A lesser-known spot near Jibhi, Mini Thailand is a small natural pool area surrounded by tropical-style rock formations and greenery. It’s a short hike from the road and offers an interesting landscape contrast to the usual Himalayan scenery.
Located near Banjar, the Shringa Rishi Temple is an important religious and cultural site for the local community. The wooden temple showcases intricate carvings and is often the center of local festivals and fairs.
The rivers around Jibhi, particularly the Tirthan River, are rich in trout. Fishing is permitted in certain areas with a proper license, making it a peaceful way to spend a day by the river. Many local guesthouses also cook fresh trout for their guests.
A day trip to Shangarh (around 1.5 hours from Jibhi) offers an opportunity to experience vast alpine meadows surrounded by thick forests. The meadows are perfect for photography, picnics, and quiet walks. Shangarh also has a beautifully constructed local temple worth visiting.
There are many unnamed trails around Jibhi that take you deep into Himalayan forests filled with cedar, pine, and oak trees. These paths are perfect for short hikes, bird watching, or simply enjoying the silence and shade of the trees.
Jibhi may be a small village, but its local cuisine is rich and flavorful. Be sure to try siddu (steamed wheat bun stuffed with walnut paste), madra, and local trout fish. Many cafes and homestays offer traditional meals prepared with ingredients sourced locally.
Some homestays offer visitors a chance to learn local recipes or take part in traditional cooking sessions. These interactive experiences offer insight into the lifestyle and culinary heritage of the region and create memorable cultural exchanges.
If your visit aligns with a local temple fair or seasonal festival, it’s worth attending. Events such as the Shringa Rishi Mela offer music, dance, rituals, and the chance to see the community come together in celebration.
With its calm surroundings and pollution-free environment, Jibhi is ideal for wellness retreats, meditation, or solo spiritual practice. Many accommodations provide open decks or riverside platforms where guests can do yoga or simply sit in silence.
These remote villages near Jibhi are accessible by short drives and offer dramatic views of terraced farms, traditional homes, and forested hills. The roads are scenic and less traveled, making for a perfect half-day outing.
Jibhi offers a wide range of photography opportunities—from landscapes and waterfalls to heritage structures and wildlife. Morning and evening light in particular creates perfect conditions for capturing the beauty of the region.
Due to its elevation and lack of light pollution, Jibhi is excellent for night sky observation. On clear nights, you can see constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way stretching across the sky.
Jibhi offers a blend of adventure, serenity, and cultural richness that is hard to find in mainstream destinations. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, or a small group seeking an immersive mountain experience, the village promises moments of stillness, exploration, and wonder.
For those looking to experience offbeat Himachal Pradesh, Jibhi is an ideal starting point.