Jalori Pass

Jalori Pass

  • Perched at an altitude of around 10,800 feet (3,120 meters), Jalori Pass is one of Himachal Pradesh’s most breathtaking and lesser-explored mountain passes. Nestled between Banjar Valley and Anni Valley in the Kullu district, this pass connects Tirthan Valley, Jibhi, Shoja, and Serolsar Lake, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, trekkers, bikers, and anyone craving a touch of the wild Himalayas.
  • While Manali and Shimla may grab all the limelight, Jalori Pass remains a pristine escape, untouched, unfiltered, and unbelievably beautiful. Whether you drive up through misty pine forests or hike across alpine meadows, this region captures the raw charm of the mountains.

About Jalori Pass

  • Jalori Pass (or Jalori Jot) lies in the Seraj region of Himachal Pradesh, approximately 12 km from Jibhi and 5 km from Shoja. It’s one of the few high-altitude motorable mountain passes in Himachal that remains easily accessible from Delhi and Chandigarh.
  • The pass is renowned for its breathtaking 360° Himalayan views, its gateway to Serolsar Lake, and its proximity to some of the region’s most peaceful villages, including Shoja, Jibhi, and the Tirthan Valley.
  • During winters, Jalori Pass is blanketed in snow, transforming the landscape into a fairytale world. In spring and summer, it’s a paradise of wildflowers, green pastures, and crystal-clear skies.

Best Time to Visit Jalori Pass

  • March to June (Spring–Summer): Ideal for trekking, sightseeing, and road trips. The weather is mild, with clear skies and blooming meadows.
  • October to November (Autumn): Perfect for travellers who want fewer crowds and golden forests.
  • December to February (Winter): The pass remains covered in snow; it’s often closed to vehicles but open for short hikes, making it magical for snow lovers.
  • July to September (Monsoon): Avoid this period due to heavy rainfall and potential landslides.

Pro Tip: Always check the road conditions on Jalori Pass before your trip, especially during the winter months.

How to Reach Jalori Pass

By Road:

Jalori Pass is well-connected by road from Delhi, Chandigarh, Manali, and Shimla.

  • From Delhi: 510 km (approx. 12–13 hours drive)
  • From Manali: 100 km (via Kullu–Aut–Banjar–Shoja)
  • From Shimla: 150 km (via Narkanda and Anni)
  • From Jibhi: 12 km (a scenic mountain drive)

Buses are available till Banjar or Jibhi, after which you can hire a local taxi.

By Air:

Nearest airport: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu), about 80 km away.

By Train:

Nearest railway station: Joginder Nagar (120 km) or Chandigarh (250 km).

Top Attractions and Things to Do at Jalori Pass

1. Visit the Jalori Mata Temple

  • At the summit of the pass stands the Jalori Mata Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Kali. Locals and travellers alike stop here to seek blessings before continuing their journey. It’s a small temple but carries deep spiritual significance.

2. Trek to Serolsar Lake

  • One of the biggest highlights of Jalori Pass is the Serolsar Lake Trek, a scenic 5 km trail (one way) through dense forests of oak, deodar, and rhododendron. The path is moderately easy and takes about 1.5–2 hours to reach the lake. Serolsar Lake is believed to be sacred, and its waters remain crystal clear throughout the year. Beside the lake stands a temple dedicated to Budhi Nagin, the local deity believed to protect the seas.

Don’t forget to capture the mesmerising reflections of pine trees on the lake’s surface.

3. Explore Raghupur Fort Trek

  • Another short and rewarding trek near Jalori Pass is the Raghupur Fort Trek, located about 3 km uphill from the pass. The fort now lies in ruins, but the trail offers panoramic views of snow-clad Himalayan ranges and lush valleys. The meadows around the fort are perfect for picnics and photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.

4. Drive to Shoja Village

  • Just 5 km from Jalori, Shoja is a peaceful Himalayan village known for its wooden houses, apple orchards, and sunset views. You can stay overnight here or enjoy tea at a local homestay with a stunning mountain view.

5. Jalori Pass Biking Experience

  • For bikers and road trip enthusiasts, riding through Jalori Pass is an unforgettable experience. The winding, steep mountain roads offer a perfect dose of adventure and thrill. The route from Jibhi to Shoja via Jalori Pass is one of Himachal’s most scenic drives.

Where to Stay Near Jalori Pass

While there are no hotels directly at the pass, nearby areas offer several cosy stays:

    • Shoja Village: Wooden cottages and homestays with stunning valley views.
    • Jibhi: Backpacker hostels, luxury cabins, and riverside stays.
    • Tirthan Valley: Riverside eco-resorts and adventure camps.

    Average Cost: ₹1,000 – ₹3,500 per night, depending on the level of comfort and view.

    Food & Cafés

    At Jalori Pass, you’ll find small roadside dhabas serving hot Maggi, tea, rajma chawal, and parathas. For more variety, head to cafés in Jibhi or Shoja, such as:

    • The Old School Café (Jibhi)
    • The Himalayan Café (Jibhi)
    • Serolsar Viewpoint Dhaba (near the lake trail)

    Photography & Nature Spots

      • Serolsar Lake Reflection Point – great for mirror-like photos.
      • Jalori Mata Temple Ridge – offers 360° views of the Himalayas.
      • Raghupur Fort Meadow – an ideal spot for capturing sunrise shots.
      • Shoja Sunset Point – mesmerising evening light.

      Travel Tips for Jalori Pass

        • Carry warm clothes year-round, as the weather changes quickly.
        • Keep snacks, water, and fuel handy; no major shops at the top.
        • Begin the Serolsar Lake trek early in the morning, aiming to return by sunset.
        • Check road and snow conditions before planning a winter trip.
        • Avoid littering. Jalori Pass and its surroundings are fragile ecosystems.

        Why Jalori Pass Should Be on Your Bucket List

        • Jalori Pass is not just a road, it’s a journey through the raw, untamed heart of Himachal Pradesh. It offers everything: serene hikes, breathtaking viewpoints, and tranquil lakes, without the noise and chaos of commercial tourism.

        • Whether you’re trekking to Serolsar Lake, chasing sunsets from Raghupur Fort, or simply sipping chai with clouds floating around you, Jalori Pass will remind you why the Himalayas are called the abode of peace.