Jibhi

 

The road to Jibhi

Jibhi is a popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh. There are literally hundreds of homestays in this area. If possible, avoid Jibhi during weekends and holidays.  On these days, there are bad traffic jams on the narrow winding road that leads to Jibhi. I stayed at the family run Lambari Hills homestay. 

Serlosar lake. This rock is covered with offerings of ghee

There are numerous places of interest on Jibhi. But the most popular place, arguably, is the Serlosar Lake (Its also known as Seruvalsar Lake) This small mountain lake is  associated with Buddhi Nagin. She is the goddess of snakes and ghee. She is also the mother of all snake deities. The easy/moderate trek to the lake is very beautiful. The trek to the temple and back took me about 6 hours. On the north bank of the lake is a temple dedicated to Buddhi Nagin. One is required to wash their feet in another small lake beside the temple. Carrying leather good (wallets, belt etc) into the temple is prohibited. 

Buddhi Nagin temple located on the north back of the temple

Beyond the temple is walking trail that leads to Lambari Meadows. It takes approximately 4 hours from Serlosar lake. People normally camp in Lambari meadows overnight and return the next day. I didn't go there. However, a short distance from the temple provides excellent views of Lambari meadows.

Besides the lake, I met a traveller from Tamil Nadu. He had been travelling in Ladakh and Himachal for the last 3 months. Travelling alone, he would sleep with shepherds in the high mountains. He travels without plans, directions or destinations. A true wanderer. Envy him!

Other blogs from Himachal Series

• Janjheli

• Chindi and Karsog

• Karsog and Manikaran

• Trekking in Himachal Pradesh - 13 days

• Day hikes around Dharamshala

• 33 days in Himachal Pradesh

Serlosar lake and temple. In the foreground sits the wanderer from Tamil Nadu.

Porters are cheap :)

The trail to Serlosar lake

Clouds rolling in: At Serlosar Lake

View from my homestay

Playing cards on the homestay Verandah