Solang Valley : Unforgettable

(Solang Valley)

“Not looking good sir!” Vicky, our hotel boy, a local lad of hardly nineteen pointed at the sky.

It was almost 8.30 a.m. by my watch, and yes it was still so dark all around. And a chilling breeze was blowing through constantly.

We were just going to enter into our car to set out for the Rohtang Pass, but stopped at his word.

“Yes he is right,” Arjunji, our driver commented. “It will be risky. Let’s go to Solang instead. It will be far nearer and safer.”

We heard of Solang. It is always better to go somewhere than nowhere. So we started, though our hearts were still saddened.

But soon our despair disappeared. Solang was so beautiful! We were stunned. A lush green valley with snow-capped mountains in the backdrop. It was simply marvellous. We felt thankful to Vicky and Arjunji.

On The Way To Solang

Kothi

At a height of 8400 feet Solang is a picturesque side valley on the top of Kullu valley with a background of snow-capped mountains and just about 14 km north-west of Manali. One can take a hired cab from Manali and go along the National Highway no. 21, reach Kothi and therefrom take a left turn to reach Solang. However, cars are not allowed to go to the actual spot. One has to leave the car at a certain distance and then can hire a single or double seated Quad/ATV waiting there or can opt for simple walk to reach the spot.

Quad / ATV

The speciality of this valley is its superb gentle slope which is ideal for skiing. Hence, in winter the ski sport is arranged here with great enthusiasm. For this purpose in Solang there are a few ski agencies which offer courses and equipment. A rope-way is also there to help to reach to the top of the slope. During the summer when snow melts away, other kinds of sports like paragliding, parachuting, horse riding and a very special sport zorbing (rolling down the hill in a giant ball) are arranged. And for those people who cannot go adventurous, simple watching and enjoying the beauty of the surroundings are enough to justify their purpose to come here.

Paragliding

Rope-way Point

Rope-way

The Para Gliders

Where To Stay

Since Manali is just 14 km away, so people normally stay in Manali and come Solang as a same day return tour. However, those who love adventure can stay here in tents.