A FOREST TRAIL AND A PEAK CLIMB | TRAILS OF MASHOBRA AND SHALI PEAK

AN INTRODUCTION

The Shali Tibba (2867m) is the highest peak in the vicinity of Shimla. It is a magnificent isolated pinnacle with a Kali temple on the top. The ascent up to Shali is an ancient trail through dense pine forests and rolling alpine pastures. It is a steep and steady climb to the often mist enveloped peak. The peak commands an unforgettable view of endless snow covered ranges along with the Sutlej valley and the densely forested hills of Shimla, Fagu and Narkanda. For the avid outdoor enthusiast and nature lover, this one-day mountain biking and hiking offers the experience of a lifetime.

TRIP ITINERARY

DAY 00 (Fri)We will all meet at Himachal Bhavan, Safdar Hashmi Marg, Delhi at 1900hrs and board the Volvo bus to Shimla.

DAY 01 (Sat) SHIMLA (2205 m)- MASHOBRA – KHATNOL (1850 m)…45 km.

Arrive in Shimla by 6 A.M. and check into your hotel for freshening up. After breakfast we check our mountain bikes and start the ride towards Mashobra, noted for its apple Orchards and thick woods of oak and pine. Proceed via Baldhea along a fascinating dirt track to Gulshaini, a tiny hamlet (1250 m) situated at the base of the peak. From Gulshaini it is a steady climb along a rough road till Khatnol, an isolated village perched amidst rolling fields. Here we leave our bikes and start the hiking ascent towards Shali Peak.

KHATNOL – SHALI TIBBA (2867m)…5 km.

The landscape changes dramatically as we follow the ancient trail towards the peak. It is a three-hour climb at a leisurely pace with ample time to stand and stare at the surrounding magnificence and the imposing peak looming ahead. The final climb is a tough one and is amply rewarded by the breathtaking view from the top.

Hike back down towards Khatnol where our camp is already set up to enjoy the night under the stars.

DAY 02 (Sun)

Enjoy the morning breakfast in pristine outdoors and then gear up for a thrilling downhill ride by the mountainside to Thaila, continuing further till Basantpur and Chabba by the banks of the river Sutlej. Finish the ride and transport back to Shimla. Enjoy the evening on the mall road, Shimla before boarding the Volvo back to Delhi.

INCLUSIONS

1. Mountain Bikes (Canondale, GT, Trek, Scott Hardtail Bikes)
2. 2 Support Vehicles (Equipment, Luggage, Back up)
3. An Outdoor Concierge who is also your Mountain Cycling expert in the mountains.
4. First aid/Medical Support. We carry all emergency medicines/supplies and oxygen cylinders. In a situation demanding more than this all our routes have primary and community health centers.
5. Hydration and Cycling Nutrition Support (Chocolates, Dry Fruit Packs, Energy bars / Chikki, bottled water, juice, ORS, fruits)
6. Accommodation on twin sharing basis. (In hotels, B&B, Tents as mentioned in the itinerary)
7. Welcome Kit (T shirt, Sipper, Cap)

EXCLUSIONS

1. GST
2. Insurance
3. Personal Expenses (tips, non alcoholic/alcoholic beverages etc.)
4. Costs arising due to landslides, route/road closure, bad weather, act of God.
5. Evacuation if any, during an emergency.
6. Transport other than mentioned in the itinerary.

ADD – ONS (at an extra cost, Please enquire if you require any add-on to make your trip a notch above our standard offering.)

• Single Supplement (a tent all to yourself or a room, maybe!. Subject to availability.)
• Return Volvo tickets (to and fro from Delhi, Chandigarh or Shimla, Manali and Dharamshala)
• Pick up and Drop services.
• Masseur (Ayurveda massage for the evenings after the ride/walk)
• Physiotherapist
• Yoga instructor and Specialist. An introductory  Yoga session/s for the duration of your trip in the outdoors.
• Extensions to your holiday planning.