[1:59 pm, 25/4/2025] Supriya Shinde: Like many urban escapists, our plan was simple: pack light, head to the hills, and breathe again. And like many before us, we had Manali marked on our travel map, that quintessential Himachal getaway promising cool winds, pine forests, and just the right amount of chaos.
But somewhere between plotting itineraries and scanning hotel reviews, we stumbled across a quiet whisper in a travel forum: “If you want to skip the crowds, try Tirthan Valley.”
We would have never heard of it. It was not on our original route. But that offhand suggestion changed everything. And what was meant to be another Manali trip turned into something far richer, a soulful detour into a hidden paradi…
[2:03 pm, 25/4/2025] Supriya Shinde: Beyond the Obvious – Why Tirthan Valley Steals the Spotlight from Manali in May.
Every May, as the plains of India begin to swelter under a relentless sun, tourists flee to the cool refuge of Himachal Pradesh. Naturally, Manali, with its well-worn paths, bustling markets, and catalog of Instagrammable spots, becomes the go-to destination. But while Manali yawns under the weight of its own popularity, a quieter, greener, and infinitely more soulful alternative awaits just a few hours away — Tirthan Valley.
Nestled in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, Tirthan Valley remains a hidden gem, untouched by the chaos of mainstream tourism. If you’re wondering where to travel in May that offers both serenity and soul, Tirthan is where your heart will find peace. Here’s why this lesser-known haven is quickly emerging as the best place in Himachal to visit in May, and why it’s stealing the spotlight from Manali — one traveler at a time.
- The Gift of Stillness in a Noisy World
Manali in May is a visual paradox. Snow-capped peaks still glisten in the distance, but closer to town, traffic jams clog the roads and selfie sticks dominate the landscape. There’s a palpable rush — to see, to do, to consume. Tirthan Valley, on the other hand, invites you to slow down. There’s no honking. No touts chasing you. Just the river’s hum, birdsong, and whispering pines.
In a world that’s constantly asking us to “hurry up,” Tirthan is your permission to pause.
- A River Runs Through It
The valley gets its name from the Tirthan River, a glacial stream that runs crystal-clear all year round. In May, as snow melts and flowers bloom, the river is at its poetic best — fast-flowing yet soothing, cold yet inviting. Unlike the crowded Beas in Manali, the Tirthan gives you space. You can dip your feet in, trek along its edge, or simply lie on a riverside boulder and watch time float by.
Adventure seekers, too, find a friend in the Tirthan. Trout fishing here is not just a hobby, it’s a ritual. And the best part? It’s strictly regulated to protect the ecosystem, a refreshing contrast to the over-commercialization seen elsewhere.
- Gateway to the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Himalayan National Park is a short drive and trek from the heart of Tirthan. In May, the trails burst into color — rhododendrons, wild orchids, and medicinal herbs create a visual symphony that no camera can do justice to. With over 375 species of fauna including the elusive snow leopard and the Himalayan tahr, this forest is not just a biodiversity hotspot, but a spiritual experience.
Unlike Solang Valley or Rohtang Pass, where tourism often overwhelms nature, GHNP offers a relationship — between traveler and terrain, birdwatcher and bird, soul and silence.
- Locals Who Welcome, Not Sell
In Manali, you’re often seen as a customer. In Tirthan, you’re seen as a guest.
The villagers of Tirthan Valley, whether in Gushaini, Nagini, or Banjar, embody a warmth that can’t be faked. Whether it’s sharing stories over a cup of chai or guiding you through a hidden waterfall trail, hospitality here is genuine, rooted in generations of living with the land.
And it reflects in the accommodations too. Most stays in Tirthan are cozy homestays and eco-resorts that blend into the landscape, unlike the concrete hotels sprouting in Manali. Places like Raju’s Cottage have become legendary not just for their location, but for their soulful service.
- Treks That Heal, Not Exhaust
Sure, you can trek in Manali. But you’ll often be in a crowd — loud music, trash-strewn trails, and Insta-staged moments included. Tirthan offers trekking with meaning. The Serolsar Lake trail from Jalori Pass, the hike to the waterfall from Gushaini, or the paths through Rolla inside GHNP — these aren’t just fitness goals, they’re meditative experiences.
And May is perfect for it. The weather is cool, the skies are clear, and the forests are alive. You won’t need oxygen cylinders or snow gear. Just a good pair of shoes and a heart ready to be touched.
- Eco-conscious Travel
One of the most compelling reasons why Tirthan is emerging as a Manali alternative is its conscious resistance to mass tourism. There are no mega-hotel chains here. The local community, aware of the mistakes made in places like Manali and Shimla, has taken steps to protect its fragile ecology.
The Himachal Pradesh High Court’s ruling in 2023 to protect Tirthan as a free-flowing river — banning all hydropower and dam projects — is a testament to this resolve. For travelers looking to reduce their carbon footprint and support sustainable travel, Tirthan isn’t just a destination, it’s a movement.
- A May Full of Magic
What makes Tirthan Valley one of the best places to visit in Himachal in May isn’t just the weather (though it’s perfect), or the flowers (though they’re plenty). It’s the feeling the valley gives you. That you’ve arrived not just somewhere special, but somewhere sacred.
No wonder it’s quietly becoming the darling of conscious travelers — those who want depth over dazzle, immersion over itineraries.
- Perfect for All Kinds of Travelers
Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic escape, a family seeking quiet bonding time, a solo traveler on a digital detox, or a group of friends wanting to reconnect with nature — Tirthan has something for everyone. And unlike Manali, it doesn’t come with the strain of crowds, overpriced cafes, or traffic snarls.
If you’re asking, “where should I travel in May to truly unwind?” — this is your sign.
- Tips for Traveling to Tirthan in May
How to reach: From Delhi, take a Volvo to Aut (near Kullu) and then a cab to Tirthan (Gushaini or Nagini). You can also drive directly.
Stay options: Book in advance, as most good eco-stays and boutique properties fill up quickly in May.
Connectivity: Most places have limited mobile network. And that’s a gift, not a glitch.
Pack smart: Light woolens, sunscreen, trekking shoes, and a good book.
Respect local culture: Don’t litter, don’t play loud music, and always ask before photographing locals.
Final Word
Manali will always be on the tourist map — it’s convenient, commercial, and well-connected. But for those who crave authenticity over agenda, nature over nightlife, and presence over popularity, Tirthan Valley is the whisper you’ve been waiting to hear.
This May, travel beyond the obvious. Let Manali be for the masses. Let Tirthan be for the mindful.