Hike - Sarsai to Soil Crystal Waterfall & River Cafes
My journey into the heart of Himachal Pradesh began with the charming village of Sarsai as my starting point. The goal to explore the hidden treasures around the serene calm village. I was guided to this beautiful hike of the Sarsai to Soil / Crystal Waterfall by the locals, an adventure that promised not only the captivating Crystal Falls but also a delightful detour leading to charming river cafes along the serene riverbanks.
As I ventured into this enchanting hike, the symphony of bird chirping greeted me, creating a soothing soundtrack for my journey. What made this experience even more special was the companionship of friendly canines, who seemed more than eager to join me on this adventure. The lush greenery enveloped me, painting a vibrant tapestry of hill houses, vividly colored flowers, and the gentle murmur of water streams that seemed to flow in rhythm with my footsteps. Tall trees throughout the hike added to the sense of being embraced by nature, and the path led through dense forests that added an element of mystery and intrigue to the journey. Throughout the hike, I encountered quaint wooden bridges that spanned the meandering streams, adding a rustic charm to the ambiance. However, what truly made this journey unique was the discovery of river cafes tucked away along the banks. These charming spots carried the inviting aroma of Maggi, momos, paranthas, tea, and coffee, beckoning me to savor their simple yet delectable offerings.
The hike initiated at coordinates 32.134709, 77.176043 in Bosh village, a part of the Sarsai group of villages, and extended to 32.142547935496786, 77.20489304959942. The trail to the river cafes was a leisurely 45-minute stroll, spanning a distance of 3.5 kilometers. However, the journey to Crystal Falls, covering 6 kilometers, took approximately 2 hours to complete. It's worth noting that the final 500 meters leading to the waterfall were challenging, as the clear path was not evident. Here, I had to rely on Google Maps to track the direction and forge my way ahead.
During my hike, I had the opportunity to encounter cattle grazing peacefully and engage in friendly chats with the welcoming villagers. A highlight along the route was the renowned Kala Aunty Cafe, where I had the pleasure of sampling delicious local cuisine. She is so happy serving the guests that you will get a family feeling and she will prepare whatever you ask for.
As I neared Crystal Falls, the reason for its name became evident. The water appeared as if it were encased in crystal, radiating a pristine whiteness that left me in awe. The sensation of being surrounded by crystal-clear waters was truly enchanting.
What sets this trek apart is its ability to provide a serene escape from the bustling crowds of Manali, allowing for an authentic communion with nature. To ensure a comfortable hike, I made sure to carry essential items such as energy drinks, peanuts, biscuits, and, most importantly, an ample supply of water to combat the intense sunshine. An umbrella and a hat provided protection from the elements, while my trusty camera was on hand to capture the breathtaking scenery.
My journey allowed me to undertake this hike eight times while staying at Danny's Homestay, located at coordinates 32.134244, 77.176343. Each visit offered a unique perspective, with the weather shaping the landscape differently, whether it was rainy, sunny, or cloudy. From this vantage point, I could gaze upon the panoramic vista of the entire Kullu Valley, a sight to behold.
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Full time traveler and blogger. Love hikes and Hikes. Still a beginner trying to explore as much as possible.