When it comes down to rugged mountainous views, free-spirited nature and an overall enchanting and wild trip, the Himalayan village of Khara Pathar takes the cake. The small village may not seem often be chosen in favour of its famous neighbour, Shimla and due to the extremely off track road that leads to Kharapathar, but the place’s charm is never dimmed. Kharapathar is located at the height of 8770 feet above sea level, making it the highest point on the Shimla route. The staggering height of the village makes the view here a thing of the legends, especially at night when all the scattered houses on the hill are lit up like specks. The cloud-piercing height also gives rise to clear cloudless nights which give individuals an absolutely stunning view of the millions of stars, which is a sight as rare as a shooting star in big cities or towns.
Giri-Ganga is located in Pabbar valley southeast corner of Himachal Pradesh. Kharapathar falls on the way from where trail starts to this mesmerising place. Kharapathar is located at an altitude of 2700 meters and at a distance of 70 kms from Shimla. Trail starts with a wide dirt track at a distance of 6 kms till Giri- Ganga and for those who are not inclined to walk they can hire taxi from kharapathar. Trail is mostly shaded with tall Himalayan cedar (Deodar) and pine trees. This place is the source of river Giri – Ganga which originates just below the Kuppar meadow. The story behind the place is interesting, according to local people long ago a saint was travelling back to home from Haridwar carrying a pot of Ganga- Jal (Holy water) while passing from the place he mistakenly toppled the pot. Hence the place is known as (GIRI -GANGA). Ancient temple of goddess Durga, Kali and Lord Shiva. Every year local people gather there to worship Lord Shiva during (Shivratri) and during (Navratri). Trek to Kuppar starts from Giri – Ganga temple. It takes 1:30 hrs from Giri – Ganga to reach Kuppar Bugyal. Trek grade is beginners. From top one can enjoy breathtaking views of Himalayan ranges and Pabbar valley.
Aside from its surroundings, Khara Pathar is best known as a base for several trekking and hiking routes amongst which the most famous one is the Giri Ganga River Trek. This trek is the reason Khara Pathar receives as much as tourism as it does today. The village and the area surrounding it are also often referred to as the ‘apple belt of Himachal Pradesh’ due to sprawling apple plantations dotting the hills with the reds and greens. Camping and fishing are activities that are also often taken up by individuals visiting the area.
