A 7-day Himalayan outdoor fitness vacation

The Tirthan valley, in the Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the majestic Himalayas of India, offers a unique setting for a fitness vacation.

Imagine combining breathtaking mountain views with invigorating outdoor activities to rejuvenate both body and soul. Whether it’s trekking through rugged trails, performing bodyweight exercises amidst serene landscapes, or engaging in adventurous activities like river swimming and mountain biking, this pristine wilderness serves as an ideal playground for fitness enthusiasts.

A fitness vacation here promises not only physical challenges but also opportunities for mental relaxation and spiritual connection with nature. Come experience the ultimate blend of adventure and wellness in the heart of the Himalayas!

Day 1

Today, you will arrive in Gushaini, Tirthan valley. We will have a quick orientation.

As soon as you have freshen up, we can go and hike to Chhoie Waterfall. The duration of the hike should be around two to three hours.

Back at the riverside resort, in the evening we go for a relaxing session that combines stretching exercises with lighthearted games.

Have dinner and sleep well.

A gentle hike leading to such a refreshing spot in the Himalayan forests

Day 2

Today we will get up early and start our Mountain Circuit Training  near the Tirthan river. 

Back at the riverside resort, we will have breakfast and get ready for our hike to GHNP Gate, which will take around 5 hours in total.

Starting from the village of Ropa the forest trail goes through ecozone villages. The hike is a scenic and moderately challenging trail. The mobile point and the GHNP gate offer excellent views of the surrounding mountains, small waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.

On our way back we will enjoy swimming and other fun water based activities in the Tirthan river. 

We will end our day with some light stretching and relaxation session.

Get closer the wilderness of the National Park

Day 3

After having our breakfast we will pack our luggage and move to a large meadow in the wilderness near Sarchi village where we will camp under comfortable tents. 

It’s an ideal destination for forest immersion, allowing you to take leisurely walks in the forest or explore nearby natural beauties through hiking. The area is abundant with diverse bird species, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching. 

In the evening we will do our Outdoor Bootcamp consisting of a high intensity workout combining strength training and cardio exercises. The natural terrain will add an extra challenge. 

We will end our day with a campfire and storytelling session for our overnight camping.

An amazing camping area just down to a Cedar tree forest and the famous Lambri top

Day 4

We will start our morning by hitting the trails for a dynamic running class that challenges your cardiovascular fitness while enjoying breathtaking mountain views at the Sarchi campsite.

After having our lunch at the campsite, we will leave for Bhiyar village to stay at the Tirthan Eagle Nest home stay. Surrounded by apple orchards and adjacent to a dense Deodar forest, this homestay provides a peaceful retreat.

In the afternoon we will visit the traditional Himachali village and interact with the local community. 

In the evening enjoy the serene mountain views as you tone and strengthen your muscles with our short Alpine Core/Abs session.

Overnight at the homestay.

Enjoy the fairy tale atmosphere created by the location and design of the Tirthan Eagle Nest

Day 5

We will start our day with Mountain Circuit Training consisting of circuit-style classes using natural elements like rocks, logs, and hills as workout stations. A fun and challenging way to engage all muscle groups.

After having our breakfast, we will hike to Chehni Kothi which is a historic wooden tower located in the Tirthan Valley. This traditional structure is known for its intricate architecture and is believed to be one of the tallest structures made of wood in the Himalayan region. The tower offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the area and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. 

Our second attraction is Miyagi Waterfall which offers opportunities for hiking, photography, and relaxation amidst the nature.

We will also visit Shri Shringa Rishi temple renowned for its unique architecture, showcasing traditional Himachali craftsmanship. The intricate wooden carvings, vibrant frescoes, and pagoda-style roof add to its charm and cultural significance. 

After returning to our homestay we will have our dinner and end our day with a piano session with our local host.

The fairy tale continues as we walk through the local forests and villages

Day 6

After having our breakfast we will pack our bags and will have a short drive to Jibhi

The journey to Jibhi offers scenic views of lush green valleys, winding roads, and short waterfalls, making it a delightful experience.

We will enjoy our free time in Jibhi and have our lunch there.

After a short drive to Sojha we will check at the hotel.

Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Sojha is an offbeat destination offering great views.

The village is surrounded by dense forests of deodar and pine trees, making it an ideal spot for trekking, hiking, and nature walks.

We will end our day with some mild stretching session. 

From the village, we can see the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal range as the background of the Jibhi valley

Day 7

After having our breakfast we will pack our bags and will have a short drive to Jalori Pass which is at an elevation of approximately 3,150 meters. 

We will hike to the spectacular 360 degree view point (45 min) or to the Raghupur fort (2 and half hours) to get a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, dense forests, and valleys. 

From Jalori Pass we will go mountain biking down to Banjar. The road is narrow and winding, but the journey is rewarding with mesmerizing views at every turn. 

The path offers a memorable experience amidst nature.

We will end our fitness vacation with a short closing ceremony and group reflection at Banjar.

The hikes from Jalori pass bring you to such panoramic view points

Best time to go for fitness vacation

1. Mountain Mobility: Embrace the tranquillity of the mountains with mobility drills and dynamic stretching that promote balance, strength, and mindfulness. The fresh mountain air enhances your connection with nature. 
2. Trail Running Workouts: Hit the trails for a dynamic running class that challenges your cardiovascular fitness while enjoying breathtaking mountain vistas. 
3. Outdoor Bootcamp: A high-intensity workout combining strength training and cardio exercises. The natural terrain adds an extra challenge to your routine. 
4. Mountain Biking Fitness: Explore mountain trails on a bike while improving your endurance and leg strength. 
5. Alpine Core/Abs: A core-focused workout that incorporates core and bodyweight exercises. Enjoy the serene mountain environment as you tone and strengthen your muscles. 
6. Hiking Fitness: A guided hike that combines cardio and strength exercises along the trail. Learn about local flora and fauna while getting a full-body workout. 
7. Mountain Circuit Training: A circuit-style class using natural elements like rocks, logs, and hills as workout stations. A fun and challenging way to engage all muscle groups. 
8. Sunrise/Sunset Stretch: Start or end your day with a gentle stretching class that focuses on flexibility and relaxation. The changing sky adds a magical touch to your outdoor session.

Saurabh Garg

After 25 years in the fitness industry, you’d expect Saurabh’s resume to be extensive…and it is.

Being an Inter State distance runner sparked his passion for health and fitness, a spark that led him to do his first Personal Training course in Mumbai.

He went to the UK in 2009 and has developed extensive experience with strength and conditioning, functional movement, kettlebells, boxing for fitness and ViPR training.

As passionate now as he was 25 years ago his sessions are as varied and they are effective. Nowadays he lives in Tirthan Valley and conducts fitness sessions for his Fitness Vacation in the Himalayas.

Qualifications

• Boxing for Fitness Coach, Hatton Academy – London, UK
• Kettlebell Instructor, YMCA fit – London, UK
• Level 3 PT Course, Premier Training International – London, UK
• Vitality, Performance, Reconditioning (ViPR), FitPro – London, UK

Saurabh Garg