The Journal
From the
Valley
Stories, trek guides, travel notes, and seasonal dispatches from our corner of the Himalayas.
Sareolsar Lake & Raghupur Fort: The Complete Trek Guide
A sacred glacial lake at 3,100m, an ancient fort overlooking three valleys, and a trail through oak and rhododendron forest that few visitors ever find.
Best Time to Visit Jibhi: A Season-by-Season Guide
Every season in Jibhi is beautiful in a different way. Here is an honest guide to what to expect — and which months suit you best.
Stargazing at 2,590m: The Night Sky Above Tirthan Valley
At this altitude, away from any town, the sky does something you rarely see in modern India. Here is what to expect on a clear night at Winterfell.
How to Reach Jibhi from Delhi, Chandigarh & Shimla
Jibhi is remote by design. Getting here is part of the experience — but it helps to know your options before you start.
Wild Encounters: The Creatures of Tirthan Valley
Barking deer at dawn. A Himalayan monal crossing the trail. The Western Tragopan heard but not seen. Life in the GHNP buffer zone is rarely silent.
What It Means to Stay Inside a UNESCO World Heritage Buffer Zone
Winterfell sits within the buffer zone of the Great Himalayan National Park. Here is what that actually means — for the forest, for the wildlife, and for your stay.