Are you searching for a peaceful mountain getaway filled with waterfalls, meadows, and cheap homestays — without the crowd and chaos of popular destinations? Let me guide you to Sainj Valley in Himachal Pradesh, a hidden gem where you can enjoy nature’s beauty without burning your pocket. Here’s your detailed Sainj Valley itinerary to explore this magical valley, all within ₹4000–₹5000.
Day 1: Delhi to Sainj Valley
- Board a bus from Delhi to Aut
- Take an overnight HRTC Volvo or ordinary bus from ISBT.
You can find a bus for ₹1200–₹1400 (ordinary is cheaper, around ₹600–₹800).
You can also find a direct Bus from Delhi to Sainj via Zing Bus.
It will take 10–12 hours to reach Aut
From Aut to Sainj Valley
- When you reach Aut, do not take a cab from Aut (it can cost ₹2000+).
- Instead, take a local bus to Sainj Valley. It costs only ₹50.
- From Aut to Sainj, buses start from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
- The distance from Aut to Sainj Valley is 19 km and can take 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Pro tip: You can also rent a bike from Aut, which can cost 500 per day.
Check in time
- Look for a homestay near the bus stand.
- Hotels and mud houses are also available in this area, but you need to walk for 2 km to get to the mud houses near the riverside locations.
- Cost: ₹600–₹800 per night with food (many provide simple meals). But mud houses are expensive and can cost 1500 or more.
Explore Rupi Raila Waterfall
- Time to refresh and dress up.
- Visit Rupi Raila Waterfall.
- You need to book a cab from Sainj that can take you to Rupi Raila Waterfall for just 500.
- Hike for 10 minutes, and tada! You will reach the most beautiful waterfall here.
- The distance from Sainj to Rupi Raila Waterfall is 5 km.
- No trekking struggle—just a peaceful stroll. But if you want to save your 500, you can start trekking in the morning to reach Rupi Raila.
- Enjoy tea or noodles at a small local café nearby.
- Return to your homestay.
- Enjoy a home-cooked dinner.
- Optional: Take a swim at the riverside. The water flow is safe during monsoon, but always stay cautious.
Raila Village: Day 2
- Its time to visit Raila Village where you find peaceful life and Rupi waterfall which huge in size.
- Either hike or take a local cab (share with other travelers to save cost).
- You can take a bus as well to reach Raila village, but after that you need to do a short trek.
- The area is filled with greenery, and the village is untouched by tourism.
- Spend time exploring the quiet surroundings.
- Return to your homestay
- Enjoy a home-cooked dinner.
Day 3: Shangarh and its waterfall
- Head to Shangarh Meadows
- Hire a scooter, bike, or cab. Cab (shared or local) cost: ₹300–₹500 round trip.
- Distance from Sainj to Shangarh: Around 10–12 km.
- Visit the iconic Shangchul Mahadev Temple—a place linked to the Mahabharat where Pandavas once stayed during their Agyat Vaas.
- Locals still gather here daily for prayers, dance, and music. Experience their culture.
- Time to explore Barshangarh Waterfall. The distance from Shangarh to Barshangarh is 3 km.
- It’s a short drive and then a 300-meter hike through the forest to reach the waterfall.
- Enjoy every moment, click pictures, and head back to your homestay.
- Enjoy your final night with a local meal.
Day 4: Explore Sainj Valley
- Morning visit to Laxmi Narayan Temple in Sainj Valley
- A newly built temple with a beautiful statue of Laxmi Narayan.
- Spend some time near the riverside or explore the local market.
- Take a bus from Sainj to Aut at 11:00 AM
- Spend your day in Aut.
- In the evening, get your Aut to Delhi Bus.
your total expenses
- Delhi to Aut (Volvo) 1200–1400
- Aut to Sainj Valley(bus) 50
- Homestay (3 nights) 1800–2100
- Local food + café stops 600–800
- Local travel (cabs/bus) 600–800
- Sainj to Aut (bus) 50
- Aut to Delhi (Volvo) 1200–1400
- Total 4500–5000
Quick Tips
- Book buses early to secure lower prices.
- Pack light snacks from home to cut café expenses.
- Avoid private cabs from Aut unless necessary.
- Carry rain gear and basic meds—it’s monsoon time
This is a full Sainj Valley itinerary with personal experiences. you should follow all the steps accordingly to do your trip and make it more peaceful.
