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Osla is one of the oldest and most traditional villages in the region, situated at an altitude of around 2,500 meters. The village is rich in history and offers an authentic experience of rural life in the Himalayas. It is known for its unique culture and lifestyle, making it an important stop for trekkers along the Har Ki Dun route.
Osla village is primarily inhabited by the Siyali people, who follow the Dhan Raj tradition. These villagers are known for their hospitality and simple way of life. The community is largely dependent on farming and livestock rearing, with barley, wheat, and maize being the main crops. The village also has a distinct style of architecture, with stone houses, slate roofs, and wooden beams.
The villagers follow the Siyali clan’s practices and have preserved their ancient customs over the centuries. The language spoken here is Jaunsari, a dialect of Hindi. The culture of Osla is also steeped in myth and legend, with locals often sharing tales about the gods and spirits that are believed to protect the village.
One of the main attractions of Osla is its traditional wooden houses, which are made from locally sourced stone and wood. These houses are built to withstand the harsh weather conditions of the Himalayas. The Osla Temple, dedicated to Duryodhana, the Kaurava prince from the Mahabharata, is another important landmark in the village. It stands as a testament to the village’s rich cultural heritage and religious importance.
The temple is also believed to be the resting place of Duryodhana after his death, and it is an essential site for pilgrims. Its architecture reflects the regional style, with intricate wood carvings and a traditional Himalayan design.
The villagers of Osla practice subsistence farming, relying on the fertile soil of the valley to grow crops like barley, wheat, and vegetables. They also raise livestock, such as goats, sheep, and cattle. Their lifestyle is deeply connected to the land, and most of their daily activities revolve around agriculture, animal husbandry, and community work.
Osla is self-sufficient, with villagers making their own food, clothing, and tools. The traditional lifestyle is still evident today, although it has adapted to modern times. For instance, some villagers have adopted solar power to generate electricity due to the remoteness of the village.
The Har Ki Dun trek is a mesmerizing journey through the scenic landscapes of Uttarakhand, and Osla forms an integral part of this trek. The trek typically begins at Sankri, which is a 10-hour drive from Dehradun. From Sankri, trekkers head towards Taluka, a small settlement that serves as the base camp for the trek.
From Taluka, the trek to Osla is an 8-9 km hike through thick forests of deodar, oak, and rhododendron trees. The trail gradually ascends, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped peaks. The path is dotted with streams and waterfalls, making it a visually stunning and refreshing journey.
Once you arrive in Osla, you will be welcomed by the serene beauty of the village and the surrounding Himalayan landscapes. It is a great place to rest and acclimatize to the altitude before continuing the trek to Har Ki Dun.
Trekking in the Himalayan regions requires skilled and experienced staff to ensure the safety and well-being of the trekkers. The staff members on the Har Ki Dun trek play a crucial role in making the journey enjoyable and safe. They are responsible for managing the logistics, guiding trekkers, and providing assistance in case of any medical emergencies.
The trek leader is an experienced mountaineer or guide who is responsible for managing the entire trek. The leader ensures the safety of the group, manages the route, and makes decisions regarding rest breaks and camping spots. Guides are local experts who are well-versed in the geography, flora, fauna, and culture of the region.
Local guides are especially important on the Har Ki Dun trek, as they provide valuable insights into the village culture, historical significance, and natural surroundings. They often share folklore, local stories, and legends that enhance the overall trekking experience.
Porters are responsible for carrying the heavy trekking gear, supplies, and tents. They play a significant role in ensuring the smooth operation of the trek, allowing trekkers to focus on the hike itself. The porters are typically from the local communities, and their knowledge of the terrain makes them indispensable.
Support staff also includes cooks, who prepare nutritious meals to keep the trekkers energized throughout the trek. These meals often include locally sourced ingredients, giving trekkers a taste of traditional Himalayan cuisine. Cooks and kitchen staff are experts in preparing meals in remote conditions, making sure trekkers are well-fed and hydrated.
While the Har Ki Dun trek is not a highly technical one, it is important to be prepared for any emergencies. Some trekking companies employ medical staff or carry medical kits with them. In case of any altitude sickness, injury, or other health concerns, trekkers can rely on the medical assistance provided by the staff.
The Har Ki Dun trek is a must for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers for several reasons:
The trek offers unmatched views of the Himalayan range, alpine meadows, dense forests, and crystal-clear rivers. The view from Har Ki Dun, with the majestic Swargarohini Peak in the backdrop, is one of the most beautiful sights in Uttarakhand.
Osla village provides trekkers with a unique opportunity to experience the traditional Himalayan way of life. Interacting with the locals, learning about their customs, and visiting ancient temples add a cultural dimension to the trek.
The trek takes you through the Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Trekking through dense forests filled with oak, deodar, and rhododendron trees, you may spot animals like the Himalayan black bear, leopard, musk deer, and various species of birds.
The trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty, making it ideal for beginner and intermediate trekkers. It doesn’t require technical climbing skills, but the steep ascents and high-altitude environment make it a rewarding challenge.