Exploring Winch Camp – The Secret Spot Above Joginder NagarExploring Winch Camp – The Secret Spot Above Joginder Nagar
                     
Exploring Winch Camp – The Secret 
Spot Above Joginder Nagar
When we talk about beauty and natural wonders, we 
can't afford to miss Dev Bhoomi Himachal, a state 
blessed with many beautiful places. One such place is 
Winch Camp, a unique attraction located on a hilltop 
in Mandi's small town, Joginder Nagar. Mainly, this 
amazing spot is popular as a campsite and for its 
unique haulage trolley system that runs over the 
highest funicular track in India. Continue reading this 
blog to know everything about this place, from its 
location and how to reach to the best time to visit, 
and much more.
Winch Camp Location
Situated at a sky-touching height of nearly 8,200 feet, 
Winch Camp is a beautiful camping destination in 
Joginder Nagar. During the British era, the winch 
haulage trolley system was built here to carry things 
from the town to this hilltop location, and it is named 
after this trolley system. Even in the present time, this 
trolley system is functional and mainly popular as a 
tourist attraction. 
You can reach this wonderful location through trekking 
or enjoying an uphill ride on the haulage trolley 
system. This trolley system makes the journey to this 
amazing spot more exciting, as it runs through one of 
the steepest funicular tracks in the world and the 
highest in India.
Why Visit Winch Camp, Joginder Nagar?
1. Historic Significance
This wonderful destination is home to Asia’s highest 
haulage trolley system, built by the British around 100 
years ago during the construction of the Shanan Hydel 
Project.
2. Natural Beauty
The Winch Camp location is so special as it offers 
beautiful views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges, and 
if you want to witness the most stunning views, plan a visit 
during the blooming season.
3. Offbeat Travel Experience
Unlike other crowded tourist places to visit in Himachal 
Pradesh, it allows visitors to experience the raw natural 
charm of Dev Bhoomi.
 
Best Time to Visit Winch 
1C. aMmarcph  to June- These months are generally 
considered safe for visiting this amazing 
spot, as the sky remains clear and the 
temperature is also pleasant.
2. September to November- This time is best 
for photographers, as from the camp, one 
can see the most excellent views of the 
surroundings during these months. 
3. July & August- These two months are not 
generally good for planning a trip, as the 
slippery trekking routes with landslide issues 
make the journey risky. 
How to Reach Winch Camp 
1. Trekking from Joginder Nagar
First, you need to reach Joginder Nagar. You 
can take a bus from Mandi and Palampur to 
reach the town. After that, a local taxi will take 
you to the start of the trek.
2. Trekking from Barot Valley 
Many people choose to explore the scenic Barot 
Valley first, and then plan a trip to this wonderful 
campsite. You can take a bus from Joginder Nagar 
Bus Stand to the valley, and spend 2-3 days 
exploring beautiful attractions there, like Lapas 
Waterfall, Barot Dam, Trout Fish Farm, and others. 
Things to Do in Winch Camp
1. Birdwatching & Forest Walks- This campsite is 
surrounded by dense forests, where you can enjoy 
peaceful nature walks and discover various Himalayan 
birds.
2. Photography- Most people visit here to capture 
beautiful views of nature, especially at sunrise and at 
night. You can even take time-lapse shots of the 
surrounding landscape. 
3. Camping- Overnight stay is allowed here, and you 
can enjoy camping with a bonfire under a starlit sky with 
the help of a trusted camping operator. 
4. Trekking- Winch Camp is the starting point of many 
wonderful trek routes like Rajgundha, Bada Banghal, 
Kothi, Billing, and others.
Places to Visit Near Winch Camp 
1. Barot Valley- This peaceful Himalayan village 
is popular for its Trout Fish farms, scenic trekking 
trails, dazzling waterfalls, welcoming residents, 
beautiful river and mountain views, and much 
more. 
2. Bir Billing- Popular as Asia’s best paragliding 
site, this place is a paradise for thrill-seekers and 
is home to beautiful monasteries, scenic 
attractions, and cozy cafes.
3. Shanan Power House- You can plan a day out 
to one of the oldest hydro projects in India, which 
is easily accessible with a private taxi from 
Joginder Nagar Town.
Tips for Visiting Winch Camp 
• Avoid trekking during monsoon, winter, and 
on a day with bad weather, as it can be risky 
for your life.
• No matter which trekking route you select, 
always start the trek early in the morning to 
avoid any trouble and ensure a safe return. 
• If you’re planning to stay overnight, pack 
enough snacks, water, and clothes, as these 
facilities are not easily accessible at Winch 
Camp for now. 
• It is advised to hire a local guide who has 
good knowledge of the trail, as the dense 
forest trail might confuse first-time visitors. 
CONTACT US
+91 88822 38475
[email protected]
www.onlinehimachal.com
Joginder Nagar, Mandi (H.P.) - 175015