Majestic snow-clad mountains, gorgeous green valleys, meandering rivers, small villages with rich culture, orchards and vineyards… that’s what define Kinnaur - one of the most beautiful valleys of Himachal Pradesh. Located in the Northeast of Himachal Pradesh, Kinnaur valley is around 235 Kms from capital city Shimla. There are three high mountains ranges - Zanskar, Greater Himalayas and Dhauladhar in the district enclosing valleys of Sutlej, Spiti, Baspa and their tributaries.
The trail that can be followed to explore Kinnaur is Delhi – Shimla – Rampur - Sangla – Chitkul – Kalpa and minimum 6 - 7 days would be required to explore the area.
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On the way from Simla to Sangla via Rampur. The road cut on the rocky hills is an engineering feat
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| Himalayan Griffon on the way to Sangla |
SANGLA
This is a beautiful valley located in the greater Himalayan range at an altitude of around of 2,696 Mtrs (8,900 ft). It is surrounded by forested slopes and the Baspa River flows into it. The area is rich in apple orchards, apricot, Wall-nut and Cedar trees.
There are many options to stay including budget hotels and camps.
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Sangla Valley on the banks of River Baspa
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A sweet lady from village Karchham in Sangla Valley
Fields of the pink coloured ogla, a small flower seed grown specifically in the Baspa Valley add to its beauty
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CHITKUL
Chitkul, small village with population not more than 500 is situated at an altitude of 3,450 Mtrs (11,320 ft) on the foot hills at the bank of River Baspa. It is the last inhabited village in Sangla Valley on the old Hindustan Tibet road.
Chitkul produces one of best quality potatoes and peas in India
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| Traditional wooden house in Chitkul, the last Indian village on Kinnaur side with an elevation of 3,450 m (11,320 ft) |
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| The Kingyupa Temple, Chitkul |
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| Snow covered peaks at early morning as seen from Chitkul |
KALPA
Kalpa is a small town in the Sutlej river valley located at an elevation of 2,960 m (9,710 ft) and is famous for its apple orchards. The local inhabitants follow a mix of Hinduism and Buddhism, and many temples are dedicated to both Hindu and Buddhist gods and goddesses. We get a breathtakingly beautiful view of Kinner Kailash peak from here.
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| Kalpa is a small town in Sutlej river valley, Kinnaur |
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| At the monasteray in Kalpa. Kalpa is a good mix of Hindu and Buddhist culture |
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| Beautiful wooden entry gate of a temple in Kalpa |
In case you want to explore it with professionals check the plan
here
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