Saturday, February 25, 2023

Chitkul : The Last Inhabited Village at India's Edge

Chitkul : The Last Inhabited Village at India's Edge

Image : Anmol Arora

Chitkul, located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, is a small village nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. Known for its picturesque landscapes, Chitkul offers a glimpse into the untouched natural beauty of the region. In this article, we'll explore the various attractions and experiences that make Chitkul a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Chitkul is situated at an altitude of 3,450 meters above sea level. The village of Chitkul is located on the banks of the Baspa River, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. One of the most popular attractions in Chitkul is the Kinnaur Kailash, which is a sacred peak that is worshipped by the locals. Visitors can take a trek to the Kinnaur Kailash and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayan range.

Another popular attraction in Chitkul is the Chitkul Fort, which was built in the 17th century. The fort is located at the top of a hill, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Visitors can also explore the village of Chitkul and observe the local way of life. The village is home to traditional houses made of wood and stone, and visitors can interact with the friendly locals and learn about their culture and traditions.

Chitkul offers a range of activities for visitors, including trekking, camping, and nature walks. The Baspa River is a popular spot for fishing, and visitors can also enjoy bird watching and wildlife spotting in the surrounding forests.

Trekking is one of the most popular activities in Chitkul, and there are several trekking routes that offer stunning views of the Himalayan range. The Sangla Valley Trek is a popular option, which takes visitors through dense forests, meadows, and streams, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Camping is another popular activity in Chitkul, and visitors can set up their tents in the beautiful meadows near the Baspa River. The night sky in Chitkul is a sight to behold, with thousands of stars visible on clear nights.

In Conclusion, Chitkul is a hidden gem in the Kinnaur, and offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors. From trekking and camping to exploring the local culture and traditions, Chitkul has something for everyone. So, if you're looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating escape in the lap of nature, Chitkul should definitely be on your list of must-visit destinations.

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Best places to stay at Chitkul

The Wanderer's Nest: This cozy guest house is located in the heart of Chitkul, and offers comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms. The guest house also has a restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine.

Banjara Camps & Retreats: This eco-friendly campsite is located in a picturesque location near the Baspa River, and offers luxury tents with attached bathrooms. The campsite also has a restaurant that serves a range of Indian and international cuisines.

HPTDC Hotel Rupin River View: This budget-friendly hotel is located in Sangla, which is approximately 20 km from Chitkul. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities, and has a restaurant that serves delicious local food.

Hotel Batseri: This hotel is located in Batseri, which is approximately 15 km from Chitkul. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms, and has a restaurant that serves a range of Indian and international cuisines.

Hotel Apple Pie: This budget-friendly hotel is located in Sangla, which is approximately 20 km from Chitkul. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities, and has a restaurant that serves delicious local food.

Hotel Sangla Valley: This hotel is located close to the Sangla Valley and offers luxurious rooms with spectacular views of the valley. It also offers a variety of amenities like a restaurant, bar, garden, and spa.

Himalayan Eco Lodges: This eco-friendly lodge is located at the banks of the Baspa River and offers breathtaking views of the valley. It also offers a variety of activities and facilities like a restaurant, bar, library, and spa.

Hotel Chitkul Inn: This hotel is located in the heart of Chitkul and offers comfortable and spacious rooms with modern amenities. It also offers a restaurant, bar, and garden.

The Wildflower Hall: This luxury resort is located at the top of the hill and offers panoramic views of the valley. It also offers a variety of amenities like a restaurant, bar, library, and spa.

It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season (May to June and September to November), as the availability of rooms can be limited.

Best ways to reach Chitkul

Chitkul is the last inhabited village on the old Indo-Tibetan trade route. Here are the best ways to reach Chitkul:

By Road: Chitkul is well-connected by road with major cities in Himachal Pradesh and other nearby states. One can take a bus or hire a taxi from Shimla, Chandigarh, or Delhi to reach Chitkul. The roads are scenic but can be narrow and winding in some stretches.

By Air: The nearest airport to Chitkul is in Shimla, which is about 250 km away. From Shimla, one can take a taxi or bus to reach Chitkul.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Chitkul is in Shimla, which is about 250 km away. From Shimla, one can take a taxi or bus to reach Chitkul.

By Trekking: Chitkul can also be reached by trekking through the Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama route, which is a famous trekking route in the region. The trek starts from Kalpa and passes through several villages and scenic spots before reaching Chitkul.

Overall, the road route is the most convenient and popular way to reach Chitkul, while trekking is recommended for adventure enthusiasts who want to explore the scenic beauty of the region.

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