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Himachal Pradesh - A Trip to the last Indian village Chitkul

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The trip to Himachal Pradesh started from Chandigarh by car. The route taken was via Shimla - Kufri - Narkanda - Sangla and Chitkul - Kalpa - Sarahan and back to Shimla and Chandigarh. It was the most exhilarating experience of my life. The whole route was amidst scenic beauty of the majestic mountain ranges of Kinnaur District of Himachal Pradesh.

We drove along the Sutlej River for most part till a place called Karcham where the Sutlej river conjoins with the Baspa river. We then followed the Baspa river to Sangla. Sangla is a town based in the valley along the Baspa river in the lap of the Himalayan mountain ranges.

About 28Km from the Sangla Valley is located the highest and the last Indian village in the Indo-Tibetan Border called Chitkul. It is also the last point you can travel to without a permit. This beautiful village is surrounded by the Himalayan mountain ranges on all sides and is covered totally in snow during the winters. We saw that the top of mountain ranges were still covered in snow due to a fresh snowfall in the month of September. The sight of the majestic mountains is absolutely breathtaking and awesome.

The village has a population of about 700 people and rests at an altitude of about 3,435m. The mountains lead to Tibet on one side and to Uttarkhand on the other. The local people still cross the mountains on foot during the summers carrying their deity to the temple on the other side. The Indo-Tibetan Border Patrol has its presence in the village and also along the Tibetan Border in the mountains. We also got to see the Yak on the way to the Chitkul village. See Picture.

We saw the last Indian Dhaba that boasts of serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. It was closed! I wondered if it ever functioned?

Comments

Himachal Tourism said…
In India, there are several tourists destinations to explore. Himachal Pradesh in north India is one of them. Himachal is a wonderful place Pradesh in north India is one of them. Himachal is a wonderful place. Himachal Tourism
March 19, 2013 at 11:42 AM
Manali Tourism said…
Nice post. In India, there are several tourists destinations to explore. Himachal Pradesh in north India is one of them. Himachal is a wonderful place known for its natural and breathtaking views.Manali Tourism is the best place for tourism in India.
May 1, 2013 at 11:07 AM
Unknown said…
Heyy thanks for the nice information. I am from CHD too and want to know more about the Chitkul experience and at wat time did you go. Can you please share.
June 9, 2013 at 2:07 PM
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