Kinnaur, a wonderland and a tiny hamlet in India also known as Land of Fairy Tale is one of the best Indian destinations with rugged beauty. The place is also considered as one of the less frequented tourist places in Himachal Pradesh which should not be missed. The place has a wonderful setting presenting lush green valleys, fast flowing rivers, snow-clad mountains, ripe orchards and numerous vineyards. There are two main valleys here which bring out the beauty of the region. These two valleys are Sangla valley and the Hangrang Valley. The place is amongst the most beautiful places in India which reflects both Hinduism and Buddhism culture.
Hindus visit Kinnaur to see the well-known Kinner Kailash, which is considered as the abode of Lord Shiva along with the Shivaling rocks, the tales of Pandavas and their connection with Kinnaur is a great magnetism. There are many old Buddhist monasteries as well as temples in the surrounded areas which are respected by Buddhists. Not only in terms of religion, but Kinnaur valley is also a haven for adventure seekers as it has many options of adventure sports like trekking and skiing. Below we will elaborate more about Kinnaur valley to make you easy to plan your trip:
Places to visit in and around Kinnaur Valley
One of the best ways to explore Kinnaur is to walk on hilly terrains and admire the natural beauty by sleeping under the stars. Kinnaur belt is a must visit a place which will offer you a peaceful environment to enjoy the beauty and calmness of Himachal. Below are some top sites in and around Kinnaur valley that should worth a visit:
Nako Lake
Nako Lake in Kinnaur is the best tourist attraction if you want to enjoy a pastured meadow in the midst of gigantic mountains. It is actually a small secluded reservoir which attracts everybody. The place has its own charm owing to groves of willow trees surrounding the lake. You can also see the waterfall near the lake which is considered as the heavenly abode of fairies by locals.
Read: How to plan a trip to Spiti valley complete guide
Sangla Valley
Sangla valley is among the best places to visit in Kinnaur which is surrounded by thick forest slopes and offers beautiful views of high mountains. The place also has a beautiful meadow namely Rakcham meadow which is popular for shooting various film scenes as well as advertisements.
Kalpa
Kalpa is one of the best places to enjoy the mesmerizing sunset and sunrise. It is a majestic place which will make your trip memorable. Kalpa is bounded by snowy peak all year round. One gets a clear sight of the sacred Kinnaur Kailash peak along with its sister peaks. You can also get an opportunity to bike to this place also.
Kamru Fort
Kamru Fort is an amazing place to explore in the region which can be reached by climbing 329 steps. Here you will find many handsome wood and stone buildings with peaks roofs. On the way up there is a Badrinath temple which is a classy example of Kinnauri religion having both Hindu and Buddhist shrines.
Baspa River
Baspa River is known to be the most scenic rivers of Himalayas. The sparkling Baspa River in Sangla Valley presents apple orchards, snow clad mountains streams and many captivating views of the valley. There are numerous glaciers all around the Baspa River that add to its gorgeousness and bestow a particular kind of experience to the visitors.
Bhimakali Temple
Bhimakali Temple is in Sarahan which is one of the must-visit spots in Kinnaur and is built from layers of stones and timber so that it can easily absorb the force of earthquakes. Just keep in mind some instruction before entering this beautiful Kinnaur temple as there are strict entry rules.
Read: Top 10 most haunted places in Shimla
Things to do in Kinnaur
Along with many tourist attractions, there is a long list of things to do in Kinnaur. It is the land of festivals to taste the culture of Himachal Pradesh along with adventure activities which can make the trip of Kinnaur amazing:
Enjoy Local festivities
Some festivals in Kinnaur are Sajo Festival in January, Phagul or Suskar festival in February, a Dakhraini festival in July, Flaich Ukhayang festival in September, Losar in December to enjoy your new year.
Adventure activities
The charming landscape of Kinnaur offers plenty of options for adventure sports such as trekking, wildlife safari as well as boating. Adventurous side of Kinnaur can be exploring by enjoying amazing adventure treks. Trekking is a superb way of doing some good hard work amidst nature. The most exciting trekking route in Kinnaur is the ‘Parikarma of Kailash’ which should not be missed at all. Kinnaur presents the most amazing as well as flecked trekking options:
Bhaba Valley Trek – this trek starts from Kafnoo and can be finished in there to four days.
Sangla Valley Trek– Baspa Valley generally known as Sangla Valley is a nature beau’s delight and is considered as the loveliest valley in The Himalayas. This trek not only offers you explore the beauty but also give you a chance to communicate with locals.
Rappelling in Sangla Valley
You can enjoy rappelling in Sangla valley and can experience the adventure of descending down rock by using a rope. Along with it, you can also enjoy rock climbing here to test your climbing strength, agility and endurance.
Fishing in Baspa River
Kinnaur is heaven for adventure enthusiasts where they can enjoy unusual, adventurous activities. Among them is fishing in crystal clear waters of Baspa River.
Best time to visit
However, Kinnaur valley opens all year round except few days of heavy snowfall on Hindustan Tibet Highway. Best time to visit Kinnaur valley depends on you only. Still confused? Let me clear this out. If you love the blend of colors, snow and flowers then visit Kinnaur in the spring season. If you want to beat the summer heat, then visit Kinnaur in summers. You can visit Kinnaur in monsoon too if you enjoy apples in apple orchards. Last but not least to enjoy tons of snow visit this beautiful valley in winters.
Few things to expect when you are planning your trip to Kinnaur
While planning a trip to Kinnaur, there is a list of things which you should expect while on your trip to winters especially:
- Expect road closures for a couple of days to a week or so as roads can be closed due to snowfall. A week of a road closure in the Valley during winters is less possible but can take place.
- Driving on ice and snow on roads can be expected as you should be careful regarding this. You should have a prior experience to drive on roads with snow.
- Expect Chitkul to be closed along with Sangla Valley too sometimes during heavy snowfall. So plan your Kinnaur trip accordingly and don’t make solo trek treks to snowbound villages in Kinnaur.
- Expect basic stay options and basic food to eat as many hotels in Kinnaur expected to be shut down except few handfuls. However, Sangla Valley and Reckong Peo do not offer much-staying options. You should plan well and be prepared for anything and everything you might require in the winter trip to Kinnaur Valley.
Accommodation
Kinnaur valley had numerous accommodation options which are available mainly at Kalpa and Sangla valley. There are many economic guest houses in Kinnaur which are cheap and fit every budget to keep your money saved. There are many luxury hotels in Kinnaur too which offers many comfort facilities to visitors.
Kinnaur is a place which offers a calm ambience to all visitors irrespective of ages. Youths can explore the place by enjoying daring trekking expeditions in Kinnaur and others can enjoy the sceneries amid tranquil mountains. It is actually the land of fairy tales as well as fantasies and presents s spectacular terrain.
So if you liked the article and have any doubt regarding your trip you can ask me on Instagram
