Being a travel enthusiast, you must have been to different locations in India. But have you traveled to the last Indian village?
Located on the banks of the pristine Baspa River in the Kinnaur valley of Himachal Pradesh, Chitkul is the last inhabited village in India and is situated at the Indo-Tibet Border.
Surrounded by mesmerizing mountain ranges and the serene Baspa River, Chitkul is a hidden hamlet with breathtaking landscapes and should be on every travel lover’s bucket list.
According to a report by the Centre for Atmospheric Sciences at IIT Delhi, Chitkul has the cleanest air in India.
The freshness in the air is exhilarating, the beauty of the mountains is beyond words, and the experience of traveling to the last village of India is memorable.
You can enjoy the gorgeous views of the Kinnaur range and Rakchham-Chhitkul Sanctuary to take a walk amidst the dense forests and spot animals like the Himalayan Brown Bear, Leopard, Musk Deer, and Monals.
If you want to experience the vibe of the last Indian village, take a breath of the purest air, stay in beautiful wooden homes-turned-hotels, and enjoy the food at the Last Dhaba of India, then you must visit Chitkul this summer.
What is The Best Time to Visit Chitkul?
The best time to visit this beautiful hamlet in Kinnaur District is April to June. During the summer months, you can enjoy a nice riverside picnic with your friends on the banks of the Baspa river, and go camping amidst the dense forests.
Furthermore, you can trek through the lush green meadows to the grazing fields of Nagasti on the bank of river Baspa. Watching the beautiful stars at night and witnessing breathtaking sunsets are some other splendid activities to partake in Chitkul.
If you are a monsoon traveler and love exploring the mountains during the rainy season, you can also take a trip to Chitkul between July and September.
Since winters in Chitkul are freezing and most of the valley is covered with snow, the road to Chitkul gets shut from November to February. The temperature goes down to minus 5 degrees Celcius and can further reach a freezing minimum of 21 degrees Celcius.
How Far is Chitkul from Delhi?
Located in the Kinnaur Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Chitkul is approximately 600 km away from Delhi. The distance between Delhi and Chitkul by road is 602 Km, and it can take up to 15 hours to reach this beautiful location from the national capital.
Since the accommodation options in Chitkul are limited, you can also stay in Sangla—a nearby town in Baspa Valley which is a 28 km drive from Chitkul.
What are the Famous Places in Chitkul?
From Mathi Temple to Kamru Fort, here’s the list of the top 6 places to visit in Chitkul.
Charang Chitkul Pass Trek
If you want to unwind your mind, rejuvenate your body and free your soul, do take this adventurous trek in Chitkul that allows you to sail through the lush green meadows, ancient alpine villages, high-mountain passes, and spectacular views.
It is a 12-day trek meant for experienced trekkers due to its long steel slithery scree slopes and challenging trail. Once you reach the top, you can enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Kinner Kailash Mountain.
Mathi Temple
Another popular tourist destination in Chitkul, Mathi temple is known for its spectacular wooden architecture. It is dedicated to Chitkul Maata, the goddess of local Kinnaur people, after whom the village is named.
The temple was built five hundred years ago and is a must-visit place for everyone traveling to Chitkul.
Kagyupa Temple
Made of walnut wood, this unique temple is known for the carved design on its wooden structure and the idol of Shakyamuni Buddha. Praying here is considered very sacred, and it is believed that God answers the prayer of all the devotees who visit this temple.
Baspa River Front View
When you are in the beautiful Baspa Valley, how is it possible that you wouldn’t enjoy the views of the scenic Baspa river?
You can have a picnic with your friends and family at the Baspa riverfront or simply enjoy at the banks of the river to discover your inner self.
Views of the valley covered with oak and pine forests will leave a delightful impact. Also, don’t forget to click some fantastic pictures!
Kamru Fort
Not just in Himachal, but Kamru Fort is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world. Located in Sangla, a 28 km drive from Chitkul, Kamru Fort attracts many tourists and travelers from across the globe.
Its biggest allures are the ancient architecture and historical significance. The balcony of this fort offers a mesmerizing view of the grandeur of the Himalayan mountains.
All those who want to enter the fort must wear a Kinnauri cap and a Gachhi around their waist as a token of respect for the century-old tradition of the local people.
Buddhist Monastery
Built by the Mahabodhi Society to perform Kalachakra Ceremony for Dalai Lama in 1992, this sacred place is also called Brelengi Gompa.
It is located near Sangla and is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Chitkul. Known for the 10-meter-long statue of standing buddha and beautiful architecture, the monastery is of great reverence to the local people.
Bering Nag Temple
The only Shiva temple in Chitkul village, this place is popular for the world-famous Phulaich Fair. The fest is attended by hundreds of Hindu devotees each year, in August and May.
How many days are enough in Chitkul?
If you are traveling to Chitkul with your family and just want to enjoy the views of this scenic village and stay in beautiful wooden hotels, I suggest you vacay there for not more than two days. You can easily cover all the famous tourist spots and attractions.
As a solo traveler fascinated by challenging treks, you may stay in Chitkul for a fortnight. The duration will be ample to enjoy those mesmerizing and exciting views arising from enthralling treks.
If you are here with your friends to explore Chitkul and the nearby areas like Sangla, Kufri, and Narkanda, among others, you should plan a 6-7 day trip from Delhi.
Final Takeaway
Situated at 11,319 Ft, the best part about this paradise is that it has low or zero Internet connectivity. So this makes it a perfect destination to detox from the digital life, polluted air, stress, and all your worries!
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