15 Famous Places to Visit in Kinnaur Himachal Pradesh

Forget the crowds and experience India’s raw beauty. Nestled high in the Himalayas lies Kinnaur, a land of towering peaks, ancient villages, and vibrant orchards. Discover secrets hidden amongst sacred temples and venture into a rugged landscape untouched by time.

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Kinnaur is like a dreamland with beautiful nature and exciting adventures. If you love mountains and peaceful surroundings, Kinnaur is the place for you. Let’s discover some of the best tourist places in Kinnaur you should not miss when you visit Kinnaur.

Best Places to Visit in Kinnaur

Discover the stunning beauty of Kinnaur, nestled among the mighty Himalayas. Whether you seek adventure or peace, Kinnaur has it all. Join us as we explore the top spots in this hidden gem, where breathtaking landscapes and exciting experiences await you.

1. Sangla Valley

Nestled within the majestic mountains of Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh, Sangla Valley is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Known for its captivating landscapes, apple orchards, and the meandering Baspa River, Sangla Valley is a highlight of Kinnaur tourism.

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 Key Attractions

• Kamru Fort– Marvel at the intricate woodwork of this architectural gem.
• Bering Nag Temple– Discover a fascinating blend of Hindu and Buddhist architectural styles.

   

2. Kamru Fort Sangla

Above Sangla village, there is a tall Kamru hill fort, made of wood and stone. Long ago, it was where the rulers of Kinnaur lived. Kamru village is packed with houses and surrounded by fields and apple orchards that grow really good apples. The main gate of the fort has a picture of Buddha, and people ask for his blessings before entering the village.

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Inside, there is a shrine for the goddess Kamakhya Devi, brought from Assam many years ago. The village also has a temple dedicated to Badrinath. Kamru Hill Fort and Sangla Village are great places to visit in Kinnaur because of their history and beautiful scenery.

3. Chitkul

Chitkul is one of the best tourist places in Kinnaur, Located 25 km from Sangla in the Baspa Valley, Chitkul is the last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibet border. The road accessible by motor vehicles ends here, and any further journey must be undertaken on foot. Situated amidst the highlands, Chitkul boasts terraced fields and the crystal-clear River Baspa flowing through, adding immense beauty to the village.

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beside the river can bring about a sense of spirituality. At the heart of the village sits a small temple dedicated to goddess Mathi, a local deity. A visit to Kinnaur is considered incomplete without exploring Chitkul. Camping For travelers seeking places to visit in Chitkul, exploring the terraced fields, camping by the River Baspa, and visiting the temple dedicated to goddess Mathi are essential experiences.

How to Reach Chitkul

Here is a breakdown of how to reach Chitkul:

Delhi to Shimla

• Shimla to Sangla– From Shimla, take an HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) bus or hire a taxi to Sangla. This scenic journey takes approximately 9-10 hours.
• Sangla to Chitkul– The last leg of your journey is a short scenic 20 km drive, around an hour by bus or private taxi from Sangla to Chitkul.

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Via Manali

This route is longer and more challenging, but also known for its incredible landscapes.

• Delhi to Manali– You can take a direct bus to Manali or a combination of train and bus.
• Manali – Rohtang Pass – Kunzum Pass – Kaza: This segment includes crossing high mountain passes and requires an adventurous spirit. You can cover it by bus or hired vehicle.
• Kaza to Chitkul: Finally, reach the beautiful village of Chitkul from Kaza.

Things to do in Chitkul

Here are some of the top things to do in this charming village:

• Stroll along the Baspa River– Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you meander beside the serene Baspa River, watching the water weave its way through the valley.
• Hike to nearby viewpoints- Enjoy panoramic vistas of the valley and surrounding snow-capped peaks with short hikes to vantage points near the village.
• Stargazing– Free from light pollution, Chitkul provides spectacular stargazing opportunities. Find a clear spot at night and be awed by the vastness of the universe.
• Visit Mathi Temple– Discover the significance of Mathi Temple, dedicated to the local goddess Mathi. Observe its blend of Hindu and Buddhist architectural features.
• Explore the village– Interact with locals, learn about their customs, and maybe even sample some regional delicacies.
• Attend local festivals– If you are lucky, you might be able to experience a traditional Kinnauri festival during your visit, offering a vibrant glimpse into their culture.
• The Charang Chitkul Pass Trek– More adventurous travelers can embark on the challenging but rewarding Charang Chitkul Pass Trek through stunning Himalayan landscapes.

4. Bhawa Valley

From Wangtu on the Shimla-Kinnaur-Spiti highway, there is a road that goes to Kafnu. This village is the gateway to the scenic high-altitude valley of Bhawa, considered one of the best places to visit in Kinnaur. Relatively untouched, this valley is a nature trekkers haven.

Kafnu is also the base of some of Kinnaur’s toughest treks that go over Pin-Parvati-Bhawa Pass to enter Kullu Valley from one route and into Pin Valley of Spiti from another diverging route. For those looking to explore nature, Kafnu offers access to stunning landscapes and adventurous trekking routes.

5. Kinner Kailash

One of the most captivating attractions in Kinnaur, among the famous tourist places in Kinnaur, is the Kinner Kailash mountain, renowned for its colossal natural rock formation resembling a Shivling, a symbol associated with Lord Shiva. This awe-inspiring Shivling sits atop the mountain and is a sight to behold. What adds to its allure is the fact that this Shivling undergoes a fascinating transformation of colors throughout the day, making it a truly mystical and enchanting experience for visitors.

6. Reckong-Peo

Starting from the Shimla-Kinnaur-Kaza highway, there’s a road that splits off at Powari and leads to Reckongpeo, also known as Peo. This town is like the capital of Kinnaur and offers a stunning view of the Kinner Kailash peak (6050 m) across the River Sutlej valley. People believe that this peak is one of the homes of Lord Shiva in the Himalayas.

Every year, many pilgrims trek to a tall rock near the peak, which they consider a sacred symbol of Shiva. Walking around the base of the mountain takes about eight days while climbing to the top takes two days. Reckongpeo is one of the famous tourist places in Kinnaur, attracting visitors with its breathtaking views and spiritual significance.

Things to Do in Reckong Peo

• Local Market– Experience the hustle and bustle of the main Reckong Peo market, a great place to buy local handicrafts, woolen items, and Kinnauri apples.
• Kothi Village and Temple– Visit the quaint Kothi village, perched on a hill near Reckong Peo. Hike up to the ancient Buddhist-Hindu temple in Kothi offering splendid views.
• Local Monasteries– Reckong Peo is home to a few small Buddhist monasteries, providing a glimpse into local religious and cultural aspects.
• Chandika Temple– Located a few kilometers outside of Reckong Peo, the Chandika Temple is known for its tranquility and surrounding mountain views.

7. Kalpa

As you ascend 13 km from Reckong Peo, you’ll reach Kalpa, a stunning hill station that stands as one of the must-visit places in Kinnaur. Here, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks that seem close enough to touch. Despite its small size, Kalpa exudes a traditional ambiance that enchants visitors.

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The Narayan-Nagini temple showcases exemplary local craftsmanship with its finely decorated architecture, while the Buddhist Hu-Bu-Lan-Kar gompa welcomes you with its serene white chorten and spinning prayer wheels. To cater to the needs of the many tourists who flock to Kalpa each year, Himachal Tourism operates Hotel Kinner Kailash, providing comfortable accommodation amidst the hills. Kalpa is undoubtedly a gem of Kinnaur tourism, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and tranquility.

Things to do in Kalpa

• Visit the Kalpa Monastery– The Kalpa Monastery is a Buddhist monastery that was founded in the 17th century. The monastery is home to a number of beautiful thangkas and statues.
• Hike to the Suicide Point– The Suicide Point is a viewpoint that offers stunning views of the Kinnaur Kailash ranges. The hike to the Suicide Point is relatively easy and takes about an hour.
• Visit the Roghi Temple– The Roghi Temple is a Hindu temple that is dedicated to the goddess Roghi. The temple is located in a beautiful setting and is a popular pilgrimage site.
• Go for a trek– There are a number of trekking trails that start from Kalpa. The most popular trek is the Kinner Kailash Parikrama, which is a 12-day trek that circumambulates the sacred mountain of Kinner Kailash.

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How to Reach Kalpa

• The nearest airport is Kullu Manali Airport, which is located about 270 kilometers from Kalpa.
• The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station, which is located about 260 kilometers from Kalpa.
• Kalpa can be reached by road from Shimla and Manali. The journey from Shimla takes about 10 hours and the journey from Manali takes about 8 hours.

Best Time to Visit Kalpa

The best time to visit Kalpa is from May to October. The weather is pleasant during these months and the skies are clear.

8. Nako Village

Nako is a picturesque hamlet nestled in the heart of Kinnaur, renowned for its stunning beauty. Situated at an impressive altitude of 3,662 meters, Nako village charms visitors with its tranquil lake and revered Buddhist monastery, making it one of the best places to visit in Kinnaur. The village is adorned with a footprint-like impression on a rock, believed to have been left by Guru Padmasambhava, the revered Buddhist master who spread Buddhism across Kinnaur, Lahaul, Spiti, and Tibet.

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Nako also serves as the base to explore the Tashigang monastery and marks the starting point for mountaineers venturing to scale the majestic Reo Partial Peak. Located 115 km from Powari, Nako offers a serene retreat amidst the majestic Himalayas, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking the finest experiences in Kinnaur.

Things to do in Nako Village

• Nako Monastery– Dating back to the 11th century, this Buddhist monastery is a significant historical monument. Explore its intricate wall paintings, sculptures, and peaceful atmosphere.
• Nako Lake– This pristine lake rests near the village, making for a beautiful picnic spot or gentle hike. During the winter, it often freezes over, creating a magical scene.
• Village Life– Stroll through the narrow streets of Nako, observing the local culture, architecture, and friendly people.
• Viewpoints– Hike to some of the higher points around Nako to witness breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding valleys and peaks.

9. Hangrang valley

From the beautiful Nako village to Chango village, the Hangrang valley offers some popular trekking routes in Kinnaur. This valley is known for its stunning Nako Lake. Even though the valley is quite barren with very little vegetation, many people live here and rely on farming, growing only one crop each year on the limited agricultural land. Despite its tough conditions, the rugged beauty of Hangrang Valley draws in adventurers and nature lovers.

10. Chango

Chango, situated at an altitude of 3,058 meters in Hangrang Valley, is well-known for producing some of the best quality apples in the state. This predominantly Buddhist village is home to a monastery and three temples dedicated to local deities.

11. Ribba

Ribba is a small village located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated at an altitude of 3,745 meters (12,287 feet) above sea level. The village is known for its abundance of pine nuts, also known as chilgoza and its vineyards.

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Ribba is a popular tourist destination, especially for those interested in trekking and hiking. The village is surrounded by several mountain peaks, including the Kinner Kailash range. There are also several temples in the village, including the Ribba Monastery and the Shiv Temple.

12. Pooh

Pooh, one of the largest settlements in Kinnaur, situated 58 km from Powari along the highway to Spiti, is renowned for being one of the famous tourist places in Kinnaur. Besides hosting an ancient Buddhist Monastery, the countryside around this settlement is adorned with vineyards, almond and apricot trees, and an abundance of apple orchards.

13. Lippa

Lippa is a small village easily accessible from Kalpa or Reckong Peo and is deeply rooted in its rich heritage, focused on three Buddhist monasteries. This village takes great pride in preserving its cultural legacy. Known for its abundant wildlife, visitors can catch glimpses of ibex and the elusive snow leopard on the outskirts of the village and the nearby forest areas.

14. Kanam

Kanam is a small village located in the Kinnaur district. Kanam is a great place to visit if you are looking for a peaceful and offbeat destination in Himachal Pradesh. The village is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.

Things to do in Kanam

• Visit the Kanam Monastery, a Buddhist monastery that was founded in the 17th century.
• Hike to the nearby village of Spiti, which is known for its stunning scenery and ancient temples.
• Go for a trek in the Kanam Valley, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
• Visit the Kanam Fort, which is a 17th-century fort that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

15. Rakcham

Rakcham is a small village in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. It is located at an altitude of 2,900 meters (9,500 feet) on the banks of the Baspa River. The village is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush green meadows.

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Rakcham is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty and trekking trails. The village is also home to a number of temples, including the Rakcham Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Kali.

Best Time to visit Kinnaur

The best time to visit Kinnaur depends on what you are looking for in your trip:

Pleasant weather and beautiful scenery:

• Spring (March-April): This is a shoulder season with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning wildflowers in bloom. However, some higher-altitude roads may still be closed due to snow.
• Summer (May-June): This is the peak season with warm days and cool nights. However, it can also be crowded and prices may be higher.
• Autumn (September-October): Another shoulder season with comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall foliage. However, some higher-altitude roads may start to close again due to snow.

Adventure activities:

Winter (November-February): The region experiences heavy snowfall, making it ideal for activities like skiing and snowboarding. However, many roads are closed and temperatures can be very cold.

Festivals:

• Tribal Festival (late October-early November): This colorful festival showcases the unique culture of Kinnaur.
• Besh (April 13-14): This festival celebrates the harvest and features traditional music and dance.
• Fulaich Fair: This charming fair celebrates the blooming of apples and apricots.

Here is a quick summary of the pros and cons of each season:

Season		Pros		Cons
Spring		Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, wildflowers		Some roads may be closed, unpredictable weather
Summer		Warm days, cool nights		Crowded, higher prices
Autumn		Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, fall foliage		Many roads are closed, very cold temperatures
Winter		Ideal for snow sports, lower prices		Many roads are closed, and very cold temperatures

Things to Do in Kinnaur

Kinnaur tourism has a lot of interesting things to do and activities you can take part in.

• Trekking– Kinnaur boasts several exciting trekking trails like the Kinner Kailash Parikrama and the Rupin Pass Trek, catering to varied fitness levels.
• Photography– Capture stunning landscapes, charming villages, and intricate temple architecture.
• Apple Orchard Tours– Discover how delicious Himachal apples are grown and maybe even take some home as a tasty souvenir.
• Local Markets– Discover unique Kinnauri handicrafts, woven shawls, and locally grown fresh produce.

How to Reach Kinnaur

• By Road: The district is accessible by NH-22 (The Hindustan Tibet Road). You will find buses and taxis readily available at Shimla and Rampur.
• For adventurous travelers, consider the route via Manali – Rohtang Pass – Kunzam Pass – Kaza (400 km). It is a longer but breathtaking journey.
• Regular bus services connect Kinnaur to major towns like Manali, Delhi, and Haridwar.
• By Rail: The nearest railhead is in Shimla (244 km). From there, you can take buses or taxis to reach Kinnaur.
• By Air: Shimla Airport (267 km) is the nearest option. You can connect to Kinnaur from there by road transportation.

How to Get Around

• Local Buses: Local buses offer an affordable and convenient way to explore the different towns and villages of Kinnaur.
• Taxis: Taxis are easily available for more flexibility and direct access to specific sights.

Conclusion

Kinnaur is a hidden gem within the vast landscape of Himachal Pradesh. From the charm of Sangla Valley and the vibrant apple orchards to the sacred pilgrimage of Kinner Kailash and the stark beauty of Chitkul, this district offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you seek solace in ancient monasteries like Nako or a thrilling trek along untamed trails, Kinnaur promises to leave you in awe.

With its captivating vistas, welcoming inhabitants, and a wealth of experiences, Kinnaur stands as a testament to the allure of exploring India’s hidden wonders. Plan your own journey to these spectacular destinations, and allow the spirit of Kinnaur to embrace you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Kinnaur.