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If driving to the hill stations in the Himalayas is exciting, driving through its far flung remote areas takes it to a different level of thrill. This drive is through the Kinnaur, Sangla and Spiti areas of Himachal Pradesh that lie north of Shimla where time stands still, nature unfurls it’s full glory and life goes on at a slow and easy pace, untouched with restlessness of ever increasing human distractions and cravings.
This drive shall take you to some of the remotest parts in the Trans-Himalayas where you shall witness not just the true magic of nature but also life and culture that that have pretty much remained unchanged for centuries. The entire drive would be through isolated mountain terrain and untamed wilderness, along rivers and streams right after you leave Shimla. If you want to experience the enigmatic charm of the remote Himalayas and ancient cultures, this drive is just for you.
THE PIT STOPS
Sarahan
The road to Sarahan from Shimla winds through flowering pine trees and stately oaks. Several small streams rush by. The fields and orchards that surround the small villages with their slate-roofed houses create pastoral scenes. Situated at a height of about 7000 feet, this sparsely populated small town is steeped in ancient legends. This town finds mention even in the Puranas as Sonitpur which makes it one of the oldest inhabited places of this state! It is here that the famous Bhimakali temple, one among the 51 sacred Shakti Peethas ,is located. Apart from its religious significance this temple is known for its striking Indo-Tibetan architecture. You shall also get to visit the unique pheasant breeding center located close to this temple which also shelters the beautiful Monals – the state bird of Himachal. Sarahan was once the summer capital of the princely state of Bushaahr Kingdom.
Sangla
The breathtaking Sangla valley, situated in Kinnaur region of Himachal is famous for its red apple orchard and luscious cherry trees, A Large part of this day’s journey will be along Sutluj and Baspa rivers, the latter being famous for trout fishing as well. In about 5 hours you shall be at the beautiful Chitkul village which is the last inhabited village on this route. After exploring the village on foot and interacting with the natives you shall head to Sangla for the night stay.
Sangla, which in Tibetan language means “The Pass of Light” is located in the spectacular Baspa Valley of Kinnaur. A town with a strong Tibetan influence, you will have a lot in store for you to see here. Kamru Fort & Bering Nag Temple with their exquisite architecture, the Tibetan Wood Carving Center and Saffron farms are some of the places you shall visit during your stay here.
Nako
After Sangla your next stop shall be Nako. On the way you shall visit two of the most beautiful small hill towns of Rekong Peo and Kalpa. There shall be short halts at these two places for exploration and trying out some local snacks over a cuppa of tea.
Located in the Trans-Himalayan range, Nako is a village located close to the Indo-Tibet border. Apart from its serenity, the most important attraction of Nako village is the namesake lake flanked by Tibetan temples and caves. It is believed that saint Padmasambhava had meditated at the lake site in his lifetime. Interestingly, a waterfall is situated near the lake which is believed to be a home of the fairies!
Tabo
A quaint hamlet on the banks of a mountain river, rugged terrain all around, patches of farm and fruit orchards, smiling faces, a slow pace of life, perfectly in sync with the hum of chants from a monastery wafting through the village….if you can imagine this, you can see all of this in real at Tabo.
The Tabo monastery, founded in 996 CE is noted for being the oldest continuously operating Buddhist monastery in both India and the Himalayas. Apart from the holy significance of the monastery, it must be due to the sheer charm and tranquility of this place that once His Holiness, The Dalai Lama had expressed his desire to spend his retired life at a place none other than Tabo!
Losar
Situated at a commanding height of more than 12000 feet, at the confluence of two streams- Losar and Peeno, Losar defines calmness and commune with nature in true sense. Towering and beautiful mountains, picturesque mountain streams and gorgeous vistas and landscape resembling that in Ladakh, makes Losar an ideal overnight stop on the drive to Manali from Tabo.
Before you reach Losar, you shall have short stopovers at Kaza, a charming mountain village and Komic, a remote tiny village that is considered to be the highest village in the world connected with a motorable road!
Kaza
Kaza, known for its colourful festivals and the Sakya Tangyud Monastery, boasts of high mountains with snowy crowns, crystal clear rivers, streams and barren splendor interspersed with patches of green. In its mountainous terrain and pristine locales, tourists are attracted visitors who want to indulge in adventurous activities and spiritual wellbeing alike. It is the base camp for trekking, mountaineering and other adventures.
Manali
Manali is a quintessential hill station which has something for everyone so not much needs to be said about this popular hill station. It is a melting pot of tourists from all across world and not just India. From natural beauty to amazing eateries,adventure activities to tranquil temples and monastery, this town has it all.
The most amazing part of this leg of your trip would be the drive from Losar to Manali crossing over the towering Kunzum pass situated at the height of about 15000 feet. You shall also get to visit the awesome Chandra Tal on this route. The surreal beauty of the Chandra Taal lake is bound to get you awestruck. Shaped as a crescent moon, the beauty of this lake can draw no comparison due to its serenity and magnetic charm.
Sangla
Sangla is a town in the Baspa Valley in Kinnaur District of Himachal Pradesh, close to the Tibetan border. Sangla is famous for its wood carving work and other handicrafts such as handmade shawls and caps. An eye for Kinnaur apples which are one of the best in the world would definitely help to keep the doctors away. One thing that set this valley apart from the rest of them is its beautiful cherry trees and red apple orchard. From holy temples to majestic forts and alluring villages, Sangra Valley has a perfect mix of adventurous spots and serene sites.
Chitkul
Chitkul, a village located on right bank of Baspa River, is the last village of the Baspa Valley as well as the last village on the old Hindustan-Tibet trade route. This makes it the last point in India one can travel to without a permit. Chitkul is also famous for its fair called Phulaich Fair which is attended by many Hindu devotees.
Kalpa
Kalpa is a small village in the Sutlej river valley inhabited by the Kinnauri people and is known for its apple orchards as apples are a major cash-crop for the region. Kalpa is an offbeat destination, perfect for those who are looking for some quiet time in the mountains, surrounded by nature and a very laid-back vibe. The beauties of Kalpa do not end just there! It throws light on the traditional Himachali architecture with its temples and Buddhist monasteries.
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