Chitkul: A Scenic Himalayan Gem

Introduction

Nestled in the remote hills of Himachal Pradesh, Chitkul stands as a picturesque village that seems to have sprung from the pages of an artist’s canvas. Surrounded by hills on three sides, with the Baspa River flowing down from the mountains and the sun rising against this breathtaking backdrop, Chitkul is a place that captivates the soul. As the last inhabited village on the old Hindustan-Tibet trade route, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, spirituality, and adventure.

Where is Chitkul?

Chitkul is located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It rests on the banks of the Baspa River, approximately 40 kilometers from Karcham, where the road bifurcates from the Hindustan-Tibet Road (NH 22). Beyond Chitkul lies the mighty Himalayan range, and further still, the border with Tibet.

Is Chitkul Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Chitkul’s pristine beauty, serene ambiance, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re a nature lover, a trekking enthusiast, or simply seeking tranquility, Chitkul has something to offer.

How to Reach Chitkul

Chitkul is accessible by road, and the journey itself is an adventure. Here are the different ways to reach this Himalayan gem:

By Road

1. From Shimla: The shorter and easier route is via Shimla. The road from Shimla to Chitkul takes you through a paradisiacal landscape, and you’ll find it hard not to stop at every turn to capture the beauty.
2. From Manali: The longer and tougher route is via Manali. This route takes you through the entire Spiti Valley, offering breathtaking views along the way.

Nearest Airport

The nearest domestic airport to Chitkul is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu), approximately 224 kilometers away.

Nearest Train Station

The nearest major railway station is Dehradun Railway Station. From Dehradun, you can travel to Chitkul by road.

Weather in Chitkul

Chitkul experiences cold weather throughout the year. It never gets hot, and the only change is between harsh cold and pleasant cold. Here’s a month-wise breakdown:

• Summer (April-June): Pleasant weather (10-25°C), ideal for trekking and camping.
• Monsoon (July-August): Moderate to heavy rains, misty ambiance (5-20°C).
• Winter (October-March): Extremely cold, with heavy snowfall. The village remains cut off during this time.

Best Time to Visit Chitkul

The best time to visit Chitkul is from late April to September. Beyond mid-April or after September, there’s a certain amount of risk due to unpredictable weather. In 2017, about 100 people got stranded here in April, and in 2018, people were stuck in October.

Sightseeing in Chitkul

1. Mathi Temple: Visit this 5-century-old temple made of walnut wood.
2. Sangla Meadows: Gape at snow-clad mountains.
3. Baspa River: Dip your feet in the water.
4. Bering Nag Temple: Explore this religious site.
5. Kamru Fort: Dive into history.
6. Tibetian Wood Carving Centre: Shop for souvenirs.
7. Batseri: Admire apple orchards.
8. Brelengi Gompa: Visit the Buddhist monastery.

Conclusion

Chitkul, the last village on the Indo-Tibetan border, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, spirituality, and adventure. Whether you’re a pilgrim or an explorer, Chitkul promises an unforgettable experience.