Chitkul is often known as the last village in India, thanks to its close proximity to the Tibet border. It is a gorgeous location in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, located by the banks of Baspa river, 3.4km above sea level.
Being close to Tibet, it’s cold all year round, and during the wintertime most of the roads get cut off due to heavy snowfall. If that’s your thing, then the best months to visit are between December and January, when temperatures go below -19°C.
But the most suitable time to come over is during the summer months of April to June. Any later and you would encounter the monsoon season, which bears the risks of landslides.
Chitkul is a remote village that can be accessed by hopping on a bus, hiring a car, or going by taxi from the Indian capital. There are daily buses from Delhi to Shimla, and from there to Sangla and on to Chitkul.
Most tourists choose to do a day visit due to limited lodging options in the village. But if you opt for a longer stay, you can get private rooms ranging from 2,000 to 2,500 rupees (RM112 to RM140) a night, bookable through online portals.
There are also budget hostels that cost 600 rupees per person. Alternatively, there are tents that can be rented by the river, though these tend to be pricey.
Internet or even mobile phone connectivity is a luxury in this small village. The internet is 2G only, so you will have the perfect opportunity to go on an online detox here.
There are no power connectivity issues though, unless there is a snowstorm.
Things to do
Here are some of the highlights in and around Chitkul.
- Mathi temple
A beautiful temple in the village with intricate wooden carvings, this place of worship is estimated to be at least 500 years old, and houses an ark made of walnut wood and covered with cloth and a tuft of yak tail.
- Baspa river
This river forms the Sangla Valley, which is one of the most scenic in the Himalayas. Camp by the river or simply relax by its banks, taking it all in. There are nearby trails for a great hiking experience.
- Rakcham village
Rakcham is recognised as the cleanest village in India and even won a presidential award for it in 2015, thanks to the efforts of its residents. Enjoy a superb view of Sangla Valley, towering mountains, glaciers, wildlife and nature.
Amit and Anindita are Indian Travel bloggers who blog at Travel Like We Do. They talk about affordable travel in India and abroad.
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