The Sangla Valley is unquestionably a stunning valley that is highly sought after by tourists due to its beauty. Located on the banks of the Baspa River, visitors can admire the remarkable views of the Himalayas from the valley. The charming villages of Sangla offer a chance to immerse oneself in the simple lifestyle of the Kinnaur people.
Sangla serves as the final destination for the Rupin Pass trek. Another picturesque village near Sangla, Chitkul, marks the end point of the Borasu Pass Trek. Therefore, it is advisable to utilize your time wisely in this area.
Discover the reasons why embarking on the Rupin Pass trek is essential for fully immersing oneself in the beauty of Sangla and Chitkul.
7 Destinations to Explore near Sangla and Chitkul
1. The Fort of Kamru
Nestled in the scenic Solang Valley, Kamru Fort serves as a gateway to a time long past. This extraordinary 3-story wooden fort is a remarkable example of 15th-century architecture. Today, it has been transformed into a temple devoted to Goddess Kamakhya. The deity's statue is situated on the fort's topmost floor, believed to have been transported from Guwahati. This temple holds great religious significance for the nearby community.
2. Temple of Bering Nag
Bering Nag Temple, a one-of-a-kind religious site, holds significant importance among the people. This temple is devoted to Lord Jagas, a manifestation of Lord Shiva. Built with wood, it stands as a remarkable architectural wonder from ancient times. The temple is located 2 km away from Sangla Village and hosts the Phulaich Fair every August and September, adding to its appeal as a popular destination.
3. The Village of Chitkul
Chitkul is a tiny village situated in Himachal Pradesh. What makes this village unique is that it is the final inhabited settlement before the Indo-Tibetan border. This village has an enchanting and magical atmosphere that rivals that of a fairyland. It can be found 20 km away from Sangla. The village is also home to a temple dedicated to the local goddess, Chitkul Maathi, which is highly revered by the residents of Kinnaur district. Winters in this village are characterized by heavy snowfall.
4. The Baspa River
Nestled along the banks of the powerful Baspa River lies the Sangla Valley. This majestic river is encompassed by the towering Himalayan mountains, offering breathtaking views. The crystal clear freshwater of the river is home to a diverse collection of fish. Villagers utilize suspended baskets as a means of crossing the river. Take a moment to sit by the stunning river and reflect on life.
5. Center for Tibetan Wood Carving
If you are searching for a memento to bring home from your hike, the Tibetan Wood Carving Centre is the ideal destination. Here, you can discover a variety of objects crafted in the Tibetan Style with elaborate wooden carvings. The center, situated near the Saffron Farm on the outskirts of Sangla, showcases an impressive collection of exquisite items that are also up for purchase. It is a well-known tourist spot in Sangla.
6. Batseri
Batseri, situated 8 km away from Sangla, is a renowned village in this area known for its picturesque landscape and traditional crafts. The village is a must-see for its Himachali shawls and Kinnauri caps. Additionally, one should not miss out on the opportunity to witness the flourishing trout farming in this region. Moreover, visitors can also purchase pine nuts and chilgoza from the village.
7. Brelengi Gompa
It is highly recommended to pay a visit to the monasteries in the area. Brelengi gompa, located near Sangla, is a stunning monastery that you should not miss. It was founded by the Mahabodhi Society in 1922 for the purpose of conducting the Kalachakra ceremony. The monastery also boasts a large 10 m statue of Lord Buddha. Many individuals flock to this exquisite Buddhist monastery in search of tranquility and comfort.
For travelers looking to combine trekking and sightseeing, the Rupin Pass trek offers a perfect itinerary with visits to the charming villages of Sangla and Chitkul. The added advantage of this trek is the opportunity to experience both the Garhwali culture of Uttarakhand and the Kinnauri life of Himachal Pradesh, showcasing a transition between not just two landscapes, but also two unique cultures. From the breathtaking meadows and rushing streams to the stunning three-stage waterfall and challenging Rupin Pass, this trek promises an unforgettable and amazing experience. Additionally, the trek concludes in Sangla, where one can explore Chitkul, the last village before the Indo-Tibetan border, making it a truly remarkable accomplishment. In summary, the combination of the Rupin Pass trek and a visit to Sangla and Chitkul villages offers a complete and fulfilling package.
If you plan to embark on the Rupin pass trek, it is highly recommended to extend your stay in Sangla valley for a few additional days. Take advantage of the opportunity and engage in some tourist activities alongside the trek. This will allow you to create lasting memories and return home with a collection of meaningful souvenirs.
Originally Published on: https://www.bikatadventures.com/Home/Blog/places-to-visit-in-sangla-and-chitkul
