Chitkul Tour Ultimate Travel Guide 2025
Himachal Pradesh is a land of several beautiful and fascinating valleys all over in India which is privileged with the blissful beauty that includes dense forests, snow-covered mountains, waterfalls, rich flora and fauna, glaciers, temples, lakes which will leave you mesmerized. Valleys like Kinnaur Valley, Chamba Valley, Kullu Valley and many more.
When it comes to Kinnaur Valley, it is a hub of the travellers and it has such beautiful locations to offer like Chitkul, Sangla and Kalpa. From delightful unreal landscapes, snow-covered mountains, abundant apple orchards to the culture of Indo-Tibetan is something to experience once in a lifetime.
According to the mythology Kinnaur Valley is regarded as the midway of humans and gods. So far people believe that this place is truly a paradise. Even this place also gives photography opportunities on every turn of the journey. One can visit in the months of May to October when the surroundings will look more vibrant.
These valley has minimal night light pollution, it is ideal for stargazing, photographing the milky way. Light bonfires and spend the night under the open sky and the stars will be the most notable experience for lifetime. All in all, this tour is a wholesome experience that provides travellers and local people with every element of adventure.
In this Chitkul Tour Ultimate Travel Guide blog help you that how you can plan Chitkul tour. You can get all the information about Chitkul.
Where exactly is Chitkul Village?
Chitkul is situated in Kinnaur district of the state, Himachal Pradesh right on the side of Baspa river. Chitkul is known to be the last developed village on the Indo Tibetan border. It is located at a height of 3450 meters above the sea level. This paradise is 28 kms away from Sangla and 60 kms away from Kinnaur Valley.
From Delhi Chitkul is 569 kms away. The intermediate point is the Rakcham village which lies between Chitkul and Sangla. The scenery of Chitkul is spectacular and worth seeing.
Best time to visit Chitkul
The best time to visit Chitkul only depends on you, which whether you want to experience snow-capped mountains or smooth, graceful movement of Baspa River. The decision is only yours. This Chitkul Travel Guide will give you a brief about how its feels on every season.
Months of May to September
The ideal months to go on a Chitkul Tour are from May to September. During this time the weather is quite cold and chilly and homestays/hotels are running effectively. One can see all around the snow covered beautiful landscape.
Months of December to April
The winter season in Chitkul is entire landscape covered with white snow and the climate is extremely cold there. Not many hotels or homestays are open during this time. The Baspa River is also frozen and make sure you get hot water. Though, travellers all around the world visit this snowy valley regardless of its severe weather.
How to Reach Chitkul
By Flight:
If you are planning to go by air then the nearest airport is the Shimla. You will also get the flights from the cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. Also Bhuntar Airport in Manali is about 275 kms away from. Chitkul is basically 247 kms from Shimla.
By Train:
The nearest Railway junction is the Shimla. You can take the Kalka Shimla Toy Train which is also known for the fascinating views along the journey. You will get a private cab, taxi or bus for Chitkul outside the junction which is about 245 kms away from Shimla.
By Road:
It is easy to board a Volvo bus to Shimla from Delhi and Chandigarh. For the rest of the trail to Chitkul you can hire a private cab. There are HRTC bus services for Chitkul to Shimla. There’s another way where you can go to Sangla which is near to Chitkul or first arrive at Reckong Peo, explore Kalpa and then proceed to Chitkul.
Bus Timing for Chitkul Valley
From Shimla:
The best option to go by bus is from Shimla, bus leaves for Chitkul by 6 AM on a regular basis.
Reckong Peo to Chitkul:
One can find bus connectivity for Chitkul from Reckong Bus Stand. The timings are as follows –
• By 9:30 AM
• By 12 PM
• For Rakcham By 4 PM
Sangla to Chitkul
If you are planning to spend time in Sangla then it is very easy to go on one day tour from Sangla to Chitkul. You can find daily bus services to Chitkul and it is much more suitable. From Chitkul the last bus arrive at 3:30 PM for Sangla.
Chitkul Travel Route
The route is Delhi / Chandigarh to Shimla to Narkanda to Rampur to Karcham to Sangla Valley to Rakcham to Chitkul.
It depends on how you choose to travel by road. Most of the roads are well maintained. The road journey will offer you to witness high peaks, lush greenery and a pleasing view.
After passing through the Narkanda, we will be travelling for River Sutlej, up at the right up to Karcham. Later on, climb towards Sangla and then Chitkul.
It is to be notify that always be cautious when travelling on the Himalayan roads, high ascends and sharp descend. On the single lane roads it will be quite challenging because of the onrushing traffic. You will be amaze to see the fearless expertise and skills of Himachali drivers.
Best Places to Visit in Chitkul
Chitkul Valley offers you the most panoramic views of the Himalayan region at a height of 11,300 ft above the sea level. To explore places here is a different and exciting experience. Few of the places in Chitkul are as follows –
• Sangla Meadows: View of Nature
The ideal place to visit during the Chitkul Tour is Sangla Meadows which is also known as Sangla Kanda. For nature lovers and to enjoy Sightseeing you should definitely visit this site. The region is enclosed by the snow-capped mountains and lush greenery all around. Also, people in search of apple orchards can pay a visit to this place.
• Baspa River: Relax near river bank
Baspa River is the most popular tourist attraction in Chitkul passing through the Sangla Hills. The river flows from Baspa Hills and unites with the Yamuna. The river near Indo-Tibetan Border has most panoramic views of the Himalayas along with Oak and Pine forests.
Baspa River also offers the views of Brown Trout and Timely Rainbows. The river water is fresh and fishes live here calmly. To cross the river one have to ride through the basket. It is also the perfect destination for trekking and camping enthusiasts.
• Bering Nag Temple: Pay a visit for blessing
For the travellers who are seeking for blessing should visit Bering Nag Temple in Chitkul dedicated for God Shiva. People here believe that God Shiva is the creator of villagers and village. The another highlight is the Phulaich Fair held in the months of August to September every year. Bering Nag Temple is the supreme divinity temple in the village.
• Kamru Fort: Know the History
Kamru Fort is located at a height of 2600 meters above the sea level which is about 2 kms away from Sangla Valley. The fort is one of the topmost places to visit during . The entry of the fort is quite different passing through several gates and you will welcome with the large picture of Lord Buddha inside the fort. Also a chance to witness streams, apple gardens of the entire valley.There is also a designed balcony on the third floor of the fort. You can also seek blessings from Kamakhya Devi.
•Tibetan Wood Carving Centre: Buy some Tibetan Handicrafts
Tibetan Wood Carving Centre is located on the border of Sangla close to the Saffron Farms. It is a well known destination for Sightseeing and for people who love shopping. The main selling item here is wood items with the Tibetan styles. These items are for both selling and to put on show. So, don’t miss to visit this place.
• Batseri: Apple orchards
This unexplored place is popularly known as “Apple District of Himachal”. The location is also famous for the Himachali Shawls and Kinnauri Caps. One must explore this place once to see the Trout farming which is very common here. You can get different kinds of apples, Chilgoza and pine nuts.
• Brelengi Gompa: One of the oldest Monastery
When you are travelling to Chitkul you must visit this place. It is the most ancient and famous Monastery near Sangla Valley. In 1922, it was set up by the society of Mahabodhi for the Dalai Lama who performed the Kalachakra ceremony. You will see a standing Lord Buddha statue of a height of 10 meters. People searching for peace and tranquility should visit here.
• Hindustan Ka Akhri Dhaba: Have Lunch here
Hindustan Ka Akhri Dhaba is the last Dhaba of India on the Indo-Tibetan Border close by Baspa river at a height of 3500 meters. One can rest here and have delicious meals. For food lovers, this place is unique and must-visit, there is a signboard with the phrase “Hindustan Ka Akhri Dhaba”.
• Borasu Pass Trek: Trekking expedition
Borasu Pass Trek connects Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh located at an altitude of 17880 ft above the sea level. It offers you to see the glacial lakes and Har-ki-Dun valley of Zhupkia. Next is Morinda Taal where you will get a pleasant experience for lifetime. Travel junkies visit Har Ki Dun and Borasu Pass Trek every year.
The initial point of Trek is Taluka Village to Har Ki Dun. On the way there are dense forests which have chestnut, walnut, chinar and willow trees. May, June and September are the best months to visit this place.
• Rakcham Chitkul Wildlife Sanctuary: For Animal Lovers
Rakcham Chitkul Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Kinnaur close to Chitkul at an altitude of 5500 meters above the sea level. For animal lovers it is the perfect place as you can find several birds, reptiles and other species. It is basically a very famous and adventurous tourist spot.
Best Chitkul Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Drive to Sangla Valley / Rakcham Village from Shimla
• At the first day of the amazing Chitkul tour, after having breakfast move towards Sangla Valley.
• One can explore Hatu Peak located in Narkanda, there is no such place to visit in Sangla along the riverside.
• Spend time and walk around the forests.
• It will take approx 220 kms and 9 hrs of drive in a single day.
• Staying overnight at Rakcham or Sangla.
Day 2 Sangla Valley to Chitkul / Rakcham Village (106 kms, 3hrs)
• The next day leave for the last inhabited village, Chitkul on the Indo-Tibetan Border.
• Explore and have fun in Chitkul close by the river, spending time there will lighten your mood.
• Walk around the woods is something exciting.
• It takes about 3 hrs of drive in a single day.
• Staying overnight at Sangla, Chitkul or Rakcham.
Day 3 Chitkul / Rakcham – Reckong Peo – Roghi – Kalpa (70kms, 3hrs)
• Let’s start with a short tour to Kalpa from Rakcham or Chitkul.
• Enroute, visit Kamru Fort situated in Sangla.
• Then, proceed to the base of the Kinnaur district, Reckong Peo.
• Next is to travel to Roghi Village and also the popular Roghi Suicide point.
• We will arrive at Kalpa and take rest. Go for a walk around the village and pay a visit in Kalpa’s local Monastery and temple.
Day 4 Kalpa – Kufri – Shimla (Shimla kms 8 hrs)
• The last day of the beautiful journey after having breakfast move to Shimla.
• By evening we will reach go Shimla.
• It is upto you to stay there and take a look at the city or go back to home.
Staying option in Chitkul Village
Chitkul village is a perfect tourist hotspot. One can find several sheltering options in Chitkul. There are Himachali houses for the stay that have the most amazing views of the landscapes and high peaks all around. These are available at very reasonable prices. But the Valley is unexplored so booking a hotel has higher rates compared to the homestay where you can stay with local people and know about their culture and traditions. Chitkul Village also offers camping experience and can stay in tents alongside river Baspa. All in all one can get a genuine Pahadi experience!
Mobile Connectivity in Chitkul
One should talk about mobile connectivity while travelling. There are good networks available in Sangla and Batseri. When you move towards Chitkul there are no networks available. BSNL will work but without internet access.
ATM’s option in Chitkul
ATM’s are available in Reckong Peo and Sangla. It is advised to carry cash with you because further there will be no ATM’s.
Petrol Pump in Chitkul
The nearest Petrol Pumps are in the Kalpa and Sangla Valley. There will be no petrol pumps in Chitkul Valley so make sure that tanks are full while travelling.
Hospital in Chitkul
The nearest hospital is in Sangla and Reckong Peo. There are no hospitals in Chitkul Valley. Although army officials are very supportive in any situation, so one can ask for help.
Where can we eat?
The must-visit destination in Chitkul is Hindustan ka Akhri Dhaba which is the last Dhaba of the India. They serve the delicious food like thukpa, momos, Maggie, etc
Chitkul Weather throughout the year
Chitkul weather in summers is moderate cold. During the day the temperature remains 20 degrees and at night it goes to 5 degrees. Weather in Chitkul is quite good and pleasant throughout the year except for a few months of winter.
March to June
During the month of March the route of Chitkul gets open for the travellers. Weather remains cool and pleasant during this time. For Tourists months of spring season from April to June it is the best time. During the mid of July rainfall starts and then it becomes a little challenging.
August
During the month of August the valleys looks vibrant and beautiful but because of rainfall there are possibilities of landslides. The Kinnaur Valley is delicate and it is very usual to experience such landslides and roadblocks.
September to November
From the months of September to Mid of October are the most ideal time to visit Chitkul when the weather is quite suitable and enjoyable. Travelling by road will be a good option too during these months. Once November arrives, then the temperature goes down, winter starts, days and nights become colder.
December to February
During the winter months of December to February the temperatures goes down to – 20 degrees Celsius. The roads gets closed because of heavy snowfall after the mid of December. Even if the roads are open it is advised not to stay at night in Chitkul. The roads get closed anytime during this month and one can be stuck for weeks and even for months.
Cost of Chitkul Tour
Budget is always a deciding factor while travelling. To cover all the tourists attractions it will take 3-4 days. If you plan to take a route from Delhi of 3-6 days package including stay, transport, meals and other charges on basic needs then it will cost 7k to 12k per person. The cost of the Chitkul Tour only depends on you on the basis you choose transport, accommodation, food. You should know that if you book a private tax, cab or motorbike then the amount will manually exceeds the nominal cost.
Important Things To Carry
• A backpack is necessary
• Water bottle for your convenience
• A warm or a sun cap is recommended
• Don’t forget to bring Uv protected sunglasses .
• Hiking or trekking pants.
• Cargo pants, cotton long sleeves, short sleeves t-shirt and sets of undergarments are necessary.
• Thermal wear, heavy jacket, woollen sweater, fleece or down jacket.
• Pair of Woolen gloves, woollen cap for chilly climate and muffler.
• For change socks and towel.
• Raincoat or poncho specially in monsoon season.
Footwear
• Good grip shoes are added
• Flip flops/sandals
• Slippers
Personal Accessories
• Toothpaste, Toothbrush
• Sanitizer for safety
• Lip balm and cold creams
Medication
• Personal toiletries and medications if necessary.
• Bandages, glucose powder and cotton.
Electronic items
• Don’t forget to carry BSNL, AIRTEL or JIO sim.
• Power bank for charging your phone.
Conclusion
Chitkul Tour is absolutely bliss because of the majestic beauty of the valley. It is the offbeat destination that adds prestige to the state, Himachal Pradesh. So don’t miss an opportunity to explore this wonderful place with utmost happiness and excitement. It is the finest place to chase for pleasure with Spiti Adventure. Travellers not only love this valley but literally fell in love with the beauty. Also camping here can be the extra essence of this trip along with your family and friends. So this is an ideal destination for all, where you can have wonderful and heavenly experiences.