Sangla Valley, a gem in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, is a destination that offers a perfect amalgamation of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural depth. This article highlights the top 10 places to visit in Sangla, showcasing its serene landscapes, architectural marvels, and unique cultural experiences. From the architectural grandeur of Kamru Fort to the serene beauty of the Baspa River and the untouched charm of Chitkul Village, Sangla invites travelers to explore its diverse attractions. Each destination within Sangla presents an opportunity for visitors to connect with nature, delve into local traditions, and partake in a range of activities that enrich the travel experience, making Sangla a must-visit for those seeking an escape into the heart of the Himalayas.
Exploring Sangla, Himachal Pradesh: Top 10 Must-See Destinations
1. Kamru Fort
Kamru Fort is not just a historical structure but a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Kinnauri people. Located on a high hillock, it offers a commanding view of the Sangla Valley and the Baspa River. The fort’s ancient wooden doorway leads to a series of courtyards, each telling a story of the past. At its heart lies a shrine dedicated to Kamakshi Devi, surrounded by intricate wooden carvings and silver idols, embodying the spiritual heritage of Kinnaur. This fort is a blend of fortification and sacred space, making it a unique piece of Himalayan architecture.
Things to Do: Explore the intricately carved wooden entrance and the temple dedicated to Kamakshi Devi. The blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences is evident in the fort’s architecture and the deities worshipped here.
Unique Experience: Participate in the local festivals that are often celebrated in the fort’s premises, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Kinnaur.
2. Sangla Meadow
The Sangla Meadow, or Sangla Kanda, is a verdant expanse nestled amidst towering mountains, offering spellbinding views of the Himalayan peaks, including the revered Kinner Kailash. It’s a vibrant tapestry of green, dotted with wildflowers in spring and summer, transforming into a golden hue as autumn arrives. The meadow serves as a pastoral haven for local shepherds and a tranquil retreat for visitors. The crisp mountain air, coupled with the panoramic vistas, makes Sangla Meadow an idyllic spot for nature lovers seeking solace away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Things to Do: Trek through the meadow to witness the vibrant flora and fauna. Camping under the stars here is an unforgettable experience.
Unique Experience: Try your hand at photography to capture the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views that Sangla Meadow is famous for.
3. Baspa River
The Baspa River, winding its way through the Sangla Valley, is a lifeline for the region, supporting both the ecosystem and the communities that live along its banks. Its waters, ranging from tranquil flows to rushing rapids, carve through the valley, creating a landscape that is both serene and dramatic. The river is framed by thick forests and high mountain ridges, offering picturesque spots for camping and picnics. The Baspa is also a haven for anglers, with its clear waters teeming with trout, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activity.
Things to Do: Indulge in a river crossing, fishing, or simply enjoy a picnic by its banks. The serene environment is perfect for meditation and rejuvenation.
Unique Experience: Engage in a guided rafting experience to navigate the river’s rapids, offering an exhilarating adventure amidst the tranquil beauty of Sangla.
4. Chitkul Village
Chitkul, often cited as the last inhabited village before the Indo-China border, is a realm of untouched beauty and tranquility. Situated on the banks of the Baspa River, it’s surrounded by lush fields and high mountain peaks, portraying a picture of peace and isolation from the outer world. The wooden houses, with their slate roofs, and the narrow winding paths speak volumes of the village’s harmony with nature. Chitkul’s pristine environment, combined with its status as a gateway to the beyond, makes it an intriguing spot for adventurers and peace-seekers alike.
Things to Do: Visit the Chitkul Mata Temple and take leisurely walks through the village to experience the simple yet profound lifestyle of the locals.
Unique Experience: Taste the local cuisine, including the famous Kinnauri potatoes, and interact with the warm-hearted villagers.
5. Bering Nag Temple
The Bering Nag Temple is a significant spiritual site in Sangla, dedicated to Lord Jagas, another name for Lord Shiva. This sacred edifice is renowned for its remarkable Kinnauri architecture, featuring intricate wood carvings that tell tales of divine myths and local folklore. The temple stands as a beacon of faith and tradition amidst the breathtaking landscape of Kinnaur. It is the epicenter of the Phulaich Fair, an annual festival that sees a confluence of color, dance, and music, showcasing the vibrant cultural fabric of the region.
Things to Do: Witness the intricate woodwork and the ancient scriptures housed within the temple. The Phulaich Fair celebrated here in September, is a vibrant display of local customs and traditions.
Unique Experience: Participate in the fair to experience the traditional dances, music, and colorful attire of the Kinnauri people.
6. Rakcham Village
Rakcham is a picturesque village that strikes a perfect balance between nature’s grandeur and rustic charm. Situated midway between Sangla and Chitkul, it is enveloped by lush meadows, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains, offering views that seem like paintings come to life. The village’s architecture, with its wooden frames and stone structures, blends seamlessly into the landscape. Rakcham’s serene environment, coupled with the sound of the Baspa River flowing nearby, makes it an ideal location for those looking to immerse themselves in nature’s tranquility.
Things to Do: Explore the village on foot, visit the local apple orchards, and enjoy the stunning views of the Rakcham Valley.
Unique Experience: Stay in a traditional Kinnauri home to immerse yourself fully in the local culture and lifestyle.
7. Sangla Buddhist Monastery
The Sangla Buddhist Monastery is a sanctuary of peace and spiritual reflection, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas. This monastery, with its vibrant murals and ancient scriptures, serves as a center for Buddhist learning and meditation. The air here resonates with the chants of monks and the fluttering of prayer flags, creating an atmosphere of serenity and devotion. Visitors to the monastery can not only explore Buddhist teachings and art but also enjoy panoramic views of the valley below, making it a place of both spiritual and natural wonder.
Things to Do: Participate in the meditation sessions and interact with the monks to learn more about Buddhist philosophy and practices.
Unique Experience: Attend the morning and evening prayers to experience the spiritual energy and chantings that resonate through the valley.
8. Kanda Lake
Kanda Lake is a hidden gem within the Sangla Valley, surrounded by dense forests and towering peaks. This tranquil lake is steeped in legends and is believed to be sacred by the locals. The mirror-like waters reflect the surrounding beauty, creating a mesmerizing and peaceful ambiance. Kanda Lake is a destination for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature. Its mystical charm and the folklore surrounding it add to the allure, inviting travelers to explore its untouched beauty.
Things to Do: Enjoy a quiet picnic by the lake or take a leisurely boat ride to soak in the serene atmosphere.
Unique Experience: Listen to the local legends and folklore from the villagers about the lake’s origin and its sacred significance.
9. Trout Farm
The Trout Farm in Sangla offers a unique insight into the aquaculture practices of the region, showcasing the breeding and raising of trout in the cold, clear waters of the Himalayas. This initiative not only supports sustainable fishing practices but also provides visitors with an understanding of the ecological balance of the valley. The farm is a testament to the region’s efforts in preserving its natural resources while offering a hands-on experience with fishing, making it a fascinating visit for nature enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike.
Things to Do: Take a guided tour of the farm to understand the process of breeding and raising trout.
Unique Experience: Try your hand at fishing and enjoy a meal of fresh trout prepared in local spices.
10. Local Handicrafts Shop
The Local handicraft shops in Sangla are treasure troves of Kinnauri culture, displaying the rich craftsmanship of the local artisans. These shops offer a wide range of handcrafted items, from woolen shawls and handwoven carpets to intricate wooden carvings and silver jewelry, each piece telling a story of the region’s heritage and artistic tradition. Visiting these shops not only allows travelers to take a piece of Kinnaur home but also supports the local economy and preserves traditional crafts for future generations.
Things to Do: Visit the local shops to admire the craftsmanship and maybe take home a piece of Sangla with you.
Unique Experience: Participate in a workshop to learn the basics of Kinnauri handloom weaving or wood carving from the artisans themselves.
Best Time to Visit Sangla
The best time to visit Sangla is from March to June and from September to December. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the valley is accessible. The monsoon season, from July to August, can be tricky due to heavy rainfall and possible landslides, making travel challenging.
How to Reach Sangla
Reaching Sangla, nestled in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, is an adventure in itself, offering travelers a glimpse into the breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness of the region. Sangla is accessible by road, and while it does not have direct air or rail connectivity due to its mountainous terrain, the journey to this beautiful valley can be made through a combination of air, train, and road travel.
By Air
Nearest Airport: The nearest airport to Sangla is Shimla Airport, about 238 kilometers away. Another convenient option is the Bhuntar Airport near Kullu, approximately 275 kilometers from Sangla. These airports are well-connected with major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or catch a bus to reach Sangla, which is a scenic drive through the mountains.
By Train
Nearest Railway Station: The closest broad-gauge railway station is at Kalka, which is about 310 kilometers away from Sangla. Kalka serves as a gateway to the hills of Himachal Pradesh, with several trains connecting it to major Indian cities. From Kalka, travelers can take the famous Kalka-Shimla toy train to Shimla, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering stunning views of the hills and valleys. Once in Shimla, one can opt for a taxi or a bus to Sangla.
By Road
Bus and Taxi: Sangla is well-connected by road with major towns of Himachal Pradesh like Shimla, Kullu, and Manali. HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) operates regular bus services from these cities to Sangla, providing both standard and deluxe options. The drive is picturesque, with winding roads cutting through thick forests, apple orchards, and alongside rivers. Alternatively, one can hire a taxi from Shimla or any nearby city for a more comfortable journey. The road trip from Shimla to Sangla takes approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on the weather and road conditions.
Driving to Sangla: For those preferring to drive, the route from Delhi to Sangla is approximately 570 kilometers and can be covered in about 14 to 16 hours. The most common route is Delhi – Chandigarh – Shimla – Narkanda – Rampur – Sangla. This journey is remarkable, traversing through the changing landscapes from the plains to the lush green hills and finally into the rugged terrains of Kinnaur. It’s important to check the road conditions before traveling, especially during the winter months when certain sections might be closed due to snow.
Conclusion
Sangla offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness that makes it a must-visit destination for travelers. Each of these ten places provides a window into the soul of Sangla, allowing visitors to experience the harmony between nature and culture that defines this extraordinary valley. Whether you’re trekking through the lush meadows, participating in local festivals, or simply soaking in the peace of the Himalayas, Sangla promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Further Reading:
- Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Kaza
- Things to Do in Malana Village
- Places to Visit in Himachal in January
- Himachal Tour in February for Famous Places
- Tourist Destinations in Himachal See in March
- April Visit Best Places in Himachal
- Visit Himachal in May for Popula Places
- Places to See Himachal Pradesh in June
- July Travel in Famous Places in Himachal
- Places in Himachal to See in August
- Himachal Tourist Places Visit in September
- October Travel in Best Destinations in Himachal
- Tourist Places in Himachal Visit in November
- Places to Visit Himachal in December
