In the northeastern part of Himachal Pradesh, Kinnaur is a mesmerizing land where rugged mountains meet lush green valleys, and Indo-Tibetan cultures blend seamlessly. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, and serene villages, Kinnaur is a paradise for nature lovers, trekkers, spiritual seekers, and photographers alike. From the enchanting Baspa Valley to the high-altitude village of Chitkul, Kinnaur offers a multitude of experiences that captivate the soul.
In this guide, we explore 15 unforgettable things to do in Kinnaur to make your visit a remarkable Himalayan adventure.
Kinnaur Travel Guide: 15 Things to Explore
1. Visit Kalpa
Kalpa is a charming village offering unforgettable views of the majestic Kinnaur Kailash peak. Surrounded by pine forests and apple orchards, this tranquil destination is ideal for nature lovers.
Explore the wooden temples, enjoy fresh apples, and soak in Himalayan sunrises. Kalpa’s peaceful vibe makes it a perfect base for spiritual retreats and cultural explorations in upper Kinnaur. Complete Travel Guide to Kalpa, Himachal
Highlights:
- Watch the sunrise over Kinnaur Kailash Peak.
- Visit the Narayan-Nagini Temple and Hu-Bu-Lan-Kar Monastery.
- Try local apple-based products.
Best Time to Visit: April to October
2. Explore Chitkul
Chitkul, perched at 3,450 meters, is the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border. It’s a dreamy landscape with traditional wooden homes, scenic meadows, and snow-covered peaks.
The Baspa River adds to the charm, perfect for riverside walks and photography. With minimal modern interference, Chitkul is a haven for those seeking solitude and a raw Himalayan experience.
Things to Do:
- Hike along the Baspa River.
- Camp under the stars.
- Visit the centuries-old Mathi Temple.
Travel Tip: Limited mobile connectivity—perfect for a digital detox.
3. Discover Sangla Valley
Sangla Valley is one of Himachal Pradesh’s best-kept secrets. Its lush meadows, flowing Baspa River, and traditional Kinnauri homes offer a postcard-worthy experience.
Kamru Fort adds historic value, while local homestays provide insights into authentic mountain life. Ideal for both adventure and peace, Sangla is a base for treks, nature walks, and community-based tourism. Read More: Top 10 Tourist Destinations to Visit Sangla
Don’t Miss:
- Walk through Kamru Village and visit Kamru Fort.
- Trout fishing in Baspa River.
- Experience homestays for authentic local cuisine.
4. Pay Homage at Kinnaur Kailash
Kinnaur Kailash is a revered peak standing at 6,050 meters, considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists. The mountain features a naturally formed ‘Shivling’ rock, attracting trekkers and pilgrims.
The Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama trek is a spiritual and physical challenge, offering views of snow-capped ranges, high passes, and meditative silence. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan pilgrimage.
Adventure Option:
- Embark on the Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama trek (moderate to difficult).
- Best undertaken between May and October.
Spiritual Insight: The trek offers not only scenic views but also a deeply spiritual experience.
5. Apple Orchards of Reckong Peo
Reckong Peo, the district headquarters of Kinnaur, is famous for its sprawling apple orchards and breathtaking views of the Kinnaur Kailash range.
It’s a great place to explore the local lifestyle, try delicious apple-based products, and buy dry fruits and handmade woolens. The town also has a Buddhist monastery that adds to its serene ambiance.
Activities:
- Taste fresh apples and local fruit wines.
- Shop for handmade woolens and dry fruits.
- Visit the Buddhist monastery on the hilltop.
Tip: A good base for planning trips to Kalpa or further into upper Kinnaur.
6. Nako Village & Lake – A Serene Escape
Nako, situated at 3,662 meters, is a stunning high-altitude village known for its peaceful lake and spiritual charm. The lake, surrounded by willow and poplar trees, reflects the surrounding peaks, creating a surreal scene.
Nearby, the ancient Nako Monastery and caves associated with Guru Padmasambhava invite both pilgrims and explorers. It’s a quiet corner of Kinnaur worth discovering.
Highlights:
- Visit Nako Monastery and the ancient caves where Guru Padmasambhava is believed to have meditated.
- Enjoy boating on the lake (seasonal).
- Walk around the traditional mud houses.
Best Time: June to September when the lake is unfrozen.
7. Kamru Fort – A Gem of Ancient Architecture
Kamru Fort, located above the Sangla Valley, is a beautiful wooden structure that once served as the seat of the rulers of the region.
The fort now houses a temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya and showcases ancient Himalayan architecture. Reaching it involves a scenic walk, and the fort’s balconies offer captivating views of the entire valley and surrounding peaks.
What to Expect:
- Steep walk to the fort.
- Ancient wooden carvings and a cultural insight into Kinnaur’s royal heritage.
- Entry is allowed only after tying a holy scarf (provided at entrance).
8. Borasu Pass Trek
The Borasu Pass Trek is an adventurous high-altitude journey connecting Himachal to Uttarakhand. Starting from Chitkul, the trail leads through alpine meadows, glacier fields, and remote Himalayan landscapes.
The trek is best for experienced hikers who seek solitude and raw nature. With altitudes reaching over 5,300 meters, this route offers thrilling vistas and the excitement of crossing into new terrain.
Trek Info:
- Duration: Around 8–10 days.
- Altitude: ~5,300 meters.
- Passes through glacier terrain, alpine meadows, and remote villages.
Pre-requisite: Good fitness and acclimatization due to altitude.
9. Visit the Moorang Fort and Village
The village of Moorang offers a unique blend of history, culture, and untouched beauty. It’s home to Moorang Fort, believed to be built during the Pandava era.
Though in ruins, the fort provides panoramic views of the Sutlej River and surrounding valleys. Moorang’s peaceful setting and friendly locals make it a perfect stop for offbeat travelers and culture lovers.
Things to Do:
- Explore the ruins of Moorang Fort.
- Interact with villagers to understand their customs.
- Enjoy a peaceful riverside walk near the Sutlej.
10. Roghi Cliff Viewpoint (Suicide Point)
Roghi Cliff, popularly referred to as Suicide Point, offers jaw-dropping views of the deep gorges and dramatic mountain landscapes. Just 3 km from Kalpa, this cliff is known for its vertical drop and spine-tingling proximity to the edge.
Although the name might be eerie, the beauty and thrill it offers make it a must-visit viewpoint for photographers and thrill-seekers.
Note: There are no barricades; be cautious when approaching the edge.
Photography Tip: Visit early morning for the clearest views.
11. Celebrate the Colorful Festivals of Kinnaur
The festivals of Kinnaur bring together vibrant culture, sacred traditions, and community unity. Celebrations like Phulaich (the flower festival), Losar (Tibetan New Year), and Fagli showcase colorful costumes, masked dances, folk music, and rituals.
Attending these festivals provides deep insight into Kinnauri life and beliefs. These events are also great opportunities to taste traditional foods and witness native customs.
Popular Festivals:
- Phulaich (flower festival in September).
- Losar (Tibetan New Year).
- Sazo and Fagli (traditional Himachali celebrations).
Experience: Traditional dance, music, and prayer ceremonies.
12. Go Trout Fishing in Baspa River
The Baspa River, with its pristine waters flowing through Sangla and Chitkul, is a fantastic spot for trout fishing. Rainbow and brown trout can be found here, making it a favorite among anglers.
With a permit from the local forest department, you can spend a tranquil day fishing amidst stunning scenery, snow-capped mountains, and whispering pine forests.
Permits: Fishing requires permits from the forest department.
Best Time: May to October (avoid monsoon).
13. Visit the Historic Buddhist Monasteries
Kinnaur is home to some of the oldest and most spiritually significant Buddhist monasteries in the region. Nako Monastery, dating back centuries, is a peaceful retreat filled with ancient murals and scriptures.
Tabo and other smaller gompas in nearby valleys preserve Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Visiting these sacred places allows travelers to experience Himalayan spirituality and architectural elegance.
Must-Visit Monasteries:
- Tabo Monastery (technically in Spiti but often included in Kinnaur trips).
- Nako Monastery.
- Ropa Valley Monastery (offbeat).
Insight: These monasteries preserve murals, scriptures, and meditation caves.
14. Drive Along the Hindustan–Tibet Road
Driving on the Hindustan–Tibet Road is not for the faint-hearted but offers an adrenaline rush and unforgettable views. The route snakes through cliffs, tunnels, and deep gorges, often without guardrails.
Stops like Taranda Dhank, Khab Bridge, and Pooh offer scenic respite and cultural glimpses. It’s a road trip that combines danger, beauty, and engineering marvels in equal measure.
Top Stops:
- Taranda Dhank – known for its hairpin curves and photogenic views.
- Pooh – a town famous for apricot orchards.
- Khab – the confluence of Spiti and Sutlej rivers.
Caution: This road is dangerous and requires careful driving.
15. Shop for Local Handicrafts and Woolens
Kinnaur’s villages and small markets offer authentic, handcrafted goods perfect for souvenirs. You’ll find intricately woven Kinnauri caps, woolen shawls, handmade wooden utensils, and local dry fruits like chilgoza and dried apricots.
These items reflect the region’s cultural richness and skilled craftsmanship. Markets in Kalpa, Reckong Peo, and Sangla are great places to shop while supporting local artisans.
Popular Souvenirs:
- Kinnauri woolen caps and shawls.
- Handmade wooden items.
- Dry fruits, especially chilgoza and apricots.
Where to Buy: Local markets in Reckong Peo, Kalpa, and Sangla.
Travel Tips for Visiting Kinnaur
- Acclimatization: Altitudes can exceed 3,000 meters. Spend a day adjusting, especially if coming from the plains.
- Transport: Roads are narrow and often prone to landslides. A 4×4 or local drivers are ideal.
- Connectivity: Mobile network is weak; BSNL has the best coverage.
- Clothing: Carry warm clothes year-round. Weather can change suddenly.
- Permits: Foreigners need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit some parts like Chitkul and Nako.
- Respect the Culture: Always ask before photographing locals and religious structures.
Conclusion
Kinnaur is not just a travel destination—it’s a revelation. From remote villages like Chitkul to sacred peaks like Kinnaur Kailash, every experience in this district tells a story of resilience, harmony, and untouched natural beauty. Whether you seek high-altitude treks, peaceful meditation spots, or a cultural escape, Kinnaur rewards you with memories that last a lifetime.
As you pack your bags for this Himalayan journey, remember that the true beauty of Kinnaur lies in its simplicity and the warmth of its people.
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FAQs – Things to Do in Kinnaur:
Q1. What is the best time to visit Kinnaur?
A: The best time is from April to October. Avoid monsoon season (July–August) due to landslides.
Q2. Is Kinnaur safe for solo travelers?
A: Yes, Kinnaur is generally safe. However, always stay updated on weather and road conditions.
Q3. How do I reach Kinnaur?
A: The nearest railhead is Shimla, and from there, you can drive via NH-5. Buses and taxis are available.
Q4. Are there good stay options in Kinnaur?
A: Yes, from basic homestays in Chitkul to hotels in Kalpa and Reckong Peo, options are plenty.
Q5. Can we visit Kinnaur during winter?
A: Winter is harsh with heavy snow. Some areas like Kalpa may be accessible but others remain cut off.
Q6. What permits do I need for Kinnaur?
A: Indian nationals don’t need permits. Foreigners require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for certain border areas.
Q7. What should I pack for Kinnaur?
A: Woolens, waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, torch, basic medicines, and power banks.
