Kinnaur Backpacking Expedition

Kinnaur Backpacking Expedition

Overview

Discover the ultimate Kinnaur backpacking trip: a rejuvenating 7‑day journey through Sangla, Chitkul, Kalpa, Nako, and Sarahan, curated by Backpackclan.

Why Choose This Kinnaur Backpacking Trip

  • Immersive Himalayan Escape: Walk through vibrant apple and apricot orchards in Sangla Valley to the crisp air of Chitkul—India’s last inhabited village—with stunning views at every turn.
  • Hidden Himalayan Cultural Gems: Explore myth-steeped history—from Kinnaur’s ancient trade route legacy to the sacred Kinner Kailash ranges—through local stories and breathtaking vistas.
  • Balanced Itinerary: Begin with an overnight drive from Delhi to Shimla and gradually acclimatize along Hindustan‑Tibet Highway. The route blends nature, culture, and adventure seamlessly.

Itinerary Highlights

  • Chitkul (11,320 ft): Chill in a serene village famed for its clear air, wooden houses, trout-filled Baspa River, and crisp mountain ambiance.
  • Discover the ultimate Kinnaur backpacking trip: a rejuvenating 7‑day journey through Sangla, Chitkul, Kalpa, Nako, and Sarahan, curated by Backpackclan.

Why Choose This Kinnaur Backpacking Trip

  • Immersive Himalayan Escape: Walk through vibrant apple and apricot orchards in Sangla Valley to the crisp air of Chitkul—India’s last inhabited village—with stunning views at every turn.
  • Hidden Himalayan Cultural Gems: Explore myth-steeped history—from Kinnaur’s ancient trade route legacy to the sacred Kinner Kailash ranges—through local stories and breathtaking vistas.
  • Balanced Itinerary: Begin with an overnight drive from Delhi to Shimla and gradually acclimatize along Hindustan‑Tibet Highway. The route blends nature, culture, and adventure seamlessly.

Itinerary Highlights

  • Chitkul (11,320 ft): Chill in a serene village famed for its clear air, wooden houses, trout-filled Baspa River, and crisp mountain ambiance.
  • Kalpa & Suicide Point: Admire sweeping views of the Kinnaur Kailash range from Kalpa’s peaceful ridge and at the thrilling Suicide Point nearby.
  • Reckong Peo Market: Experience local Kinnauri culture, traditional handicrafts, and memorable mountain-town energy.
  • Nako Village & Lake: A tranquil high-altitude spot with a historic monastery by serene waters and panoramic peaks.
  • Sarahan & Bhimakali Temple: Enter Kinnaur’s spiritual heart through terraced landscapes and timber‑stone architecture—an introduction to the valley’s heritage.

Why This Season: Best Time to Visit

  • Optimal Window: April to June (Spring–Early Summer): Mild weather, blooming valleys, orchard harvest season, and all routes accessible.
  • Monsoon Caution (July–September): While apple harvest begins, travel may be disrupted by heavy rainfall and landslides.

Final Word

This Kinnaur backpacking trip delivers a balanced blend of adventure, cultural discovery, and tranquil Himalayan retreats. Ideal for nature lovers and explorers seeking a week-long escape immersed in Himalayan beauty and heritage.

Tour Highlights

  • Scenic drive on Hindustan-Tibet highway
  • Visit Narkanda and Chitkul (India’s last village)
  • Panoramic views & monastery at Kalpa
  • Explore Reckong Peo market
  • Visit Nako village and monastery
  • Bhimakali Temple in Sarahan

Inclusions/Exclusions

  • Transportation in Volvo bus from Delhi to Shimla and back
  • Innova/Tempo Traveler for local sightseeing
  • Accommodation for 5 nights on sharing basis as per itinerary
  • Meal plan: 10 meals (from Day 2 dinner to Day 7 breakfast)
  • Experienced trip leader present throughout the tour
  • Holi celebration in Sangla
  • Sightseeing as per the itinerary
  • All necessary permits
  • Toll and parking charges
  • 5% GST
  • Early check-in at hotels
  • Personal expenses of any kind
  • Additional accommodation or food costs due to delayed travel
  • Any lunch or meals not mentioned in the package inclusions
  • Airfare, rail fare, or any transportation not specified in inclusions
  • Additional costs due to flight cancellations, landslides, roadblocks, or natural calamities
  • Parking and monument entry fees during sightseeing
  • Any other services not specifically mentioned in the inclusions

On Day 0, the group will assemble at the designated pick-up point, Majnu Ka Tila, by 8:30 PM. After a brief introduction to the team captains and a short tour briefing, we will embark on an overnight journey to Shimla, covering approximately 342 kilometers over 8 hours. This marks the beginning of our exciting adventure with Backpackclan.

On Day 1, after arriving in Shimla and freshening up, we will begin our scenic drive to Chitkul/Sangla, covering approximately 236 kilometers in 7 hours. En route, we’ll make a refreshing pit stop at Narkanda to soak in the serene surroundings. Upon reaching Chitkul, we will check into our designated hotels, followed by dinner and an overnight stay, marking the start of our memorable journey with Backpackclan.

Holi Celebration in Sangla

The Holi celebration in Sangla is a vibrant and joyous occasion, where locals dress in traditional attire, partake in folk dances, and enjoy festive foods, commemorating the victory of good over evil. With Backpackclan, you’ll experience Holi in a unique Himachali style—immersing yourself in local customs and spending a day filled with colors, laughter, and heartfelt celebration.

On Day 3, after breakfast, we will depart for Kalpa, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. En route, we’ll stop at the quaint town of Reckong Peo—an ideal spot to rest and, weather permitting, catch a stunning view of the Kinner Kailash Peak. Upon arrival in Kalpa, after some leisure time, we will visit the ancient 3,000-year-old Kalpa Monastery and the scenic Suicide Point, offering panoramic views of the Kailash ranges. After checking in, dinner will be served, followed by an overnight stay in Kalpa as part of your Backpackclan experience.

On Day 4, after breakfast, we’ll head deeper into the mountains toward Nako, a peaceful hamlet nestled in the trans-Himalayan ranges, covering around 100 kilometers in 5 hours. En route, we’ll stop at Khab, the confluence point of the Sutlej and Spiti rivers—a stunning natural landmark. Upon reaching Nako, we’ll explore the tranquil Nako Lake and visit the ancient Nako Monastery, soaking in the spiritual and scenic charm of the region. Dinner will be served, followed by an overnight stay in Nako.

Note: In case of heavy snowfall, staying in Nako may not be feasible. If weather conditions demand, we’ll proceed to stay in Tabo instead for safety and comfort, as arranged by Backpackclan.

On Day 5, after breakfast, we’ll begin our journey towards Sarahan, a quaint town nestled in the mountains, covering approximately 174 kilometers in 6 hours. Known for the sacred Bhimakali Temple, Sarahan holds immense spiritual significance. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the temple to pay our reverence. The remainder of the day is free for leisure, allowing you to relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings. Dinner will be served, followed by an overnight stay in Sarahan with Backpackclan.

On Day 6, after an early morning breakfast, we’ll begin our return journey towards Shimla, covering approximately 154 kilometers in around 5 hours. Upon reaching Shimla, we'll spend some time exploring the Mall Road and local markets, soaking in the charm of this colonial hill town. In the evening, we’ll board our Volvo bus for the overnight journey back to Delhi, bringing our memorable Backpackclan Kinnaur backpacking adventure to a close.

Day 7: Delhi Arrival | Trip Ends

We’ll arrive in Delhi early in the morning, marking the end of our unforgettable journey through the mountains. The group will disperse with lasting memories, new friendships, and stories from the heart of the Himalayas.

This concludes your Winter Kinnaur Valley Backpacking Trip with Backpackclan.

Tour Duration

  • 6N/7D

Medicine, cash, toiletries, trekking shoes, water bottle, ID card, power bank, torch, blanket, warm clothes, moisturizers.

Cancellations received less than 45 days prior to departure will be subject to the following forfeit | Before 45 days: 25% of tour cost | 45 - 30 days: 50 % of tour cost | 30 - 20 days: 75% of tour cost | Within 20 days: 100% of tour cost | No exception to this policy can be made for any reason.

46 Days or more before date of departure: 25% of total cost. | 31 - 45 Days before date of departure: 50% of total cost. | 30 days before date of departure: 100% of total cost.

Any increase in cost because of change in the itinerary due to reasons beyond our control (force majeure) like landslides, riots, traffic jams etc. | Any dispute is subject to Delhi jurisdiction only.

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GST

5 %/booking

5% added as GST on the total amount.

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