Sangla

THE PLACE

Sangla lies on the banks of the Baspa River that runs nearly 900 meters deep in some places. Mount Kailash, said to be the abode of Shiva, is nearby.

PLACES OF INTEREST

What Sangla Valley has to offer, however, are the delightful Banjara camps. Situated amidst apple orchards adjoining the quaint and typically Kinnauri village Batseri with the Baspa River flowing right next to it, trout fishing can be one experience. Moreover, Sangla valley is one of the few areas in India where para gliding facilities are available.

Sangla is home to some rare herbs and spices, including the exotic black cumin seed, flora (chilgoza orchards besides apples) and fauna and the best cider this side of Suez. Batseri and Rakcham, the two nearby villages, so untouched yet by the outer world, are showcases for uncomplicated lives and lifestyles. The icing on the cake is, however, the glacier point. Across the Baspa River, off Banjara camps, and through a small forest, one is suddenly face to face with a rough, stony riverbed. During the period when the entire Kinnaur valley lies hidden behind a thick cloak of snow, this is one of the points where glaciers come hurtling down. The sudden barren streak down the mountainside is a reminder that there are facets of nature yet unfathomable to human minds.

From Sangla Valley, a drive to Chitkul, situated at 3450 meters, about 20 km away from Banjara camps, is a must. The road passes through one of the most scenic routes ever, over streams that do not recognize the boundaries of roads and through forests that gleefully butt into the road. Chitkul is the last village on the Indo-Tibetan trade route and the Tibetan influence makes its presence felt. A 4-km walk and you arrive at Nagasthi, the last Indian outpost. No civilians are permitted beyond this point, for across the mountains lie Tibet. Here the mountains turn craggier, less green, and more barren.

HOW TO REACH

By Road

Sangla can be approached either through Shimla or from nearby Chail. The drive, around 8 to 10 hours, is through very picturesque areas like Kufri and Narkanda. The road gradually winds down till Rampur (900 meters) famous for its annual Lavi Fair. From Rampur upwards, the road narrows down at times into difficult terrain up virtual steeps while the Baspa River forms a turbulent companion through most of the route.

By Rail

One can also take the hill train from Kalka, near Chandigarh, to Shimla and add another wonderful experience to the whole journey.

By Air

The nearest airport is in Jubbarhatti, Shimla to which regular flights take off from Delhi.

WHERE TO STAY

A handful of hotels can be found either at Sangla town or on the approach to Chitkul.

One can also stay at the Forest Department Guesthouse, the PWD Guesthouse, or the Banjara Camps at Sangla Valley by the side of the Baspa River.

There are also some 3/4-roomed hotels at Chitkul about 26 km further north of Sangla.