Best Itinerary kinnaur & Spiti

February 25, 2016February 25, 2016 mukesh

Best Itinerary Kinnaur & Spiti

Day 01 – Chandigarh – Shimla(130 kms).Shimla was the summer capital of The British India and most of the lords of the british empire liked utmost to spend their time here.The architecture of the city is also alike the one designed by the britishers.check in the hotel and relax.in the evening you can have stroll on the famous mall road .overnight at hotel.

Day-2— Shimla-Narkanda(65 kms) The drive to the upper Himalayas begin after breakfast.The drive to Narkanda shall take you from kufri and fagu, the snow spots of shimla during the winters.U can visit the fun world ,the zoo and enjoy at Asia’s highest go carting ground.A visit to the famous deshu temple is also on the cards where u reach after climbing 500 stairs.Overnight at hotel.

Day-3– After breakfast start your day to visit the famous Hatu peak of narkanda.From here u can have a distant look at the peaks of the place you shall be travelling in the next few days.After Hatu peak proceed to Sarahan(80 kms) where you can sit idle in the evening and enjoy the peaks with Shrikhand mahadev in the close vicinity.Overnight at hotel.

Day 4 – Sarahan – Sangla/Rakcham (100 kms/ 08 -09 hours) aprox
Early morning walk the Town followed by breakfast. We leave for Sangla in Kinnaur district, and on the way visit Sarahan Bheema kali Mata Temple and enjoy the Front View of Shri Khand Mahadev if weather clear. and later continue drive to Sangla and Reach in time for evening tea to enjoy the crisp twilight zone. Enjoy a dinner and evening at leisure. O/N HOTEL

Day 5 – Rakcham – Chitkul – Rakcham

Early morning appreciate the beauty of Nature followed by breakfast. Enjoy the beauty and adventure of Sangla Valley to the full on this day. We drive to Chitkul, a pretty village on the ancient Hindustan – Tibet route. There is also an option to try your hand at rock climbing, Rappelling and River Crossing – extra charges may apply for some of these. Sangla is known for its day hikes. Those looking for soft adventure can join the Raksham walk that takes you along rivers, through meadows and forests and over glaciers. And for the hardier lot, there is the challenging meadows walk that will have you seek a masseuse at the end of the day. Also visit the pretty villages around, and enjoy sitting along the Baspa river. Enjoy a dinner and evening at leisure. O/N HOTEL

Day 6 – Rakcham to Kalpa vai Peo Market 65 kms

After breakfast transfer to Kalpa enroute visit Kaamru fort n peo market n transfer to Kalpa hotel. Leisure time in the evening with kinner kailash ranges.Kalpa is a very small and famous town as the agreement for the first train that ran bw mumbai and thane were signed here.An abode of the famous kinnaur apples its lush green orchards along with snow capped peaks give immense pleasure to the eyes.overnight at hotel.

Day-7 — After breakfast full day tour to the local sight seeing of village kalpa.The roghi village,suicide point,the vishnu narayan temple,kothi temple,the buddha mandir, and the chini gompa.U can also purchase some world class dryfruits like almonds ,walnuts and chilgoza from the rekong peo market.Overnight at hotel

Day-8– Kalpa- Nako(104 kms) After breakfast you tend to leave the lush green valleys and enter the raw and barren desert travelling on NH21 further up.The highway stroddles along the mighty sutlej with picturesque villages in and around.From khab you take a turn towards spiti and reach one of the last village of Kinnaur-Nako.In the evening sit besides the Nako lake .Overnight at hotel.

Day 9 – Nako – Tabo – (60 kms) aprox

early breakfast n visit The famous nako monastery n transfer to Tabo vai Nako lake.Enroute u shall visit the famous abode of The Mummy at Geu.an age old preserved dead body of a monk whose hair and nails still grew,is a belief amongst the locals and we cant abide by that fact .Reach tabo in the evening and at leisure.overnight at hotel.

Day 10 – Tabo – Kaza (160 kms)

Early transfer to Kaza vai Dhankaar monastery n Pin valley.Though kaza is just 60 kms but we will take a few detours to reach there.First we shall visiit the one of the worlds top ten monastries the Dhanker gompa and other The famous pin valley- the starting and ending point of several treks in that region.overnight at kaza

Day 11 –Kaza Local sightseeing Kii Kibber ,Komic Langcha.Kee monastery is again one of the best monastries of the region and the komic village is the worlds highest motorable village.A drive to all of the shall definitely be remembered by you during your tour.Overnight at hotel.

Day-12– Kaza – chandrataal (90 kms)

A drive after early breakfast to chandrataal will be the best drive of your life.The lake located in the upper hills of spiti makes you feel closest to the nature.A sleep in the tents with nature is the best gift a man can get in his entire life.

Day 13– Kaza – Manali (205 kms/ 07-08 hours)
We leave at dawn for Manali for yet another day of memorable driving via Rohtang Pass. We will drive along and over rivers, cross glaciers, and bump along undulating tracks. It may be dusk when we reach Manali – where we celebrate the journey over Enjoy a dinner and evening at leisure. O/N HOTEL

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Day 14 – Manali – Chandigarh (320 kms/ 08hrs)
Time to head back to Manali – Chandigarh – Mumbai – or wherever one wants to head to. We part ways with a promise to meet again.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year…!!!

December 26, 2015December 26, 2015 mukesh

Respected Travel partners

Greetings from Apple Pie Group of Hotels Kinnaur!!!

Warm Wishes for the NEW YEAR 2016

We send our heartliest thanks for the continuous support and faith that you have showed in our services for both our hotels ( Apple Pie ) Kalpa and Rakcham in 2015.

We have closed both our properties for the winter season this year and shall reopen them in march next year 2016.We would again seek your support for the next year also.

Mukesh K.Sharma

Hotel Apple Pie

www.hotelapplepie.com

E-mail: hotelapplepiekinnaur@gmail.com

08860688496,08894579727,08894225558

Kinnaur Apples

December 16, 2015 mukesh

Kinnaur Apples

The most awaited apple season in the hill State of Himachal Pradesh has begun with the first lot of around 10 lakh cartons reaching various markets in the country.

The Kalpa block has generated highest number of apple boxes followed by Pooh block and Nichar block. However, the apples cultivated in high altitude areas Chango, Pooh and Nako are yet to be harvested. Apples are plucked in Kinnaur by October-November, after the season ends in other parts of Himachal.

The State, despite undergoing an encroachment removal drive ordered by the High Court, is expecting to pack around 4 crore boxes of 20 kg of apples each. Though a majority of business is carried out in the private sector, the government has also opened procurement centres. “We will open around 300 centres in apple producing areas under the market intervention scheme and as per the demand of farmers,” said an official spokesman on Sunday. More than 10 per cent of such centres have already started functioning and the farmers are bringing their produce there, he says.With an expected production of around 8 lakh tonnes, about a million boxes or about 2,000 trucks of some early varieties of fruit like Red June and Tydeman’s have already been transported out of the State. The fruit from Himachal has already reached the markets of Delhi, Punjab, Gujarat, Rajasthan and even down South in Bengaluru and Chennai.

Last year’s production remained less than 3 crore boxes or 6 lakh tonnes.

Apple is the most important fruit crop or cash crop of the hill State and constitutes about 49 per cent of the total area under fruit crops — about 85 per cent of the total fruit production, says the latest Economic Survey of the State. The apple fruit, having an economy of around Rs. 3,500 crore, is grown mainly in the districts of Shimla, Kinnaur, Kullu, Mandi, Chamba and some parts of Sirmaur and Lahaul-Spiti. The average production of apple is around 5 lakh tonnes or 2.5 crore boxes every year but the maximum production was recorded in the year 2010-11 when it crossed 9 lakh tonnes or almost touched 5 crore boxes.

Red and golden apples of Kinnaur district are known worldwide for their sweetness, colour, they also have a prolonged shelflife. There shelf life is four months double than a normal apple.vv

Due to inclement weather, this year the initial supply from the orchards is slow and only around 20,000 boxes are being transported every day. The fruit has not attained the full size and lacks colour, said majority wholesalers.

The season matures around second week of August and is at its peak by the end of this month when the fruit starts coming from the middle and upper reaches of the State, from beyond the hills of 5,000 feet and above. The real juicy varieties like Royal Delicious, Red Gold, Red Chief and Oregon Spur and later Golden Delicious would start coming now, giving a tough challenge to the Chinese Gala and Washington apples from the United states.

But the per-hectare production in Himachal Pradesh is much less than China and other countries.

The State gets around 8 to 10 tonnes of apples per hectare against 35 to 40 tonnes of fruit in the advanced countries. The transportation and marketing aspects are the main problems faced by the apple growers in Himachal.

Hotel in Sangla/Rakcham

February 15, 2015 mukesh

Hotel in Sangla/Rakcham

The village Rakcham is located 8 kms ahead of sangla on the road that leads till the last village of india- chitkul.this area is a trekkers paradise with several treks leading to uttarakhand.Hotel apple pie is located in the village Rakcham that is midway chitkul from sangla valley. it has five double and four family suites. The views from the hotel apple pie are breathtaking. a walk on the road that leads to chitkul can be a walk that a person can never forget in his life.overall hotel apple pie serves as the best in catering to the needs of almost every traveller who has any thoughts of enjoying the nature and sitting idle to admire it.
Please note: Hotel Apple Pie in Rakcham, Sangla (Sangla Valley) has the newly constructed luxury rooms to suite all budgets. It has been catering to the needs of business, leisure, family and individual travelers.

A divine place of nature “Sangla Valley, Rakcham”

Hotel in rakcham valley by Applepie group Kinnaur – A divine place in Himachal pradesh associated with the “kinner Kailash” incarnation of Lord Shiva.Situated in Kinnaur,is the most beautiful valley of the world- Sangla Valley.The belt remains unexplored till date.the tourists can have the best experiences of their lives while crossing the sangla valley & reaching the last village of that road- Chitkul. the way passes through on of the best scencries of nature and through the village Rakchham which is world famouse for the quality apples.Kinnaur apples are the best quality apples that are found in abundance in Sagla valley , Rakchham and Chitkul.

By the point of view of a tourist, Sangla Valley, village Rakchham and village Chitkul occupy a dominant place in the lives of a adventure seekers. Hotel apple pie is located on the main Chitkul Road, 10 km ahead of Sangla valley,in the pictersque village of Rakchham

Hotel Apple Pie- Rakcham

A place for a quite and memorable stay – built for the Customer who is king

Hotel Apple Pie : Our Hospitality

Hotel Apple Pie has the newly constructed luxury rooms to suite all budgets. It has been catering to the needs of business, leisure, family and individual travelers.

If you are looking for an economical but clean and comfortable hotel accommodation while on a personal or a pleasure trip or wanting to put up your officers/staff on official work in Sangla/Rakcham, then Hotel Apple Pie is the place for you. We also offer long duration accommodation to corporate companies at very special rates. Besides offering spacious and luxurious accommodation at reasonable room tariff in the most prestigious and prime location of Sangla area, we provide, to the best of our efforts, a very personalized service.

Our simplicity and friendly attitude gives you all the more reasons to stay with us. You will never at any time feel staying in an over bearing, clinical strange environment. It is a family friendly, children friendly & pet friendly place. We have a reputation of providing a safe environment to families and female travelers.

Guests are most welcome to talk to us and discuss about various places in and around Sangla. Any kind of suggestions or help they need from us regarding Shopping, Health check ups, etc, we are always there.

Policies

Photo identification and credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges.
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed.

Check-in time is 1200 hrs
Check-out time is 1200 hrs

Hotel Apple Pie Rakcham Sangla Valley

Packages / Tariffs

Our Tariffs are the most competitive and affordable tariffs with all the facilities of the most luxurious accomodations.

Room Type	No.	CP	MAP	AP	Extra Bed
Deluxe DBI	6	2300 INR	2900 INR	3400 INR
Deluxe Family	2	3800 INR	5000 INR	6000 INR	400 INR

All Room Tarriffs for Twin Share basis.
These rates are only valid till March 2015.

Hotel in Kalpa

February 15, 2015February 15, 2015 mukesh

Hotel in Kalpa

A divine place of nature “Kalpa”

Hotel in kalpa by Applepie group Situated at the height of 2758 m above the sea level and 110 km from Sarahan, Kalpa is a beautiful and main village of Kinnaur. Across the river faces the majestic mountains of the Kinner Kailash range. These are spectacular sights early in the morning as the rising sun touches the snowy peaks with crimson and golden light. ACCESS : Nearest Airport (267 km) and Railhead (244 km) is at Shimla. The route is on NH – 22 (The Hindustan Tibet Road) which bifurcates to Kalpa from Powari. Buses and Taxis are available at Shimla and Rampur. One can also reach Kalpa via Manali – Rohtang Pass – Kunzam Pass – Kaza (400 km). CLIMATE : In winter, the temperature can drop to below freezing point when heavy woolens are required and for summers light woolens are recommended.

Best Hotel in Kalpa — Hotel Apple Pie

A place for a quite and memorable stay – built for the Customer who is king

Hotel Apple Pie : Our Hospitality

As compare to the other hotels in Kalpa, Hotel Apple Pie is the only one who has the newly constructed luxury rooms to suite all budgets. It has been catering to the needs of business, leisure, family and individual travelers. If you are looking for an economical hotel in kalpa but clean and comfortable accommodation while on a personal or a pleasure trip or wanting to put up your officers/staff on official work in Kalpa hotel, then Hotel Apple Pie is the place for you. We also offer long duration accommodation to corporate companies at very special rates. Besides offering spacious and luxurious accommodation at reasonable room tariff in the most prestigious and prime location of Kalpa area, we provide, to the best of our efforts, a very personalized service. Our simplicity and friendly attitude gives you all the more reasons to stay with us. You will never at any time feel staying in an over bearing, clinical strange environment. It is a family friendly, children friendly & pet friendly place. We have a reputation of providing a safe environment to families and female travelers. Guests are most welcome to talk to us and discuss about various places in and around Kalpa. Any kind of suggestions or help they need from us regarding Shopping, Health check ups, etc, we are always there.

Policies

Photo identification and credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges. Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed.

Check-in time is 1200 hrs
Check-out time is 1200 hrs

Hotel in Kalpa

Hotel Apple Pie Kalpa Room Packages / Tariffs

Our Tariffs are the most competitive and affordable tariffs with all the facilities of the most luxurious accomodations.

Room		CP	MAP	AP	Extra Bed
S. Deluxe DBI	6	2300 INR	2900 INR	3400 INR	400 INR
Deluxe	3	1900 INR	2500 INR	3000 INR	400 INR
Cottage Std.	1	3000 INR	4500 INR	6000 INR	400 INR

All Room Tarriffs for Twin Share basis. 10.3% luxury tax applicable.

Kinnaur – Himachal Pradesh

February 9, 2015February 9, 2015 mukesh

Kinnaur – Himachal Pradesh

Kinnaur surrounded by the Tibet to the east, in the northeast corner of Himachal Pradesh, about 235 kms from Shimla is a tremendously beautiful district having the three high mountains ranges i.e. Zanskar, Greater Himalayas and Dhauladhar, enclosing valleys of Sutlej, Spiti, Baspa and their tributaries. All the valleys are strikingly beautiful. The slopes are covered with thick wood, orchards, fields and picturesque hamlets. The much religious Shivlinga lies at the peak of Kinner Kailash mountain. The beautiful district was opened for the outsiders in 1989. The old Hindustan-Tibet road passes through the Kinnaur valley along the bank of river Sutlej and finally enters Tibet at Shipki La Pass. And it is not only the scenic beauty which appeals to the young and old alike but also the life styles of the people, their culture, heritage, customs and traditions.

The much honest people which have strong culture and beliefs generally follow the Buddhism and Hinduism believe that the Pandavas came and resided in the land while in the exile. In the ancient mythology the people of Kinnaur are known as Kinners, the halfway between men and gods. Thousands years old monasteries still exist in the area. Both the Buddhists and Hindus live in perfect harmony symbolising the traditional brotherhood and friendship of the people of both the faiths.

The apples, chilgoza and other dry fruits are grown here are world famous. The high terrain here give way to great adventures sports of all kinds. Beautiful trekking routes includes the ‘Parikarma of Kinner Kailash’. Here is also the Beautiful Nako lake and three famous wild life sanctuaries.

Places to Visit in Kinnaur

KALPA

Kalpa is a small village at a height of 2960m in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. This place is at a distance of 230 Km from Shimla and at 13 Km from Reckong-Peo the district headquarter of Kinner district. This place is well connected by road only. It is recommended to stay minimum of two nights at Kalpa. Usually tourist arrive late afternoon from distance places like Simla , Sarahan or Sangla so next day stay can give you full day beauty of the majestic Kinner Kailash hills. From Kalpa we can get views of three peaks Roldang 5499m, Jarkanden ( 6473m) and the Kinner Kailash at 6050 m height.

Kalpa Village

Kalpa village is a small village with almost all facilities like post office, hospital, shops and small restaurants. These restaurants are offering Indian and Chinese foods for the tourists. There are many small guest houses inside the village offering rooms. Main attraction is Narayan-Nagini temple and Hu-Bu-Lan-Kar monastery. This monastery was founded by Rinchensang-po ( 950-1055 AD ). Walk along the narrow lanes of this village upto the temple and you will get a good glimpse of Kinnor culture and its color full villagers. Village is surrounded by apple trees and at one side the view of snow peaks makes this village the main attraction of tourists coming to Kalpa. From your hotel you have to use steps to reach the village but take care that you have to climb up again to return so conserve your energy. The steps pass through apple garden and reach the village. If you are scared of climbing up then you can use your vehicle as road is there up to the village end.

A casual visit to this village will take one hour minimum from your hotel if you visit temple and monastery only.

Sarahan As sun rises from behind the Jarkanden Peaks so photography of hills during morning time is not possible , however you can take photos as the sun comes out of the peaks and light falls on the valley. Around 11 AM as the sun climbs up and direct sun light starts falling on the peaks and gives beautiful view for the tourists to capture in their cameras. Suicide PointWithin 10 minutes drive from Kalpa village through apple gardens this place is known for its vertical slope and dangers ditch. Roghi Village Beyond Suicide point after 5 minutes drive there is Roghi village. Like other village this village has also one temple and apple gardens are there surround the village. Here also villagers main business is Apple cultivation.

Airtel mobile signal is available at Kalpa along with BSNL which works in remote parts of Himachal Pradesh.

Road to Kalpa

We left Sarahan at 8.10 AM and reached Kalpa at 1.15 PM.

The road to Kalpa is on NH22 (from Shimla ) upto Reckong Peo except last 27 KM. Most of the time Sutlej river will be at your left side and the road passes through many hydroelectric projects and dams under construction. After 45 minutes from Zeori we enter into Kinner district. On the way we crossed Tapri town and the reached Rockong Peo the district headquarter of Kinnor district.

After Reckong Peo we climbed another hill through hair pin bend curve road. On both side of the road there are many apple gardens full with apples. Mostly the apples are Red in color but another variety of apple gives golden color. These golden color apples are the best in taste. You are welcome to take photos by standing below the trees but plucking of fruits is not allowed.

The best hotel to stay is Himchal Tourism Development Corporation Hotel. The name is Hotel Kinner Kailash. You need to book in advance to get accommodation here. There are different ranges of rooms available here starting from 1000 to Rs 4000. The number of rooms are very less so you need to book in advance through internet or by calling HPTDC office by phone. For detail HPTDC hotel booking procedure read here This beautifully designed hotel has glass windows opening towards Kinner Kailash snow peaks, the restaurant located at second floor offers panoramic view of surrounding hills and valleys. This hotel closes during October -November and reopens in April month because of snow fall. The district headquarter shifted to Reckong Peo as road to Kalpa gets blocked due to snow fall in winter.

One of the main attraction of Kalpa is the view of peaks, the most popular one is Kinner Kailash Peak at a height of 6050 m. There is a free-standing seventy-nine foot high rock ( in the shape of ShivaLinga ) This sacred shivlinga changes its color during the day with change in color of the sun light. From Klapa this Shivlinga is visible and is one of the main attraction of tourists. To reach the peak one has to join a trekking group for three days. To do a parikrama ( circumambulation ) going around the base mountain will take seven to eight days, this trek starts from Moorang.

Sangla Valley

Sangla is located at a distance of 214 KM from Shimla and it is 8 to 12 hours by road to reach Sangla. Usually tourist arrive here from Sarahan. You can come directly fromShimla to Sangla. After visiting Sangla valley you can go to Kalpa a three hours drive by road. However you can change your plan as per your requirements. Sangla to Kalpa is 51 Km
Karcham to Sangla is 18 Km

While traveling from Shimla on NH 22 you need to take right side diversion at Karcham. From Karcham Sangla is 18 KM. While traveling from Karcham to Sangla the river Baspa will be at your right side and the same road continues after Sangla till Chitkul the last village inside India before the Indo – Tibet border.

If you are returning from Sangla to Shimla then you will pass through these places.

Karcham ( You will join NH 22 here )
Tapori ( Hydroelectric Project Area )
Wangtoo ( From here Rampur is 62 Km and Shimla is 192 KM )
Bhavanagar ( Rampur is 50 Km from here )
After this you will enter to Shimla district
Zeori ( Rampur 23 KM and Shimla is 153 Km . Sarahan road will be at left side)
Rampur ( Shimla is 150 KM )
Narkanda ( 2 hours only from Shimla, go for Hatu peak if you have one extra hour )

Kamru Forteress at Sangla To visit the Sangla village you need to walk down from the main road. There is a temple of Bering Nag and a Buddhist Monastery located in the same campus. After this you can go down upto the Baspa river and there is a bridge to cross the river. At the other side of this hanging bridge there is a heritage village of Batseri.

On the upper side of the main road there is a five storied fortress of Kamru. This tower like structure is visible from the main market and from the road before Sangla and on the way to Chitkul. This village remains snow covered during winter six months.
Baspa river at Sangla
The main source of income for the villagers is Apple plantation and tourism. From April month till November the villagers work in Apple plantations and tourism related business.

As Kinnaur district is a tribal area, the locals are permitted to prepare local wine by using Apple for their own consumption. Apple growing has the main contribution to the local economy. Kinnaur apple is famous in all parts of India. These apples are packed in trays and then inside boxes. One box can have 100 to 120 apples. Each exporter has its own boxes.

Chitkul – The Last Village

Chitkul is at a height of 3450 Meter. This is the last village of India to the side of Tibet border and this beautiful village si also by the side of Baspa river. This village is located at a distance of 28 KM from Sangla. Tourist stay at Sangla and go for half day trip to Chitkul. It will take one hour to reach Chitkul from Sangla and you can plan for one or two hour stay there and return. So, if you are starting at 9 AM from Sangla, then you can return before 2 PM to Sangla. Now there are hotels and guest houses available at Chitkul also to stay.

While traveling to Chitkul valley, river Baspa will be at your right side. On the way you will pass through Rakcham village. There are several camp sites located within the apple gardens by the side of Baspa River.

Baspa river

This river will be at your right side while travelling towards Sangla and Chitkul. Sanglavillage is located by the side of this river.

From the parking area you have to go down a bit to reach the river bed. It is better to walk a bit towards the village end and then walk down to river as you can avoid the stiff inclination of the steps. Baspa river joins Sutlej river at Karcham 28 Km from Sangla.

Go for a walk inside the last inhabited village of India before the border. There is a temple of goddess Mathi at the center of the village. Total population of the village is around 700.

Wheat fields are there around the plane areas surrounding the village. When we visited, villagers were busy in cutting the wheat cultivation and transporting them back to the village.

Carry your woolen clothes with you even in clear weather conditions to face the cold wind blowing here. Click the image at the side to see the large road map indicating places in the tribal circuit of Himachal Pradesh

Nako

This is a small and beautiful village located in Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. This village remains cutoff from Shimla district due to snow fall in winter seasons. Tourists start coming here once the roads are opened from Reckong Peo. Peo remains open throughout the year. Being in a border, inner line permit is required for foreigners to enter into Nako. By the side of the village there is a lake known as Nako Lake. Like other villages of this area there is a Monastery at the center of the village. You can go for a walk to visit the Nako lake and the village after reaching Nako. The road passes through narrow lanes of the village and connects to main road.

There are many hotels and guest houses in this village, some of them are constructed in traditional way with local materials, they are popularly known as Home stay. Price of these home stay guest houses are less and available at a range of INR 350 /- per day. Normal guest houses are available at a price of INR 750/- . Extra bed are at a range of INR 100 to 150/-. Room rent may vary. These tents are promoted on Eco tourism concept. Tents are having all basic facilities with attached toilet but without TV facility. In Nako even good hotels does not have TV facility inside rooms.

Many foreign tourists visit Nako and go for trekking around this place.

Shrikhand Mahadev , Himachal Pradesh – India

February 9, 2015 mukesh

Shrikhand Mahadev , Himachal Pradesh – India

Shrikhand Mahadev

Shrikhand Mahadev is considered to be the abode of Lord Shiva. It is actually a pilgrimage place for Hindus. It is a place of great attraction for the religious people as well as for climbers. It is situated at 18500 feet above the sea level. Shrikhand is the situated at top of the mountain. Apparently as many as 5000 pilgrims visit this peak during the yatra, and yatra is normally done in July, so that would be a good time to give it a miss if one is looking for solitude of any kind.

Shrikhand Mahadev view is very beautiful to see. Shrikhand is always surround by Fog. The weather is always cold & climate is very awesome. It is usually undertaken to coincide with the Ashada Poornima or, full moon day of June to July as per the Vikrami calendar

History behind Shrikhand : According to the folklore there used to be a demon named Bhasmasur. He worshipped lord Shiva for many years. By seeing his dedication lord Shiva was so happy that he asked Bhasmasur to ask for anything. Bhasmasur asked for the power of burning any creature just by placing his hand on the head of the creature. Lord Shiva blessed him with the asked power. Bhasmasur became so proud of his power that he tried to burn lord Shiva. Then lord Shiva had to hide in a cave near Nirmand at Deo Dhank.

Lord Vishnu came to save Lord Shiva from the demon. Vishnu incarnated himself as Mohini a beautiful lady. She (Vishnu) asked the demon Bhasmasur to dance with her. Bhasmasur was so much mesmerised with the beauty of Mohini that he could not resist himself from dancing with Mohini. Mohini cleverly got Bhasmasur to place his hand on his head and Bhasmasur turned into ashes. Just after Bhasmasur burned all the God’s reached Deo Dhank to look up lord Shiva. They found Lord Shiva detained under the web in the cave. It was very difficult to release lord Shiva from there. So Lord Shiva used a secret route and emerged as Shakti Roop at Shrikhand Mountain from cave at Dev Dhank.

When lord Shiva was getting out from Shrikhand Mountain, there were a great blast and only the present Shrikhand Shivling remains. On the way to Shrikhand top you can find out big boulders that look like as the part of any big mountain. At Shrikhand there is main peak (Shivlinga) dedicated to lord Shiva. Just opposite to it another big stones are known as Godess Parvati and Lord Ganesh. Just behind the Shrikhand peak there is a peak known as Kartikeya Parvat.

Location –

Shrikhand Mahadev is in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It is 72 feet rock made Shivlingam.

There are three ways to reach Shrikhand Mahadev

From Shimla

Shimla-Narkanda-Rampur Bushahr-Arsu-Bagipul-Jao Village – Most of the devotee take this route and this is the easiest and most common route. I believe 90% of the devotees goes via this route only so I recommend that please go via this route only because in this route we get most of the facilities.

From Kullu

From Kullu side—Last village connected by road is Bathad in Banjar block of district. Kullu and from Bathad a steep track leads to BASHLEU PASS and then it leads to a very beautiful village SARAHAN (but this is Kullu Sarahan another one is in Shimla district)

From Rampur Bushahr- Jeory

From Rampur Bushahr to Jeory – This is considered as the toughest route for this yatra and only the local people of upper Himachal areas (Shimla, Sarahan, Kullu and Kinnour) can go in this track. For other guys it would be very tough so please don’t take this track if you are expert in climbing on hills.

ROUTE-

Bus route : Delhi – Chandigarh – Shimla.

From Shimla – Take any bus to Rampur Bushahr. From Rampur take a bus or taxi to Nirmand or you can get a bus to Jao Village directly. Your ultimate goal is to reach Jao Village and then from Jao village you have to go with your feet.

From Jao village to Singhad, the distance is 2-3 KM and from here the yatra starts. The registration of the yatra is done here and you get free lunghar (Food and snacks) here. Anyone can do a night stay here free of cost. For the devotees who are coming from long distances please stay at night over here because here you can have bath and meals and a good rest for yatra and then start your yatra in the morning around 4AM or 5 AM.

Day 1

Singhad – Thachru – Free lunger (meals) available here and a doctor is also available at this point and for accomodation you have to pay the rent of tent. (Normally it is Rs 100-120 per night) .

Day 2

Thachru – Bhim dwar or Parvati Bagh – If you reach Bhim dwar or Parvati Bagh after 1 PM then you can go to Shirkhand Mahadev in the next morning.

Day 3

From Bhim dwar or Parvati Bagh to Shrikhand Mahadev and back to Bhim dwar or Thachru

In the morning you have to start your journey i. e early morning 4AM – 5AM and you can reach Shrikhand Mahadev around 10 AM and then you have to come back from there and you can stay either Bhim dwar or Thachru.

Day 4

Bhim dwar/Thachru – Singhad or Rampur – You can stay in night at Singhad and then you can leave for your home.

Sarahan , Himachal Pradesh

February 6, 2015 mukesh

Sarahan , Himachal Pradesh

Sarahan, a beautiful hamlet located in the Sutlej Valley, is a major tourist destination situated in the Shimla District of Himachal Pradesh. This place offers visitors the opportunity explore nature at its best. Placed at an average altitude of about 2165 m above sea level, the place is popular for its apple orchards, pine forests, small streams, rustic settings and slate roofed houses.

Bhimakali temple – Sarahan , Himachal Pradesh

The Gods were generous when they have gave Sarahan (2165m) its settings. Located halfway up a high mountain side, the road to Sarahan winds past flowering Pine trees that give way to stately Oaks. Dozens of small streams rush past. The fields and orchards that surround the small villages with their slate roofed houses, compose pictures of pastoral perfection. Above Sarahan, a many deodar trees rides the slopes and higher still, encircling the Bashal peak, are trees of smooth birch and variety of wild flowers and rare medicinal herbs. This sparsely populated tract is steeped in ancient legends and here is the famous Bhimakali temple regarded as one of the Fifty One sacred Shaktipeethhs. The temple’s unusual architecture and wealth of carvings have made it a resplendent example of what is loosely called the Indo-Tibetan style. Deep down the alley flows the river Sutlej and across lies the snow-clad Shrikhand peak.

Saharan is the base for numerous treks and is the gateway to Kinnaur. It is a place of pilgrimage, a heaven for nature lovers and the temple complex attracts a variety of admirers. Here is a place that offers extraordinary travel experience.

There are several myths and folklores associated with Sarahan. As the legend goes, the king of Kullu declared war on the neighbouring kingdom of Bushair. The king of Bushair won the war and killed the king of Kullu. He then brought the decapitated head of the dead king to Sarahan and laid it out for people to see. When the dead king’s family asked the king of Bushair to give them their king’s head so that they could carry out the last rites, the king declared that he would only grant their request under three conditions. One of the conditions was that the people of Kullu would have to promise to never challenge his rule. Another condition was that the land that was seized by him would be retained.

According to the final condition, the image of Ragunath; the chief god of the region, which was taken away from Sarahan would not be returned. The three conditions were accepted under the term that the ruler of Bushair would celebrate the festival of Dussehra. The king accepted the terms and thus Dussehra became a major festival of the region. After this, the image of Raghunath was placed alongside that of Goddess Bhimakali.

ACCESS : The nearest railway station (176 km) and airport (198 km) is at Shimla, where taxis and buses are available. By Car, Sarahan is 6 hours drive from Shimla. The route is on NH – 22 upto Jeori, from where the road bifurcates to Sarahan.

CLIMATE : In winter, the temperature can drop below freezing point when heavy woolens are required. The summer temperature is warm but pleasant and light woolens/cottons are recommended.

PLACES OF INTEREST

BHIMAKALI TEMPLE COMPLEX : This historical temple is a multistoried structured building, a fusion of Hindu and Buddhist architecture. The tall tower like structure and unusual roof of the temple dominate the complex. The centuries old temple is now locked and in the newly built temple, the goddess Bhimakali is portrayed as a maiden and as a woman. This temple complex includes other temples such as Narsingh shrine of Bhairon and Lord Raghunath.

BIRD PARK : Near the temple complex is a pheasant breeding centre. It also houses the State bird Monal which is of a great attraction.

Sarahan weather

It is advised that trips to this place should be planned between the months of April and November. However, tourists can also travel to Sarahan during winters as the climatic conditions remains favourable for sightseeing.

BHABA VALLEY : 50 km from Sarahan, a beautiful valley along Bhaba river. Link road to valley originates at Wangtu. It has a beautiful landscape, reservoir lake, alpine meadows and is best famous for trek route to Pin Valley in Spiti.

Kalpa/Sangla/Rakcham – Himachal Pradesh

February 3, 2015 mukesh

Kalpa/Sangla/Rakcham – Himachal Pradesh

Kalpa

Kalpa – Himachal Pradesh

Kalpa is a little known town situated in the lap of the mighty 19965 feet Kinner Kailash peak, around 240kms from Shimla. Situated at an altitude of 9711 feet, Kalpa is surrounded by snowy peak for almost the whole year. One gets a clear view of the sacred Kinner Kailash peak as well as its sister peaks. You can get a chance to bike to this place, band in the middle of winters!
Kalpa used be to a favourite haunt of Lord Dalhousie, who used to visit this place by travelling next to the Sutluj River in those days.. But nowadays you can easily drive down, although the road is quite tough! From Delhi, Shimla is a comfortable 9hour drive (355kms via Ambala and then NH22). From Shimla, things get interesting. Carry on the NH22 to Narkanda (64kms, an easy 2hr drive), then Rampur (another 73kms, 2 hours). From here on, for a while roads are good but mostly, turn into a bad shape with work going on (the hydro electric power station). But the views make up for it. From Rampur, you pass thru Jeori (23kms), Wangtu (37kms) and finally Karcham (20kms). The road from Wangtu to Karcham is in a bad state and occasionally the road is blocked for a couple of hours due to landslide.
At Karcham, a right goes to Sangla valley, take a left towards Recong Peo/Kalpa (35kms). At Recong Peo, there are two options, a longer 13kms or a shorter steeper 7km route. You can take another shorter 7km route, riding between apple orchads, narrow roads, in complete isolation. And if you are here between Dec and Feb, you will be greeted with atleast 5-6 frozen waterfalls by the road between Peo and Kalpa. If you are driving youself, taking a nights stop at Narkanda, around 420kms, 11 hours from delhi. Stay at Himachal Tourism’s hotel , Hotel Hattu. 180 degree view of the 18000-20000 feet peaks from Kalpa will keep you occupied for days. If you are into trekking, discover places around Kalpa by asking the locals around. – hide more about Kalpa

Sangla

Sangla
This valley starts 57 km short of Kalpa which has been named after a beautiful & populous village Sangla. Sangla is situated on the right bank of Baspa river 17 kms. from Karcham. Journey from Karcham onwards is enjoyable and adventurous throughout the valley. The natural scenery all around and the eternal snow view are picturesque and charming. It is also known as Baspa Valley since Baspa river flows through this area. This is the most charming valley in the entire District of Kinnaur. A temple dedicated to Nages god is worth a visit & other places are Sapni, Rackchham, Kilba, Kamru Fort which can also be visited. There are post offices, banks, rest houses for the convenience of the visitors.

Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama Trek – Kinnaur , Himachal Pradesh

February 2, 2015 mukesh

Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama Trek – Kinnaur , Himachal Pradesh

Kinnaur is the most scenic but less known district of Himachal Pradesh, located on the Indo-Tibet border. It is surrounded by Tibet on the east, Garhwal Himalaya trek on the south, Spiti Valley on the north and Kullu on the west. The Sutlej River, which rises on the southern slopes of Kailash Parvat near Mansarovar in Tibet flows through the Kinnaur valley. Due to the proximity of Kinnaur to Tibet, the life style and religion of its inhabitants had been influenced by Buddhism, mostly in the northern and central regions, although the majority of the people practice Hinduism.

Set within the Greater trekkings in Himalayan belt it boasts of the highest mountains in Himachal Pradesh. Close to the border with Tibet, entry to Kinnaur was restricted even for Indian nationals till 1993 and foreigners still have to register themselves with Inner line permit. Kinnaur valley comprises of the lower valley of Spiti and Satluj gorge, the two rivers race through valleys of The Satluj and The Spiti. Sutlej river which has its origin (common to the Indus and Bhramaputra rivers) in Lake Mansarovar beside the holy Mt. Kailash in Tibet.

Kinnaur holds three of the world’s grand mountain ranges – the Zanskar, the Greater Himalaya and the Dhauladhar, Mount Kinner Kailash (6’050 m) dominates this region, it has religious significance for a huge “SHIVA LINGAM” the representation of Lord Shiva which is a 79 feet vertical rock formation that resembles a Shivalinga and changes color as the day passes. This is one of the mythical abodes of Lord Shiva.

The circuit around the whole range attracts many pilgrims every year. The Parikrama or circumambulation begins from Kalpa via Triung valley and back to Kalpa via Sangla valley. Drive up to Thangi and the actual trekking begins from here.

To reach this forbidden land, India’s northern tip, before July, we travel through the Hindustan – Tibet highway, the ancient silk route following the Satluj. The Spiti river joins the Sutlej from the west and runs parallel with the Great Himalayan Range, the natural boundary between India and Tibet (China). In July it is possible to enter Spiti from the north, crossing Rohtang Pass (3980m.) into Lahaul and Kumzum La (4550m).

Kinner kailash parikarma

ITINERARY

Day 01: Arrival Dehli

Reception at the air port and transfer to the hotel, Overnight stay is in the hotel.

Day 02: Dehli to Shimla (1900m).

Leave for Shimla early in the morning by train. After 12 hours we will reach Simla (The queen of the hills). Shimla is capital of the Himachal Pradesh and one of the most famous hill stations for the vacation, round the year. Stay overnight in the hotel.

Day 03: Visit Shimla

After breakfast climb to the Jhaku hill to visit the Hanuman temple (the monkey God, museum and advance study hall, back to hotel for lunch. Its a free afternoon to visit the mall. Stay overnight in the hotel.

Day 04: Simla to Sarahan (1920m) 190 km.

After breakfast, drive via Kufri, Narkandha and descend to the Rampur, erstwhile Himalayan kingdom of Rampur Busheher. Continue to Sarahan the summer capital of the Rampur Busheher. Pay a visit to a 1500 years old temple and get a magnificent view of the Shir Khand peaks. Stay overnight in camp.

Day 05: Sarahan to Recongpeo – Kalpa 2290 m Guest house/Camp.

Today we will move to Recongpeo the district headquarters of Kinnaur. A monastery is built on the top of the town; the majesty of the Kinner Kailash Mountain is in direct vision from Kalpa this is regarded as one of the mythical abodes of Lord Shiva.

Day 06: Recongpeo to Lamber (2896 m) 12 km Trek

We will drive to Thangi followed by a gradual trek along the stream till a beautiful campsite of Lamber. Overnight stay is in Lamber.

Day 07: Lamber to Charang (3500mtrs) 12 km Trek

This day we will trek from Lamber to Charang. The trek goes through different terrain via Surting shepherd house.

Day 08: Charang to Lalanti (4421 mtrs) 11 km Trek

This day we will trek from Charang to Lalanti. Lalanti is a beautiful place for camping with varieties of wild flower.

Day 09: Lalanti to Base of Charang (4550 m) 6km Trek

We will trek from Lalanti to Base of Charang. This trail goes through Moraine and boulder upwards till base camp, camp on glacier field on the moraines.

Day 10: Base to Chhitkul. over Charang pass (4950 mtrs) 9 kms. Trek

We do a two hour steep track over rocky terrain till the pass. There is a beautiful steep descent till Chhitkul, last village of Baspa valley before Indo-Tibet Border. Put up a camp near village.

Day 11: Chitkul to Sangla

Located in Baspa Valley, the most beautiful valley of Kinnaur dominated by Kamrufort, visit the fort and village followed by an overnight stay in a camp.

Day 12:

We will travel back from Sangla to Rampur. Stay overnight in a hotel.

Day 13:

On this day we will return back to Shimla. Put up in a hotel for the day.

Day 14:

Leave Shimla for New Delhi by train, 470 km. O/N in hotel

Day 15: Departure

Arrive in New Delhi, transfer to hotel, day at leisure, and evening transfer to International airport for onward flight.

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