Nestled in the heart of Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh, is a town called Kalpa, hardly heard of, untouched and pristine. Where the windows open to snow-capped peaks and valleys carpeted with Rhododendrons. As we travel through the towns, farther away from civilization, we uncover breathtakingly beautiful vistas en-route. Every town we stay at, is a homely Himachali town, snuggled in the mountains, away from the hustle-bustle we all want to get away from. This tour promises a tranquil time in the mountains, in the company of virgin forests, fresh mountain air, and of course, none other than our very own Bapu, Prof S. D. Mahajan! Hop on for an unforgettable journey.
Day 1
Chandigarh – Shimla
We arrive at Chandigarh and head to Shimla. If time permits we visit the Vice Regal Lodge, the most prominent landmark of Shimla, home to 13 of the Viceroy Generals in India during the British regime and now IIAS (Indian Institute of Advanced Studies) - a post doctoral institute for scholars across the globe. Overnight in Shimla.
Day 2
Shimla – Sarahan
After breakfast, we leave for Sarahan, The Gods were generous when they 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 ride the slopes and higher still, encircling the Bashal peak, are trees of smooth birch and variety of wild flowers and rare medicinal herbs. Overnight at Sarahan.
Day 3
Sarahan – Chitkul – Sangla
After breakfast we start to Chitkul, the last village on Indo Tibet border at 3450 Mtrs. Walk in the village. Drive to Sangla. Overnight at Sangla.
Day 4
Sangla – Kalpa
Today we will proceed to Kalpa. Sangla to Kalpa is 51 Kms, takes 3 hours comfortably. Reach Kalpa hotel by early evening. Kalpa altitude is 2960 Mtrs. Kalpa is beautiful town in Kinnaur, where we spend the next three days. The majestic mountains of the Kinnaur Kailash range and the Sutlej snaking through them accompany us on our journey. Overnight at Kalpa.
Day 5 & 6
Kalpa
We spend the next two days at leisure in Kalpa. We can witness the first light of the morning painting the snow peaks a beautiful crimson. Here we can spend ample time among the mountains and witness the apple orchards in all their glory. We walk down to the local monastery. We visit Van Vihar, an amazing walk amidst dense deodar forests, then to circuit house to see Living fossil trees. Explore Recong Peo market. One can indulge in shopping - traditional Kinnauri stuff, woolens and other locally handmade handicrafts. In the evenings, we will have some interactive sessions regarding Himalayan ecology and botany.
Day 7
Kalpa - Narkanda – Theog
En route visit to Hatu peak, 9 kms uphill from Narkanda at an altitude of 3400 Mtrs. Have a glimpse of 360 degrees view of snow clad Himalaya. We proceed towards Theog, one of the most beautiful places in Himachal Pradesh. Overnight at Theog.
Day 8
Theog to Chail
Today we proceed towards our last destination Chail, a beautiful little village nestled amidst Deodar forests. Here we stay at the magnificent Hotel Chail Palace, a gracious mansion that was once home to the Maharaja of Patiala. Here we can visit the world's highest cricket pitch and polo ground. We go for a nature walk in the evening. Overnight at Chail.
Day 9
Departure
We depart for Chandigarh and proceed to catch the flight back home. Tour ends.
