The enchanting state of Himachal Pradesh is replete with mesmerizing landscapes and delightful surprises. From the captivating Kinnaur Valley, specifically Kalpa, one traverses towards the breathtaking Spiti Valley. Subsequently, the journey proceeds to the magical realm of Ladakh, crossing the spectacular Lahaul Valley. Every inch of this region is a haven for nature enthusiasts, showcasing the wonders of the natural world in all their splendor.
Introduction
In this huge piece of untouched land, there exists a lovely village nested between humongous mountains both from Himachal side and Tibetan side named Kalpa, a very tiny habitual place just few kilometers from Reckong Peo in the Kinnaur Valley. I wouldn’t be wrong if I say, this is one of the most attractive tourist destination in Kinnaur Valley(Chitkul being another one).
Located at 9711 ft above the sea level, just after a short but elevated climb from Reckong Peo, trust me this is one of the very few villages which I loved to visit in my trip to Spiti and Kinnaur Valley. All the villages in Spiti valley actually form a similar pattern, be it either the landscapes around or the pattern of houses built. But this village has an aura of its own and special on its own way. One can actually feel the culture and tradition of Kinnauras .
This is actually a tiny village with very few houses and some homestays, but the people here are so hospitable that I actually felt like relocating completely and leading a peaceful life with all the people around, living around with majestic views every single morning and evening. The views from every corner of the village are just magnificent.
Apple Orchards in Kalpa
Another thing that’s special about the Kinnaur valley is the Apple orchards. We were lucky enough to get there during Apple season and taste the fresh, juicy Apples just plucked from the trees. So pre-winters is the season to cut them off and export them to various places. The Apples from Kinnaur have great demand in the market.
Tha Majestic Kinnaur Kailash
What sets Kalpa very special than most other villages is the spectacular view of Kinnaur Kailash(19850 ft) from every part of the village. As per Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati reside in Kinner Kailash. It is the fourth most important peak among the group of five separate peaks in Himalayas in separate locations collectively known as the Panch Kailash or “Five Kailash”.
Other being Mount Kailash in first place, Adi Kailash in second, Shikhar Kailash (Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash) in third, and Manimahesh Kailash in fifth place in terms of importance. As a result the extremely challenging trek to this peak is considered very sacred by Hindus. There’s a monolithic rock considered to be a Shivling that is worshiped by both Hindus and Tibetians. I was lucky enough to get a glimpse of it right from my balcony which was actually located miles away. So one can witness this either directly on the trek or only from the village of Kalpa.
Just pray that the sky is clear and trust me the moon rise from this mountain range is just magical. The locals actually said the Shivling changes its color every now and then due to natural reflection which can be seen only from Kalpa. I was again lucky enough to witness the lovely moon rise right from Shivling in this mountain range. That sight is something I’d never forget in my life.
The Oldest Voter of India
This village has a literacy rate of 84% and also the first ever voter of India Shyam Saran Negi also actually belongs to this village. He was a school teacher at Kalpa and voted in the first election that took place in 1951 after the Indian Independence. Due to the proximity to Himalayas, the village experiences cold climate round the year and it receives heavy snowfall during winters. Just imagine this lovely village covered entirely with snow. The temperature then goes even upto -20C.
Suicide Point – The popular tourist spot of Kalpa
The Suicide Point is located around 3 kms away from Kalpa village and the journey to this point takes place through beautiful apple gardens. This place is so lovely that tourists even forget the dangerous trench and vertical slope they pass through on their way to suicide point. This place is famous for its thrilling trench and enchanting atmosphere that gives a wonderful experience to the visitors. It is located on the road connecting Kalpa with Roghi.
The surroundings of this point are so amazing that people are forced to call it as the Suicide Point. The dangerous trench and vertical slopes are the highlights of this place. Also, the breathtaking mountain scenery gives tourists a taste of height and turns their experience into something more interesting. One can reach at this point through your and enjoy the stunning landscape of Suicide Point
The Unique Culture & Tradition of Kinnaur Valley
Kalpa features traditional Himachali architecture with wooden houses and intricate carvings. The local structures reflect the cultural heritage of the region. The monastery and a temple here is just a perfect example for it. As the people here are originally Kinnauris, they wear their traditional attire with a green cap which makes them appear so aesthetic.
Conclusion
This is something which you should never miss on your upcoming trip to Spiti and Kinnaur valley. I’ll post the entire travel plan along with hotels, transport to the entire Spiti and Kinnaur valley very soon. But this lovely Himalayan village will always stay in my heart and I will never miss visiting again on our next trip to Spiti Valley.
