SANGLA

Sangla Valley is a paradise on the lap of the snowclad peaks where nature is at its peak and the only sounds are the soft murmur of the Baspa river and the rustle of the leaves as the wing whispers through the neighbouring woods. This valley starts 57-kms 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 and 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. Mount Kailash, said to be the abode of Shiva, is nearby.

Sangla is a home to some rare herbs and spices, including the exotic black cumin seed, flora or chilgoza orchards besides apples and fauna. Batseri and Rakcham, the two nearby villages, so untouched by the outer world, yet, showcase the uncomplicated lives and lifestyles of the region.

PRIME ATTRACTION

FORTS
Kamru Fort & Village: A kilometre or so above Sangla valley stands the tower-like fort of Kamru, a silent sentinel which has, through long centuries stood guard over the beauty of the village. This fort was the place where many so many rajas of Kinnaur were crowned. The fort belonged to the rulers of the erstwhile Bushehr State. Now this fort is dedicated to Kamakshi Temple, the goddess idol was brought from Guwahati, Assam, where the main temple is situated on a hillock.   more...

CITIES
Chitkul: From Sangla Valley, a drive to Chitkul, situated at 3,450 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.   more...

OTHERS
Nagasthi: 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.

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.

ADVENTURE

What Sangla Valley has to offer 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.

Trekking: The Karchham-Sangla via Shibaling Pass is an easy trek of 4-5 days, which takes one through the beautiful countryside of the Baspa valley. The Sangla-Harsil Trek via Lamkhaga Pass the trail is the same like the Baspa valley as far as Surthi. From there the trail for Lamkharga Pass turns south and after strenuous trek of about 14km, reaches the pass. The last stretch up to the pass is very steep.

HOW TO GET THERE

Air: The nearest airport is in Jubbarhatti, Shimla to which regular flights take off from Delhi.
Road: Sangla can be approached via road 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. 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. One can also take the hill train from Kalka, near Chandigarh , to Shimla .

PLACES TO STAY

Stay at the friendly Mount Kailash Guest House with a restaurant. Other options include Baspa Guest House, the Trekkers Lodge and Electricity Rest House.

CLIMATE

In Sangla mornings and evenings can be very chilly, that's why woolen clothes are recommended. Windcheaters can be very effective. One should carry along a raincoat in the month of May-July, not to forget the comfortable walking shoes for trekking.

NEARBY CITIES

Nagasthi: 4-km
Karcham: 17-km
Kalpa: 57-km