Hidden Gem Of Himachal -Sangla Valley

Welcome to the land of the Himalayas – Himachal Pradesh, India. In northern India, Himachal Pradesh has many beautiful valleys, snow-capped mountains, and pristine rivers. One such hidden gem is Sangla Valley, located in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. If you are planning a trip to Sangla Valley, this guide will provide you with all the information to make your trip unforgettable.

Getting to Sangla Valley

The nearest airport to Sangla Valley is Jubbarhatti airport in Shimla, which is about 240 km away. You can take a taxi or a bus from Shimla to Sangla. The nearest major railway station is in Chandigarh, which is about 340 km away. From Chandigarh, you can take a taxi or a bus to Sangla.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Sangla Valley is from March to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and sightseeing. The valley experiences heavy snowfall from December to February, which can lead to road closures.

Accommodation

Sangla Valley offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Some popular places to stay in Sangla Valley are:

• Banjara Camps and Retreats
• Kinner Camps
• Rupin River View
• Hotel Apple Pie
• Hotel Batseri

Things to Do in Sangla Valley

Sangla Valley is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Here are some of the must-visit places and things to do in Sangla Valley:

1. Chitkul Village

Chitkul is the last inhabited village near the Indo-China border. The village is famous for its picturesque location, wooden houses, and the ancient Chitkul temple. You can take a walk around the village, interact with the locals, and enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas.

1. Kamru Fort

Kamru Fort is an ancient fort located in Sangla Valley. The fort is believed to be more than 800 years old and has a wooden balcony that offers a panoramic view of the valley. You can also visit the Kamakshi Temple located inside the fort.

1. Rakcham Valley

Rakcham is a small village located near Sangla Valley. The village is famous for its apple orchards, traditional houses, and the stunning Baspa river. You can take a walk around the village, enjoy the local cuisine, and indulge in trout fishing.

1. Trekking

Sangla Valley offers several trekking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. Some popular trekking trails are:

• Sangla to Rakcham trek
• Chitkul to Kuppa trek
• Sangla to Dodra Kwar trek

1. Camping

Camping is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Sangla Valley. Several campsites are located near the Baspa river, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. You can also indulge in activities like bonfire, stargazing, and barbeque.

Sangla Valley is a hidden gem in Himachal Pradesh, offering stunning views of the Himalayas, ancient forts, and traditional villages. The valley is perfect for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With this guide, you can plan your trip to Sangla Valley and make the most of your vacation.

Food In Sangla Valley

Sangla is a beautiful destination in Himachal Pradesh, and one of the best ways to experience the local culture is through the local cuisine. The food here is primarily influenced by the Tibetan and Kinnauri cultures, and it offers a unique blend of flavours and spices.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the must-try dishes that you should try during your visit to Sangla.

1. Sidu: This is a steamed bread made with wheat flour and yeast. Sidu is a popular food item in the Kinnaur region, and it is usually served with ghee or butter. It is an excellent breakfast option and is known to keep you full for a long time.
2. Thukpa: This is a traditional Tibetan noodle soup that is perfect for cold winter days. Thukpa is made with vegetables, meat, and noodles and is known for its spicy and tangy flavor.
3. Madra: This is a popular dish in the Himachal region and is usually made with chickpeas or rajma. It is cooked in a yogurt-based gravy and is seasoned with a variety of spices. It is usually served with rice and is an excellent lunch or dinner option.
4. Chha Gosht: This is a spicy lamb curry that is cooked in a traditional Kinnauri style. It is usually served with rice or roti and is perfect for meat lovers.
5. Babru: This is a deep-fried bread that is made with black gram lentils. It is usually served with tamarind chutney and is a popular snack option in the region.
6. Aktori: This is a sweet dish that is made with wheat flour, sugar, and ghee. It is usually served during festivals and is an excellent dessert option.
7. Sepu Vadi: This is a unique dish that is made with colocasia leaves and gram flour. It is seasoned with a variety of spices and is usually served with rice or roti.

In conclusion, Sangla offers a unique blend of flavors and spices that you won’t find anywhere else. So, make sure to try these delicious dishes during your visit to Sangla to experience the local cuisine.

Homestay Options:

In this section, we’ll explore some of the best homestay options in Sangla that offer a comfortable stay and a glimpse into the local culture.

1. Kinner Camps: This is a popular homestay option in Sangla, located on the banks of the Baspa River. The camp offers luxurious tents with attached bathrooms, and it is an excellent option for those looking for a comfortable stay. The hosts are friendly and hospitable, and they offer a variety of activities such as trekking, fishing, and camping.
2. The Wooden Nest: This is another popular homestay option in Sangla, located amidst apple orchards and pine forests. The homestay offers comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms, and the hosts are friendly and welcoming. The Wooden Nest is an excellent option for those looking for a peaceful and serene stay.
3. Banjara Orchard Retreat: This is a beautiful homestay option located in the midst of an apple orchard. The homestay offers comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms, and the hosts are friendly and welcoming. The retreat is an excellent option for those looking for a quiet and peaceful stay.
4. Maati Homestay: This is a beautiful homestay option located in the heart of Sangla. The homestay offers comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms, and the hosts are warm and welcoming. Maati Homestay is an excellent option for those looking for a central location and easy access to local attractions.
5. Nako Homestay: This is a cozy homestay option located in the picturesque village of Nako. The homestay offers comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms, and the hosts are friendly and hospitable. Nako Homestay is an excellent option for those looking for a unique experience and a chance to explore the local culture.

Staying at a homestay is an excellent way to experience the local culture and hospitality of Sangla. So, make sure to consider these homestay options during your visit to Sangla to make the most of your trip.

What to buy from Sangla:

In this Section, we’ll explore some of the best things to buy from Sangla to bring back home with you.

1. Kinnauri Shawls: Kinnauri shawls are a popular handicraft in Sangla and are known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. These shawls are made using a combination of wool and silk, making them warm and comfortable to wear. They make for great gifts for family and friends or a nice addition to your own wardrobe.
2. Handmade Jewelry: Sangla is also known for its unique handmade jewelry made by local artisans. From earrings to necklaces, each piece is crafted with care and attention to detail, making them one-of-a-kind. These pieces are great for adding a touch of local charm to your jewelry collection.
3. Handwoven Carpets: Sangla is also famous for its handwoven carpets, which are made using wool and silk. These carpets come in various sizes and designs, and each piece is unique in its own way. They make for great souvenirs or even as a statement piece in your home decor.
4. Local Spices: Another popular item to bring back from Sangla is the local spices. From dried herbs to freshly ground spices, the local markets in Sangla offer a variety of options to choose from. These spices are great for adding flavor to your meals and make for a great addition to your pantry.
5. Handcrafted Wooden Items: Sangla is also famous for its handcrafted wooden items, including bowls, plates, and utensils. These items are made using locally sourced wood and are hand-carved by local artisans. They make for great souvenirs or even as a functional item in your kitchen.

Sangla offers a variety of unique and beautiful handicrafts and souvenirs that make for great gifts or reminders of your trip. So, make sure to explore the local markets and shops during your visit to Sangla to find the perfect item to bring back home.

How to reach Sangla:

Sangla is a beautiful valley located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. If you’re planning a trip to Sangla from Delhi, there are several options available to you.

By Road:

The most convenient way to reach Sangla from Delhi is by road. You can either hire a taxi or take a bus from Delhi to reach Sangla. The distance between Delhi and Sangla is around 580 km, and the journey takes around 16-18 hours. There are several buses that operate between Delhi and Sangla, and you can easily book tickets online or at the bus terminal.

By Train:

Another option is to take a train from Delhi to Kalka and then take a bus or taxi to Sangla. There are several trains that operate between Delhi and Kalka, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours. From Kalka, you can take a bus or taxi to Sangla, which takes around 8-9 hours.

By Air:

The nearest airport to Sangla is the Jubbarhatti Airport in Shimla, which is around 230 km away. You can take a flight from Delhi to Shimla and then take a bus or taxi to Sangla. However, the road journey from Shimla to Sangla can be quite challenging and is not recommended for inexperienced drivers.

In conclusion, there are several options available to reach Sangla from Delhi. You can choose the mode of transportation that suits your budget and convenience. However, we recommend that you plan your journey in advance and book your tickets in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.