KINNAUR Location: Himachal Pradesh
Altitude: 2670m
Places Of Interest: Reecong Peo, Kalpa, Sangla Valley, Puh
Located in the dizzying heights of the Himalayas, with passes that remain closed for six months linking them with the rest of the world, Kinnaur, is the land of fairytale and fantasies. Today, this area has been opened for the daring and adventurous, to discover what had been hidden from the world for centuries.
Kinnaur has got the spectacular terrain of lush green valleys, orchards, vineyards, snow clad peaks and cold desert mountains. This border district of Himachal Pradesh is also rich in flora and fauna and its culture and languages is different from other parts of the state. Also known as the tribal district of Himachal Pradesh, Kinnaur is situated 250-km away from Shimla and is situated on the National Highway No.22.
The landscape varies from the luxuriant green orchards of the scenic Sangla valley to the stark magnificence of the of the Hangarang valley. The massive snow clad ranges that provide a regal dignity to the scene, are dominated by the peak of Kinner Kailash and Kalpa is one of the biggest and beautiful villages of Kinnaur district.
The gushing rivers of Kinnaur abound in Trout-the angler's prize catch, their waters have over the centuries chiseled beautiful gorges across this picturesque land and nurtured one of the most unique societies on there banks. In the lush land live the descendants of the Kinners- the demi-gods of the Hindu pantheon, whose deeds have been immortalized in epics and the poems of ancient Sanskrit poets.
There are thirty-three Buddhist monasteries and temples in Kinnaur's breathtaking beautiful setting. The Nyingma-pa, Drug-pa sects are all well represented over here.
Baspa/Sangla Valley: 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. 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.
