Situated in the intense landscape of the Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh, Chitkul is a stunning village that serves as one of India’s most isolated and fascinating sites. Usually referred to as the last village of Himachal, Chitkul presents tourists with a sight into a world of unexplored beauty and classic Himalayan cultures. Chitkul’s traditional way of life is among its most attractive features. The Kinnauri people, who have maintained their ancient traditions, architecture, and way of life, live in the village.
Because of its proximity to the Indo-Tibetan border, Chitkul in Himachal Pradesh is known as the last village of India Himachal and the final inhabited territory on the Indian side before the Chinese border. Due to its strategic location, any civilian movement is prohibited beyond this village. Let’s explore Chitkul in Himachal Pradesh more through this blog.
Chitkul, often called the last village of India in the Himalayas, is a breathtaking destination that offers a glimpse into the untouched beauty and culture of the region.
Table of Contents
About Chitkul in Himachal Pradesh
Chitkul is just a small and barely populated territory in the Himalayas. Nothing unique is available for you to explore here. However, this is the place to go if you are searching for an excellent withdrawal from the hectic city life. Peace is one of the many things you will find in this last village of Himachal. Chitkul is a popular destination for tourists who want to escape the unnatural world and take in the magnificence of nature.
This place is also known as the last village of Lahaul Spiti. Here, visitors can get a taste of the rich cultural legacy of the area by watching locals work in handicrafts, farming, and sheep rearing. Visitors can find a range of views in Chitkul. An important place of worship and proof of the area’s spiritual legacy is the old Chitkul Mata Temple (Mathi Temple), which is devoted to the village’s creator.
Location of Chitkul: Last Village of India Himachal
Chitkul is situated in Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur Valley. The term “the land between earth and paradise” refers to Kinnaur. Tibet to the east and Garhwal to the south cover this last village of Lahaul Spiti. The Spiti Valley covers the north side, while Kullu surrounds the west. The distance between Chitkul and the Uttarakhand border is only 20 km.
Chitkul and Delhi are roughly 569 kilometers apart. The Sangla Valley’s closest settlement is 28 kilometers away. Rakcham hamlet is situated halfway between Sangla Valley and Chitkul. Driving to Chitkul from Rakcham village can turn out to be one of your best life choices. Chitkul village is only 90 kilometers from the Indo-Tibet border. It is banned for civilians to travel outside of Chitkul. Chitkul is referred to as India’s “last village” for this reason.
Last village of India Pakistan border is a term often associated with villages located at the farthest points near the India-Pakistan border. While Chitkul is situated near the Indo-Tibetan border, it stands as one of India’s most isolated and protected settlements.
Things to Do in Chitkul: Last Village of India Himachal
There are plenty of experiences that this last village of India Himachal offers to visitors. One can indulge in a variety of activities with their friends and family when on a vacation to this beautiful site. Here are the top 3 of them:
1. Mathi Devi Temple
Mathi Devi has three villages devoted to her. About 500 years ago, the oldest one was created. To show your devotion and give prayers to Mathi Devi, you can come to this temple in the last Village of Lahaul Spiti. The temple’s surroundings are lovely. It is mesmerizing to watch the wooden architecture. Therefore, if you are considering visiting Chitkul, be sure to visit this ancient temple and receive blessings.
2. Baspa River
When looking for places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, visitors can take a relaxing walk alongside the Baspa River. You can enjoy the cold, glacial water by dipping your hands in it while walking. On a sunny day, the water appears captivating. A visit to Chitkul, the last village of India at the India-Pakistan Border would not be complete without taking in the breathtaking beauty of this natural landscape.
3. Trekking
In Chitkul, trekking is very important. Trekking down some of Chitkul’s most well-recognized paths is something you should be looking forward to if you are an adventurer. The good news is that this area delivers both easy and challenging trekking paths. Here are some of them:
- The Nagari ITBP, a less harsh trekking option, is among the top and most well-liked hiking routes in Chitkul in the Last Village of India in Ladakh.
- The trekking route from Chitkul to Rani Kanda Meadows is very captivating. There are both easy and challenging routes on this 10-kilometer hike.
- With a height of 17880 feet, the Borasu Pass trip is the most challenging route in the area. There are small hills and 90-degree slopes along the route.
- The Lamkhaga Pass trek is said to be the most challenging trekking path out there. It will take you a minimum of 15 days to finish the trek.
Best Time to Take a Visit to the Last Village of Himachal
The best time to visit Chitkul is definitely in September, as this is when the entire Kinnaur Valley becomes lively. With dynamic blossoms decorating the area, the landscape looks truly breathtaking. As June and August also offer beautiful sights, they overlap with the monsoon season, which could hamper your holiday plans. By September, the rains have passed and allow you to experience the complete beauty of the region.
You can also plan a trip during the summer months from April to June when the clear blue skies and stunning surroundings create a welcoming atmosphere. A visit to the Last Village of Himachal during this time provides an exceptional experience.
Conclusion
Chitkul, the last village of Himachal is a hidden gem in India that presents a special combination of natural beauty, historical magnificence, and peace. Even if you are a nature enthusiast, an adventure lover, or looking for a getaway from city life, you will surely find something unique in Chitkul for yourself. A visit to the last village of Himachal is surely an unforgettable experience that one should take in a lifetime.
Also read: Top 10 Boarding Schools in Himachal Pradesh