Sangla Valley is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful valleys in the country which is why it makes a popular destination among tourists. Set on the banks of Baspa River, one can enjoy the exceptional views of the Himalayas from the valley. The scenic villages of Sangla let you experience the simplistic lifestyle of Kinnaur.

Sangla is where Rupin Pass trek ends. Chitkul, another scenic village near Sangla is where Borasu Pass Trek ends. Hence you should make the best of your time here.

Stay on this page to find out why you must do the Rupin Pass trek to add to the complete experience of enjoying Sangla and Chitkul.

 

7 Places you can visit around Sangla and Chitkul

 

1. Kamru Fort

Located in the picturesque Solang Valley, Kamru Fort is a portal to a bygone area. The unique 3-story wooden fort is a 15th-century architectural marvel. The fort has now been developed into a temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya. The idol of the goddess is placed on the third floor and is said to have been brought from Guwahati. The temple has huge religious importance among the locals.

 

 

2. Bering Nag Temple

One of its kind, Bering Nag Temple holds a religious importance among people. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagas, a form of Lord Shiva. It is constructed with wood and can be considered as an architectural marvel from olden times. Every year in months of August and September, Phulaich Fair is celebrated in the temple which makes it all more interesting attraction. It is 2 km from Sangla Village.

 

 

 

3. Chitkul Village

Chitkul is a small hamlet in this region of Himachal Pradesh. The interesting fact about this village is that it is the last inhabited village near Indo-Tibetan border. The beauty and charm of this village are no less than a fairyland. It is located 20 km from Sangla. There is even a temple of a local goddess, Chitkul Maathi, which holds huge importance for people from Kinnaur district. This village experiences heavy snowfall in winters.

 

By Harpreet Singh

 

4. Baspa River

Sangla Valley is inhabited on the side of mighty Baspa River. The river is surrounded by the gigantic Himalayan ranges. The views around the banks of the river are to die for. One can find a variety of fish in the freshwater of the river. There are even baskets hanging above the river which are used as a mode of river crossing by the villagers. Have a little ‘you-time’ sitting by the side of the beautiful river contemplating about life.

 

 

5. Tibetan Wood Carving Centre

In case you are looking for a souvenir to take back from your trek, Tibetan Wood Carving Centre is the place to be. You will find object made from wood with intricate carvings in Tibetan Style. There is a display of an array of beautiful objects that are also available for sale. The center is located on the outskirts of Sangla near the Saffron Farm. It is one of the popular sightseeing places in Sangla.

 

 

6. Batseri

Batseri is another hamlet in this region which is famous for its scenic beauty and local handicrafts. The village is located 8 km from Sangla. What makes it a must-visit are the Himachali shawls and Kinnauri caps. Trout Farming is also prevalent in this region which is not to be missed. Also, get pine nuts and chilgoza from the village.

 

 

7. Brelengi Gompa

When you are in Himachal, you ought to visit the monasteries here. Brelengi gompa is a beautiful monastery near Sangla that you can visit. It was established in 1922 by the Mahabodhi Society to perform the Kalachakra ceremony. There is even a 10 m high statue of Lord Buddha near the monastery. A lot of people visit this fine Buddhist monastery to seek peace and solace.

 

 

To combine trekking with sightseeing, the Rupin Pass trek along with the quaint villages of Sangla and Chitkul make a perfect itinerary for any traveler. The added advantage of doing the Rupin Pass trek is that it takes you from the Garhwali culture of Uttarakhand to the Kinnauri life of Himachal, not only a transition between two landscapes but also cultures. From the stunning meadows, gushing streams and the three-stage waterfall to the exhilarating Rupin Pass and the Kinnaur mountain ranges, this trek will make your experience unforgettable and awesome. The fact that the Rupin Pass trek ends at the village of Sangla from where you get to explore Chitkul, the last village before the Indo-Tibetan border is such an accomplishment. Hence, the Rupin Pass trek with a visit to the villages of Sangla and Chitkul is a complete package.

So, whenever you decide to go on the Rupin pass trek, you must stay at Sangla valley for a few extra days. While you have the chance, make complete use of it and do a few touristy things along with the trek. You will have a heart full of memories and a bag full of souvenirs to take back with you. 

I can assure you that your social media feed will rock! 

So, go on and let your wanderer soul lose and pamper the tourist inside you too!