Kalpa is one of those many beautiful places in Himachal Pradesh, where I wish to visit again and again. This small town, Kalpa, is very close (just 5-6 kms away) to the district headquarter Reckong Peo, also known as Kinnaur. The entire valley of Satluj River in Reckong Peo district is regarded as Kinnaur Valley. Kalpa is famous for its apple orchards, peaceful environment and scenic beauty spread all around in the area. Kinnaur always remains a center of attraction for me because of its fairytales and stories of Kinnauri People, I read in the composition of Hindi poets.
How To Reach Kalpa? Reckong Peo is situated about 230 kms from Shimla on National Highway-22 going via Rampur, Reckong Peo towards Kaza. Kalpa is 5-6 kms ahead on a hilly slope, above the small city of Reckong Peo. There are no rail or air connectivity to Reckong Peo. The only option to reach there is either by the public buses or the private vehicles. It takes about 7-8 hours to reach Reackong Peo from Shimla. I have written a comprehensive post on the road journeys between Delhi and Kinnaur Valley and further to Spiti Valley. This post Road Journeys from Delhi to Spiti Valley provides a detailed transport options from Delhi to Reckong Peo.
The paved tarmac of the National Highway (NH-22) is in very good condition, except some bad patches due to the landslides, that may occur anytime. Along the highway is the natural beauty of Satluj River, its valley and towering hills. The narrow stream of Satluj is a constant companion along the road all the way upto Reckong Peo. The view is simply amazing. One side of the road is occupied with a deep gorge made by the river and another side is surrounded by the hilly slopes. Sometimes, the vehicle passes through a narrow section of the road and if you look below, down to hundreds of feet, the fierce flow of Satluj can shiver your spine with thrill and excitement.
Reckong Peo: Reckong Peo is the last major city before Spiti Valley and has a bus stand with government public buses connecting to the main cities like Shimla, Chandigarh, Delhi, Haridwar, Hamirpur, Mandi, Manali, Kaza etc.
From a tourist point of view, there is nothing exciting to visit in Reckong Peo. It only has a Big Buddha Statue in a remote corner of the city. There is a HPTDC guest house near the bus stand. Some more hotels are there around the bus stand. Few restaurants are there in the city, offered food is very basic and don’t expect good quality. If you want to enjoy this region, its better to move to Kalpa, upwards on the hilly slope.
Kalpa: Kalpa is a small town (rather village) surrounded by Apple orchards and beautiful landscapes. It was the district headquarter of Kinnaur District, that later moved to Reckong Peo. There are very few good hotels (about five) in the Kalpa along the paved road going onwards to Roghi Village. Since, it’s not a very famous destination in the conventional tourist circuit, the shortage of the rooms are not a problem in Kalpa.
The houses in Kalpa are constructed at the various levels of the hill slope. Two main paved roads cover the upper and lower part of this town. The major portion of this town is situated along the lower road. But all the good hotels are situated on the upper road. A series of paved steps connects the lower portion to the upper portion. The lower road further extends beyond the small market and passes through the apple gardens to merge with the upper road at the far end of the village.
There is no particular sightseeing spots in Kalpa. You have to just walk along the upper road or on the lower road passing through the middle of apple orchards to enjoy the beauty of nature and solace of Kalpa. The people in Kalpa is influenced by both the Hindu as well as the Buddhist Religion. A small but very nice Buddist temple is there in a corner of the village, near the Post Office, where you can spend some quiet moments. Just behind the temple, a school compound provides a really good view to capture some of the best pictures of surrounding Himalayan Peaks.
Kalpa has a small market supplying all the basic essentials. For more options, people tend to shop in Reckong Peo. After visiting the market and Buddhist Temple, just move ahead from the market towards the apple orchards. Shortly after passing the small Tahsil building along the lower road, you reach in the middle of beautiful apple orchards, and that is the best part to enjoy in Kalpa, especially in the month of September, when Red Apple are hanging on the trees.
Roghi Village: It is another beautiful small village full of Apple Orchards and other fruits like apricots, wallnuts, chilghoza etc. It is about 4 kms beyond the Kalpa, on the edge of a mountain.
There are two ways to reach Roghi Village: Either, Use a public bus (they do not run frequently, but except one at every hour, only 2-3 government buses, rest are private) from Kalpa to Roghi. Or, walk in the lap of nature, to cover the distance of about 4 kms on the foot. I prefer to reach there by the bus and after walking around in the village, I keep walking towards Kalpa also. Again, there is no particular tourist spot to visit in Roghi. Just walk around the small village, see the apple orchards and rice/wheat terraced fields. At the far end of the village, you can click the pictures of the beautiful mountain peaks.
Walking in the Roghi Village and indulging with locals is really a pleasant experience and you can spend hours there, however two hours is sufficient to explore the village and enjoy the scenic beauty.
The road from Kalpa to Roghi is a narrow one, but in good condition. You can enjoy the beautiful views of Kinner Kailash, while walking on this road. At the first visit, we were unable to identify the Shivalinga of Kinner Kailash, but later on, we met a group of local Kinner Women, who helped us to identify the right peak.
The scenic beauty along the road between Kalpa and Roghi is breathtaking. Situated across a valley and up the opposite, hills from the Himalayan range, this road had a view down to the river 1500m below and up to the peaks 2500m above. That’s a 4000m vertical view with a so-called suicide point, no joke. Over 13,000 feet from bottom to top, a constant sharp rising mountain, and on top, a crest of a number of dramatic jagged snow-peaks, stretching around 90 degrees left to right.
Passing through the forest of Devdar Trees and so called suicide point, you again come closure to Kalpa, a village of the old wooden houses, piled stone fences around the apple orchards, lots of wild pink roses everywhere and many people greeting with a cheerful smile.. There are certain moments a traveler never forgets and exploring Kalpa and Roghi is one of them.
Kalpa is the first place, where I really feel my bonding with the snow-peaks of The Himalayas. Prior to that trip, I never saw so many white peaks in the life, even not in Gulmarg. In Kalpa, I was truly blessed by the Mighty Himalayas and fully enjoyed the everlasting attractions. Time is always less to feel the Himalayas, but I know that my tryst with the Himalayas will continue forever. Beautiful memories of that first exploration in Kalpa always encourage me to explore more and more parts of the Himalayas spread across the northern border of India as well as in the states of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Sikkim, Arunanchal Pradesh and all. I may live in Delhi, but this heart always wonder in those valleys and peaks of the Himalyas.
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Hi.. can u please tell me if there are any options for shared cab or traveller busses from reckong peo to kaza in the month of October?
Hi, HRTC (Himachal Roadways) bus should be available from Peo to Kaza in the month of October. Shared Cab are also available, but not for the entire stretch. You have to do it in parts like Peo to Nako, Nako to Tabo like that.
Wow! The article is so informative. Should I plan to visit these places in the month of Jan?
Yes, You can enjoy the winter snow in Kalpa. It’s an all weather road between Shimla and Kinnaur.
i am planning to visit kalpa, sangla and chitkul in third week of march by my own vehicle. Is it good to plan at that time or not? Is there any parking facility available in Karcham or recokong peo so that i may strand my car there and use hrtc bus for chitkul.Also can we reach kalpa, sangla and chitkul in first week of november by own car.
Hi, It’s possible to reach Kalpa and Chhitkul in November as well as in March. But you should have a comfortable level in Hill driving. Roads are good, but lot of curves with deep gorge of Satluj River on one side and mountains on the other side. You can park your car in Reckong Peo as well as Sangla. Just take help of a local guest house.
Truly useful information for an adventure traveler. Specific and informative as well.
Hi can I know about the current Road conditions to Kalpa to Chitkul..
Is it possible to cover both kalpa and Chitkul in 3 days from Chandigarh. Planning to leave on Thursday night from CHD and starting to come back to CHD on Sun morning.
No, It’s not possible and not recommended also. Try to steal at least 5 days, if you starts from Chandigarh.
I am sixty five years old and have undergone bye-pass surgery way back in 2006. I am taking my medicines. Can I travel to Kaza in the month of Sep/October and if yes with what precautions.
I don’t think that travelling by a vehicle should be a problem for you. For comprehensive information, please consult with your doctor, Sir.
This was a really helpful article. We are planning to go to Kalpa Kinnaur in the first week of October’17.
Day-1 Shimla – Sarapan
Day-2 Sarahan – Sangla
Day-3 Stay at Sangla
Day-4 Sangla – Chitkul
Day-5 Chitkul – Kalpa
Day- 6 Stay at Kalpa
Day- 7 Kalpa – Shimla
Please advise whether this is a suitable itinerary for travelling with children. Also what kind of weather can we expect during this time.
Thank you.
October is the perfect time to visit the reason. The itinerary looks good. But I found Chhitkul more beautiful than Sangla, however, it’s a small village and you can easily explore as per your itinerary. Have a nice trip. 🙂
It’s a wonderful artical and thanks for sharing the details. I am planning trip to kinnaur kalpa in march 2nd week of 2017. Most of the tour operators say roads might be closed. Pls advise if we can plan the trip as we want to enjoy snow
Hi, the roads won’t be closed permanently upto Kinnaur Valley, However, due to heavy snowfall, there are chances for momentarily shut down. And, you can find the snow in the 2nd week of March at Kalpa.
after winter 2017 which month will be the first one to go to Kinnur safely…via simla ..by Hrtc buses or share taxis .. or go straight to Rampur and take the same option Bus or Share Taxi…?
Hi, you can comfortably explore the area from May onwards, however it is open for tourist all year around. Direct buses are available from Shimla (sometimes from Chandigarh also) to Reckong Peo.
hii!
I am planning my trip to kalpa in first week of dec.
I wanted to know if weather is not an issue?
And yes i have 5 days in total…. will it be possible to go and come back in 4 or 5 days from delhi to kalpa and back then?
And how about the transport is it available all time from kalpa to back in the city?
Yes. It’s possible. The state transport buses are available from Shimla and Chandigarh.
Hi ,
really very nice article, I am planning to visit kalpa in Dec. But just want to know few point.
Hows the road condition , jst asking . As i dnt have much experience driving in hill areas.
I went to Naldehra/Shimla/Kufri last week by driving my car . Driving from last one year in Delhi-Gurgaon road.
Can I drive on those area ? I heard from my cousin its really tuff to drive even for expert drivers ?
Is it real??
Thanks
In Advance.
Hi, Many people drive on this road daily, however, it’s really a tough road to drive. For 4-5 hours, you only find high mountains on one side and deep river valley on the other side. It really needs some good skills to drive on this road. If you are confident, drive on it, else, better to use public transport. Winter season of December may make the drive unpleasant.
Awesome article.. After reading this article, I am planning to go to Kalpa in this October with my brother. Thank you very much for this wonderful article.. I have one question, should I book hotel online or should I book it after reaching to Kalpa?
Both are good options. You can book online or you can book after arrival. There is no issue.
Okay, thank you. What is exact distance between Kalpa and Roghi? Google maps is showing 14.1 km. So we are little bit confused.
5 kms approx. A paved motorable road.
Hi. I am planning a trip from Gurgaon to Chitkul & reckong Peo via Shimla & Sarahan starting on 28th July 2016. Would you please advise if it’s doable on a bike (3 month old Honda CBR 250R). I’ll be travelling with my better half. Is it safe route. Would you please guide in chalking out a possible itinerary & route options.
Hi, if you have some experience of riding your bike in the mountainous area, then its perfectly doable. The road to Reckong Peo demands prior experience of riding on the mountains. There is only one good route…Delhi-Chandigarh-Shimla-Narkanda-Rampur-Reckong Peo. You can visit Chitkul and Sangla Valley while returning back from Peo or while going towards Peo.
Very nicely penned article ! Loved reading it. I am planning my solo trip in october mid to nov mid and expecting to reach Kalpa around November first week. Can you share any suggestion on accomodaiton both in kalpa and Roghi village? Will the weather be good around that time?
Hi, Weather will be pleasant. Don’t worry about that. No need to stay at Roghi Village. Just plan to stay at Kalpa (4 kms before Roghi). There are many decent properties available in Kalpa. One hotel is operated by HPTDC also.
Hi….I am planning to leave for Reckong peo (kalpa, roghi) and nako tabo kaza in the first week of july in Public transport. Is that ok? Can I also get bus or shared taxi from Kaza to Manali ? Also is sangla and chitkul doable in a day?
Thanks in advance.
Hi, it’s okay to go there in July. But, be prepared for landslides if heavy rain is there. The probability is very less in comparison to the Uttarakhand. You can get bus as well shared jeeps from Kaza to Manali. Sangla and Chhitkul is doable in a day by hired cab, may nit be possible using public transport. Have a great trip. 🙂
Hi,
I am planning to visit kalpa in the 3rd week of June. Are 3 days sufficient to travel? I will be travelling from Delhi. Also, is it fine to travel solo to this region?
Hi, 3 days doesn’t look good. At least 5 days are required to see the highlights of that area from Delhi. Shimla is approx 10-12 hours away by bus from Delhi and Kalpa is further 7-8 hours away. So, you have to travel in a night and then almost full day to reach there. Same while returning back. Hope you can arrange 5-days for this journey. Have a nice trip. 🙂
Hello,
Thanks for such a detailed insight into the Kinnaur valley.
My sister and I are planning to stop by Kalpa on our way back from Spiti. Can we leave from Kalpa, do Rohli village and Chitkul via Sangla and be back to Peo the same day? Does the road to Chitkul follow straight from Rohli Village? We might drop Rohli village if it is too much for the day..considering we have to leave the next day for Shimla/Chandigarh.
Thanks!
Hi, It’s not doable. Better to leave Sangla and Chitkul for another trip. It’s in different direction and a complete package for another trip. While returning back from Spiti, it’s better to visit Kalpa and Roghi village in a day. Peo, Kalpa and Roghi is next to each other, while for Sangla and Chitkul are at good distance from Reckong Peo. In a complete day, you should either do Kalpa and Roghi or Sangla and Chitkul. My suggestion is Kalpa and Roghi. 🙂
I am hiring a driver for my innova car to go to kalpa, rougi village and ahead of it.
Should I take innova or other car?
And if I want to go ahead of rougi village can we walk and go?
Hi, Innova is good for this trip. There is no road after Roghi Village. You can just climb on some hills from there.
Should I go ahead of kalpa valley in the month of June?
And if yes which is the next tourist stop or station to see( especially snow covered areas)
Hi, You June is perfect to travel around Kalpa. But don’t expect to experience the snow in the villages. However, many snow-covered Himalayan Peaks of Kinnar Kailash Range are visible from there.
Hi Solo Backpacker,
I am planning to travel to Reckong Peo in 2nd or 3rd week of June. So just wanted to ask, is it the right time to go there ? Because normally the rain starts pouring down and there are landslides in the hilly regions. So is it the right time ?
Hi, It’s really a good time to go there. The rainy season just starts in the 2nd week of June normally, but there is no problem till Reckong Peo. I guess, the mountains in Himachal Pradesh are not as much fragile as the mountains in Uttarakhand, so landslide is not a problem there.
Solo backpacker can u tell me whether is it possible to visit kalpa and its nearby area,through public bus service in the midweek to the end of November month..please suggest some information about the no. days of visit in chitkul single through bus service
Hi, It’s possible. You can visit Chitkul in two days using public bus service. Chitkul is small village. Unless you are intended to stay long, it’s good to walk around and visit the village during one night stay.
Hello Solo,
I am Planning to visit Kalpa, Peo, Sarahan, sangla valley from Delhi in June next month, i want to ask, can we go in Hyudai i20, to Kalpa. how are the roads, it is easy to drive we have not much experience in hill driving , I have a daughter 1 year and 3 month old, it is safe for her to travel, how much time it will take, and how we plan so that we drive easily with breaks across the cities, How we plan, first day delhi to sarahan, or Narkanda, or shimla where we stop. I am thinking of two halt, one from delhi to Pep and one when we came back to Delhi, so that we drive and enjoy trip. one more thing how much a hotel room we expect.
Hi, It’s doable and the roads are good till Reckong Peo. But after Rampur, the road appears very tricky, where it passes along the Satluj River. If you don’t have experiences of hill driving, better to hire a driver or go by other public/private transports. Try to stay at Narkanda (Hathu Peak), while going from Delhi to Reckong Peo. You can plan night halts at Kalpa and Chhitkul also.
Thanks for Reply, i have asked it is safe to travel my 1 year 3 month old daughter along with me, i have drive jammu to katra once so we are able to drive after Rampur, more place to explore between Kalpa and shimla. Chhitkul road is looking more dangerous
We are planning to visit Sarahan, Kalpa, Sangla in middle of October’16. Can it be possible that we will find Apple in Apple garden ?
Secondly my father aged 76 yr is going with us. Is there any breathing problem for high altitude ?
Can you cofirm how many steps we have to climb to reach Hotel Kailash Cottage from Parking place ?
Hi, there are chances to find apples in the apple gardens. The Apples in Kinnaur are normally plucked in by September-October, while in the other parts, they are plucked in by August-September. Kalpa is at an altitude of 2960 meters approx, but you gain this altitude slowly, while moving in a vehicle from Shimla to Kalpa. The road has many turns as well as ups and downs after Shimla. I don’t think that there should be a breathing problem. But it’s better to take a doctor’s advice. You can reach right upto Kailash Cottage by a vehicle. No need to climb on the steps.
I am(23) planning to travel from Shimla to kaza this may.. i have 20 days in my hand and my questions are
-Is MAY good time to travel there
-If yes then it will be glad if u suggest me sum good itinerary for around 12to15 days
-During may can i see greenary there?
-And Finally i am backpacking solo as you
Is there any problem for solo traveler as i want to use completely public transport
Hi, May is good time. But, the road from Kaza to Manali is closed, so your onwards and return both journey will be via Shimla, Reckong Peo to Kaza and back. You can easily roam around in the public transport, since you have enough time. Spiti Valley is a cold desert, don’t expect to see a lot of greenery. But, it’s a different landscape to enjoy the natural beauty. Do some research to plan a good itinerary. Try to visit Sarhan, Sangla, Chhitkul, Kalpa, Nako, Giu, Tabo, Kaza, Dhankar, Kye, Kibber and Mud Villages. 20-days should be good enough for all these places using the public transport. Enjoy your solo travelling. 🙂
I am planning to go to Sangla kalpa in mid September with a 2 yr child. Will it be safe for the child? Can we see apples?
Hi, there is no issue to travel with a baby. In September, you can expect to see the Apples also.
we have a plan to kalpa chitkul, peo for that want a information of hrtc bus timing from shimla to peo or chandigarh to peo.
Hi, you can get the buses at regular interval (almost every hour) from Shimla to Peo from 4 AM to 6 PM. Some buses also run beyond these hours. From Chandigarh, direct buses are available, but frequency is low.
Hi,
First of all thank you so much for sharing your travel stories, it’s reall helpful.
So I have a few queestion.
1) I am planning a solo trip for the very first time in my life to Himachal aspecially places around Reckong Peo, so I want to know what time of the year is best for that?
2) Is it safe for a girl to live alone in these places ?
4) which are the most beautiful places there that one most cover?
5) How many days do you think are required ?
Thank you.
Hi,
Glad to know that you are planning to step out on your first solo trip. It’s not a big deal nowadays, but still a bold step in this country. and there can’t be any better place than The Himalayas for the first solo trip. Please find your answers:
1) I am planning a solo trip for the very first time in my life to Himachal aspecially places around Reckong Peo, so I want to know what time of the year is best for that?
The best time is September-October… Apple fruits hanging on the trees, no fear of rain as well as landslides, lot of greeneries and pleasant weather. June is also good, but Sept-Oct is the best.
2) Is it safe for a girl to live alone in these places ?
Perfectly safe. People are very kind and really helpful. Just follow basic rules of safety and you will be perfectly safe. At least, in the mountains you can feel more safer than a metro and people are more trustworthy (My personal opinion).
3) which are the most beautiful places there that one most cover?
You can explore Kalpa, Roghi Village, Sangla Valley and Chhitkul Village around Reckong Peo.
4) How many days do you think are required ?
Depends on your way of travel. If you just want to see the places, one day is enough for Kalpa and Roghi and another one day for Sangla and Chhitkul. But, if you want to properly enjoy the area, start from Shimla and visit Narkanda. From there, go to Sarhan. Then visit Sangla Valley and stay at Chhitkul village. From Chhitkul, go to Kalpa and stay there. From Shimla, it takes minimum 4 days to cover these places properly. If you can make it for a week, then it will be great.
Have a nice trip. If possible, do share your experiences with us.
Hi, Solo Backpacker
I was planning to visit Kinnaur valley during the month January with my friend group. so could you please tell me his it is safe that time of year, what areas will be accessible and what precautions to be taken if is safe to travel in Jan?
Kinnaur valley is accessible throughout the year. So, you can go there in January. You may have to negotiate with the snow on the road as well road-blockage due to the snow. So, basically you have to deal with snow and winter. You can easily find accommodation on arrival as there will be very less (almost none) tourists in the month of January. 🙂
Hey Solo Backpacker,
I have been trying to book with ppl in kalpa for january 2017, somehow everyone i have spoken with says we are nonoperational in the winters (including the HPTDC hotel). Is there someone you can suggest, or vouch on ur personal experience of being there in January and finding an accommodation on arrival. I just want to be sure, I hope u can understand. Thanks.
In winters, most of the commercial establishments are shut down. But there is a possibility to find accommodation with local people. Nothing is sure in that case, but people do travel in peak winters also. And, they also get some sort of accommodation. I can’t say from here and I haven’t been there in the winter, but I know some friends who took the random trips in the peak winter and got some accommodation at Kalpa as well as in Spiti Valley.
Thanks for your reply. Will take your suggestion and go ahead with the trip.
HI,
Please confirm Feb Mid is ok for travel kalpa and rocong peo
hotels and Bus ara available ????
Regards
Mohan
Ya, It’s perfectly okay, unless the road gets blocked due to heavy snowfall. You can also get some nice hotels on the decent price. Do check the weather conditions before departure.
Thank for reply but now I am planing to go Nainital because may be snowfall can spoil our vacation because of road blocked.. Can you tell me from chandigher buses are available for nanital… What time ?????
Sitting in Kalpa, mirroring many of your thoughts this morning. I think we’ll head for Roghi this afternoon, weather allowing. Hope to visit Spiti on a return visit. Thanks for the insight to Kalpa, it’s been wonderful.
Grant & Kate
Tradingparadises.wordpress.com
I hope you are enjoying the bliss of Kinnaur Valley. Have a nice trip to Spiti. 🙂
Thanks a lot for the comment. I like to get some more info as how much time it takes from Kalka to Kalpa? as I might be reaching to Kalka by Train.
also I like to know, can we travel there by Rental Innova Cab? will it be a feasible journey?
hi can anyone revert to me please?
From Kalka, It will be around 8-10 hours journey to Kalpa, by a public bus. You can use rental cars without any problem. The road is good and very scenic. If you are going by a cab, you can take a detour to Narkanda and Sarhan also.
we have travelled to Kalpa, Sangla & Chhitkul, during Diwali Holidays, i.e. from 12th Nov to 17th Nov, enjoyed a lot… but many hotels were closed for 3-4 months, yet we could get decent hotels where only we were staying, We could enjoy a lot due to less travelers… mostly Gujju & Delhi travelers were found that too very few.
but it was very exciting for nature and adventure lovers, but those who like to see more people while travelling also, may not enjoy enough…
these places are definitely worth going at least once…
Thanks Ketan. Nice to know that you had a good time there. 🙂
Hi, I am new to this site, well I am planning to visit Kalpa in November after Diwali, will it be okay to travel there at that time?
May I have the guidance please?
Hi, the road is open throughout the year, so you can go there without any issue. Weather will be pleasant during the day. Expect cold weather in the night. The winter season actually starts from the mid-October.
Planning to visit kalpa on 19th of this August … any suggestions regarding road conditions ? will we be facing monsoon ?
Thanks a ton in advance.
Road is good, but you have to drive very carefully. I can’t predict Monsoon, may or may not be.
Sir kindly tell me which is the perfect time to visit kalpa to enjoy snowing. And what’s the road conditions in snow season. Is it safe to drive or not. I am thinking to visit kalpa in first week of January.
Best time to enjoy the snow in Kalpa is from November to February. In the first week of January, you can expect lot of snow around you. But the road is very treacherous for the driving. Be careful. Have a safe journey.
I suggest u all nature lovers go to Kalpa, Nako, Kunjum, Kaja, Rohtang via Manali.. come back Chd to Delhi. Any information on all Himancal & J &K tour please sms / call me. All information provided totally free.
Hi, me and my husband planning to go there in the month of March’2016. Please suggest me which one is shorter Shimla-kaza or Manali-Kaza.
Also, the place is safe or not as we will be going there by bus.
Manali-Kaza route is shorter. But, it remains closed in the month of March, gets open by the end of June every year. Your only choice is to travel on Shimla-Kaza route, that remains open throughout the year. March is not the good time to visit Spiti Valley. Everything will be under a thick blanket of snow. Public Buses will be available, but subjected to the weather always. You may not able to reach certain areas also. However, watching the white beauty of snow all around will be a great experience indeed. But even I suggest you to plan for this trip between June to October. 🙂
Hi Solo Backpacker,
You mentioned that there is a govt bus connecting Rekong Peo to Mandi & Manali. I have been trying to get info on this connectivity from other sources and so far, fail to get any.
I am planning to do my Manali-Kaza-Tabo-Nako-Peo-Sarahan-Kullu-Manali circuit this August by bus and your info is an enlightenment for me. So far, all sources tell me that to go fr Rekong Peo/Sarahan to Kullu/Manali side, I have to change at Shimla.
If there is such a connectivity, I would appreciate very much if you will spare us the details. By the way, your write-up is real informative & insightful. Like as if I am there when reading it.
Hi, I have visited the area about 3 years back. I don’t have any idea about the updated information. However, you can check the current status of the buses with the HRTC Bus stands. Their numbers are, Manali: 01902-252323 , Reckong Peo: 01786-222444, Shimla: 0177-2658765
Thanks. I have since checked. The bus you mentioned actually goes to Manali via Kaza (anti-clockwise loop fr Manali agst my planned clockwise circuit).
I also found fr the HRTC bus schedule that there is a 4.30 am bus fr Peo to Mandi (where I can change bus to Manali). Will confirm this when in Peo. Thanks again solobackpacker. Happy backpacking!!!
i would like to know which is the best way to travel from kalpa
to delhi? how long does it need to reach Delhi
Hi,
From Kalpa, go to Reckong Peo (5-6 kms) by a cab or shared jeep/bus. From Reckong Peo Bus Stand, Catch a bus to Shimla, if available to Chandigarh (leave it at Kalka, if train to Delhi is from Kalka).
From Shimla, you can reach Delhi by a train, first Shimla-Kalka Railway and then an express train. or, You can get an overnight Volvo bus from Shimla to Delhi. Reckong Peo-Shimla is about 6 hours by bus, while Shimla-Delhi is about 10 hours bus journey.
Hi… im planning to go to kalpa in 1st week of July… How will be the weather conditions and is there any thing that needs to take care?
Hi, The weather should be good except the rains. If heavy rains and road blockage are not there, it will be a visual treat in that season. You can expect lot of greeneries in Kinnaur Valley. Just have 1-2 extra days in your itinerary. Have a nice trip.
I am planning to drive in my honda accord. Can you please tell if the road conditions are good / safe. Accord is a low ground clearance vehicle
I can’t say about Accord particularly. But, I think, you should avoid driving Accord on that road. It seems too long to handle the turns on those curves. However, road conditions are good enough and its wide enough to handle two sided traffic at a single time.
Hello, we are a family of 12 adults and 5 kids between 2.6 and 7 years of age. We are planning o spend about 4 days in kalpa. Please suggest if the road is drivable till kalpa as we plan to take our own vehicles.also is it comfortable place for kids and if we need to take care of special things?
Road is very good and drivable till Kalpa. But, you should have some experience of driving in the mountain areas, as it is one of the most dangerous road in India, with the deep valley of Satluj River on one side and high mountains on the other side. However, its a complete fun. Kids will definitely enjoy the experience.
Hi Solo
Thanks for the great information and photos. They truly inspire! I am heading to the area in June and hoping to travel Shimla – Kalpa – Manali. Is there a preferred direction to approach this journey? i was planning to head to Kalpa and around that direction, if that is suitable. Also, I have just over 2 weeks to make the trip leisurely, will this be enough time to relax and enjoy the beauty or should I have a shorter trip to allow for relaxation? Thanks for your help and inspiration!!
You mean Shimla-Kalpa and then back to Manali or it will go all the way via Shimla-Kalpa-Kaza-Losar-Manali? First option is good and 2-weeks is really sufficient. Second may not be possible, because it will depend on the opening of road from Kaza to Manali (that generally open in the end of June).
Hi there.
1st of all i must thanks to you for your detail information about kalpa and near by area. till that i didn’t find any one who wrote so minutely … it seems you are really a good traveler who provides all information ..
i am also planning to visit kalpa and nearby area on mid of Apr this month can you suggest me about reaching peo from chadigarh, how much time it will take approximately … Plz suggest me some places near by recong peo i am planning to stay about 5days and is it will be good that i will base at recong peo and then visit nearby places …
Thanks again for your valuable information
Hi Sir, in 5 days, you can cover Kalpa, Sangla Valley and Chhitkul Village. If you still get time, then go to Sarhan near Rampur also. Have a nice trip.
hey,
Im planning to go to spiti next week with a days halt at peo. wanted to know if we reach peo in the evening, can hike/walk till kalpa since youve written that kalpa is only five km from peo, but ive read elsewhere that its almost 8 to 9kms.
Hi, you can get vehicles to reach Kalpa from Peo, in the late evening also. I think, its only 5-6 kms from Peo. Better to stay at Kalpa rather than Peo. If you are not staying at government guest house at Peo, then Kalpa has better hotels/guesthouses.
Hi. Wanted to know if the roads will be ok to drive in feburary. Am planning to visit on my 4×4 jeep. Any inputs on road conditions would be greatly appreciated rana
Yes, Its an all weather road, remains open throughout the year. But heavy snowfall can close down some sections. As of now, it seems good to travel to Kalpa.
Hi i m going to plan a solotrip from delhi to kalpa…. In. Mid of april… So cn u please guide… Me in planing. My road trip.
Hi, All the details are in this post. Do you need any specific information?
hey hi can we get to reckong peo by our own hatchback ? we guys are planning a visit there by the end of dec.. are there any chances of snow? and w much will the total trip cost ( 4 persons) approx,,nd time to reach peo…Is there any monestry to visit,,, nd what about the road conditions from shimla to peo… i have been to lansdowne nd mussorie are dese same kind of heights nd roads …plz suggest
Hi, you guys can do this and it will be an awesome journey. Roads are not like the roads to Mussoorie or Lansdowne. It is very scary and considered as one of the toughest road to drive in India. Reckong Peo is about 5-7 hours away from Shimla. You can visit Kalpa village, about 5 kms from Peo. Also plan to visit Narkanda (about 2 hours after Shimla), Chitkul Village and Sangla Valley ( 1-day tour from Peo). Expect some snow and chilly winter, but normally, this road is accessible throughout the year.
To go to kalpa himachal should an indian possess special permit?
thanks and regards
ramkumar
No special permit is required for Indian citizens to visit Kalpa.
Thanks a lot for your valuable information.
Hello there,
First of all thanks for such a detailed post about the villages in Spiti, I am planning to visit Spiti in last week of Sept2014, I have few queries:
1. How much approx does it cost per day to stay in any of the villages in Spiti Valley & which place did you stay when in Kalpa and the cost for the same?
2. I understand from the post that there are buses availbale from Shimla to Peo, but I didnt understand how to reach kalpa from Peo, does this same bus drop you till Kalpa or do we need to hire a cab to reach Kalpa from Peo, if so what would be the approx cost for the same.?
3. What is more advisable to travel to Spiti? Should we start from Manali or should we start from Shimla? Heard Manali can cause AMS issues, can you give your inputs?
Regards
Hi,
Thanks for liking the posts on Spiti Valley. We request you to move your queries to the forum section of this website. This will help us to improve the interactions among the readers that will finally leads to the better user experiences. Looking forward towards your cooperation.
Hi iam planning to visit kinnaur distt.for 6 or 7 days interested to come back via kaza to manali.,
Have a great trip, friend ! 🙂
Thanks very much..dear i have also visited other distt.of h.p.as chamba . Khaziyar dalhosie and jyote .jyote valley is situated at 3400 mtrs.mind blowing lush green…srounded by devdaor trees..also try these places ..
Thank you for all the valuable information.. Can you please tell me if there is any volvo bus service is available from Recong Peo to Shimla/Kalka/Chandigarh. And also please let me know whether bus journey is physible for family members.
Hi, I am not sure on this. During our visit, there was a Volvo bus, but recent visitors reported that Volvo service is no longer available. Its a hilly terrain with lot of curves. We, as youngsters, do enjoy the bus journey, even in ordinary buses. Moreover, this is the only option, unless you are travelling by your own vehicle or hired vehicle.
Hi, i want to go to Kalpa from Renukaji by cab. can i get a detailed road route and also please let me know whether accomodation is available at Kalpa. Thanks and regards.
ramkumar menon (uduram@gmail.com)
Hi, There are plenty of accommodation options available at Kalpa. For route map between Renukaji and Kalpa, please refer google maps. The road that goes via Shimla (longer by at least 30-40 kms in comparison to other two) is in good condition. I don’t have any idea about the other two routes indicated by Google Maps.
Thanks – Regards
There is no Volvo Bus available from Chandigarh to Reckong Peo. Only one Semi Deluxe bus starting at 6:00 AM from Chandigarh reach Reckong Peo at around 7:00 PM . Family travel is safe in Himachal Pradesh anywhere. People are friendly and very helpful. Motion sickness is common problem when traveling through hilly areas. Buses are always full with passengers so try to book your tickets in advance.
Thanks for the information. Actually, at the time of our visit, that Volvo bus was available. Later, many travellers reported that the Volvo bus was no more in operation. But, again, two years back, when I visited Shimla, I saw a Volvo bus going from Chandigarh to Reckong Peo. May be, it is discontinued again or may be, they run it in a specific season.
Hi admin !!
I wish to visit Reckong Peo, Kalpa between 20 to 30th June 14. I want to know about any deluxe / Volvo bus running from Chandigarh to Reckong Peo.
Hi, As per HRTC website, there is no Volvo bus to Reckong Peo from Chandigarh now. However, there is a Him Mani Deluxe bus at 0550 PM from Chandigarh. The bus fare is Rs. 640 per person. Please check about Volvo with Chandigarh ISBT (0172-2668943) or Shimla Roadways Bus Stand (01772658765).
Your blog is amazing!! I am planning to visit Kinnaur by April end. I got most of information I was searching for the trip. I am a retired person (66 yrs ) with no time restriction and intend to stay for 3 – 4 weeks. Is there any home-stay arrangement / facility at Kalpa to your knowledge??
Hi Sir, we didn’t use home-stays in Kalpa, so no idea about them. But in Spiti Valley, they are quite good.
Hello Admin..
I have also been to Chitkul and Kalpa . I think you have been mistaken….no VOLVO bus service is available to Reckong Peo….Only ordinary bus service is available at the rate u r talking about…ie 325 INR
Hi Sidharth,
Thanks for this update..We went on that trip two years back and at that time, there was a VOLVO bus between Chandigarh and Kalpa. May be, it is not operational now..Thank you again..We completely depend on the travelers like you for the updates as we are unable to travel each places every year. We made the necessary update in this post.
Regards,
Avanish Maurya
what was the total cost of the whole trip from chandigarh to kalpa
Volvo Fare from Chandigarh to Kalpa is about 350 INR and a decent double non-AC room in Kalpa will not cost you more than 600 INR. Most of the local sightseeing is by a simple walk. A-day round taxi trip to Sangla and Chhitkul will cost approx. 2500 INR now.
Very nice post but I never saw Volvo running from Chandigarh to Kalpa. Moreover Chandigarh to Kalpa distance is more than 350 KMS. Please correct the information.
Thanks for the information.
Hi! Avanish, Thank u for the posting. I also intend to visit kalpa, sangla & Chitkul in the last week of April this year with my family members which includes a 3& half year old grand daughter. I seek your valuable advise in this journey. Haraprasad Mitra
Hi, If you have any query, let me know. I will be happy to provide you all the details.
Regards,
Avanish
hi! i have a son 5yrs old ,is the trip to sangla valley is adviseable
Hi Niraj,
It is absolute right to travel with your son.The valley is very beautiful and no tough trek is there. You can also go to Chhitkul as well as Reckong Peo and Kalpa. Wish you an exciting trip.
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Nice Pics there buddy!! I am also planning to visit the Sangla valley in mid june can you tell me about the weather there at this time and what to wear?
Hi Robin,Today I am in Reckong Peo only. Weather is very pleasant. Days are warmer,but not very hot. Expect chill wind in the evening and night. A warm pullover is must in evening. Happy Journey.
Hi Robin,Today I am in Reckong Peo only. Weather is very pleasant. Days are warmer,but not very hot. Expect chill wind in the evening and night. A warm pullover is must in evening. Happy Journey.
We are planning to go there in mid-May with two kids- 4 and 10 yr old. What kind of weather should I expect and will the snow get cleared by then?
Yes, the snow will be cleared by that time. Expect warm sunny days with chilly morning and evening. We went in the first week of June and still there was need for a warm pullover in the morning and evening, specially in Chitkul. Rain can occur anytime during the day. So, be prepared for the sudden drizzle. Overall, weather will be pleasant at that time. Enjoy your trip to Kinnaur. Have a wonderful trip.
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Hi Dear,
Thanks for a wonderful travelogue, thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m going to visit those places at the end of this month. Could you please let me know if the same bus (Delhi-Rekong Peo HRTC bus – that you had mentioned above) operates in the opposite route as well? That is, Rekong Peo to Delhi. If yes, is it a good idea to take that bus and go directly to Delhi (would it be very tiring and uncomfortable?)? Or should we spend a night in Shimla on the way, and go to Delhi the following day?
Looking foward to your suggestions.
Thanks in advance!
Anirban
Hi Anirban, thanks for enjoying this blog. I have checked the HRTC website and it says that there is no direct Volvo Bus between Delhi and Reckong Peo, however there is an ordinary bus that left Delhi at 20.10 PM and reached Reckong Peo at 16.45 PM next day. We caught our bus from Chandigarh during our trip and also return bus was up to Chandigarh only. Although that website says that there is no direct Volvo between Chandigarh and Reckong Peo also, but i remember that this Volvo left Chandigarh at about 5-6 PM to Reckong Peo. You can check it at Chandigarh ISBT Sec.43. Enquiry Number of HRTC is 0172-2668943. Anyway,it is not advisable to do Reckong Peo-Delhi journey in a single leg. It will take around 18 hours. You will be very tired by a bus journey. Its better to take a day break at Shimla or Chandigarh, or alternatively, you can book Kalka Shatabdi in morning for return journey. The volvo, that left Reckong Peo at 15.00 PM, reaches Kalka by 04.00 AM approximately. After that you can board the Shatabdi for a comfortable journey to Delhi.
Thanks!
You may use a light blue filter for icy mountain photographs.
You are the Indian Marco Polo of modern days. No wonder!!
Thanks for liking the blog…its really encouraging..