Sangla Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Sangla Valley is a breathtakingly beautiful valley located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. The valley is surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, which provide a stunning backdrop to the lush green apple orchards, terraced fields, and traditional Kinnaur houses that populate the valley floor.

Sangla Valley is renowned for its picturesque scenery and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers. Visitors to the valley can take a leisurely stroll through the apple orchards, enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding mountains, and witness the traditional way of life of the Kinnaur people.

Another significant attraction of the Sangla Valley is Kinnaur Kailash, a mountain peak that is considered a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site. The Kinnaur Kailash is revered by local people and is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims from all over India flock to the valley to undertake a strenuous trek to the summit of the Kinnaur Kailash, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Sangla Valley is also known for its handicrafts, particularly Kinnaur shawls and Kinnaur Kinnaur apples. These traditional products are popular with tourists and are made from high-quality materials, ensuring their longevity and durability.

In conclusion, the Sangla Valley is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the stunning beauty of the Himalayas, witness the traditional way of life of the Kinnaur people, and immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of the region.

Major Attractions in Sangla Valley

The major attractions in Sangla Valley include:

  • Apple Orchards: The valley is surrounded by lush green apple orchards, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks of the Himalayas.
  • untain peak and a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site, revered by local people and believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva.
  • Kinnaur Shawls and Apples: Traditional handicrafts made from high-quality materials, including Kinnaur shawls and Kinnaur apples.
  • Traditional Kinnaur Houses: The valley is dotted with traditional Kinnaur houses, showcasing the unique architecture and culture of the region.
  • Bering Nag Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Baspa River.
  • Kamru Fort: An ancient fort, considered the gateway to Kinnaur, located in the nearby village of Kamru.
  • Chitkul Village: The last inhabited village on the India-Tibet border, known for its stunning views of the Himalayas and its traditional way of life.
  • Trekking and Hiking: With its rugged terrain and scenic beauty, the valley is a popular destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts.
  • Wildlife Sanctuaries: The surrounding area is home to several wildlife sanctuaries, including the Great Himalayan National Park, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature photography.

These are some of the major attractions in Sangla that offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure activities, making it a must-visit destination for tourists.

Activities in Sangla Valley

Some popular activities to do in Sangla Valley include:

  • Trekking: With its rugged terrain and scenic beauty, the valley is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts.
  • Hiking: Explore the stunning mountain trails, witness the traditional way of life of the Kinnaur people, and take in the breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Visit nearby wildlife sanctuaries, such as the Great Himalayan National Park, to see a variety of wildlife, including rare species such as the Snow Leopard and Himalayan Musk Deer.
  • Fishing: Take a relaxing fishing trip in the nearby Baspa River, known for its abundant population of trout and other fish species.
  • Rafting: Enjoy an exciting rafting trip down the rapids of the Baspa River.
  • Camping: Pitch a tent and camp overnight in the scenic beauty of the valley, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
  • Visit to Temples and Forts: Visit ancient temples and forts, such as the Bering Nag Temple and Kamru Fort, to learn about the rich culture and history of the region.
  • Shopping: Purchase traditional Kinnaur handicrafts, such as shawls and apples, to take home as souvenirs.
  • Food and Wine Tasting: Sample the local cuisine and try traditional Kinnaur wine made from apples.
  • Photography: Capture the stunning scenery and traditional way of life of the Kinnaur people with your camera.

These are some of the activities that visitors can enjoy in Sangla, providing a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure activities.

Staying In Sangla Valley

Visitors to Sangla Valley can stay in a variety of accommodations, including:

  • Hotels: There are several hotels and guesthouses in the valley, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options, catering to the needs of travelers.
  • Homestays: Experience the traditional way of life of the Kinnaur people by staying in a homestay, where you can live with a local family and learn about their culture and customs.
  • Camping: Pitch a tent and camp overnight in the scenic beauty of the valley, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
  • Resorts: Enjoy the comforts of a resort, with facilities like swimming pools, restaurants, and spas.
  • Villa Rentals: Rent a villa or cottage for a more secluded and private stay in the valley.

These are some of the options available for staying in Sangla, allowing visitors to choose the best option that suits their needs and budget.

Sangla Valley Food Guide

Sangla Valley offers a variety of local and regional cuisine, incorporating traditional ingredients and cooking methods. Here are some of the must-try foods in Sangla Valley:

  • Local Cuisine: The local cuisine of Sangla is predominantly non-vegetarian and features dishes made with ingredients such as meat, potatoes, and lentils. Kinnaur trout, a local specialty, is a must-try dish for those visiting Sangla.
  • Street Food: There are several street food stalls in the town that offer a range of tasty and affordable snacks, such as momos, chow mein, and bhajias.
  • Restaurants: There are several restaurants in Sangla that offer a range of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes.
  • Bakeries: Bakeries in Sangla are a great place to try the local cakes, pastries, and breads, which are made with fresh ingredients.
  • Fruit Stalls: There are several fruit stalls in the town that offer a variety of fresh fruits, including apples, plums, peaches, and apricots.

These are some of the dining options available in Sangla, allowing visitors to experience the local flavors and cuisine of the region.

How To Get There

Sangla Valley can be reached through the following modes of transportation:

By Road

Sangla Valley is well connected by road and is accessible by bus from major cities in the region, such as Shimla, Delhi, and Manali. Visitors can also hire a taxi or drive to Sangla, as the road conditions are good.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to Sangla Valley is the Shimla railway station, which is approximately 240 km away. From there, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sangla.

By Air

The nearest airport to Sangla Valley is the Jubbarhatti Airport in Shimla, which is approximately 240 km away. From there, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sangla.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sangla Valley

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sangla Valley:

What is Sangla Valley?

Sangla Valley is a picturesque valley located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India, surrounded by snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.

How do I get to Sangla Valley?

Sangla Valley is located about 250 km from Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Visitors can reach the valley by road from Shimla or other nearby cities, or by air to the nearest airport at Shimla.

What is the best time to visit Sangla Valley?

The best time to visit Sangla Valley is from April to June and September to November, during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

What are the major attractions in Sangla Valley?

Some of the major attractions in Sangla Valley include Bering Nag Temple, Kamru Fort, Chitkul Village, Rakcham Village, and the Baspa River.

What activities can I do in Sangla Valley?

Visitors to Sangla Valley can enjoy activities such as trekking, hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, rafting, camping, visiting temples and forts, shopping, food and wine tasting, and photography.

What kind of accommodations are available in Sangla Valley?

Visitors to Sangla Valley can choose from a variety of accommodations, including hotels, homestays, camping, resorts, and villa rentals.

What food is available in Sangla Valley?

Sangla Valley offers a variety of local and regional cuisine, including Kinnaur Kofta, Kinnaur Chutney, Kinnaur Rice, Kinnaur Wine, Madra, Sidu, local snacks, and regional fruits.

         

Famous Treks Sangla Valley

Here are some of the famous treks in Sangla Valley, Himachal Pradesh:

  • Baspa Valley Trek: A popular trek that takes you through the stunning Baspa Valley, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests.
  • Kinner Kailash Trek: A challenging trek that leads you to the base of the famous Kinner Kailash peak, passing through remote villages and scenic valleys.
  • Chitkul to Rakcham Trek: A scenic trek that takes you from the picturesque Chitkul Village to the traditional village of Rakcham, passing through alpine meadows and forests.
  • Rupin Pass Trek: A popular trek that takes you through the Rupin Pass, a high mountain pass in the Himalayas, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

District at a Glance

  • 31.4255° N, 78.2650° E
  • India
  • Himachal Pradesh
  • 6522 Sq. Km.
  • 172106
  • 17,974
  • 84.59%
  • UTC+05:30 (IST)