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Were addicted to Himalayan travel, so were thrilled to bring you this great classic roadtrip. The ancient kingdom of Guge, also known as Spiti once part of western Tibet is afascinating Buddhist enclave that historically has had little contact with the outside world.Indeed, even the famous Himalayan caravan routes didnt pass this way, since snows keep

Spitis high pass es inaccessible during the harsh winter months. It still lives in anothercentury, an ancient world that begins where the paved road ends.

Our adventure takes us past green fertile valleys to moonscapes of stark yet evocativebeauty, where youll ride ove r high passes marked with fluttering prayer flags, seeBuddhism practiced in its purest form, and admire an arid landscape brightened byshimmering willow groves and glacier-irrigated fields of yellow buckwheat and green peapatches. Along the way youll m eet the handsome Kinnauri & Spitian people, among themost colorfully dressed of Himalayan inhabitants, and follow trails lined with some of themost exquisitely carved mane stones in the Himalaya.


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The trip is essentially designed as an overland safari, with elements of adventure sewn in, to keepthe adrenalin oozing. So one will get to hike tosome of the most exquisite locations, bike throughtrails which have not seen two wheels as yet,descend down Himalayan Rivers and camp amongthe wilderness. Also learn about age old HimalayanBuddhist traditions, visit 1000 year old monasteriesand dwell in some meditation and yoga when theactivities take some toll.

SPITI

At last they entered a world within a w orld. A valley of leagues where the high hills were fashioned of mererubble and refuse from off the knees of the mountain.Surely the Gods live herebeaten down by the silence and the appalling sweep of dispersal of thecloud shadows after the rain. There is no place for men. Rudyard Kipling KIM

It can be a soul journey for those affected by the manewalls, fluttering flags, prayer wheels, monks, all beneath anageless blue sky, in a primordial landscape. For those morephysically charged, there is the prospect of thirst filled walksto unexplored glacier valleys and scaling virgin 6000mts peaks.

A Billon years ago, Spitis present location was the bed of Tethys sea, separating Asia from the ancient continent of Gondwana. Gondwana joined Asia to form the IndianSubcontinent and in the process, pushed up the intermediateground of the Tethys sea. Over time the sea dried up and theHimalaya sprang up, inching higher even now as the tectonicplate of the former landmass of Gondwana continues itsmovement under the Asian mainland.

KINNAUROccupying the northeast corner of Himachal Pradesh, Kinnauris a region of high mountain ranges, enclosing the narrowvalleys of the Sutlej and its tributaries. In the south, TheDhauladhars, ascending eastward to meet the GreaterHimalaya, divide the Sangla valley of Kinnaur from theUttarkashi district of Uttaranchal and Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. To the east, the vast reaches of Tibet lieacross the Zaskar mountains. Between the Zaskars and theDhauladhars, the Greater Himalaya passes through the heartof Kinnaur and the Srikhand mountains screen of Spiti on thenorthwest and along a short stretch on the southwest markthe border with Kullu.

The River Sutlej, entering India from Tibet at Shipki la, piercesthrough a seemingly impregnable series of barriers in itstumultuous journey to the plains of India. Dropping almost2000m over 100 odd kms, as it traverses southwest throughKinnaur, the River pays scant regard to the impressivecredentials of the Zaskar, Greater Himalaya and DhauladharRanges. The Sutlej forms a narrow, steep sided valley whichtapers into more gradual slopes, part way up the highmountains on either side. Villages are located either on thesegentler slopes or in the valleys of the more substantialtributaries joining the Sutlej in the course of its journeythrough Kinnaur.

Kinnaur finds a fit expression in its abundant delicacy ThePine nut, like the tasty kernel of the nut, it may take someeffort to get to the core of Kinnaur however once you arethere, the experience is truly rewarding. Legend has it thatKinnaur with all its beauty and splendor fell from the cloudsto take its place in the Himalayas. The place and its peoplefind mention in many ancient Hindu texts. The ancient peopleof this land were Kinner and Kirats tribes also referred to asGandharvas in Vedic literature. About 2000 B.C a branch of the Aryans, called Khashas, penetrated the Himalaya


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Ranges of the Greater Himalaya enclose Spiti in a semi circulararc, separating it from Lahaul on the west, Kullu to the southand Kinnaur to the southwest. They also prevent the moistureladen monsoons from reaching the region, thus creating inSpiti, a bleak and arid landscape in common with Ladakh andTibet, located beyond the Zaskar mountains to the north andeast. Lacking vegetative growth, the exposed terrain is ageologists paradise. It records every geological age from thePre-Cambrian to the recent, in pristine formations.

Spiti valley is formed by its synonymous river which rises onthe slopes of Kunzum la (4551mts) dividing the Lahaul andSpiti district, and ends at Khab where it meets the Sutlej. FromNW to SE the valley extends for 140kms. Along its course theSpiti river traverses beds of clay and rocks, out of which risepeculiar rough monument like masses honeycombed all overwith deep holes as if scooped out by a sculptor.

People in Spiti follow Buddhism. Primitive beliefs andsuperstitions have intermingled with the religion to someextent. Every pious Buddhist has a prayer wheel, and largemonasteries have vat-like cylinders that revolve on their ownaxis. Long lines of low walls called Mani walls are a commonsight, often hundreds of meters long and consisting of loosestones on which OM MANI PADME HUM is inscribed inTibetan script. Due to its proximity to Tibet, Spiti has beengreatly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. The valley is alsoknown as the Ajanta of Buddhist art because many of itsmonasteries and Gompas have priceless specimens of Buddhist art. The most important of these are Kye, Dhankarand Tabo.

Afoot and lighthearted I take to the open roads,Healthy and free, the world before me, The long

brown path before me leading wherever I choose Henceforth I ask not good fortune, I myself amgood fortune Strong and content I travel the openroad.

Walt Whitman, from: Leaves of Grass

through the Kashgar and Kashmir and dominated this wholearea. Later, in the 13th and 14th centuries, The Bhutiascame from Tibet to the region.

Due to its proximity to Tibet the lifestyle and religion of inhabitants have been influenced by Buddhism, thoughmajority of the people practice Hinduism, Buddhism isprevalent in Northern and Central parts of Kinnaur. Imposingmonasteries at Morang and Namgia have beautiful sculpturesand wood carvings. The people are god fearing and honest.Some places in Kinnaur practice polyandry. Polyandry mayhave been a natural societal response, to limited arable landand the multifarious occupations of the men folk. However itis disappearing rapidly.

We invite you to visit this beautiful land and soak yourself inits beauty, culture and people. Our trip runs extensivelythrough Kinnaur and takes you into the interiors, uncharted,unspoiled and untouristed.

The Greater Himalayas: - The altitude of this zone ranges from4500 meters (13,500 feet) to the highest points of the greatHimalayas in different areas. The Great Himalayan Range Riversalong the Eastern boundary. The Satluj River divides it andseparates the Spiti's (Lahaul-Spiti) drainage from Beas. Areas inthis zone are district Kinnaur, tehsil Pangi of Chamba district andsome areas of Lahaul and Spiti. The normal rainfall in this zone islow. The climate in this zone is not cold in summer and of semi-arctic nature in winter. The soil is thick and supports variablefertility. The climate in this zone is very suitable for cultivation of dry fruits. Rainfall in this zone is low but Snowfall is very heavy.Snowfall in this zone starts in the mid of October-November toMarch-April. Snowfall is so heavy and geographical conditions areso odd that during the period of snowfall, the whole regionremains cut off from the rest of the world. During the period of snowfall in this zone, the quality of life suffers and life looks veryisolated. The famous Zanskar Range is also found in this part of the Himalayas which is Eastern most range. This range acts like abig wall by separating Spiti and Kinnaur from Tibet. ZanskarRange has a number of very high peak points rising over 6,500meters (19,500 feet). The highest among its peaks is Shilla whichis 7,025 meters (21,075 feet) high. The second one is Reo-Purgyalwhich is 6,791 meters (20,373 feet) high.


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THE PLACES WE VISIT ALONG THE COURSE OF THE ROAD TRIP

Mashobra is a wooded glade near Shimla. Situated at aheight of 2600 m, Mashobra is a retreat with apple orchards,pine and oak woods. It has numerous glades, streams andglens and is ideal for camping, picnics, treks and river rafting.The thickly wooded slopes of Mashobra are part of the ShimlaReserve Forest sanctuary and catchments area. This place isthe habitat for jackals, kakkar (barking deer) and leopard, andvariety of bird species such as the Himalayan eagle,pheasants, chikor and partridges. The drive from Mashobra toBaikhalty (18kms) is one of the best in the region.Distance 14km N of Shimla

Shimla district lies between 3045' and 3144 NorthLatitude and between 770' and 7819' East Longitude. It isbounded by Mandi and Kullu in North, Kinnaur in the East, thestate of Uttar Pradesh in the South and by Sirmaur district inthe West. Shimla derived its name from 'Shyamala' - the nameof Goddess Kali whose temple once existed in the forest whichcovered Jakhoo Hills. The place gained prominence after theBritish arrived here in 1819. They made it their summercapital in 1864. With its enticing location, the incomers werequick to explore the surrounding Shivalik foothills and beforelong, some of the worlds first trekking agencies were set uphere, offering treks to officers and their families. By 1921,Shimla had a branch of the Himalayan Club which assistedwith expeditions across the Western Himalaya. Theseadventurous Victorian colonialists chose their town well. To

the north and north-east lies the Great Himalayan Rangedividing the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau.Slightly to the west are the Dhauladhar, cutting through theheart of Himachal Pradesh into eastern Uttaranchal. Andbeyond these mountains lie the complex Trans Himalaya thatinclude the Zanskar and Ladakhi ranges. Perhaps a nearperfect setting for exploring the Himalaya Shimla is situated inthe North-West Himalayas and is spread over the ridgemeasuring about 12 km. The hills are robed with dense forestsof oak, deodar, pine, fur and rhododendron. The highmountain peaks, steep slopes, deep valleys, waterfalls, rapidsand colorful natural flowers form the scenic natural beauty of Shimla attracts tourists from all over the world. The importanttourist destinations are the Kali Bari temple, Jakhoo Temple,

Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Prospect Hill andChadwick falls. The highest cricket ground in the world is atChail. Shimla also offers adventure sports such as skiing,trekking, fishing and golfing. Though the British had left thecity long back, the echoes of the colonial era still lingers on.The snow clad mountains, picturesque surroundings and themighty structures of Victorian style that dots the city,positions it apart from other hill stations of the country.Distances 88 kms NE of Kalka, 115 km NE of Chandigarh,234 Km NW of Dehradun, 342 Km N of Delhi.

Kufri 14 kms from Shimla main town, Kufri is famous for itsski slopes. Skiing in winter and walks, pony rides, mountain


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biking in the summer makes Kufri an ideal out doordestination east of Shimla. One should also the visit theHimalayan Nature Park, housing black and brown bears,leopards and gorals. The crowded Mahasu peak is also a pointof interest.

Hatu Peak The highest peak of Shimla district is at adistance of 8kms from Narkanda. Dedicated on the top is atemple of Hateshwari Mata. One can drive up to the top andcycle back down to Narkanda, a great downhill trail. 20minutes from Hatu peak are the meadows of Jaubagh, idealfor lazing and a perfect setting for a picnic lunch.

Thanedar 18 kms from Narkanda, Thanedar and Kotgarhare the heart of Himachals apple country. First planted by

Samuels Stokes in 1912, it was the answer to the regionspoverty in those days, now the Kotgarh apples are suppliedthroughout India. Thanedar is a small one street villagesurrounded by orchards and an ideal holiday destination.

Narkanda - A hiss road with superb views links Narkandawith Shimla. Narkanda, located amidst fragrant pine forests isa ski resort in winter. It has a choice of slopes ranging from abeginner run and slalom slope, to sharper descents for theexperienced skier. What gives Narkanda its awe-inspiring view

of the snowy peaks is the fact that it is located on the ridge of the last watershed before the Himalayan range. BelowNarkanda, to the north is the Sutlej Valley and beyond it is thesnowy massif. The ridge on which Narkanda stands is thewatershed between the Sutlej on the north and the Giri River.The sleepy town of Narkanda sits astride the watershedbetween the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal.

The villages of Khadrala and Baghi are located in thenortheastern part of Shimla District, 18 and 29 kms fromNarkanda respectively, in Himachal Pradesh and aresurrounded by dense forest and apple orchards. They fall onthe old road to Tibet.

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seekingnew lands but in seeing with new eyes. Marcel Proust.


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Sungri is a charming hamlet situated about 32 km fromRohru in Shimla District, Himachal Pradesh. It lies in thePabbar Valley. Surrounded by lush green forests and toweredhills, Sungri offers excellent views of Chanshal, Dhauladharpeaks and deep valleys. Many overflowing streams can beseen around the village. Chirgaon, Dhamwari, Dodra andKwar, Baghi, Intkali and Larot are nearby tourist destinations.Sungri is famous for trout fishing. It is an ideal base fortrekking.

Daranghati Sanctuary is one of the highlights of Shimla District. Popular of the inhabitants here are Monal,Tragopan, koklas, goral, kalij, musk deer and Thar. There is anetwork of bridle paths and inspection paths to explore thesanctuary. Daranghati is also a perfect venue for those whowish to trek along the mountain heights.

We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring, will be to arrive where westarted, and know the place for the first time

T.S Elliot

Taklech is a picturesque hamlet situated about 13 km fromNogli in Shimla District, Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by thickand untouched forests, the village is an ideal base for trekking.Treks to Sarahan, Chirgaon and Larot begin from Taklech.Nearby tourist destinations include Rohru, Bahli, Nichar,Sungri, Larot and Dodra and Kwar.

Sarahan , is a small town on the old Hindustan-Tibet road,perched a distance above the new highway. It offers panoramicviews of snow covered peaks and a picture of unspoilt pastorallife in the region. A beautifully constructed temple of thegoddess Bhimakali stands here.


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Sangla - An 18 kilometer winding road from Karchammthrough some spectacular cliffs leads us to Sangla village. TheGerard brothers, the first outsiders to set foot in the BaspaValley in the first quarters of the nineteenth century ranked itas the most beautiful of all Himalayan Valleys. Later visitors

have been almost as Lavish in their praise. Flanked by theKinner Kailash peaks on all sides, Sangla is a base for manyhigh altitude treks in the region, and also the end of thefamous Kinner Kailash Parikrama pilgrimage. Chitkul the lastvillage in India bordering Tibet is a beautiful drive of 21 kmsfrom Sangla. Other interesting sights include The Kamru Fort,Rakchamm village, Batseri village and the walk to SanglaKanda.

Nako - Nako is a most picturesque location by the side of asmall lake. The flanks of the Reo Purgyal 6816 mts, the highestin Himachal, descend in gradual, rounded slopes till they meetthe green of the irrigated fields. Here the gradient becomes

even gentler, easing into numerous glacier-created hollows onthe hillside, before descending sharply to Spiti. In one of thesedips is the Nako Lake, with the village clustered on a little riseto the west. Nako s temple complex, also credited to RinchenTsangpo, has four, crumbling, stone walled, flat-roofedshrines. Age and neglect are their strongest features despiterecent attempts at preservation. Tattered Thangkas anddamaged frescoes are sad testimonials to a proud past, whena better preserved temple, ranked high as a place of worship.One of the temples is dedicated to the local deity Purgyalrepresenting the spirit of the mountain. The main Hall, theLhakhang Cenpo, is located at the western end facing east.Large clay images of the five Dhyani Buddhas occupy pride of place while sundry other idols are arranged on the walls in thestyle of Tabo Dukhang. Vanishing murals of differentmandalas are just about decipherable. The three halls alsocontain clay figures and wall paintings of obvious antiquity. Anunusual fresco, above the doorway in the southern temple,depicts a personage of importance; bestride a white kyang,the Tibetan wild ass.

Kalpa/Reckong Peo - This region of Kinnaur is known asthe Sairag region and for a long time Chini in this area wasthe only place in Kinnaur of which the outside world had someknowledge perhaps due to hard Dalhousies two summervisits as Governor General of India in the middle of nineteenthcentury and a mention in Rudyard Kiplings Kim. This regionoffers some of the most dramatic scenery in the Himalaya.Here the Kinner Kailash range appears to spread itself out forthe admiring gaze of the visitor. Not so close as to induceclaustrophobia, yet almost to hand, the Mountains risemajestically from the river bed up through orchard forest andglinting glaciers to rocky pinnacles and snow-capped tops. Thesemicircle of peaks includes Raldang, Jorkanden and KinnerKailash. Close to a saddle on the northern shoulder of KinnerKailash, one can pick out the 17 meter rock pillar of Shivling, changing colors with the movement of the sun. TheKandas meaning pastures above Kalpa are too beautiful anda great way to experience pasture country is a night camp outthere. Reckong Peo has a monastery of the Mahabodhisociety and was constructed specially for the Dalai Lama toperform the Kalchakra ceremony in 1992. Next to it is a 10mstatue of standing Buddha, visible from a considerabledistance. Chini too has a Bodh Temple visited by outsidersfrom the antiquity point of view.


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Tabo Monastery - The Ajanta of the Himalayas, theTabo Monastery 3050m, Tabo Chos hkhor, is located on thesteep banks of the Spiti River. It was founded by the greatdisciple and teacher Rinchentsang-po in 996 A.D. The vastcomplex has nine temples, 23 chortens, a monks chamberand a nuns chamber and is spread over an area of 6300sq.mts. The core is fortified by an earthen wall. Scatteredabove the steep cliff are the dwelling units of nuns andmonks. The main temple of the monastery is the GISUG LHA -KHANG. The main hall known as the du -khang is the core of the complex having an assembly hall, a sanctum and avestibule. There are life size images called Vajra DhatuMandala. The walls are adorned with rich paintings depictingthe life of The Buddha. The other temples of the monasteryare as mentioned belowThe Golden Temple(Gser-Khang), The Mystic Mandala or the

initiation temple (dkyil-hkhor-khang), The BodhisattvaMaitreya Temple (Byams-pa Chen-po-Lha-Khang), The Templeof Dromton (Brom-ston-Lha-khang), The Chamber Of PictureTreasures (Zal -ma), The large Temple of Dromton (Brom-stonLha-Khang) , The Mahakala Vajrabhairav Temple (Gon Khang)and the White Temple (dKarabyum Lha Khand).

Exploring Spiti Pin Valley Almost 20Kms away fromTabo is Sichling 3400mts. from where a 7Km link road climbssleepily to Dhankar 3700, high up on the left bank. Dhankarwas Spitis old capital and wedged between the rockypinnacles on the eastern face are its old buildings. Manerang

Peak 6593mts. is seen to advantage from Dhankar. A stiff climb of less than an hour brings us to Dhankar Lake whichseems tiny despite a 2 Km circumference amidst the vastundulating pastures surrounding it. Mirror carp was recentlyintroduced in the Dhankar Lake and are apparently prosperingdespite the extreme climate and altitude. . A few kilometresfrom Sichling the Pin River flows into the Spiti from the Southand almost immediately Lingti comes in from the north. At theJuncture of the Spiti and Pin is a long green peninsula calledPindomor. Willow and Sea buckthorn groves are commonhere. We reach Attargu from where we enter the Pin Valleyfrom the link road leaving the Spiti for a while. The firsthabitation is Chidang 3575mts. followed by Sailing 3600mts.Across on the right bank of Pin we can view Tangtiyogna

3600mts. and then Tangtigogna 3600 as we reach Guling3600mts. Above Guling is Bhar 3800mts and on other side of Bhar stream are Chud and then Kungri 3700mts. Above Kungriis Kongkong 3850mts. Kungri is famous for its monastery withthree old halls, their fading frescoes many hundred years old.The proximity of the village to the site shows that it probablydates back to the eleventh century. A little beyond Kungri isthe confluence of the Pin and its major tributary Paraiho.Phukchung 3630mts. Mikkim 3600mts. are a few hamlets of the Paraiho. Beyond Phukchung the road crosses and winds toSagnam 3650mts. on the left bank of Pin, the largest village of the Pin Valley. From Sagnam we approach Khar 3650mts.andup Valley the Kuokti meets the Pin and Pin Switches to aNorth South course. In this upper portion of the Valley is

Mud cowering below huge slabs of contrasting black andwhite rock in the left bank of the river. This is the last majorvillage of the Pin Valley, the area beyond along the trailsleading to Bhaba and Parbati Valleys. Pin valley is the greenestarea is Spiti home to ibex, blue sheep, snow-leopard etc. Thewide expanse of the valley around the confluence of the Pinand the Paraiho, are noteworthy. The most striking peak viewin Pin is that of Kala Taro from up the Paraiho Valley. Themountain called Shigri Parbat Stands at the head of theKhamengar branch of the Paraiho with the long arm of theBara Shigri glacier on the other side.


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EXPLORING SPITI KYE MONASTERY KIBBERGETE LANGZAFrom the Lingti confluence Kaza is 21 Km.Kaza 3650mts. is the district headquarter of Spiti. Along themain road on the left bank the Shilla joins the Spiti just afterthe confluence with Ratang and there is the Key village

3750mts. on the Kaza Kibber Road. The Key Monasterydominates from its perch, atop a hilltop which points to itspost thirteenth century construction. The pasture countrygives the appearance of plateaus and of undulating Meadowshigh above the main Valley. Edged by steep cliffs fallingsharply to the main valley, the wide open spaces are cleavedby the narrow gorge-like courses of two left bank tributaries.The Parilungbi and the Shilla. Chicham 4150mts and Kibber4120 are two main villages of Parilungbi Valley. Further east isGete 4320mts. and Tashigong 4380mts. This is the Bhar regionof the Spiti Valley. There are breathtaking views of theKanamo Peak 5974mts. from Kibber. Looking down on themain valley from any spot of this upland country is a greatsight. Not to forget Spiti mainlands highlights is thedrive/mountain biking option from a little before Kyemonastery, the road winding towards Langza Plateau,overlooking the Chau Chau Kal Nilda, the highest peak in Spiti,further on the road towards Komic Monastery and then agreat trail leading one to Demul in the Lingti valley thereafteran extreme downhill towards Lidang finally ending the drive atKaza.

Dhankar was once the capital of Spiti and from here ruledits emperors. The early 16th century monastery/fort alsoserved as a jail, is wedged between the pinnacles of a razorsharp spur of crumbling rock and alkaline deposits. ManerangPeak 6593mts. is seen to advantage from Dhankar. A stiff climb of less than an hour brings us to Dhankar Lake whichseems tiny despite a 2 Km circumference amidst the vastundulating pastures surrounding it. Mirror carp was recentlyintroduced in the Dhankar Lake and are apparently prosperingdespite the extreme climate and altitude. A few kilometersfrom Sichling the Pin River flows into the Spiti from the Southand almost immediately Lingti comes in from the north. At theJuncture of the Spiti and Pin is a long green peninsula calledPindomor. Not far from Dhankar is another famed oldmonastery of Lallung. One can drive through for 8kms or takethe moderate trek of about three hours. Lallung is famous forits wood carvings. Drive on from Lallung towards Rama villagewhich will lead us to Lingti and further to Kaza. Lallung also

serves as the base for many mountain expeditions and treks inthe Spiti Valley.

All that glitters is not gold. All who wander arenot lost William Shakespeare


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EXPLORING SPITI CHANDRA VALLEYCHANDRATAL LAKEFurther from Kaza towards Lahaulwe follow the road towards Kunzum Pass, into the Chandravalley. Along the main road 6Kms. from Kaza is Rangrik3680mts backed by the jagged, rocky cliffs on the right side of

the valley followed by the green oasis of Khurik 3750mtsSumling 3750 and Moorang 3775mts after which Gyundi flowsinto Spiti. We enter the least populated part of the Spiti Valleycalled Tud shortly after Losar 4079mts the highest village inthis part is only 22Km from Kunzum Pass 4807mts. This is themost outstanding sight in Tud, the view from Kunzum top. Thepeaceful flower bedecked slopes in the foreground are backedby an awesome vista of rocky massifs and hanging glaciers inthe Lahaul Valley. Down near Losar the confluence of thethree tributaries which form the Spiti is impressive. The wayto Chandertal, The Lake of the moon begins from Batal furtherdown Kunzum in the Chandra Valley. Beyond Chandratal Lake,the road winds through the villages of Chattru and Batal toreach Gramphoo and continues further towards Keylong, theheadquarters of Lahaul District. From Gramphoo one roadclimbs towards Rohtang Pass to enter the Kullu region. FromTandi, 2 kms before Keylong, at the confluence of Chandraand Bhaga Rivers, one road winds off towards Udaipur andcontinues further in to Pangi Valley, reaches Killar Pass andcrosses over to Chamba district. The straight road from Tandi,which also boasts of the LAST PETROL STATION FOR 400 KMS,leads to Leh.

Naggar is a popular tourist spot, and offers thecommanding views of the surroundings especially of thenorth-west of the valley. Splendid deodars, sanctifiedmountains, waterfalls and snow covered ranges encircle thetown. The upper Beas region is surrounded by glaciers and thetown is spread like a leaf of pipal tree unfolded on the slope of Han peak, which is at an altitude varying from 13,500 to14,500 ft above the sea level. The places of interest includeRoerich Art Gallery and museums housing traditional artifacts.Naggar evidently was the capital of the kingdom of Kullu till1660 and was known as Mukrasa.

Manali derived its name from the term Manavalaya. It is ascenic mountain resort surrounded by snow-clad peaks andthick pine forests with the Beas River winding through it.Manali lies at the head of the Kullu valley, at an altitude of 6260 ft above sea level and its beauty lies in the Beas riverflowing through the valley with fruit orchards and coniferslopes climbing up to the snowcapped Himalayan peaks.Manali is nestled between the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjalranges. Manali is glorified as the land of gods and goddesses,fairs and festivals, lakes and ancient temples. A 600 year oldwooden temple in the heart of the dense grove of ancientcedars is a major attraction. The colorful village of Vashisht,famous for its hot sulphur springs is nearby. The enigmaticvalleys of Lahaul and Spiti can be accessed across the 3,450 ftRohtang Pass from here. Manali is located at 570 km fromDelhi, 310 km from Chandigarh, and 265 km from Shimla.Chandigarh, Shimla and Jogindernagar are the nearestrailheads. Bhuntar airport is 50 km from Manali.

Among the mountains, I am the Himalaya Lord Krishna, The Bhagwad Gita


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THE ITINERARY

Day One, July 14th, 2011Board the evening Volvo Bus to Shimla from Himachal Bhavan(2030hrs). Its an eight hour journey towards Shimla. UponArrival in Shimla, transfer in cabs to your hotel.

Day Two, July 15 th , 2011Explore Shimla by the day and indulge in necessary shoppingrequired for your trip up north. Evening spent by the bonfireand a brief orientation session

Day Three, July 16 th , 2011 Shimla Kotgarh SarahanCatching up with National Highway 22 early morning we headon to Narkanda 2708mts. nestled amidst Sub alpine forests of fir and birch, and also serves as a winter Ski Resort. About60% of Himachal Apples are grown here. We zig zag our waythrough the apple country to the Sutlej Valley below andreach Rampur 924mts. the seat of the erstwhile BushahirKingdom. Magnificent view await us as we go on uphilltowards Sarahan via Darang Ghati and Kinnu, the road whichin earlier times used to be a shepherds trail. Crossing somespectacular cliffs enroute we reach Sarahan at 2040mts. thegateway to Kinnaur and famous for its Bhimakali Temple andthe Majestic views of the Srikhand Peak 5230mts. and GushuPishu 5670mts. of the Srikhand range.Distance 180kms

Altitude ~ Khadrala 2800mts, Taklech 1600mts, Daranghati 2985mts, Kinnu 1850mts, Sarahan 1920mts.

Highlights: The 3200mts High Hatu peak, the highest in theShimla region. Tani Jubbar lake, Apple orchards, scenicVistas, Daranghati Sanctuary, Drive through the century oldHindustan Tibet Road, The Bhimakali temple, Magnificentviews of the Srikhand Range.

The Kullu valley is famous for the beauty of its majestichills, covered with pine and deodar forests and sprawlingapple orchards. This is a broad open valley formed by the BeasRiver between Mandi and Larji. The course of the Beas Riverpresents a succession of magnificent scenery, including

cataracts, gorges, precipitous cliffs and mountains, clad withforests of Deodar, towering above trees of Pine on the lowerrocky ridges. Hot water springs occur in various places muchresorted to as places of pilgrimages. The valley changes itsappearance and complexion with each change of season. TheKullu valley has an abundance of wild flowers. Nested in theheart of the Himalayas, this valley is 75 km. long and 2 to 4km. wide. It ends near the famous Rohtang Pass. Beyond it, inthe midst of higher Himalayan ranges lie the valleys of Lahauland Spiti. Blessed with picturesque setting in the lap of PirPanjal and Dhauladhar ranges, Kullu valley is Himachal'sprized destination for the tourists. Rightly called the 'Valley of Gods' it has hundreds of local deities. Almost every village hasits own deity. Kullu has been referred to as 'Kaluta' or

'Kulanthpitha' meaning the end of habitable world in Sanskritliterature as well as in Puranas. Kullu is learnt to have beenfounded by Behangamuni who hailed from Prayag.

Day Four , July 17 th , 2011Sarahan SanglaFollow the course of the Sutlej River to Karcham 1899mtswhere it is joined by the Baspa (Sangla) flowing from the east.Enroute we cross Taranda 1800mts cliffs a breathtaking sight,where the road is cut straight through a rock. From KarchamSangla 2680mts valley is 18kms and the road winds its wayuphill through some more amazing cliffs. We reach the top of the road and the valley opens up. Ride to Rakcham 2900mts,

14kms from the main village of Sangla, where our camp is setfor tonight.Distance ~ 108 Kms

Altitude ~ Karcham 1899mts, Wangtu 1830mts, Taranda1800mts, Sangla 2680mts, Rakcham 2900mts

Highlights: Taranda Cliffs, Karcham the confluence of the Baspa and the Sutlej rivers, The mountain road drivefrom Karcham to Sangla, The scenic vistas of the Sangla

Valley.


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Day Five, July 18 th , 2011 Sangla Rakcham Chitkul SanglaToday we explore the Baspa valley. From Sangla village toChitkul its a beautiful ride, sometimes along the river andsometimes through mountain trails. Chitkul is a great setting,

this side of the border with Tibet. On our way back fromChitkul we walk through through the meadows and a verdantcedar forest to Batseri village. A very refreshing walk indeed.O/N Kinner Camps.Distance ~ 41kms

Altitude ~ Chitkul 3435mts

Highlights: The drive to Chitkul, The trek from Rakcham toBatseri village, the evening by the bonfire at Kinner Camps.

Day Six, July 19 th , 2011Sangla KalpaVisit the Kamru Fort and Temple early in the morning.Thereafter proceed to Kalpa. This used to be the headquarters

of the Kinnaur district and was known as Chini in earlier times.Probably one of the few places in the world where one wouldsit with coolers in the warmth of their room, appreciating themagnificent view of the Kinner Kailash massif. Also visit theMonastery at Reckong peo. O/N Hotel Kinner Villa/ShangrilaDistance ~ 45 Kms

Altitude ~ Reckong Peo 2290mts, Kalpa 2960mts

Highlights: Reckong peo the district headquarters of Kinnaur,Close views of the Kinner Kailash Massif, The bodhi templeof Kalpa, The monastery at Reckong peo, Chini temple.

Day Seven , July 20 th , 2011Kalpa Rarang Jangi Morang Labrang Kanam Ropa Puh Khab Nako Malling Chango Sumdo Hurling Tabo

Our journey today, is to a region which was opened totourists only a few years ago, from Lower Kinnaur to UpperKinnaur, its a transition in the landscape, beliefs and lifestyles, a 150 km journey into the history and culture of Kinnaur.

We depart Nako crossing the treacherous Malling streamand the road descends gradually to the riverside andcontinues up to Chango 3100mts. a sizeable village. Fivekilometers from here the National Highway crosses to theright bank of the Spiti rives above which lies Shialkhar.Eight kilometers past Shialkhar the road crosses the riveragain and Kinnaur is past us. This is Sumdo where theParechu coming from Tibet meets the Spiti. Here the road(NH) wanders away from the river to end near Kaurik andthe Sumdo-Kaza road assumes the role of guiding thetraveler up the valley of Spiti. This area of Spiti is known asSham. Hurling 3125 mts. is the first village of Spiti. Fromhere the pride of Spiti The Tabo Monastery 3280mts. isonly four kilometers.

Distance ~ 168 Kms

Altitude ~ Ribba 2745mts, Puh 2837mts, Khab 2831mts,Nako 3662mts, Ka 3598mts, Yangthang 3800mts, Chango3658mts, Tabo Monastery 3050mts

Highlights: Tashi Choeling Monastery at Rarang, LaninMonastery at Morang, The Kanam Monastery, The drivealong the National Highway 22, The cultural and

geographical transition from Lower to Upper Kinnaur,Magnificent views of the Reo Purgyal Massif, Nako lake,Nako Monastery, Ka loops, The apple orchards of Chango,Giu Village enroute, with the mummy of a revered Lama,Tabo Monastery 110 years old and a cultural highlight.


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Day Eight, July 21 st , 2011Tabo Dhankar Lallung - Kaza

Almost 20Kms away from Tabo is Sichling 3400mts. fromwhere a 7Km link road climbs sleepily to Dhankar 3700, high

up on the left bank. Dhankar was Spitis old capital andwedged between the rocky, pinnacles on the eastern face areits old buildings. Manerang Peak 6593mts. is seen toadvantage from Dhankar. A stiff climb of less than an hourbrings us to Dhankar Lake which seems tiny despite a 2 Kmcircumference amidst the vast undulating pasturessurrounding it. Mirror carp was recently introduced in theDhankar Lake and are apparently prospering despite theextreme climate and altitude. A few kilometers from Sichlingthe Pin River flows into the Spiti from the South and almostimmediately Lingti comes in from the north. At the Juncture of the Spiti and Pin is a long green peninsula called Pindomor.Willow and Sea buckthorn groves are common here. Thedistrict headquarters of Spiti, Kaza is a short while from here.

Distance ~ 60kmsAltitude ~ Dhankar 3890mts, Kaza 3600mts, Lallung 4100mts

Highlights: The Moonscape drive, Dhankar Monastery, Thegreens of Sichling, Hike to Dhankar lake, The Pin river andthe Spiti River Confluence.

Day Nine, July 22 nd , 2011Kaza Kye Kibber Gete Kye Langza Komic -Kaza

Today is the day of exploring Kaza and its surroundings. Alongthe main road on the left bank the Shilla joins the Spiti justafter the confluence with Ratang and there is the Key village3750mts. on the Kaza Kibber Road. The Key Monasterydominates from its perch, atop a hilltop which points to itspost thirteenth century construction. The pasture countrygives the appearance of plateaus and of undulating Meadowshigh above the main Valley. Edged by steep cliffs fallingsharply to the main valley, the wide open spaces are cleavedby the narrow gorge-like courses of two left bank tributaries.The Parilungbi and the Shilla. Chicham 4150mts and Kibber4120 are two main villages of Parilungbi Valley. Further east isGete 4320mts. and Tashigong 4380mts. This is the Bhar

region of the Spiti Valley. There are breathtaking views of theKanamo Peak 5974mts. from Kibber. Looking down on themain valley from any spot of this upland country is a greatsight. Back to Kaza after these meanderings for dinner.Distance ~ 100kmsAltitude ~ Langza 4400mts, Komic 4350mts, Demul 4200mts,Kibber 4550mts, Gete 4600mts

Highlights: The Gete Plateau and Fossil park, The KyeMonastery, Kibber one of the highest villages in the world,Magnificent views of 6000 mts Himalayan peaks.


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Day Ten, July 23 rd , 2011Kaza Losar Kunzum pass Chandtratal Lake

Along the main road 6Kms. from Kaza is Rangrik 3680mtsbacked by the jagged, rocky cliffs on the right side of the valley

followed by the green oasis of Khurik 3750mts Sumling 3750and Moorang 3775mts after which Gyundi flows into Spiti. Weenter the least populated part of the Spiti Valley called Tudshortly after Losar 4079mts the highest village in this part isonly 22Km from Kunzum Pass 4807mts. This is the mostoutstanding sight in Tud, the view from Kunzum top. Thepeaceful flower bedecked slopes in the foreground are backedby an awesome vista of rocky massifs and hanging glaciers inthe Lahaul Valley. Down near Losar the confluence of thethree tributaries which form the Spiti is impressive. The wayto Chandtratal. The lake of the moon begins from Batalfurther down Kunzum in the Chandra Valley. This is theChandra valley and our ride mostly level, except for the roadwhich is gravel.

Distance ~ 83 KmsAltitude ~ Kiato 3964mts, Hanse 3950mts, Losar 4079mts,Kunzum Pass 4551mts, Batal 3960mts, Chandratal Lake4270mts.

Highlights: Losar Village, The Drive through the cold desert of Spiti, Kunzum pass 4551 mts, Chandratal lake.

Day Twelve, July 25th, 2011Manali Delhi (or your destination)

Explore Manali by the Day, and depart at 1700 hrs in the Volvobus towards, Delhi and Chandigarh.

Day Eleven, July 24 th , 2011Chandtratal Lake Chattru Rohtang Pass - Manali

Follow the Chandra River through some of the most beautiful

mountain scenery. The road is mostly dirt track. Taking it easywe are headed to Chattru, crossing Chotta Dhara. This place isan interesting geological zone for studies as three mountainranges meet here and the formations are some of the mostamazing in the whole world. Further down the Chandravalley, facing some steep cliff walls is Chattru a temporarycampsite erected for the intrepid travelers to this land. Alongthe side the of the Chandra river we drive past Gramphoo justbelow the Rohtang pass. Ascend to the Rohtang Pass, andthen descend towards Manali. O/N HotelDistance ~ 123kmsAltitude ~ Chotta Dhara 3960mts, Chattru 3560mts,Gramphoo 3200mts, Rohtang Pass 3980mts, Manali2050mts.

Highlights: Chattru, The drive till Chattru, Rohtang Pass,Manali Bazaar

.


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WeatherThe best time to go tripping in this area is in the summer, when daytime temperatures reach 20-25C and there is plenty of sunshine. Obviously, temperatures do get cooler the higher you climb, though it should not freeze. You can expect occasionalrain at the start of the trip in the Shimla region as it is affected by the monsoon, but once over Lower Kinnaur and enteringUpper Kinnaur and Spiti Valley, you are in a high altitude desert where rain is unusual. Although the trip is to coincide with goodweather, you should remember that in any mountain area the weather is never wholly predictable and you should be prepared

and equipped to deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions described above .

Essential Equipment and ClothingAll luggages for the trip should be packed in a soft kitbag or duffel bag. Please ensure that clothing etc is wrapped in plastic bagsas kitbags are not 100% waterproof. I n addition to your normal daily clothes, you will need the following: Essential: 4 seasons sleeping bag; sleeping mat; 3/4 seasons jacket; leather or waterproof synthetic boots; sunglasses andsunhat; waterproofs, warm hat and gloves; tracksuit or thermal underwear; sun cream(70sp). Please remember to bring a goodquality water bottle and iodine or other suitable water treatment kit. Bottled water is not available on trek.Recommended : old trainers or sandals for river crossings.


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TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

An 1119 km journey through the most spectacular landscapes.

The most beautiful Himalayan valleys Katrech (Sarahan), Kinnaur, Sangla, Ropa, Spiti,Chandra, Kullu.

Two High Himalayan passes The Kunzum (4551meters), The Rohtang 3979meters.

Chandtratal Lake

Over a 1000 year old Tabo Monastery

Pin valley National Park

Lallung Monastery, Kye Monastery, Komic, Kungri, Dhankar Monastery

Lingti Valley, Highest Villages of Kibber, Gete, Tashigang


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INCLUSIONS Accommodation in camps/country inns, home stays and hotels, along the routeon twin sharing basis. Transport in Volvo from Delhi to Shimla and from Manali to Delhi Transport through the trip in sumo/tavera/scorpio with an occupancy of 4 people in one vehicle Breakfast, Packed Lunch (or lunch along the route) and Dinner Beverages including Morning, afternoon and evening tea, Mineral Water (excluding alcoholic beverages and

aerated beverages) Field Expert Trekking in Sangla and Spiti. Service tax

Excludes Any personal expense e.g. Tips, Phone bills, laundry bills, snacks at Hotels Insurance

COST

25,000/- Rupees Person (Twenty Five Thousand Indian Rupees)

EVERY PARTICIPANT HAS TO SIGN AN INDEMNITY FORM BEFORE THE TRIP COMMENCES.

FOR MORE DETAILS CONTACT

Dhananjay @ +91-86791-80331

or email your queries to [email protected]

DISCLAIMERTravel With Dj takes utmost care to ensure the safety of its clients. However in the case of any unforeseenmishaps, Travel With Dj will not be liable for any injuries caused or for loss of life. All disputes rising due to theabove are subject to the jurisdiction of the courts in Himachal Pradesh only. All participants would be required tosign an Indemnity Bond at the start of the trip without which they would not be allowed to take part in theactivities/trip.


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