The road less traveled often leads to hidden gems, and exploring the unexplored villages of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand can be an incredible journey. These two northern states of India are known for their breathtaking landscapes, picturesque mountains, and rich cultural heritage.
Here are a few lesser-known villages in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand that are worth exploring:
Chitkul, Himachal Pradesh:
- Chitkul is often referred to as the “last inhabited village of India” as it is the last village on the old Indo-Tibetan trade route.
- The village is located at an elevation of around 3,450 meters (11,318 feet) and offers a mesmerizing view of the Baspa River and the snow-clad Himalayan peaks.
- Chitkul is known for its traditional Kinnauri culture and customs. You can interact with the friendly locals, taste local delicacies, and witness traditional folk dances and music.
- The Kagyupa Temple, also known as Chitkul Mathi Temple, is a major attraction. It is an ancient temple dedicated to the local deity Mathi Devi and showcases intricate wood carvings and beautiful wall paintings.
Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh:
- Kalpa is a small village located at an altitude of approximately 2,960 meters (9,711 feet) in the Kinnaur district.
- It is famous for its apple orchards and produces some of the best quality apples in the region. During the apple season, the village comes alive with vibrant colors.
- The main attraction of Kalpa is the magnificent view of the Kinner Kailash range, which includes the sacred peak of Kinner Kailash. This mountain is considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists.
- You can visit the Hu-Bu-Lan-Kar Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful ambiance.
Gushaini, Himachal Pradesh:
- Gushaini is a picturesque village located in the Tirthan Valley, which is part of the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) in the Kullu district.
- The Tirthan River flows through the village, offering opportunities for trout fishing and riverside camping.
- Gushaini is an excellent base for trekking in the GHNP. Popular treks include the Tirthan Valley trek, Serolsar Lake trek, and the Raktisar trek.
- The village provides a tranquil environment for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The surrounding forests are home to various bird species, including the colorful Himalayan Monal.
Munsiyari, Uttarakhand:
- Munsiyari is located at an altitude of approximately 2,298 meters (7,539 feet) in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand.
- The village offers breathtaking views of the Panchachuli peaks, a group of five snow-capped Himalayan peaks known for their majestic beauty.
- Munsiyari serves as the starting point for treks to Milam Glacier, Namik Glacier, and the Ralam Glacier. These treks provide an opportunity to explore the pristine beauty of the region.
- The village is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional houses adorned with intricate wood carvings. You can experience the warm hospitality of the local Bhotia community and savor the local cuisine.
Chaukori, Uttarakhand:
- Chaukori is a scenic hill station located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, at an altitude of approximately 2,010 meters (6,594 feet).
- The village offers panoramic views of the majestic Nanda Devi and Panchachuli peaks, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
- Chaukori is famous for its tea gardens. You can visit the tea estates learn about the tea production process, and savor freshly brewed tea while enjoying the stunning vistas.
- The region is also known for its ancient temples, such as the Kapileshwar Mahadev temple and the Patal Bhuvaneshwar cave temple. These religious sites attract pilgrims and spiritual seekers.
Binsar, Uttarakhand:
- Binsar is a scenic village located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of around 2,420 meters (7,940 feet) and offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.
- The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a major attraction, known for its rich biodiversity. The sanctuary is home to various species of birds, animals, and rare Himalayan flora.
- Binsar offers numerous trekking trails that take you through dense forests, meadows, and small villages. The Zero Point trek is particularly popular as it provides a stunning 360-degree view of the Himalayan peaks.
- The village is also known for its ancient temples, including the Bineshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple’s architecture and serene ambiance attract devotees and spiritual seekers.
These unexplored villages of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, experience local culture, and escape the crowds, allowing for a truly unforgettable travel experience.
