Chitkul Road Trip
Description
The last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibetan border is Chitkul, around 569 kilometers from Delhi and 24 kilometers from Sangla. It is famous for its sunsets, potatoes, apples, and the incredible hospitality of the locals.
At 3450m, Chitkul is well over a few mountain tops in Himachal alone that makes it witness frigid winters during which the snow makes the inhabitants move to the lower regions of Himachal.
Chitkul is famously known for the quality of potatoes produced; they are one of the finest in the world. Situated on the bank of river Baspa, Chitkul is the first village of Baspa Valley and the last village on the old Hindustan-Tibet trade route and is also the last point in India that one can travel to without a permit.
Moreover, it is proved that Chitkul has the cleanest air in India by the researchers of IIT. So, if you're someone who wants to be out of the polluted air in a metro, Chitkul should be your first pick.
Not to forget the 'Aakhri Dhaba' present at the very far side end of the village. It is named so because it's the last dhaba in the previous town of India.
But your life can get a little bit tricky if you're someone who does not carry enough cash with them. Since Chitkul is an offbeat remote area, you'll not get access to ATMs. But not only that, even medical centers, hospitals, fuel stations, and many other necessities are not present in Chitkul.
So, what if you're in an instant? Well! One has to move back to Sangla, which is about 28 to 30 kilometers away from Chitkul.
While all that is true, one last thing to make it the perfect offbeat destination would be 'no network zones.' Yes! Chitkul comes under that only. So, you can drop off the Instagram or even call for a few days while you're in Chitkul.
But it doesn't mean that the Chitkul is not developed; they have their hydropower flour mill, which is prideful for all the villagers living in the vicinity.
Lastly, if you're to talk about the people of Chitkul, then they are way too friendly and helpful. Also, the Buddist religion is the primary one in Chitkul, but Hinduism is also there to chime in.
If you're planning a trip to Chitkul, then the month of April to June and September to October would be the best.
Having difficulties planning a trip to Chitkul? Well! We're here for the help, come along and join our latest batches of Chitkul Road Trip.
Short Itinerary
0th Day: Delhi to Shimla ISBT
1st Day: Drive from Shimla to Chitkul via Narkanda via SanglaValley (250km).
2nd Day: Day Hike and Sightseeing at Chitkul
3rd Day: Kagyupa Temple and Drive to Shimla.
Price
Delhi to Delhi:
| Double Occupancy | 8300 / Person |
|---|---|
| Triple Occupancy | 7800 / Person |
Itinerary (Delhi to Delhi)
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0
0th Day : Delhi to Shimla ISBT
The group will assemble at the the pickup point at 06:00 PM.
Afterward, You'll be introduced with the team captains and the whole group.
We'll start for a overnight journey towards Shimla shortly.
We'll take a mid-way stoppage at Murthal for Dinner.
*The pickup point can be RK Ashram Metro Station/Majnu Ka Tila. -
1
1st Day : Drive from Shimla to Chitkul via Narkanda via SanglaValley (250km).
Our road trip to Chitkul will start early from Shimla once everyone had breakfast. Our Trip Lead will meet you at ISBT Shimla, and we’ll journey through the gorgeous views of Kullu valley in Kufri and Fagu which are again very famous tourist spots during winters. We’ll be covering about 250KMS in around 10 hours driving on the Hindustan Tibet road towards Chitkul through the beautiful town of Narkanda famous for the Hatu Peak. We’ll be accompanied throughout our journey by the Sutlej River. As we enter the Sangla Valley through Kharcham we’ll see the beautiful traditional houses of the valley. We’ll move towards Chitkul through our final two destinations of Sangla and Rakcham which also has the last ATM service in the region.
We’ll have an overnight stay in homestay/hotel.
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2
2nd Day : Day Hike and Sightseeing at Chitkul
We’ll start with our breakfast and move towards the ITBP camp. Sit and enjoy the beautiful view of the Baspa Valley from around the camp and a majestic view of the snow-clad mountains. We'll return from the camp to have our lunch and move towards the other side of the Baspa River for a short-day hike while enjoying the forest area along the Baspa River.
Sit beside the river to enjoy the view from the other side of the ITBP camp.
Return to the hotel/homestay for a gorgeous sunset and dinner around the bonfire.
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3
3rd Day : Kagyupa Temple and Drive to Shimla.
Kagyupa Temple at Chitkul offers a beautiful, ancient idol of Shakyamuni Buddha. The carvings of four kings in four different directions on the doors are worth admiring. The Kagyu or Kagyupa is one of six main schools of Tibetan Buddhism. The morning prayer at the temple on Sunday is considered very important by the locals.
Witness the prayer and start your journey back to Shimla.
Reach Shimla by 6 pm . Board your onward bus to Delhi.
Reach Delhi by 6am next morning.
Trip Images
Inclusions
Transportation in Tempo Traveller.
Accommodations in Homestay/Camps on sharing basis as per itinerary.
Meal Plan as suggested in the descreptive itinerary.
Trip Lead will be present at all times during the tour.
First Aid Kits
All Required Permits
Oxygen Cylinders
Infrared Thermometer
Oximeter
Exclusions
Early check-in at the hotel.
Any additional expenses such as of personal nature.
Additional accommodation/food costs incurred due to any delay travel.
Any lunch and other meals not mentioned in Package Inclusions.
Any Airfare/Rail fare other than what is mentioned in “Inclusions” or any type of transportation from which is outside the itinerary.
Parking and monument entry fees during sightseeing.
Additional Costs due to Flight Cancellations, Landslides, Roadblocks, and other natural calamities.
Any other services not specified above in inclusions.
Cancellation Policy
No cancellations will be taken over the call or WhatsApp message. Please reply to the email of the payment receipt that you have received at the time of booking regarding the cancellation.
Free Cancellation up to 45 days before the departure date (Booking amount is non-refundable)
If you're canceling the trip and opting for a refund within 44 days to 30 days of the Departure Date then only 10% of the total trip cost (calculated after subtracting the booking amount) along with the booking amount (non-refundable) will be charged as a cancellation fee and remaining sum would be refunded.
If you're canceling the trip and opting for a refund within 29 Days to 20 Days of the Departure Date then only 25% of the total trip cost (calculated after subtracting the booking amount) along with the booking amount (non-refundable) will be charged as a cancellation fee and remaining sum would be refunded.
If you're canceling the trip and opting for a refund within 19 Days to 10 Days of the Departure Date then only 50% of the total trip cost (calculated after subtracting the booking amount) along with the booking amount (non-refundable) will be charged as a cancellation fee and remaining sum would be refunded.
If you're canceling the trip and opting for a refund within 10 Days to 06 Days of the Departure Date then only 75% of the total trip cost (calculated after subtracting the booking amount) along with the booking amount (non-refundable) will be charged as a cancellation fee and remaining sum would be refunded.
If you're canceling the trip and opting for a refund within 06 Days from the Departure Date then 100% of the total trip cost (calculated after subtracting the booking amount) along with the booking amount (non-refundable) will be charged as a cancellation fee and remaining sum would be refunded.
You are not applicable for a refund if you fail to show up on the day of departure under the given timeline that has been provided to you beforehand.
There would be no refund provided in case there occur some problems due to government orders, harsh weather conditions, protests, landslides, or any other unforeseen circumstances. On the occasion of any such happenings, we have a backup plan ready most of the time and we'll be moving onto that. There are times when we would have to cancel some activities mentioned in the itinerary but it's only due to the reason that we would be bound by a circumstance that is not in our control.
If a trek is called off at the last moment due to a natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rain, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh, etc.) then the participants would be provided with a travel voucher for the same amount that can be used within 365 days of the issuance date for any package worth the same amount.
If a trek/trip has to be aborted midway due to a natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rain, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh, etc.). In that case, no refund would be provided.
JustWravel will not bear any extra expense due to any natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rain, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh, etc.).
Cancellations policy differs for popular destinations and also during peak season, kindly confirm with your operator once.
Things To Pack
FAQs
We prefer a smaller group size consisting of only 15-18 participants. The reason being that smaller batches are better in terms of collaborative group experience and trip coordination as well. You’re more likely to gel up with everybody in a short group as compared to a group that has more participants in number.
We have fully qualified and functionally trained Trip Leads, Assistant Trip Lead, Driver accompanying the group during all our journeys. Apart from that, Local Guides and Porters (personal expanse) will also be tagged in if required on a trip/trip.
It depends on the tour. Sometimes, we stay in Hotels, Camp and sometimes we prefer Homestays as well. The information about the full plan will be shared with you post the booking. Additionally, if you have any doubts, you can call any of our representatives to get more information on the same.
Once your booking is confirmed, an email confirmation will be delivered to you which will include all the necessary information including booking details, trip details, and a brief packing list.
"Since we do not have any trekking to do while on the journey, you might not need tripking shoes specifically. But still, a good pair of shoes that have proper soles and are equally comfortable is recommended.
You might need a good pair of shoes when traveling to Dhankar Lake and Chandratal lake. A Quechua or forclaz shoes available at Decathlon will also do."
We will be staying in Hotels, Camp and Homestays-we have constructed washrooms with proper running water and sanitation facilities.
We offer both Double sharing and Triple Sharing rooms. Depending on the package you book, you will be provided with the accommodation accordingly.
After selecting the trip, you can book by clicking on the book now button or you can contact us and we will guide you through the booking process.
We provide nutritious, hygienic, and healthy food during the trip. But in case, you have some preferred food type such as Jain Foods, Only Vegetarian or any other type then we can make arrangements beforehand. But make sure to inform the same to your handler at the time of booking.
Himalayan water is considered the purest water and safe to drink. But for safety purposes, we sometimes boil the water and then use it for drinking and cooking. In case you find any clean water on the trip, make sure to fill your bottles with the same. Do not try out water that is stable, always go for running water.
Yes, you can give suggestions. We will look into that and if we find it feasible then we will apply it as well.
Yes, we can customize any trip as per your preferences. Once you show interest in the same, a dedicated handler from JustWravel will be assigned to you for the same.
Yes, it is advisable that you carry your own medication on the trips. Although, for common symptoms and even more, we have first aid boxes and all our trip leads have basic knowledge about basic paramedics practices.
Well, it totally depends on person to person. Usually, there are no side effects of Diamox but if you are having any prior medical conditions then it is better to consult your doctor for the same. Our itinerary is designed in a way that we take sufficient time to get acclimatized. In case if you are having problems on the trip then please consult with your trip leader about your condition as soon as possible.
If it starts raining slowly while tripking then we will continue our trip as per the plan. Your poncho will keep you dry. In case if it is raining heavily then we will try to find any shelter and wait for the rain to stop or slow. If it rains at the campsite then there would not be any problem because all our living tents, kitchen tents, and toilet tents are waterproof. You will stay dry inside.
It depends on the difficulty level of the trip/trip. The minimum age for eligibility is 14 years.
Yes! You should board with us on the departure date without any hesitation being the solo girl traveling alone. The reason is that we will make sure to take care of your experience during the whole journey. Additionally, all our trip leads are trained to deal with a number of situations and they’ll be there for you during the trip.
We will make sure that you’re comfortable during the whole journey and that is why we hire the best in class vehicle according to the terrain and need. Some of the on-ground vehicles that you might travel in will be Tempo Traveller or taxis such as Innova, Bolero, Tata Sumo, e.t.c.
Reviews
It was an amazing experience with Justwravel. Everything was so organized and well planned. Must recommended one.
Amazing experience and amazing tour coordinator and leader. Very well organised and beautiful experience.
I can't imagine a trip better organised than this and its because of our group leader Mr. Rahbar. Generally people starts enjoying when they reach the destination however in our case it started from the time when we boarded the bus in Delhi. All of the co-travelers were so amazing that no one wanted to finish the trip and wanted to stay back a bit more. Thanks JUSTWRAVEL for organizing such an amazing trip.If anyone have still any questions then you are more than welcome to reach me out. I can guaranty that you will enjoy your trip, just go with open heart and you will find so many friends for life.
This was one of the most cheerful trip of my life, from people who joined the trip to the trip mentor everyone was amazing. The experience with hotel, food and conveyance was also up to the expected quality mark. Had a great time with trip mentor Rahbar.
Amazing trip! Everything was smooth without any hassle.
Coordinators were well informed and supporting. I had a good time with everyone present in the group :)
Had an awesome experience, met some amazing people, and Chitkul was beautiful, felt like heaven on earth.
Thank you JustWravel for an amazing trip. Our Coordinator Mr. Mohit was very supportive and giving equal attention to everyone. whole trip was full of fun and laughter. 2018 ended with good note. Hopefully next trip with JustWravel soon :)
It was an amazing experience with justwravel. Our lead (Mohit) was very cooperative and patient. We felt that we got a truly unique and very low stress traveling experience by booking through this company. I highly recommend it, Mohit Gupta will turn your trip into an unforgettable experience!
Awesome experience with the trek . Our Group Leader Mohit Gupta Sir is like Brother for us . Very calm and comfortable . Always listen our problems and give good advice . Just go with #Justwravel ..
Had an amazing experience with just wravel on a recent road trip to chitkul.It was my first solo travel with a doubt in mind that I will feel secluded , but the company of new fellow travelers was Soo great that now I feel like going with them in future trips as well.Management was top notch with all the things being taken care of by our super talented trip lead Mohit Gupta. He took care of all the needs of every individual and made our trip more comfortable. Food was hygienic and home made style as well as our accommodation was very comfortable. The kindness and warmth with which we were taken care of was really overwhelming.Kudos team wravel , definitely looking forward to my next trip with you guys????
Ooo yeah.. It's time to review the services provided by Justwravel team..!! That's mean the trip end and start the planning for another trip with Justwravels'. Off course if I am thinking about next trip with Justwravel that Indicates I have fully enjoyed the recent road trip to chitkul..and looking forward for more trips in future..!! Each and everything was well planned.Bcoz of this road trip I am blessed to witnessed the snow covered peaks in full moon.. That was amazing experience I had ...can't explain in words.. Especially Thanks to Mohit our trip leader.. U r grt.. keep it up.. He is well aware about the place.The best part was visiting the village and meeting with locals...!! If one wanna to travel with Justwravel Team there will be no chance to worry about safety and security, food, accommodation.. Team will do a good job..! ????It's wonderfully fantabulous adventures journey..!!Highly recommend Came back with lots of good memories and new friends ????????
One of the most amazing ,awesome experience I had and our Trip Lead Mohit Gupta is one of the most caring and supportive leader.
Great arrangements!
It's been more than a year since I first travelled with Justwravel and now I plan my every trip with them only. Be it a 2 day trek or a week long road trip, they make sure the travelers experience the best of what itinerary has to offer, that too without burning a whole in your pocket. I would definitely recommend everyone to travel with Justwravel. :)
Camping experience couldn't get better than the one organized by JustWravel. The arrangement, the activities, the groups, the food, everything was just perfect. The packages are pocket-friendly and they take you to offbeat places. With them, it's not just travel.
Ooo yeah.. It's time to review the services provided by Justwravel team..!! That's mean the trip end and start the planning for another trip with Justwravels'. Off course if I am thinking about next trip with Justwravel that Indicates I have fully enjoyed the recent road trip to chitkul..and looking forward for more trips in future..!! Each and everything was well planned. Bcoz of this road trip I am blessed to witnessed the snow covered peaks in full moon.. That was amazing experience I had ...can't explain in words.. Especially Thanks to Mohit our trip leader.. U r grt..???? keep it up.. He is well aware about the place.The best part was visiting the village and meeting with locals...!! If one wanna to travel with Justwravel Team there will be no chance to worry about safety and security, food, accommodation.. Team will do a good job..! ???? It's wonderfully fantabulous adventures journey.
It was a nice experiience with justwravel on my latest trip to chitkul.????.
Loved the chitkul tour, whether u want to go solo or with friends; Go for Justwravel. They are very friendly and things are well organized.
Their itinerary is well defined and the package is absolutely economic. Been to 3 trips with them, each with different set of people which delivered different set of life-long memorable experience. Couldn't have asked for more!!
This was my first trip with justwravel and I must say I can’t think of any complaints or negative points. Choosing right ppl to go with is as imp as choosing the destination . I went to chitkul village with justwravel with 5 other gals. Handling different sort of gals in a group is not soo easy ? but I must say the trip leader Nishant and mannu really tuk care of us. They paid attention to our minute little things. A big kuddos to the team of justwravel for making my travel experience worth remembering. ?
One of the best travel group I have travelled with.. thanks to Manu and Nishant for being the amazing trip leaders throughout the trip.. they made sure that we enjoy every bit of the trip.. whether it's hiking to ITBP check post or strolling through the Chitkul village or having a sip of amazing tea at India's last dhabha.. we did all of it.. I'm happy that I travelled to Chitkul with these guys.. :)
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