Chitkul, the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border in Himachal Pradesh, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Nestled at an altitude of 3,450 meters in the Kinnaur district, this picturesque village offers stunning landscapes, serene environment, and a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you’re planning a trip from Delhi, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the journey seamlessly. Here’s how to reach Chitkul from Delhi.
Table of Contents
How to reach Chitkul from Delhi
Modes of Transportation
By Road
Traveling by road from Delhi to Chitkul is the most popular option. The journey covers approximately 569 kilometers and takes around 15-18 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.
Self-Drive: Driving your own vehicle or renting one gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Here’s the recommended route:
Route: Delhi – Chandigarh – Shimla – Narkanda – Rampur – Jeori – Karcham – Sangla – Chitkul.
1. Delhi to Chandigarh (250 km): Start early from Delhi, heading north on NH44 towards Chandigarh. This well-maintained highway ensures a smooth drive, typically taking about 4-5 hours.
2. Chandigarh to Shimla (113 km): From Chandigarh, proceed on NH5 to Shimla. This segment takes you through the scenic Shivalik Hills, with a driving time of approximately 3-4 hours.
3. Shimla to Narkanda (65 km): Continue on NH5 to Narkanda, a quaint town known for its apple orchards and stunning views. This stretch takes around 2-3 hours.
4. Narkanda to Rampur (55 km): Follow NH5 as it winds down to Rampur, paralleling the Sutlej River. This part of the journey takes about 2 hours.
5. Rampur to Jeori (21 km): Continue on NH5 from Rampur to Jeori, a short 1-hour drive.
6. Jeori to Karcham (45 km): From Jeori, proceed to Karcham on NH5. This drive is about 2 hours long, featuring a mix of narrow and wide roads.
7. Karcham to Sangla (18 km): At Karcham, turn towards Sangla on a narrower road. This picturesque 1-hour drive follows the Baspa River.
8. Sangla to Chitkul (24 km): Finally, from Sangla, drive to Chitkul. This last stretch is narrow and takes about 1-2 hours, offering breathtaking views of the Baspa Valley.
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Best Time to Visit Chitkul
It is important to know when is best to visit Chitkul before you go on the trip. April to October are the best months because of the nice weather and easily accessible routes. Heavy snowfall throughout the winter (November to March) frequently results in road closures and makes travel difficult.
Tips for Self-Drive
Make sure your vehicle is in excellent condition and bring extra fuel with you because there aren’t many gas stations beyond Shimla.- In particular during the winter and monsoon seasons, check the weather and road conditions.- Be alert for road blocks and landslides and drive carefully.
By Taxi: Hiring a taxi is convenient if you prefer not to drive. You can hire a taxi from Delhi or from major towns like Shimla or Rampur. This option is more expensive but offers the comfort of having an experienced local driver.
By Bus: Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) and private operators run regular bus services from Delhi to key towns like Shimla, Rampur, and Sangla.
Click here to book hrtc bus tickets.
1. Delhi to Shimla: Board an overnight Volvo or deluxe bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Delhi to Shimla. This journey takes around 8-10 hours.
2. Shimla to Reckong Peo: From Shimla, take a bus to Reckong Peo, the district headquarters of Kinnaur. This leg takes about 7-8 hours.
3. Reckong Peo to Sangla/Chitkul: From Reckong Peo, board a local bus or shared taxi to Sangla and then onward to Chitkul. This journey takes approximately 3-4 hours.
By Train
While there is no direct train to Chitkul, you can take a train to Kalka and then continue by road.
1. Delhi to Kalka: Board a train from Delhi to Kalka, such as the Kalka Shatabdi, which takes about 4-5 hours.
2. Kalka to Shimla: From Kalka, take the narrow-gauge toy train to Shimla, a scenic journey lasting about 5-6 hours. Alternatively, take a taxi from Kalka to Shimla, which is faster.
3. Shimla to Chitkul: Continue by road from Shimla as described in the self-drive or bus sections.
By Air
The nearest airport to Chitkul is in Shimla, but it has limited connectivity. The most practical option is to fly to Chandigarh and then travel by road.
1. Delhi to Chandigarh: Book a flight from Delhi to Chandigarh, with a flight duration of about 1 hour.
2. Chandigarh to Chitkul: From Chandigarh, follow the road route via Shimla as detailed earlier.
Accommodation and Essentials
Where to Stay
Chitkul offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to more comfortable hotels. Sangla, a nearby town, also has good options if you prefer staying there and making day trips to Chitkul.
What to Pack
Clothing: Pack layers, including warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly.
Footwear: Comfortable and sturdy shoes for walking and exploring.
Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and basic medical supplies.
Documents: Carry identification and any necessary permits, especially if you plan to trek or explore restricted areas.
Final Tips
Altitude Adjustment: Chitkul is at high altitude, so take it easy for the first day to adjust.
Local Culture: Respect the local customs and traditions.
Connectivity: Mobile network coverage is limited, so inform your close ones about the limited connectivity.
Conclusion
Reaching Chitkul from Delhi is an adventurous journey filled with scenic beauty and cultural richness. Whether you choose to drive, take a bus, or mix different modes of transport, the experience is sure to be memorable. Plan your trip carefully, respect the local environment, and prepare for an unforgettable visit to one of Himachal Pradesh’s most charming destinations.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your journey to Chitkul, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Happy traveling!—This blog post not only provides detailed instructions on how to reach Chitkul from Delhi but also includes practical tips and insights to make the journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
