voyage-vista.comHiking Heaven: Kalpa’s Allure in the Heart of Himachal Pradesh
Kalpa is a picturesque village located in the snow-capped mountains of Himachal Pradesh‘s Kinnaur district. Kalpa stands as a pristine haven for hiking enthusiasts. If you are in Kalpa, you can have a 24×7 view of the Himalayas just from the window of a hotel or guest house room. As avid supporters of nature’s wonders, we invite you to explore the unparalleled allure of Kalpa, a destination that promises not just a trek but an unforgettable adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we unveil the hidden gems and extraordinary experiences that make Kalpa a hiking heaven.
Journey to Kinnaur Bliss: Rikang Peo and the Sacred Trek to Kinnaur Kailas
Rikang Peo is situated at an altitude of about 2,300 meters above sea level. The journey takes at least 18 hours, during which the bus passes through places like Panipat, Ambala, Kalka, Shimla, Narkanda, and Rampur. It is the administrative and economic headquarters of Kinnaur district. Devotees who come for an eight-day circumambulation (Parikrama) of the 4,800-meter-high sacred mountain of Kinnaur Kailas begin their trek on foot from Rikang Pio. One has to catch a private bus from the post office opposite the station to reach Kalpa village.
Unification of Hindu-Buddhist culture
A paradise for nature lovers, Kalpa is situated at an altitude of 2,960 m (2 9,700 feet) in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. Unforgettable views of the Kinnaur Kailas range can be seen from here. The village is located right in front of it. Kinnaur Kailas is a holy place for Hindus and Buddhists. There is a Shivlinga on a 4,800-meter-high peak here, which is visited
by thousands of devotees every year. It is believed that the color of this shivlinga changes every hour. Kinnaur Kailas peak can be reached by trekking.
As the journey has an element of adventure mixed in, it should be exciting. Otherwise, the changing color of Kinnaur Kailas due to the changing angle of the sun rays can be observed from any corner of Kalpa village! The village itself is so small that, in half an hour, one can walk around every street. As the population of Kalpa is small, there are some loose houses, a small market, a temple, a school, and only a Buddhist monastery. Hindu and Buddhist cultures are found here.
Narayana Nagini Temple:
The construction of this temple of Goddess Durga is done in traditional Tibetan style. Its doors alone give an idea of how old it must be. The temple has beautiful wood carvings. The temple is open only during morning and evening aarti, and the timing of aarti varies in those months. So in order to see the temple from inside, one has to go during Aarti. There is a seating arrangement in the courtyard of the temple, from which one can take advantage of the natural beauty.
Hu-Bu-Len-Kar Buddhist Monastery:
The monastery was built here in the 1st century by a Buddhist monk named Rinchen Zhangpo. A fire in 1959 damaged the historic monastery, after which the residents of Kalpa rebuilt it. Adjacent to this is the monastery of the young Buddhist monks. This Buddhist temple is open from time to time and closes after fixed hours. It is suggested to know the prayer time for visitation or to ask a monk from the adjacent ashram for a tour of the monastery. Hu-Bu-Len-Kar Monastery is located at a height, so the whole village of Kalpa can be seen from it. If visited in the evening, it is fun to see the snow peaks of the Kinnaur Kailas range in the backdrop of sky rangoli of colors like yellow, saffron, brown, light purple, etc.
Chandika Deviji Ka Qila/Temple
This is a mythical temple or fort. According to folklore, Demon Banasura was killed by Goddess Chandika here. After that, Devi herself went and settled in Kothi village, which is four kilometers away from Kalpa. Before leaving, she asked the villagers to follow the laws of nature for the rest of their lives and promised that she would always protect Kalpa village. Every religio-historical place in India is associated with some folklore. While visiting the Kalpa Fort, one gets to know such interesting stories from the mouths of the locals. If you look at the photo showing the panoramic view of Kalpa village, then the fort is seen as the highest. It seems as if Goddess Chandika is protecting everyone from above the village to fulfill her promise.
Flowing sweet juice of Apple of Kinnaur
Apples are a cash crop for farmers in the Himachal region. Apples of the Delicious and Golden Delicious varieties are mainly grown here. This fruit is not originally from the Himalayas. In the early nineteenth century, an American missionary named Samuel Evan Stokes visited Punjab-Himachal. He had brought the seeds of the Golden Delicious variety of apples from the American state of Philadelphia. He planted apples in cold-climate areas like Shimla, Thanedar, Narkada, etc. in Himachal Pradesh. As time passed, he started selling apple plants to the locals at a nominal price. Today, about fifty percent of the apple crop grown in India is attributed to Himachal Pradesh. In the areas of Shimla, Manali, Chamba, Kinnaur, Lahol Spiti, etc., 25 million boxes of apples are grown every year.
Kinnaur district is leading in organic apple cultivation. Kalpa is also famous for its apple orchards. Apple cultivation is the main occupation of almost every family in Kalpa. Hence, apple orchards will be found all around. Farmers prepare for apple cultivation in the month of April. Three varieties of apples, namely Royal Delicious, Mackintosh, and Green Delicious, are grown here. Farmers here never use any chemicals or pesticides. They use only organic manure instead of chemical fertilizers to keep the soil fertile. In the month of September, the work of picking apples has started. If you visit this area from August to October, you will find orchards full of scarlet apples.
The high-quality apples of Kalpa are juicy and very sweet. As the skin of the fruit is a bit thicker, it stays fresh longer. Taking an apple in your hand and filling it with your teeth, a fine burst of sweet juice bursts out. When the juice touches the tongue, it feels like eating some nectar from heaven! Apart from apples, walnuts, guavas, apricots, and pine nuts are also grown in the Kinnaur region.
The Enchanting Landscape
Kalpa boasts a breathtaking backdrop of the Himalayas, with the majestic Kinner Kailash dominating the skyline. The air is crisp, and the vistas are awe-inspiring, making every step a journey through nature’s grandeur. The panorama from Kalpa is unlike any other, with snow-capped peaks creating a surreal canvas that changes hues with the shifting sunlight.
Unveiling the Trails
Kinnaur Kailash Circuit
Embark on the Kinnaur Kailash Circuit, a trail that winds through emerald meadows, dense forests, and quaint villages. The Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama offers a challenge for seasoned hikers while treating them to mesmerizing views of the surrounding valleys. This circuit is a testament to the raw beauty and diversity of Kalpa’s terrain.
Sarahan to Kalpa Expedition
For those seeking a less strenuous yet equally rewarding trek, the Sarahan to Kalpa expedition is an ideal choice. The trail traces the Sutlej River, presenting hikers with ever-changing landscapes that range from orchards laden with apples to dense alpine forests. This journey encapsulates the essence of Kalpa’s natural splendor.
Cultural Immersion
The Rich Tapestry of Kinnauri Culture
Beyond its natural beauty, Kalpa is a melting pot of culture. The Kinnauri people, known for their warm hospitality, welcome visitors to partake in their customs and traditions. Explore ancient monasteries, witness traditional dance forms, and savor local delicacies, as Kalpa offers not just a physical adventure but a cultural odyssey.
Good to Know for Planning a Perfect Trip:
Transportation:
The nearest airports are Shimla and Manali. However, there are limited flights available to go to both of these places. From Kalpa to cities like Delhi (570 km) and Chandigarh (330 km) by air/ train, and then by bus-taxi via Shimla (230 km) to Manali (290 km) to Kalpa. Traveling by road is also good for owning a vehicle if one has experience driving on hills.
Accommodation and Facilities:
Kalpa provides a range of accommodation options, from cozy guesthouses to boutique hotels that blend seamlessly with the surroundings. Imagine waking up to the sound of rustling leaves and a view of snow-capped peaks from your window. Kalpa offers an array of choices, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature’s embrace. Budget hotels, guesthouses, and homestay options are available for stays in Kalpa. Apart from this, one can also stay in Rekong Pio.
Best Time to Visit
To make the most of your Kalpa experience, plan your visit during the months of May to October. During this period, the weather is pleasant, the trails are accessible, and the flora is in full bloom. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast capturing vibrant landscapes or a hiker seeking the thrill of adventure, this time frame ensures an unforgettable journey. For experiencing the snowfall in winter, it is suggested to visit between December and March. August to October to witness the beauty of the trees laden with apples, and April to June for pleasant weather, avoid traveling there in monsoons.
Safety Tips for Hiking in Kalpa
While Kalpa is a hiker’s paradise, safety should always be the top priority. Ensure you are well-equipped with appropriate gear, stay hydrated, and be mindful of your physical limits. It’s advisable to hire experienced local guides who not only navigate the trails expertly but also enrich your journey with their insights into the region.
Plus know this:
- In the monsoon, there are high chances of landslides. It is better to prepare for it if you are visiting the place during this season.
- It is always advisable to keep warm woolen clothes handy, regardless of the time and reason for the trip.
- A similar place is Chhitkool, which is 65 km away from Kalpa.
- It is suggested to have hands-on experience with the dishes of Himachal and Kinnaur. Vegetarian food is also easily available.
- Kinnaur region is famous for handlooms, woolen cloths, apricots, almonds, and apples, which can be purchased from here.
- The only network of Vi and Airtel is functional over here.
Conclusion
In the heart of Himachal Pradesh lies Kalpa, a destination that beckons adventurers with its unparalleled beauty and diverse landscapes. From challenging treks to cultural immersions, Kalpa offers a holistic experience that lingers in the hearts of those fortunate enough to explore its trails. Immerse yourself in the magic of Kalpa, where every step is a dance with nature’s rhythm.
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