The road twisted and turned as I made my way through the breathtaking landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, leaving behind the bustling streets of Shimla. My destination? Kalpa, a mesmerizing village nestled in the Kinnaur district, hidden away in the lap of the Himalayas. This wasn’t just another trip for me—it was an adventure into the unknown, a journey into a world untouched by time.
Journey to Kalpa
Reaching Kalpa is quite an adventure. The roads are winding, sometimes precarious, but every turn reveals a magnificent view. I had two options: hire a taxi from Shimla or take a bus. I took a bus, wanting to experience the thrill of traveling through the mountains like a local.
After nearly 10 hours on the road, crossing through Rampur, Jeori, and Reckong Peo, I finally arrived in Kalpa. The moment I stepped out of the vehicle, I was greeted by a chilly breeze and the overwhelming sight of the Kinner Kailash range standing tall against the sky.
First Impressions and Local Vibes
Kalpa is a quiet, slow-paced village, where life revolves around apple orchards, Buddhist monasteries, and Hindu temples. The houses here are built in traditional Kinnauri style, wooden structures with intricate carvings, blending seamlessly into the landscape.
Walking through the narrow lanes, I found myself surrounded by smiling locals, their faces reflecting the warmth of the mountains. The villagers are welcoming, often inviting travelers for a cup of butter tea or locally brewed apple cider.
Experiencing the Best of Kalpa
With just three days in hand, I wanted to explore as much as I could. Here’s what I did:
- Chasing the Sunrise Over Kinner Kailash
I woke up before dawn to witness what is arguably Kalpa’s most magical moment—the sunrise over the Kinner Kailash range. As the first rays of sunlight touched the snow-capped peaks, the mountains turned golden, then pink, and finally settled into a majestic white. It felt like watching nature paint the sky in real time.
- The Thrill of Suicide Point
A short trek from Kalpa took me to Suicide Point, a name that sounds more intimidating than the actual place. The sheer drop and deep gorge below made my heart race, but the view was worth every step. If you have a thirst for adventure and love photography, this is the place to be!
- A Visit to Roghi Village
Determined to see more of Kinnaur’s beauty, I trekked to Roghi Village, about 8 km from Kalpa. This tiny hamlet is straight out of a postcard—lush green fields, apple orchards, and houses adorned with Tibetan prayer flags. The locals here live a simple, content life, and their hospitality was something I’ll always cherish.
- Exploring the Spiritual Side
Kalpa is rich in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. I visited the Narayan-Nagini Temple, a stunning wooden temple with intricate carvings, and then headed to the Hu-Bu-Lan-Kar Monastery, an 11th-century Buddhist monastery that exudes peace and serenity.
- Apple Orchard Walk & Local Food
Kalpa is famous for its juicy red apples, and I was lucky to visit during the apple-picking season. Strolling through the orchards, plucking fresh apples straight from the trees, was an experience like no other. Later, I tried local delicacies like Siddu (steamed wheat bun), Chilra (buckwheat pancakes), and Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup)—each dish was bursting with flavor.
Challenges of Traveling to Kalpa
While Kalpa is a paradise, getting there isn’t without its challenges. Here’s what travelers should be prepared for:
Unpredictable Weather: One moment it’s sunny, and the next, clouds roll in with chilly winds. Always carry warm clothing regardless of the season.
Road Conditions: The roads, especially near Reckong Peo, can be rough and landslides are common during monsoons. If you’re driving, be extra cautious.
Limited Connectivity: Kalpa is a great place to disconnect from the digital world, as network signals are weak. Some hotels offer Wi-Fi, but don’t expect high-speed internet.
Altitude Sickness: At nearly 3,000 meters above sea level, some travelers may experience mild altitude sickness. Staying hydrated and taking it slow helps.
Where to Stay in Kalpa
Kalpa has a variety of stays, from budget guesthouses to cozy homestays. I stayed at The Grand Shamba-La, which had spectacular mountain views. Other great options include:
Echor – The Alpine Crest (for a boutique experience)
HPTDC Hotel Kinner Kailash (government-run but offers good views)
Kalpa Retreat (perfect for budget travelers)
Final Thoughts: Why Kalpa Should Be on Your Travel List
Kalpa is not just a place; it’s an experience. It’s where nature speaks to you in whispers of the wind, where time slows down, and where the mountains remind you of how small yet significant you are in the grand scheme of things.
Whether you’re an adventurer, a photographer, a spiritual seeker, or just someone who loves peace, Kalpa will steal your heart and leave you yearning for more.
So, if you’re looking for a raw, unfiltered Himalayan adventure, pack your bags and head to Kalpa. I promise—it’ll be a journey you’ll never forget!
