The Unexplored Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh, a northern Indian state in the Himalayas, recognised for its trekking, climbing and skiing, and picturesque mountain towns and resorts such as Dalhousie. Himachal Pradesh also has a strong Tibetan presence, mirrored in its Buddhist temples and monasteries, and cuisine full of noodles and dumplings, and vibrant Tibetan New Year celebrations. The major and frequently travelled tourist destinations of Himachal are Shimla, Manali (Rohtang, Manikaran), Dharamshala, Dalhousie, Kullu , but today we list down the places that deserve to be on the list but are less travelled …
MALANA – Pushed away from the rest of the civilization, Malana is a small village in the district of Kullu. This place has a rich historical background as it is believed that the people of Malana are the descendants of Alexander the Great. They have their own administrative system very similar to the Greek system of law and administration, concept of purity, language and social structure. The lofty peaks of Chandrakhani and Deotibba shelters the village.You can reach Malana via Kasol by hiring a cab from Kasol and it will drop you at the steps leading to the village, from where the trek starts. It will take you approximately two hours to reach the village.
KHEERGANGA – Kheerganga is in the district of Kullu in the lap of the Parvati Valley. One can go till Barsaini from where the four hour trek starts till Kheerganga. It is believed that Lord Shiva had his abode here and meditated for thousands of years. The best thing about the place is the hot water spring which is said to have healing properties.
BAROT – Barot is a track destination in Himachal Pradesh. It has some wonderful terraced fields, thick cedar forests and a variety of outdoor activities. The Uhl River flowing next to the Barot Village mostly on both sides adds to its unique beauty.
KALPA – Kalpa is one of the biggest villages in Kinnaur and is best known for its lush green pine nut forests and the outstanding landscape covered with snow against the morning sunshine. The numerous apple orchards add to the beauty of the place. The holy Kailash Shivling rock that changes shades with the different times of the day can be beheld from here.
CHITKUL – Chitkul is a small settlement in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, situated on the Indo-Tibetan border. Interestingly, it is the last inhabited village on the border and the last destination in India that can be crossed without the need of a permit. One can stay at Sangla and make a one day trip to Chitkul. The river Baspa runs all along the journey making it a beautiful sight.
