Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit

Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit is a journey around one of the most beautiful mountain regions of Himachal Pradesh. Narkanda offers the apple orchards and old villages, while Sarahan offers long journeys along the Himalayan highway, Kalpa offers dramatic scenery, Sangla offers great scenic views and Chitkul offers a local culture tour.

Kinnaur is famous for apple orchards, traditional villages, river valleys and tall mountain ranges along with its unique culture of Himalayas. The Sutlej, Baspa and Spiti river valleys will form the major part of the landscape and it will be a very different holiday from the usual Himachal holiday.

The Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit is a wonderful route with lots of variety in the experiences. You can enjoy views of the Kinner Kailash range in Kalpa and visit Baspa Valley around Sangla, and visit one of the most popular villages in the region that is Chitkul.

This makes this Kinnaur circuit a wonderful choice for backpackers, photographers, couples, friends and travellers who want to embark on an offbeat road trip in Himachal.

Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit at a Glance

Note: The exact duration, accommodation, transportation, sightseeing stops and inclusions should be updated according to the final Himtrek departure plan.

Why Choose the Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit?

Kinnaur is not the kind of destination you experience properly by rushing from one sightseeing point to another.

The journey itself is a major part of the experience.

Gradually the terrain changes as you cross from the lower hills to Kinnaur. The forest-covered mountains turn into deep valleys, rocky mountains, apple orchards and typical villages.

The Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit also offers the travelers a chance to visit beyond the popular viewpoints of the area. An overnight stay at places like Kalpa, Sangla or Chitkul is a time to unwind and embrace the tranquil side of the Himalayas.

Kinnaur is one of the most rewarding areas of Himachal Pradesh for those who like to travel in a scenic way and stay in the village for a true experience of mountains.

Where Is Kinnaur Located?

Kinnaur is one of the districts located in the north-eastern part of Himachal Pradesh, touching Tibet on the east.

High mountain ranges and river valleys are the main features of the area, and the Sutlej River is a significant geographical feature of the district.

Typical places that are included in a trip to Kinnaur are:

• Sarahan

• Sangla

• Chitkul

• Kalpa

• Reckong Peo

• Nako, as per the itinerary

The path may be different depending on the length of the journey and the conditions of the road.

Kinnaur Backpacking Route

A popular Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit route from Delhi can be structured as:

Delhi → Shimla → Narkanda → Sarahan → Sangla → Chitkul → Kalpa → Shimla → Delhi

For a longer Himalayan itinerary, the route can be extended towards Nako and Spiti Valley.

The exact sequence may change depending on the Himtrek package, road conditions and available accommodation.

Kalpa – The Mountain Viewpoint of Kinnaur

Kalpa is one of the most popular destinations on the Kinnaur circuit.

The village is famous for its traditional architecture, apple orchards, peaceful atmosphere and its views of the mountains.

The most attractive feature is the view towards the Kinner Kailash range. Sunrise and sunset can create particularly beautiful views when the weather is clear.

Staying overnight means that travellers have more time to explore the village and enjoy the mountain atmosphere as compared to just a few hours in Kalpa.

Sangla Valley – The Scenic Heart of the Circuit

The Sangla Valley is one of the highlights of a Kinnaur trip.The valley is situated on the Baspa River, and high mountains, forests, orchards and traditional villages can be seen all around.

The ride to Sangla itself is an experience; the scenery shifts so much as you descend deeper into the valley.

Sangla is also a good starting point to explore the surrounding areas particularly Chitkul.

Chitkul – The Famous Village of Baspa Valley

Chitkul is a popular place on the Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit.The village is situated in the Baspa Valley and has a local Himalayan atmosphere, which is surrounded by high mountains.

Travellers can spend time walking through the village, exploring the local surroundings and enjoying views of the mountains and Baspa River.

For those interested in photography and backpacking, this village is an essential stop in the Himalayas, offering a more relaxed and serene experience.

Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit Distance

The total road distance for the Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit varies from one person to another, depending on the following:

• Starting point

• Number of destinations

• Route taken

• Road conditions

• Sightseeing stops

• Return route

A Delhi based circuit can cover a considerable road distance as it has to traverse deep into the Kinnaur region and come down from the hills to the plains again.Therefore traffic distance and travelling time per day must be clearly highlighted in the final Himtrek package.

Best Time for Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit

The best time for a Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit depends on what you want to experience.

April to June - Spring & Early Summer

• Pleasant daytime weather.

• Green mountain landscapes.

• Apple orchards begin coming alive.

• Comfortable conditions for road travel.

• Good time for exploring villages and valleys.

July to August – Monsoon

• The monsoon can make road travel unpredictable.

• Rain can affect lower sections of the route.

• Landslides may cause delays.

• Mountain roads can become slippery.

September to November – Autumn

This is one of the most attractive periods for a Kinnaur trip.

• Clearer mountain views.

• Comfortable daytime temperatures.

• Crisp evenings.

• Beautiful autumn landscapes.

• Excellent conditions for photography.

December to March – Winter

Winter can transform Kinnaur into a completely different landscape.

Snowfall may affect roads and accessibility, particularly at higher elevations. Travellers planning a winter Kinnaur trip should be prepared for cold weather and possible changes to the itinerary.

Kinnaur Weather

There is a huge variation in the weather over the Kinnaur region.
It can be quite warm during the day in lower valleys, and very cold at night, especially after sunset, in higher areas.
Road conditions may be impacted by rain during the monsoon seasons. Snow and cold temperatures may occur during the winter.

Always pack layers as the day/night temperature difference can be considerable.

What Can You See on the Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit?

The circuit offers much more than mountain views.

Depending on the route, you can experience:

• Himalayan mountain ranges

• Sutlej River

• Baspa River

• Apple orchards

• Pine and deodar forests

• Traditional Kinnauri villages

• Mountain temples

• Buddhist cultural influences

• Terraced fields

• Deep river valleys

• Snow-covered peaks

• High mountain roads

• Sunrise and sunset viewpoints

• Local markets and village life

The combination of natural scenery and local culture is what makes the Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit different from a standard Himachal road trip.

Kinnauri Culture & Village Life

The highlight of the backpacking experience in Kinnaur is being able to be a part of the local mountain communities.

The traditional houses, temples, orchards, farming method and village architecture are unique.It is important for travellers to keep in mind that these are not only tourist sites, but communities of people living.

While visiting villages:

• Respect local customs.

• Please request consent before taking pictures of others.

• Don't trespass in private fields and houses.

• Respect places of religion.

• Avoid littering.

• Purchase from local businesses whenever possible.

Responsible Travel is contributing to the maintenance of the area's character.

Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit for Beginners

The Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit is not a trekking expedition, so it does not require the same physical preparation as a high-altitude trek.

However, travellers should be comfortable with:

• Long road journeys.

• Mountain roads.

• Basic walking.

• Changing weather.

• Staying at different accommodations.

• Spending time at higher elevations.

The trip is suitable for most reasonably fit travellers, including beginners, couples, friends and families.

Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit from Delhi

For travellers planning a Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit from Delhi, the journey generally follows:

Delhi → Shimla → Narkanda → Sarahan → Sangla → Chitkul → Kalpa → Shimla → Delhi

Depending on the package, transportation can include overnight travel from Delhi and a shared vehicle for the Himalayan section.

For a Himtrek fixed departure, the exact:

• Delhi reporting point

• Vehicle type

• Departure time

• Number of nights

• Accommodation

• Return schedule

should be clearly mentioned on the booking page.

How to Reach Kinnaur

By Road

Road travel is the most practical way to explore Kinnaur.
Travellers usually reach Shimla first and continue towards Narkanda, Rampur, Sarahan and the Kinnaur Valley.

By Train

The nearest major broad-gauge railway access is generally Kalka, from where travellers can continue towards Shimla and onward by road.

By Air

Shimla Airport provides limited air connectivity, while Chandigarh Airport is a more practical option for many travellers before continuing by road.

Because Kinnaur is a remote mountain region, the final road journey is an important part of the trip.

What to Pack for Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit

Essential Items

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Warm jacket

• Fleece layer

• Thermal innerwear

• Comfortable trousers

• Woollen socks

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Lip balm

• Water bottle

• Personal medicines

• Power bank

• Small daypack

• Rain jacket

• Basic toiletries

For Winter

Add:

• Heavy insulated jacket

• Extra thermal layers

• Warm gloves

• Woollen cap

• Neck warmer

• Waterproof shoes

• Extra woollen socks

Even during summer, carrying one warm layer is recommended because evenings can become cold in Kinnaur.

Is Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit Safe?

The Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit may be safely traversed if proper care is taken in planning, but it is important to note that this is a mountain road trip.
Road conditions may vary due to rain, landslides, snow-related incidents, and other local weather conditions.

Travellers should:

• Listen to the leader's directions.

• Don't stop on small streets unless it's necessary.

• Avoid walking on steep slopes.

• Avoid entering close to fast-moving rivers.

• Be aware of weather and road conditions.

• Have a back-up plan.

• Bring warm and rain protection layers.

• Obey traffic and environmental regulations.

It's best to consider the trip as a road trip through the Himalayas, and not as a set city-to-city journey with a fixed time limit.

Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit Cost

The Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit cost depends on the final package structure.
The price can vary according to:

• Number of nights

• Accommodation category

• Transportation

• Group size

• Meals

• Delhi transportation

• Sightseeing

• Local transfers

• Guide or trip-leader support

For a Himtrek package, the final price should clearly show inclusions and exclusions so travellers know what they are paying for before booking.

Who Should Choose the Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit?

The Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit price would vary according to the service package.

The price can vary according to:

• Number of nights

• Accommodation category

• Transportation

• Group size

• Meals

• Delhi transportation

• Sightseeing

• Local transfers

• Guide or trip-leader support

The final price for a Himtrek package should clearly state inclusions and exclusions, so that travellers know what they are paying for before booking.

Explore More Himtrek Himalayan Trips

If you enjoy the Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit, you can also explore other Himtrek journeys through Himachal Pradesh, including:

• Kalpa • Chitkul • Narkanda

• Spiti Valley Expedition

• Jispa & Manali

• Manali, Jispa & Shinkula Pass

• Barot & Bir

• McLeodganj, Triund & Bir

Experience the Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit with Himtrek

The Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit is a trek for the adventurers who want to explore the other side of the Himalayas in the state of Himachal Pradesh.

The forests, the mountain roads around Shimla and Narkanda, the dramatic valleys of Sangla and the peaceful landscapes of Chitkul and Kalpa offer a unique experience in the Himalayas at every turn.

Mountain views, traditional villages, apple orchards, river valleys and long scenic drives are all within your reach, without the grueling trek.

Plan your Kinnaur Backpacking Circuit with Himtrek and explore Kalpa, Sangla, Chitkul and the quieter Himalayan landscapes of Kinnaur.