There’s something quite captivating about Kalpa, we’ve explored several Himalayan villages and a few of them have left a lasting impression on us. But Kalpa somehow managed to wrangle a place in our hearts that only a few places were able to. It’s the grand views of the Kinner Kailash range or the simple vibe of the place – Kalpa had everything to be unveiled.

Its picturesque or panoramic views of the mountains, apple orchards, cobbled alleys and towering deodars and pines are witnessed in most Himalayan hamlets. And then there’s the unique syncretism of Buddhist and Hindu culture at Kalpa that exudes harmony and peace.

We explored Kalpa on our way towards Spiti Valley and once we got around, the only thought that came to our minds was why we had not visited the place before. Kalpa has unfortunately been relegated as a stopover during a Spiti valley trip or a Kinnaur Valley trip.

Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh –

Kalpa is in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, lying at an altitude of 9711 feet above sea level. With its breathtaking beauty, Kalpa is one of the best Kinnaur valleys. The Kinner Kailash range can be seen from almost all parts of Kalpa with the Shivlink Peak at a height of 20,000 feet. One of the best things to do in Kalpa is watch the sunrise. The golden rays of the sun fall on the Shivling Peak coloring the sky in different hues of yellow and orange.

These mountain ranges look so close as if we could touch them. Yet they’re so far. It does remind us of how minuscule space we occupy in this universe. Kalpa is surrounded by pines and firs and deodars. The apple orchards add beauty to the place. You can see the snow-capped peaks and admire the soothing greenery of the mountains.|

One of the best things about Kalpa is that it is neither too remote nor too crowded with tourists. The place is serene and calm just like the people around take an uphill.

Where is Kalpa located?

Kalpa is around 235 kms from Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. It’s part of the Kinnaur district and you must take an uphill diversion from Reckong Peo, which is the district headquarters.

Places to visit in Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh

Visit the Suicide Point –

The first place is located around 5 km from Kalpa's main market area. This is a popular spot at Kalpa and is quite beautiful with panoramic views of the mountain ranges, despite having a morbid name. This is a great place to take some lovely pictures albeit carefully. One can look down at the cliffs below but do not jump in.

Explore Roghi Village –

Roghi Village is around 3 km from the Suicide Point. The village is beautiful having traditional Kinnauri houses made of wood with intricate carvings and designs. The villagers are also known for their traditional culture. Roghi village deserves at least half a day of your time. You’ll get a lot of insight into Kinnauri culture and people.

Visit Narayan Nagini Temple –

Next visit the Narayan Nagini Temple located just near the market area. This is an ancient temple, some say that the temple is almost 5000 years old and has connections with the Mahabharata. The temple’s architecture reflects the traditional Kinnaui style. Built in the Tibetan Pagoda style, the temple has some marvellous wood carvings. Admire the wood carvings, witness the morning aarti and then come out to admire the mountain views.

Hu-Bu-Lan-Kar Monastery

Observe the enormous white stupa and the fluttering colorful prayer flags. The monastery is also old. I heard is almost 1000 years old. The present structure was perhaps built much later. The monastery shows how the life and culture of the people of Kalpa have been influenced by both Hinduism and Buddhism.

Explore the village

Kalpa by itself is a small place. One can discover the village on foot where you’ll see some interesting things and meet some wonderful people. One can also visit the apple orchards.

Watch the glorious sunrise.

The best thing to do in Kalpa is to watch the sunrise. Witness the early sunrise and witness how the first rays of the sun illuminated Shivling Peak. The entire sky lit up in myriads of colours, it will be a speechless moment at Kalpa.

How to reach Kalpa?

The closest airport to Kalpa is Jubbarhatti in Shimla. This is a domestic airport and quite small, having limited connectivity. Chandigarh is the biggest airport. The distance between Chandigarh to Kalpa is around 345 km. If you are coming from other places than Delhi or the North Indian states.

Conclusion –

Kalpa is generally ignored by tourists when they travel to Himachal. But a couple of days in this Kinnauri heaven can be quite delightful. So, plan your trip to Kinnaur village and spend at least 2 days in Kalpa and other places.