Chitkul, a picturesque hamlet in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, is famously known as the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border. At an altitude of around 3,450 meters (11,319 feet), Chitkul offers breathtaking views of the Baspa River, snow-clad peaks, and ancient wooden homes that echo Himalayan charm.
If you're planning a trip to this offbeat paradise, here's a complete guide on how to reach Chitkul from various parts of India.
Why Visit Chitkul?
Unmatched Natural Beauty: Majestic mountains, apple orchards, and alpine meadows.
Tranquil Atmosphere: Far from city crowds and ideal for peaceful getaways.
Cultural Significance: Last village where Indian roads go before the Indo-Tibetan border.
Trekking Gateway: Starting point for several treks, including Lamkhaga Pass.
How to Reach Chitkul
1. By Air
The nearest airport is Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti), approximately 250 km from Chitkul. Flights to Shimla are limited, so Chandigarh Airport (350 km away) is a better-connected option.
From the airport, you’ll need to hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chitkul via road.
2. By Train
The closest railway station is Kalka Railway Station (around 360 km from Chitkul), well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.
From Kalka, travel to Shimla or directly take a taxi toward Reckong Peo and Sangla Valley.
3. By Road
This is the most popular and scenic way to reach Chitkul.
Route from Delhi to Chitkul:
Delhi → Chandigarh → Shimla → Rampur → Kalpa → Sangla → Chitkul
Distance: ~600 km
Travel Time: 16–18 hours by car or bus
Road Condition: Well-paved highways up to Sangla, then narrow mountain roads till Chitkul
Public Transport:
HRTC (Himachal Roadways) buses run from Shimla to Sangla or Reckong Peo.
From Sangla, local taxis or shared jeeps can take you to Chitkul (22 km uphill).
Best Time to Visit Chitkul
May to October is ideal for pleasant weather and clear mountain views.
Winters (Nov–Mar) are extremely cold, and the village often gets cut off due to snowfall.Travel Tips
Carry cash – There are no ATMs in Chitkul.
Mobile Network – Limited coverage; BSNL works best.
Altitude Awareness – Acclimatize properly to avoid AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
Respect local customs – Especially near temples and sacred spaces.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to reach Chitkul makes it easier to explore one of Himachal Pradesh’s most serene and remote destinations. Whether you're an adventure lover, a photographer, or just someone seeking peace, Chitkul offers a soul-refreshing experience like no other.
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