10 Fun things to do in Chitkul
Chitkul is situated on the border of India and Tibet. It is a small village unknown to the outside world. Situated in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, here are 10 things to do in this hidden gem of India with its unique ethnicity.
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1. Chitkul Homestay
The only way to get a real feel of the Himalayan village life in Chitkul is to spend a night in the very few homestays which were initially houses but are now converted to homestays. These homestays are located in the heart of the village with wooden interiors and provide basic amenities.
2. Spin a 360-degree in the temple
In the heart of the village, lies a Hindu village with intricate architecture. The view on all sides gives a complete picturesque scene which can be only justified by a 360 from the centre of the temple.
3. Plow the land with the villagers
The locals here grow potatoes and other vegetables. Experience farming in the traditional Indian way with the locals and help them in their ecosystem.
4. Walk down the river
Instead of taking the car to the banks of the River Baspa, there is a small trail that will take you down to the river. The mountains on all the sides with the Baspa flowing in the middle and the mysterious bridge covered with prayer flags is a delight.
5. Play with the kids
Every evening, the children of Chitkul play a game of basketball and volleyball. This is the best way to interact with the local kids and also flex your muscles.
6. Lunch at the rooftop cafe
With cool breeze and hot homemade food, what completes the moment is watching the Indo-Tibet border. Do not forget to carry your gear, because the weather here changes every now and then.
7. Pet a calf
The people here in Chitkul love their animals. Take their calf for a walk and you will definitely be invited for lunch or dinner at their place.
8. Sip tea and look at the mountains change colours
Once your back to your room, the best thing to do is to sit near the window overlooking the mighty Himalayas and sip on some hot chai and watch the mountains change colours every 15 seconds.
9. Wash your face with the glacier water
The River Baspa flows through the valley and the villagers use this water for literally everything from grinding wheat flour to electricity in their houses. Challenge your friends to either dip their feet or face in this icy cold flowing glacier water and take a boomerang of the same. The flowing glacier water will defiantly send shivers down your spine and will wake you up from your slumber.
10. Make a wish with 7 pebbles
We all travel to the Himalayas for various reasons and with different burdens. One of the most famous legends to get a wish granted from the Himalayas, involves stacking seven pebbles on top of each other and then making a non-materialistic wish. The banks of the river near Chitkul is an ideal place to make a wish with the river flowing with all its might and the towering snow-capped mountains all around. Make a wish and have faith that it will come true.
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