Chitkul Village – A Remote Paradise in Himachal India

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In the heart of Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur district, lies a remote and serene place – Sangla Valley. Nestled within, Chitkul, India’s last village at 11,000 feet, offers the cleanest air. Research by IIT Delhi reveals it’s 30 times better than Delhi. The natural beauty of Pine and Devdar trees, along with its remoteness, contributes to this purity.

Venture into Chitkul, and you’ll witness a unique feature – the charming wooden houses that set it apart from neighboring Spiti. These houses, resiliently crafted by the villagers, are a response to the region’s harsh cold.

The wooden walls and slate roofs grace Chitkul’s landscape. Crafted from local materials, each dwelling exudes rustic allure. The wooden huts, in particular, infuse an antique charm into this village.”

Unraveling the Mystery of Wooden Huts

While wandering through Chitkul, you’ll come across numerous wooden huts scattered throughout the village. These huts pique the curiosity of visitors, leaving them wondering about their purpose.

A Glimpse Inside

Let’s delve into one of these huts to uncover their secret. As we enter, we are greeted by a friendly face and a warm “Namaste.” We inquire about the purpose of these wooden structures.

“These are our stores,” says the villager, smiling.

“Stores for what?” we ask.

“Food and grains,” comes the reply.

The villager then proceeds to load a bundle of cow fodder onto their back. It appears heavy, but they carry it effortlessly.

“How many kilos is this?” we inquire.

“Around 5-10 kg,” they respond.

Curious about their destination, we ask, “Where are you taking this?”

“Home,” they reply, pointing uphill.

“Up there?” we inquire.

“Yes, up the hill,” they confirm.

It becomes evident that these wooden huts are used for storing food, grains, and even cow fodder. But what kind of wood are they made from?

“Cayal,” the villager answers. “There’s a Cayal tree nearby.”

“Cayal means Pine, right?” we ask.

“Yes, Pine,” they confirm.

Chitkul Fort: A Proud Sentinel

Amidst the myriad wonders of Chitkul, one reigns supreme – the grandeur of Chitkul Fort. This timeless fortress, perched proudly, echoes the village’s rich history and heritage.

Gharat – The Innovative Water Mill

One of the hidden treasures of Chitkul is the traditional water mill, locally known as “Gharat.” At first glance, it appears to be an unassuming hut. However, its true innovation lies within.

As we step inside the Gharat, we are met with an intriguing sight – a water mill in action. This mill operates entirely on the flow of water, requiring no external power source. It’s a remarkable example of sustainable technology.

The process of grinding flour here is known as “water milling.” The villagers have ingeniously diverted water from the mountains to power a turbine. The force of the gushing water sets the turbine in motion, and attached to it is a stone that grinds the wheat into flour. The shape of the container resembles an hourglass, allowing the wheat to slowly fall into the center of the rotating stone.

The result? A continuous process of flour milling, powered solely by the natural flow of water. This ingenious system, constructed using wood and stones, requires no ongoing expenses.

Wisdom of the Elders

Winter’s Transformation

Chitkul, in all its green glory, undergoes a dramatic transformation during the winter months. As heavy snow blankets the region, the only road leading to the village becomes impassable. Chitkul, for several months, becomes completely cut off from the outside world.

To cope with the harsh winter conditions, most of Chitkul’s residents temporarily migrate to lower-lying villages. Raksham Village, just 10 kilometers away, is one such destination.

Raksham Village – Beauty Along the Baspa River

Nestled in the Sangla Valley, Raksham Village, also known as Baspa Valley, is a breathtaking place with the Baspa River running through it. On one side of the river stands Raksham Village, while the other side is adorned with vast and fertile fields.

A relatively recent addition to the village is the Raksham Bridge. Prior to its construction, the only way to cross the river was by precarious cables and a swing. The bridge has brought convenience and connectivity to the villagers, making their lives easier.

What sets Raksham apart is the unique shape of its mountains. Sharp, jagged edges define the landscape, offering a stunning visual spectacle. The lush greenery, the flowing river, and the towering mountains all come together to create a picturesque setting that is nothing short of mesmerizing.

A Glimpse into Village Life

Raksham, now that’s a place where time takes a breather. Walking through this village is like stepping into a world where the clock ticks a little slower, a world where tranquility isn’t just a word, it’s the air you breathe. With just a smattering of shops and a population that you could probably count on your fingers, this village is the very definition of serene. Houses here aren’t just structures; they’re like rare birds spotted only occasionally, adding to this incredible sense of being somewhere truly cut off from the chaos of the world.

But don’t let that tranquility fool you. The people of Raksham, they’re not just sitting around. They’re master farmers. These fields, they’re like a patchwork quilt of potatoes, beans, kidney beans, and more. Walking through these fields, it’s not just a stroll; it’s a lesson in agriculture. And the mustard flowers, with their vibrant yellow, they don’t just color the landscape; they paint a picture of a land bountiful and alive.

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Rope making – that’s Raksham’s secret card. Using goat hair, these villagers spin ropes that are the epitome of strength and versatility. These ropes aren’t just for show; they’re a lifeline, used for everything from lashing wood to hauling loads. This skill, it’s not just craftsmanship; it’s a testament to the resourcefulness and resilience of these people. In Raksham, every strand of rope tells a story of survival and ingenuity.

Living in Harmony with Nature

The villages of Chitkul and Raksham aren’t your typical tourist spots with fancy amenities. Here, it’s all about resilience and resourcefulness. The people here don’t just survive; they thrive, and they do it in style, right in sync with nature’s rhythm.

You’ve got to understand, their connection with nature isn’t just a backdrop; it’s the heart and soul of their existence. Sure, cities have their perks – the comfort, the convenience. But stroll through Chitkul or Raksham, and you’ll get what life’s really about. It’s uncluttered, raw, and real. These places, they strip life down to the essentials, showing us the beauty of simplicity.

As we pack our bags and leave these hidden gems of Himachal, we’re not just carrying memories; we’re taking lessons in living. In a world that’s always in a rush, these villages are like a pause button. They remind us that the most incredible journeys are those that reconnect us with nature’s core.

So, as we say goodbye to Chitkul and Raksham, we’re not just leaving behind places; we’re leaving with a deeper respect for the folks who call these mountains home. They don’t just live; they celebrate life in its purest form, surrounded by the stunning beauty of Himachal. These folks, they’re not just surviving; they’re crafting a life that’s truly extraordinary.

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Discover India’s Endless Charm: Chitkul and Rakcham in Sangla Valley, Himachal Pradesh – The Last Village!