Baspa Valley · 2,680m Altitude

Sangla Valley

Heart of the Apple Valley — where ancient temples, the Baspa River, and Kinnaur's finest orchards converge.

About Sangla

The Crown Jewel of Kinnaur

Nestled in a bowl of towering peaks where the Baspa River carves its path through the heart of Kinnaur, Sangla serves not merely as a destination but as a gateway into the authentic soul of mountain India — where ancient traditions flourish amid some of the country's most spectacular landscapes.

The village's most significant historical landmark, the Kamru Fort, stands as testament to Sangla's former importance as the seat of local rulers. This imposing structure, now housing a temple dedicated to Kamakhya Devi, represents over 1,500 years of continuous worship and governance.

Archaeological evidence suggests human habitation in the Sangla Valley dates back over two millennia, with early settlers drawn by the valley's fertile soil and strategic location along trans-Himalayan trade routes.

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What to See

Places to Explore in Sangla

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Kamru Fort & Temple

The fort-temple complex representing 1,500+ years of history. Ancient wooden architecture with panoramic valley views. Kamakhya Devi temple within.

Read Full Guide →

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Bering Nag Temple

The serpent deity temple built without nails using traditional kath-kuni technique. Focal point for village festivals and ceremonies.

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Apple Orchard Terraces

Stretching across hillsides in manicured rows, these terraced orchards are a landscape masterpiece. Spectacular during blossom season (April–May).

Orchard Guide →

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Baspa River Promenade

Stone pathways follow the riverbank past traditional water mills and small bridges. The river's clear waters reflect surrounding peaks.

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Traditional Kinnauri Houses

Walk through older neighbourhoods to discover intricate carved balconies and multi-story wooden houses. Many welcome visitor tours.

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Sacred Groves

Ancient trees preserved as sacred groves — protected by religious custom, they maintain original ecosystem character and offer spaces for contemplation.

How Long to Stay

Suggested Itineraries

1 Day

Sangla Day Visit

Morning: Arrival and guided village walk — Bering Nag Temple and traditional architecture
Afternoon: Kamru Fort and temple complex with cultural guide
Evening: Riverside walk and Baspa River promenade

2–3 Days

Cultural Immersion

Day 1: Village exploration, craft workshop, apple orchard walk with local family
Day 2: River walk, traditional cooking lesson, temple ceremony attendance
Day 3: Day trip to Rakcham or Chitkul, farewell dinner with cultural performance

Full Kinnaur Itineraries

Local Cuisine

Food to Try in Sangla

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Siddu

Kinnaur's iconic steamed bread — stuffed with sweet or savory fillings including yak cheese, local greens, or poppy seeds.

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Chilta

Buckwheat pancake reflecting Tibetan culinary influence, served with yak butter or local honey.

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Thukpa

Hearty Tibetan-influenced noodle soup with hand-rolled noodles, seasonal vegetables, and warming broth.

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Fresh Apple Products

Freshly harvested apples, apple cider, and traditional preserves. Buy directly from orchards September–October.

Getting There

How to Reach Sangla Valley

From Shimla

235 km · 7–8 hours

Follow NH5 through Rampur and Karcham. Turn into the Baspa Valley toward Sangla. Regular bus services available, private vehicle recommended.

From Delhi

650 km · 12–14 hours

Drive via Chandigarh → Shimla → mountain roads to Sangla. Overnight stop in Shimla recommended. Diverse climate zones throughout journey.

From Reckong Peo

18 km · 45 minutes

Easy connection from Kinnaur's district headquarters through scenic mountain road with Kinner Kailash range views.

💡 Insider Tip: Drive before noon on the Karcham–Sangla stretch (17 km ascent). Afternoon brings more traffic and occasional rockfall in monsoon season. Fill petrol in Karcham — limited fuel options beyond.