Kiratpur Sahib to Chitkul

Kiratpur Sahib to Chitkul - Language, Currency, Distance, How to Reach, Expenses, Best time to go, What to Eat, Where to Go, FAQ

Chitkul is a small village located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated at an altitude of 3,450 meters (11,320 feet) above sea level and is known for its scenic beauty and its proximity to the India-China border. Kiratpur Sahib is a town located in the Rupnagar district of Punjab, India. It is situated on the banks of the Sutlej River and is known for its Sikh pilgrimage site, the Gurdwara Sri Kiratpur Sahib.

Language

The official languages of Himachal Pradesh are Hindi and Pahari. However, English is also widely spoken in the state. In Chitkul, the local language is Kinnauri, which is a dialect of Tibetan.

Currency

The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and authorized money changers.

Distance

The distance between Kiratpur Sahib and Chitkul is approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles). The journey takes about 7-8 hours by road.

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Chitkul from Kiratpur Sahib.

• By road: The most common way to reach Chitkul is by road. Buses and taxis are available from Kiratpur Sahib to Chitkul. The journey takes about 7-8 hours.
• By train: The nearest railway station to Chitkul is Shimla. From Shimla, you can take a bus or taxi to Chitkul. The journey takes about 5-6 hours.
• By air: The nearest airport to Chitkul is Kullu Manali Airport. From Kullu Manali Airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Chitkul. The journey takes about 4-5 hours.

Expenses

The cost of traveling to Chitkul from Kiratpur Sahib varies depending on the mode of transportation and the time of year. However, here are some general estimates:

• Bus: The cost of a bus ticket from Kiratpur Sahib to Chitkul is around INR 300-500.
• Taxi: The cost of a taxi from Kiratpur Sahib to Chitkul is around INR 2,000-3,000.
• Train: The cost of a train ticket from Shimla to Chitkul is around INR 150-250.
• Air: The cost of a flight from Kullu Manali Airport to Chitkul is around INR 2,500-3,500.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Chitkul is during the summer months (April to June) and the autumn months (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. However, it is important to note that the road to Chitkul is often closed during the winter months due to snow.

What to Eat

Chitkul is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes that serve a range of cuisines. However, some of the local dishes that you should try include:

• Thukpa: A noodle soup made with vegetables, meat, and spices.
• Momos: Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
• Chha Gosht: A mutton dish made with spices and yogurt.
• Trout: A fish dish that is often served with lemon and butter.

Where to Go

There are several places that you can visit in Chitkul, including:

• The India-China border: Chitkul is located just a few kilometers from the India-China border. You can take a day trip to the border and see the two countries side by side.
• The Baspa River: The Baspa River is a beautiful river that flows through Chitkul. You can go for a walk along the river or take a boat ride.
• The Chitkul Fort: The Chitkul Fort is an ancient fort that overlooks the village. You can climb up to the fort for stunning views of the surrounding area.
• The Serolsar Lake: The Serolsar Lake is a beautiful lake located near Chitkul. You can go for a hike to the lake and enjoy the scenery.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chitkul:

• Is Chitkul safe for tourists? Yes, Chitkul is a safe place for tourists. The people of Chitkul are friendly and welcoming.
• Do I need a permit to visit Chitkul? No, you do not need a permit to visit Chitkul. However, you may need a permit to visit the India-China border.
• What is the best way to get around Chitkul? The best way to get around Chitkul is on foot or by taxi.
• What should I wear when visiting Chitkul? You should wear comfortable shoes and clothing when visiting Chitkul. The weather can be cold, so it is important to bring a jacket.