Drive the legendary Hindustan-Tibet Highway into the heart of Kinnaur, witnessing the dramatic Tranda Dhank cliff roads and the snow-capped Kinnaur Kailash range. This couple-friendly road trip combines the spiritual aura of Sarahan's Bhimakali Temple with the raw beauty of India's last village, Chitkul. Experience cosy riverside camps in Sangla and sunset vistas in Kalpa on this unforgettable Himalayan circuit. Note that toll taxes for out-of-state vehicles entering Himachal Pradesh have increased and are effective from April 1, 2026.
Depart early to avoid city traffic. Head towards Narkanda via Kufri.
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Stop at the famous Negi Dhaba in Narkanda market for authentic Himachali siddu or parathas. Be careful of ice on roads in winter.
62 km
Descend to the warmer Sutlej valley. Refuel at the main HP pump in Rampur.
125 km
Take the detour from Jeori uphill to Sarahan. Check into Hotel Shrikhand. Evening visit to the magnificent Bhimakali Temple.
163 km
Drive back down to Jeori and rejoin NH5. Prepare for the dramatic Tranda Dhank cliff section.
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Drive through the famous rock-cut road. Drive slowly and honk at curves. Do not stop in the middle of the road.
50 km
Reach Sangla via Karcham Dam. Enjoy lunch at a local cafe like Cafe 42.
85 km
Drive 24km to Chitkul, the last village. If road is closed due to snow, drive up to Rakchham. Return to Sangla for overnight stay.
135 km
Short walk to the river bank in Sangla or Batseri village to see the Badri Narayan Temple.
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Short drive back to Karcham and then up to Reckong Peo and Kalpa. Fill fuel at Peo if needed.
38 km
Check into a hotel with Kinnaur Kailash view (e.g., The Monk or HPTDC).
40 km
Drive 10 mins to the famous Suicide Point cliff and explore the traditional Roghi village.
48 km
Watch the sunrise turn Kinnaur Kailash red (Alpenglow). Start long drive back to Shimla.
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Stop for a meal at Rampur. A good midway break.
100 km
Quick tea break. If time permits, visit Hatu Peak if road is clear of snow.
160 km
Reach Shimla by evening. End of trip.
223 km
