The Ultimate Motorcycle Adventure: Riding from Chandigarh to Chhitkul

Chandigarh: The Gateway to the Himalayas

Nestled at the foothills of the Shivalik range, Chandigarh isn’t just a city — it’s a rider’s paradise and the perfect launchpad for an epic Himalayan motorcycle adventure. Designed by Le Corbusier, the city’s wide, tree-lined roads and well-planned sectors make for a smooth start. But it’s more than just infrastructure; Chandigarh boasts a vibrant outdoor culture where bikers, hikers, and adrenaline junkies gather to share their love for the wild.

The Tricity area — Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula — is buzzing with moto culture. Weekends see groups of riders flocking to biker cafes, revving their engines, and swapping road tales. Chandigarh’s love for Royal Enfields and Mahindra Jeeps is legendary — symbols of rugged freedom and classic style. You’ll often spot locals cruising the streets in pristine vintage jeeps or roaring down highways on their beloved Bullets, embodying a lifestyle that blends elegance with adventure.

Events like adventure sports expos, military-themed festivals, and outdoor survival workshops add to the pulse of this high-energy community. Tributes to the armed forces, endurance challenges, and moto rallies are regular occurrences, reflecting the region’s respect for bravery and resilience. It’s a place where adventure is a way of life, and every ride feels like the beginning of a new story.

Gearing Up for Himalayan Ride: The Preparation Ritual

A trip to Chhitkul, the last village of India, demands preparation. Riders gather at iconic spots like the Roadies Koffehouz in Chandigarh, not just to fine-tune their machines but to soak in the spirit of the ride. Conversations buzz with excitement — tire choices, weather forecasts, riding gear, and, of course, the debate over the best tours in mountains.

Gear checklists are religiously reviewed: riding jackets, gloves, rain covers, and GoPros to capture the journey. Veteran riders share tips with rookies: carry extra fuel, ride in formation, and never underestimate the cold at high altitudes. It’s this brotherhood that fuels the soul of every adventure.

The Thrill of the Ride

Riding through the Himalayas is more than a physical journey; it’s a spiritual awakening. The towering alpine forests make you feel both powerful and humbled. The scent of wet earth, the distant echo of a waterfall, the crispness of the mountain air — it all seeps into your soul. Every twist and turn demands focus, but every glance at the landscape rewards you with pure, unfiltered beauty.

Reaching Chhitkul is like stepping into another world. The Baspa River gleams like silver, and the surrounding peaks stand tall like ancient guardians. Sitting by a bonfire, sharing stories under a sky bursting with stars, you realize why bikers live for moments like these.

This isn’t just a trip. It’s a testament to the moto lifestyle — to the unbreakable bond between rider and machine, between humans and nature, between adventure and freedom. Because once you ride to Chhitkul, a piece of your heart stays behind, forever echoing in the valleys of the Himalayas.

Barog: A Hidden Gem on Your Himalayan Motorcycle Adventure 

Barog, a quaint hill station nestled in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, is a dreamy pit stop on your road trip to the highlands of the Himalayas. This charming town, perched at an altitude of 5,000 feet, is steeped in history and surrounded by lush pine forests — the perfect place for riders to catch their breath, swap stories, and soak in the serenity of the mountains.

A Glimpse into Barog’s Colonial Past 

Barog’s history is as intriguing as its landscapes. During the British Raj, this sleepy town was a favoured retreat for officers and their families seeking respite from the sweltering Indian plains. They would gather for leisurely picnics, host grand social events, and revel in the crisp mountain air. The echoes of those times still linger, especially around the Barog Railway Station, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla Railway.

The town’s most famous legend is tied to Colonel Barog, a British engineer who, in the early 20th century, attempted to build a tunnel for the Kalka-Shimla railway. Due to a miscalculation, the tunnel's two ends failed to meet, and the Colonel, disgraced and heartbroken, took his own life. Tunnel No. 33, also known as Barog Tunnel, is said to be haunted — but locals will tell you that the Colonel’s spirit is friendly, quietly watching over travelers passing through.

The Perfect Rider’s Retreat 

For motorcyclists, Barog offers more than just a history lesson. It’s a haven of peace, where riders can stretch their legs, sip on piping-hot chai, and munch on local snacks at roadside dhabas. The view of rolling hills and endless greenery makes it an ideal spot to recharge before the climb toward higher altitudes.

As the sun dips below the peaks, riders often gather at small guesthouses or campgrounds, forming an impromptu biker’s circle. Conversations flow freely — tales of past rides, discoveries of hidden trails, and tips for navigating the next stretch of the journey. Riders swap ideas about fun detours, secret waterfalls, and lesser-known mountain routes. The talk inevitably drifts to bucket-list adventures: riding through Ladakh, exploring the vast landscapes of Mongolia, or planning the next Nomad Bikers expedition to Nepal.

Preparing for the Road Ahead 

Barog isn't just a scenic pit stop; it's a place where plans are made and spirits are lifted. Riders pull out maps, check their gear, and strategize for the ride ahead. The excitement is palpable as they discuss the thrill of conquering winding Himalayan roads, the promise of stunning views, and the brotherhood that only comes with a shared passion for adventure.

For those riding with Nomad Bikers, the evening in Barog becomes a mini-event in itself — a chance to bond, share experiences, and dream of the next big ride. Whether it’s chasing sunrises in the mountains or crossing international borders on two wheels, every biker leaves Barog with a heart full of anticipation and a soul ready for the road.

This peaceful little town, with its blend of history, natural beauty, and biker-friendly vibe, is more than just a stopover. It’s a reminder that every journey is as much about the people you meet and the stories you gather as it is about the destination itself. So, rev up your engines, soak in Barog’s charm, and get ready for the next leg of your Himalayan adventure — because the mountains are calling, and the road never ends.

Shimla: The Queen of Hills and a Biker’s Dream Stop 

No motorcycle trip to Kinnaur is complete without a stop in Shimla, the 'Queen of Hills.' Perched at an altitude of 7,500 ft, Shimla’s winding roads and misty hills offer riders a perfect blend of history, adventure, and soul-stirring landscapes. More than just a pit stop, Shimla is a place where riders can reconnect with the past, soak in the present, and dream about future rides to even higher peaks.

Riding into History and Colonial Charm 

Shimla’s colonial legacy is visible in its iconic architecture and old-world charm. The city served as the summer capital of British India, and its influence lingers in landmarks like Christ Church, Gaiety Theatre, and the Viceregal Lodge. Riding through the city, you feel like you’ve entered a time capsule — the streets echo with stories of grandeur and intrigue.

Take a walk down Mall Road, the city’s heartbeat, where bikers swap stories over steaming cups of chai. Don’t miss Scandal Point, named after a romantic escapade involving a British lady and a Maharaja — a reminder that Shimla has always been a place for rebels and dreamers.

Nature’s Playground: Walks, Forests, and Hidden Gems 

For riders craving nature, Summer Hill and Glen Forest offer peaceful walks through towering deodars and whispering pines. The scent of wet earth and the rustling leaves create a symphony of calm, perfect for unwinding after a day on the bike. Less touristy spots like Annandale — once a playground for British officers — and the mysterious Chadwick Falls add a layer of discovery to the adventure.

Thrills and Night Rides 

Adventure doesn’t pause in Shimla. For adrenaline junkies, paragliding in Kufri offers a bird’s-eye view of the Himalayas. As the sun sets, riders can cruise through the city’s winding roads, the cool mountain air invigorating every sense. Night rides under Shimla’s star-studded sky feel almost mystical, the headlights carving paths through silver mist.

Evenings of Camaraderie and Future Plans 

Evenings in Shimla are made for bonding. Riders gather at biker-friendly spots like The Brew Estate and Shimla Social, clinking glasses of craft beer and sharing tales of conquered trails. Conversations flow about the next day’s ride to Kotgarh, bucket-list trips to Spiti and Ladakh, and upcoming ABR Festival in UK. It’s in these moments that lifelong friendships are forged — bound by a shared love of adventure and the freedom of the road.

Why Shimla is More Than Just a Stop 

Shimla isn’t just a waypoint; it’s an emotional anchor. It reminds riders why they chase horizons in the first place — for the rush of discovery, the beauty of the unknown, and the unbreakable bond with fellow Bikers. For Nomad Bikers, it’s the perfect blend of past and present, where every corner holds a story and every road leads to a new adventure.

So, rev your engines, breathe in the mountain air, and let Shimla leave its mark on your soul. The Himalayas are calling, and the road ahead is endless.

Ride to Alpine Paradise of Kotgarh 

Nestled in the heart of Himachal, Kotgarh offers riders a serene escape on their luxury moto trip to Kinnaur. Known as the 'Apple Bowl of India,' this hidden destination is steeped in history, nature, and indulgent experiences that create the perfect balance of adventure and tranquility.

The Legacy of Kotgarh: History, Orchards, and Timeless Beauty 

Kotgarh’s legacy dates back to the early 1900s when Samuel Stokes, an American missionary, planted India’s first apple orchard here. This simple act transformed the region, making it the epicenter of India’s apple revolution. The village’s rolling hills are dotted with lush apple and pear orchards, their blossoms painting the landscape with hues of white and pink in spring, and fruit-laden trees offering an abundance of colour in autumn.

Immersive Forest Walk: Nature’s Symphony

A guided forest walk around Kotgarh is like stepping into a living, breathing postcard. Riders can stroll through dense deodar and pine forests, the air fragrant with the scent of mountain earth. Along the way, sharp-eyed nature lovers might spot vibrant Himalayan monals gliding through the canopy, or catch glimpses of barking deer, Brown Bear, and even elusive leopards. The forest hums with life — woodpeckers drum against bark, while the musical calls of whistling thrushes echo through the trees.

Hike to Hatu Peak: A Spiritual and Scenic Retreat 

On day two, riders can hike to the majestic Hatu Peak, the highest point in the region. The trail meanders through dense woods and opens up to panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. At the summit lies the ancient Hatu Mata Mandir, a wooden temple steeped in local mythology. It’s the perfect spot for quiet reflection, with clouds rolling through the valleys below and the endless expanse of the Himalayas stretching beyond the horizon.

Himachali Culinary Delights: A Taste of Shimla 

Food in Kotgarh is more than just sustenance — it’s an experience. Riders can indulge in authentic Himachali cuisine prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Imagine sitting on a sun-drenched terrace, overlooking terraced fields, while savoring dishes like Siddu (steamed bread stuffed with walnuts and spices) and Chha Gosht (slow-cooked lamb in yogurt gravy). Local families often invite travelers into their homes for farm-to-table meals, serving homemade apple cider, fresh fruit pies, and piping hot cups of herbal chai infused with wild mountain herbs.

Evenings of Reflection and Camaraderie 

As the sun dips behind the mountains, riders can gather around private bonfires at heritage homestays. It’s a time for laughter, storytelling, and planning the next leg of the journey. Conversations drift from the day’s adventures to dreams of future rides — tracing rugged trails in Spiti, crossing high-altitude passes in Ladakh, or embarking on Nomad Bikers' next big Noth Coast 500 Trip in Scotland.

Special Tips for Riding Mountain Roads 

Navigating Kotgarh’s narrow mountain roads requires skill and caution. Riders should maintain a steady speed, use engine braking on steep descents, and stay alert for unexpected hairpin turns. It’s wise to honk gently at blind corners and take regular breaks to stay refreshed.

Kotgarh, with its blend of history, natural beauty, and luxurious experiences, isn’t just a stop on the road to Kinnaur — it’s a soulful retreat where every moment lingers long after the ride continues.

Bhimakali Sarahan: A Sacred Haven on Your Luxury Motorcycle Ride to Kinnaur 

The Ride from Kotgarh to Sarahan: An Ever-Changing Canvas of Adventure 

The journey from Kotgarh to Bhimakali Sarahan is a sensory masterpiece, painting the rider’s heart with hues of excitement and tranquility. The road twists through Himalayan villages, dense forests, with towering deodars lining your path like silent guardians. The air hums with the scent of pine and ripening apples, as locals bustle in their orchards, waving to passing bikers with warm smiles. The landscape constantly shifts — terraced fields cascade down hillsides, and the Sutlej River glimmers below, reflecting the sky like a liquid mirror.

Waypoints like Rampur and Jeori offer perfect spots for a chai break, where riders can soak in valley views and swap travel tips with fellow adventurers. If lucky, you might catch the buzz of a local festival, with vibrant processions winding through villages, adding bursts of colour and music to your ride.

Arriving in Sarahan: Where Adventure Meets Spirituality 

As Sarahan draws closer, the thrill of the ride softens into a calm reverence. The village is perched like a crown jewel against the backdrop of snow-clad peaks, its quiet lanes echoing with the faint clang of temple bells. The Bhimakali Temple stands tall, a marvel of Himalayan architecture with intricate wooden carvings that whisper stories of ancient deities and forgotten legends.

The temple is a stunning example of Kathkuni architecture, a traditional Himachali style using interlocking wooden beams and stone. Architecture students from around the globe visit Sarahan to study this unique earthquake-resistant design, which seamlessly blends with the surrounding mountainscape. The temple itself has stood for centuries, believed to be one of the Shakti Peethas, where the goddess Bhimakali is revered as the presiding deity of the region.

Stepping inside the temple, riders feel an immediate shift — the cool stone floors grounding them, the fragrance of incense wrapping around like a comforting embrace. It’s a place where time slows, and every corner hums with centuries of devotion. Watching the sun dip behind jagged peaks, casting golden light over the temple, is a moment of pure magic — a reminder of nature’s vast, untamed beauty.

Evenings in Sarahan: Bonfires, Tales, and Brotherhood 

After a day of riding and exploring, evenings in Sarahan bring their own kind of magic. Riders gather around crackling bonfires at the Himachal Tourism hotel The Srikhand, Sarahan, sharing laughter and stories of near-misses on sharp bends, hidden waterfalls discovered by accident, and bucket-list dreams of conquering Spiti and Zanskar.

Sometimes, the flames light up faces from across the world — like a group of German riders gearing up for a long Himalayan moto expedition. Conversations flow effortlessly, with chatter about the best European riding circuits, from the winding passes of the Alps to the legendary Black Forest routes in Germany. There’s a quiet thrill in realizing that no matter where you come from, the mountains create a shared kinship that transcends borders.

Bhimakali Sarahan isn’t just a stop on the map; it’s a place where the heartbeat of the mountains syncs with your own, reminding you why you chose the nomadic life on two wheels in the first place.

Important Reminder: Always carry your rain gear when heading into the mountains, no matter the season. Mountain weather is famously unpredictable — clear blue skies can swiftly give way to sudden showers or heavy downpours. Staying prepared ensures you can continue your adventure comfortably without getting drenched or risking hypothermia at higher altitudes. A good-quality waterproof jacket, pants, and shoe covers can make all the difference, keeping you dry and ready to ride through whatever nature throws your way. Remember, in the mountains, the rain doesn’t ask for an invitation — it just shows up!

For tips on choosing the best gear, read our blogs on top-rated rain essentials for riders. Stay dry, stay wild!

Ride to Kalpa: Himalayan Luxury Motorcycle Escape  

The Ride from Sarahan to Kalpa: Grit, Glory, and Glimpses of the Divine 

Leaving Sarahan, the road tightens like a coiled serpent, winding its way through cliffs that seem to drop straight into the Sutlej River below. The roar of the river echoes through the valley, a constant companion as your motorcycle hums along precarious edges. Each bend reveals something new — apple orchards clinging to the slopes, rocky outcrops dusted with prayer flags, and villages where life moves at its own rhythm.

As you officially enter Kinnaur, you pass through the iconic Taranda Dhank, a stretch notorious for its vertical cliffs and narrow roads. Just before this, riders stop at Taranda Mata Mandir, a small temple carved into the rock, where travelers pay respects to the local deity believed to protect those braving these dangerous roads. The legend whispers that the goddess watches over riders, shielding them from falls and misfortune. It’s a humbling pause, a moment to acknowledge the sheer force of nature surrounding you.

The climb is relentless, the landscape shifting from lush greens to stark, craggy terrain as you push deeper into the heart of Kinnaur. You ride past hydroelectric dams like Bhaba Nagar and Karcham-Wangtoo, colossal structures harnessing the power of the Sutlej. The dam reservoirs mirror the sky, a brief stretch of calm before the road challenges you again with another sharp bend or unexpected landslide.

Karcham, where the Sutlej and Baspa rivers converge, hums with the energy of the Karcham Wangtoo Hydroelectric Plant. Crossing the bridge here feels like stepping through a gateway to another realm — one where nature still reigns supreme. If you are riding to Kalpa first then you don’t need to cross this bridge. The valley opens up, revealing jagged peaks that scrape the heavens and forests that seem to breathe with ancient life.

Jeori and Karcham offer much-needed pit stops — a place to stretch, sip a steaming cup of chai, and trade road stories with fellow travelers. But it’s the first glimpse of the Kinner Kailash range that stops you in your tracks. The peaks, jagged and towering, pierce the sky like ancient sentinels. It’s the kind of view that makes the grind worth it — a quiet reminder of how small you are against nature’s grand design.

Rolling into Kalpa: Where Time Feels Different 

The final climb to Kalpa is a test of focus and endurance. The road narrows, switchbacks stacking up like dominoes, demanding every ounce of your attention. But as you crest the last rise, something shifts. The village, perched on a ridge, unfolds like a secret waiting to be discovered. The faces here look different from Sarahan — features shaped by generations living in the high Himalayas. People wear green Kullu caps and traditional attire, their smiles as warm as the mountain sun.

Kalpa itself feels untouched by time. Wooden houses with intricately carved balconies lean into each other, while ancient temples and monasteries stand as quiet witnesses to centuries of faith. The air is sharp and clean, carrying the scent of pine, damp earth, and distant apple blossoms. In the mornings, the sun spills across the Kinner Kailash peaks, turning them gold and pink — a view so striking you forget to breathe.

Living the Kalpa Experience: Slow, Soulful, and Unforgettable 

Days in Kalpa unravel slowly. You wander through the local market, tasting pickles that burn just right and biting into apples so fresh they snap. You sip local wine on a wooden balcony, watching the clouds drift like lazy ghosts through the valleys. In the evening, a private bonfire crackles to life, and a local musician plucks a song out of the cold night air.

On one such night, we met a group of riders from the UK, tracing their way to Spiti. Conversation flowed easily — tales of mountain passes, gear failures, and the best riding routes back home. They compared Kalpa to small alpine villages in Germany, finding echoes of familiar landscapes in this remote Indian hamlet. It’s moments like these, gathered under a sky bursting with stars, that make the ride feel more than just a journey.

Stories Etched in Stone and Snow 

Kalpa is steeped in mythology. Locals speak of gods who walked these mountains, and every peak seems to hum with an unspoken history. The Narayan-Nagini temple, with its intricate wooden architecture, feels like a portal to another time. Monks chant softly in the monastery, their voices carrying through the crisp air like a prayer for the world below.

Tips for Riding to Kalpa: The Road Demands Respect 

Stay Sharp: Loose gravel, sudden landslides, and unpredictable weather can turn the ride treacherous. Keep your senses dialled in.

Cliffside Mindfulness: The narrow roads leave no room for error. Hug the mountainside, honk on blind corners, and trust your instincts.

Weather Roulette: The sun can vanish in minutes, replaced by mist or rain. Pack layers and be ready for anything.

Kalpa isn’t just a destination; it’s a feeling. It’s the weight of the mountains pressing against your chest, the quiet understanding that some places aren’t meant to be conquered but experienced. And as you throttle down the road the next morning, the village shrinking in your mirrors, you know you’re leaving a part of yourself behind — a small offering to the gods of the Himalayas.

Chhitkul India's Last Village: Riding to the Tibetan Border  

The Road to Chhitkul: A Ride Through Heaven’s Backyard 

The ride from Kalpa to Chhitkul is a symphony of thrill and wonder. The road, a serpentine ribbon of asphalt clinging to sheer cliffs, weaves through dense pine forests and along the glacial Baspa River, shimmering like liquid crystal. Every twist and turn offers a new panorama of snow-capped peaks and sprawling meadows, each more breathtaking than the last. The air is sharper, cleaner — every inhale feels like a dose of pure mountain magic.

This stretch of NH-5, often called the Hindustan-Tibet Road, has been hailed as one of the world’s most dangerous roads by publications like BBC Travel and National Geographic Traveller. Its perilous curves, blind hairpin bends, and sheer drops to the river below make it as formidable as it is beautiful. The cliff-hugging stretch near Taranda Dhank, with its narrow carved-out tunnels, is legendary among riders for testing both skill and nerve.

Landmarks appear like chapters in an epic Moto saga. The towering Karcham Dam is a testament to human tenacity, while Sangla village offers a charming respite with its quaint cafes and friendly locals. Further along, the Rakkcham Dam roars with nature’s untamed power, a stark contrast to the peaceful valleys beyond. Riding over Bailey bridges that sway gently beneath the weight of the bikes adds an extra pulse of adrenaline — a reminder that this is true adventure, where nature calls the shots.

As the altitude rises, the landscape becomes almost ethereal. Jagged peaks pierce the heavens, and vast, flower-strewn valleys stretch into eternity. Then, just when the world feels endless, a weathered signboard greets you: Welcome to Chhitkul — the last village before the Indo-Tibetan border.

Chhitkul: Where Time Stands Still 

Arriving in Chhitkul feels like stepping into a forgotten world. The village, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is a collection of wooden homes with slate roofs, ancient temples, and winding trails. Smoke curls from chimneys as locals, descendants of the Kinnauri tribes, carry on traditions that date back centuries. They believe themselves to be the kin of the Pandavas, living harmoniously with the land, tending apple orchards, and navigating precarious mountain paths with the grace of mountain spirits.

Festivals explode with colour and life, celebrating the gods and the cycles of nature. The 500-year-old Mathi Devi Mandir stands as the village’s spiritual nucleus, where locals pray for protection and prosperity. In summer, families migrate to higher altitudes to care for their orchards, living in rustic huts as they nurture the valley’s bounty — a practice that has endured for generations.

Immersing Yourself in Chhitkul 

Chhitkul engages every sense. The rhythmic crunch of gravel beneath your boots as you stroll along the riverbank. The comforting warmth of rajma chawal, served in a cozy wooden lodge, with beans grown in the village itself. The golden hue of dusk, casting an ethereal glow over the valley. The gentle murmur of the Baspa River echoing through the night, lulling you into a state of pure serenity.

Nomad Bikers curates this experience with reverence and responsibility. Riders stay in boutique lodges powered by solar energy, dine on gourmet meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients, and follow strict leave-no-trace practices. It’s luxury with a conscience — a seamless fusion of indulgence and sustainability.

Luxury at the Edge of Civilization 

Luxury, in Chhitkul, is about being present. It’s waking up in a sun-drenched room with panoramic mountain views. Sipping herbal tea by a roaring fireplace as the temperature drops outside. Savouring chef-prepared meals infused with local Flavors, served under ancient wooden beams. And, at night, it’s lying beneath a sky alive with stars, the Milky Way stretching like a cosmic river across the heavens.

The evenings are intimate, with riders gathered around a crackling bonfire. Stories flow as freely as the local brew — tales of the road, moments of quiet reflection, and the profound realization that journeys like this change you. The laughter, the camaraderie, and the shared awe of having reached the literal edge of the world create bonds that last long after the engines cool.

The Ride Back: Leaving, Yet Staying 

Departing Chhitkul is bittersweet. As the village fades in the rearview mirrors, its spirit lingers. The mountains leave their mark, not just as memories but as a recalibration of what matters. The wildness, the freedom, the sense of being part of something vast and ancient — it all becomes a permanent part of who you are.

With engines rumbling and hearts full, you ride away from Chhitkul knowing that while the journey ends, the transformation it sparked will echo through every mile you travel next.

Join Nomad Bikers for the Ride of a Lifetime

If you’ve ever dreamed of riding to the edge of the world, of feeling the mountains pulse beneath your tires and the wind carve stories across your soul, then this is your sign. Nomad Bikers invites you to embark on this legendary journey — to Chhitkul and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a thrill-seeker chasing your first mountain adventure, we promise an experience that will ignite your spirit and stay with you forever.

Your adventure begins with a single twist of the throttle. Let’s ride.

Sangla: One of the Cleanest Places on the Planet

The road to Sangla unfurls like a forgotten poem, etched into the cliffs above the roaring Sutlej. The ride is a pulse-quickening blend of narrow hairpin bends and vertigo-inducing drops, with the river glinting far below like a restless silver serpent. Every mile is a meditation — the thrum of the engine, the crisp scent of pine, and the shifting hues of the landscape.

Sangla: The Valley That Holds You Close 

Reaching Sangla is like discovering a secret sanctuary. The village, cradled in the Baspa Valley, is a patchwork of apple orchards, terraced fields, and wooden houses adorned with intricate carvings. The air hums with quiet magic, carrying the scent of flowering apricot trees and the distant murmur of the Baspa River. The valley is renowned for producing some of the best apples in India — crisp, juicy, and kissed by the mountain sun.

A Valley Alive with Celebration 

In Sangla, festivals aren’t just events — they’re an eruption of life itself, a vivid celebration of ancestry, divinity, and the pulse of nature that beats through every stone and tree in the valley. Holi here isn’t just a splash of color; it’s a soul-deep tradition where people paint the air with hues of joy, dance to the rhythm of ancient instruments, and offer prayers at the Bering Nag Temple. The festival spills into narrow village lanes, where locals, wrapped in their traditional woolen shawls and distinct Kinnauri caps, share sweets and stories with anyone willing to listen.

During Fulaich, the Flower Festival, entire families trek to higher meadows to collect wild blossoms as offerings to the gods — a sacred communion with the mountains themselves. And when the valley lights up for Diwali, the festivities feel closer to the cosmos, the bonfires reflecting off the surrounding peaks like a celestial dance.

The Spirit of the Marketplace 

The village market is a treasure chest of local flavors and heritage. Hand-pressed apricot and walnut oils, known for their medicinal properties, sit alongside bundles of dried apples, chilgoza (pine nuts), and almonds — all harvested from orchards clinging to the valley’s cliffs. Woolen socks, hand-knitted with intricate Kinnauri patterns, share space with carved wooden artifacts, each piece whispering tales of the valley’s past. The locals, with their unmistakable warmth, are more than happy to guide you to the best finds, often with a story or two about the plant or stone used to make your purchase.

Bloodlines and Legends 

The people of Sangla trace their lineage back to the ancient Kinnauri tribes, believed to be descendants of celestial beings. Legends say the valley was once the playground of the gods, and the locals carry this divine connection in their veins. The men and women here wear their heritage with quiet pride — the Kinnauri cap, a symbol of identity, stands out with its distinct green flap, worn with reverence during festivals and gatherings.

The temples in Sangla, like the Bering Nag Temple, are more than places of worship; they’re living chronicles of history. It’s said that the deity resides in the very wood and stone of the temple, watching over the village and its people. Festivals at these temples are an amalgamation of faith and festivity — drums echo through the valley, masked dancers perform ancient rituals, and the air hums with chants older than memory.

Luxury and Wildness, Perfectly Balanced 

Luxury in Sangla is about feeling connected — to nature, to history, to yourself. It’s sipping locally brewed apple cider by a crackling fireplace, your muscles still buzzing from the day’s ride. It’s dipping your fingers into the icy Baspa River, feeling the rush of glacial meltwater against your skin. And, at night, it’s gathering under a sky dense with stars, the Milky Way sprawling across the heavens like a celestial highway.

The quiet of Sangla seeps into your bones, leaving you refreshed, recalibrated. The village’s raw beauty and the valley’s timelessness strip away the noise of modern life, grounding you in the present moment. And as you gear up to ride away from Chitkul, the last village on the Indo-Tibetan border, you carry Sangla with you — a reminder that sometimes, the most luxurious escapes are the ones that bring you closest to the earth.

Discovering Sangla’s Soul 

Beyond the festivals and legends, Sangla’s charm lies in its quieter moments. The gentle clink of prayer wheels spun by wrinkled hands. The scent of burning cedar wood curling through crisp mountain air. The golden hour light bathing the valley, turning the snow-capped peaks into molten gold. Exploring the Kamru Fort, with its ancient wooden architecture and panoramic views, or sitting by the Baspa River, listening to its endless song — every moment feels like a step back in time, into a world that exists on its own terms.

Sangla isn’t just a destination; it’s a living, breathing testament to resilience, joy, and the unbreakable bond between humans and nature. And when you finally ride out of the valley, the colours, the stories, and the spirit of the people linger — like the last note of a song you can’t stop humming.

The Ride to Narkanda: A Journey Through the Clouds 

The road from Sangla to Narkanda is a winding ribbon of asphalt that cuts through dense deodar forests and sun-dappled valleys. The ride itself feels like a pilgrimage — every turn revealing a new spectacle of the Himalayas. You pass through Karcham, cross the Bailey Bridge at Wangtoo, and glide through Rampur, where the Sutlej hums alongside you like a constant companion. The air grows crisper as you climb, carrying the earthy scent of pine and the promise of higher altitudes.

The Nomad team meticulously plans each leg of the journey, ensuring that every stop is not just a break, but an experience. They handpick boutique mountain lodges that seamlessly blend comfort with nature’s raw beauty. Picture rustic wooden interiors, panoramic balconies, and fireplaces that crackle to life as the sun dips behind the peaks. After miles on the road, riders sink into plush beds, grateful for hot showers and the luxury of stillness.

Arrival in Narkanda: Where Time Slows Down 

Rolling into Narkanda feels like stepping into a forgotten world. The small town, perched at an altitude of 8,900 feet, is surrounded by endless orchards and flanked by towering mountains that seem to touch the sky. The quiet is almost sacred — broken only by the occasional chirp of a mountain bird or the rustle of leaves in the breeze.

Riders often gather in the lodge’s common area, swapping stories and sharing videos and photos from the day’s ride. The laughter is infectious, and the sense of camaraderie grows stronger with each shared moment. Nomad makes this part of the experience intentional — they choose accommodations with communal spaces that invite conversation, where adventurers can relive their journey through each other’s eyes.

The Soul of the Mountains 

In Narkanda, the grandeur of nature coexists with the warmth of human connection. The mountains, with their ancient silence, have a way of softening the edges of the world. And as riders stand on the edge of the forest, looking out at the endless expanse of peaks, they feel it — that deep, unspoken understanding that the best journeys are the ones that change you.

Nomad ensures that this change is as luxurious as it is transformative. From thoughtfully chosen stays to moments of shared wonder, every detail is designed to honor the spirit of the road. And when riders eventually gear up to descend towards Shimla, they don’t just carry souvenirs — they carry pieces of the mountains, and of each other, etched forever into memory.