Adventures and Stories from the remote village of Kalga
In the heart of Himachal Pradesh, nestled within the picturesque Parvati Valley, lies the serene village of Kalga. This hidden gem is a favourite among nature lovers, backpackers, and those seeking tranquil retreats amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscape. And who better to guide us through this enchanting journey than itinerant travel writer, Priyanka Gupta?
Priyanka, a former investment banker, swapped the bustling city life for the open road, focusing her energy on culturally immersive experiences, local delicacies, and wildlife. Her personal growth and travel blog, "On My Canvas," is a testament to her passion for sustainable, community-driven offbeat experiences.
Upon her arrival in June, a rainy evening set the tone for Priyanka's stay in Kalga. Masala chai and a sleepy Kindle kept her company during rainy afternoons, while mornings were spent on the balcony with masala chai and aloo paratha, watching the icy tops of the mountains and observing birds.
The village of Shilha, nearby, is renowned for music louder than in Delhi weddings, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the region. One could even say that Kalga sings its own tune, a symphony of nature and tradition.
Priyanka's path to Kalga was not an ordinary one. She hitchhiked from Shilha village, climbed a steep hill from Barshaini, and was dropped at the nearest bus station. The journey was worth it, as she found herself in a place untouched by the large tourist crowds typical of neighbouring towns like Kasol or Tosh.
The best time to visit Kalga is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant, and the region is free of heavy snow, allowing easy travel and full access to hiking trails and natural beauty. Summer offers cool, comfortable weather perfect for trekking and exploring, while autumn boasts clear skies and mild temperatures. Monsoon brings lush greenery but requires some caution due to occasional landslides or heavy rainfall. Winters get very cold with heavy snowfall, making the region difficult to access, but ideal for those seeking snowy landscapes and don't mind the cold.
Kalga is also home to the Kheerganga hot water springs, a legendary stream of milk said to have been let out by the goddess Parvati to feed the hungry Ganesha.
Reaching Kalga involves first getting to Kasol, the nearest well-known town, by road or air, and then taking local transport or trekking to Kalga, which lies further up in the valley. The typical route is to fly or take a train to Chandigarh or Delhi, then take a bus or taxi to Bhuntar, and from there, board a local bus or taxi to Kasol, followed by a local jeep, taxi, or hike through picturesque forests and mountains to reach Kalga.
Priyanka's experiences in Kalga serve as a reminder that sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination. Whether it's the warmth of a masala chai, the symphony of Shilha's music, or the breathtaking views of the Himalayas, Kalga offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
[References] [1] Travel Triangle [2] Thrillophilia [3] India.com
In Kalga, a traveler like Priyanka Gupta can immerse in the lifestyle of homestays, enjoying local delicacies and savoring the tranquility amidst the Himalayan landscape, as in her personal growth and travel blog, "On My Canvas." After reaching Kalga, she embarked on an adventure-travel journey, hitchhiking, climbing hills, and trekking to experience the untouched beauty of the village, away from the crowded neighboring towns.
