Chandigarh to Sangla Valley: Self Drive Road Trip Through the Hidden Beauty of Kinnaur

Chandigarh to Sangla Valley road trip

Summary

Himachal is home to many popular destinations in North India, which attract thousands of travellers every year. One of the famous places in Himachal is Sangla Valley. Situated at the banks of the Baspa River, this amazing valley is 2621m above sea level. The place is known for its natural beauty, consisting of apple orchards, pine forests, and the shimmering Baspa River. Read this blog to learn about this popular place in Himachal.

Why Choose a Self Drive Trip From Chandigarh to Sangla Valley?

Freedom on the open road:

One of the biggest benefits of a Sangla Valley road trip by car is the freedom you get. With your own car, you can stop anywhere for a tea break, lunch break, nature calls, or for a photoshoot. 

Well Maintained Routes:

When going on a road trip from Chandigarh to Sangla Valley, you will have a smooth ride on NH5. The route itself is a treat, which is filled with lush pine forests, apple orchards, and winding mountain roads. 

Heaven for nature lovers:

If you are a nature lover, you should definitely take the self-drive car to Kinnaur in Sangla Valley. On your way, you will see landscapes changing constantly, from dense cedar forests to the Baspa River. 

Ideal for both short and long getaways:

Whether you are planning a weekend trip or a long vacation, the long drive to Sangla from Chandigarh matches your purpose. If you are going for 1 or 2 days, you can rest at Narkanda or Rampur, while for a long trip, you can explore Sangla and Chitkul. 

The Route: Chandigarh to Sangla Valley Road Trip Itinerary

Chandigarh to Shimla:

The Chandigarh to Sangla Valley road trip starts from Chandigarh to Shimla. It’s a 115 km journey of around 4 hours. After leaving the plains of Chandigarh, you’ll see the foggy hills and pine forests. Shimla is the first step in this wonderful journey. Here you can explore Mall Road and cozy cafes. You can also get your car refueled here and have a meal before moving forward. 

Shimla to Narkanda:

After Shimla, the next stop is Narkanda, which is just 65 km away. Going through Kufri and Theog, you will see snow-covered peaks, dense cedar forests, and finally reach Narkanda at 8000 feet above sea level. It’s popular for its apple orchards and is ideal for peaceful surroundings and a hotel stay. It’s best for a photo session. After that, the next stop is Rampur. 

Narkanda to Rampur:

Coincidentally, the Rampur is also situated at a distance of 65 km from Narkanda. This drive is of 2 hours while following the side of the Satluj River. The route shows you wider valleys and picturesque towns. Rampur is a historic town that shows a glimpse of authentic Himachal culture. It’s also the best place to refuel your car before moving to the rugged terrain of Kinnaur. 

Rampur to Karcham:

From Rampur to Karcham, the distance is 90 km and the journey takes around 3.5 hours. Now you will officially explore Kinnaur. The landscapes here include steep gorges, turquoise river waters, and hanging cliffs. After some time, you will reach Karcham Dam, where the roads get divided for Rekong Peo and Sangla Valley. You can expect curvy and narrow roads here. 
Karcham to Sangla:

The final trek from Karcham to Sangla is 18 km and offers scenic, thrilling views. The mountain roads go by the side of the Baspa River, with wooden bridges and iconic pine forests. Drive slowly as landslides are common in this area. Once you reach Sangla, you will see an amazing valley comprising apple orchards, meadows, and regular Kinnauri homes. 

Bottom Line

The Chandigarh to Sangla Valley road trip is a perfect treat for nature lovers. During the journey, you explore some amazing places like Shimla, Narkanda, Rampur, and Karcham. After arriving in Sangla Valley, you get to see the scenic view of apple orchards and lush green meadows. Not just this, but you also experience the local culture of Kinnaur. There you can explore local dishes like Thupka, Momos, and Siddu. A good vehicle can enhance your experience. To book your car for the Sangla Valley trip, visit our website now and choose the best car rental in Chandigarh. 

Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ's

Got questions? We have the perfect answers for you!

  • 1. How many days are enough for Sangla?

    A 3-day itinerary is enough for Sangla.

  • 2. Where is the best place to visit in Sangla?

    The best places to visit in Sangla are Sangla Meadows, Baspa River, and Kamru Fort.

  • 3. What is the best time to visit Sangla?

    The best time to visit Sangla is from September to October. 

  • 4. Is Sangla worth visiting?

    Sangal is ideal for nature lovers and someone who wants to explore the local, authentic culture of the Kinnauri people. 

  • 5. What to pack for a trip to Sangla?

    The essential items for a road trip to Sangla are hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, water bottle, and first aid.