walking along the old india tibet trade route

This trek is hosted on the erst-while Silk Route before the roads took

the centre stage. The Silk Route was a historic trade route that dated

from the second century B.C. until the 14th century A.D. It stretched

from Asia to the Mediterranean, traversing China, India, Persia,

Arabia, Greece, and Italy. It was dubbed the Silk Route because of

the heavy silk trading that took place on this route during that

period. It was the main trading route through Kinnaur, Rampur,

Narkanda, Shimla, Kalka and reached Delhi. With the passage of time

and the development of roads, this old route is forgotten and has

become history.

This trail is your chance to ramble through history on this long-

forgotten route from Narkanda to Kinnaur. 

Day 1. Narkanda

Orientation and meeting day.

Day 2, Narkanda to Baghi

 After breakfast  we slowly commence on the first leg of our trail walk.  The trek begins through dense forests of pine, cedar, oak, and rhododendron. The tall trees create a serene, green canopy, providing shade and a sense of tranquility as you walk. In spring, the rhododendron trees burst into bloom, adding splashes of vibrant color to the trail. As you ascend, the forest occasionally opens up to reveal breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and distant snow-capped mountains. The higher you go, the more expansive the views become, with the mighty Himalayas stretching out before you. From the summit, you are rewarded with sweeping views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges, including prominent peaks like Kinner Kailash. The contrast between the green valleys below and the white peaks in the distance is mesmerizing. In the evening we reach our campite at Baghi village. 

Day 3. Baghi to Nankhari.

Today's walk starts from Baghi village. We start our ascend till we

reach the top of the ridge. From the ridge you can see s far as the Baspa ranges of Kinnaur. Then we climb the 3300mtrs Kot Kali top. The forests of Kotkali are home to a variety of bird species and wildlife. Trekkers with a keen eye might spot Himalayan monals, woodpeckers, or even a barking deer. The sound of birdsong accompanies you as you trek, enhancing the overall experience.From here we descend to the village of Nankhari. Overnight stay at Nankhari village in Camps. 

Day 4 Nankhari to Khamadi to Kandreri

Today we will start our walk through apple farms. Unlike some of the more crowded trekking destinations, this trail offers a peaceful and relatively solitary trekking experience. The quietude of the trail, interrupted only by the sounds of nature, makes it an ideal escape for those looking to disconnect and rejuvenate.  This trail has waterfalls streams and wooden bridges which are almost 100 years oldThe forests start to get denser in the end before we reach the village of Kandereri, where we will camp for the evening. 

Day 5. Kanderi to Bali. Today we embark on a 7 kms British time walk

though a dense reserve forest. The forest of Deodar and Oak trees eventually opens up to a apple farm. From here we descend down into then valley which has a gushing stream.  Night stay at Bali village  in a camp. . Total walking distance today 7 kms.

Day 6. Bali to Darren Ghati.

Today first we will walk across the Shrota Dhar top and then descend

to the road. Then from Tachlech stream we will trek till Darren top.

Overnight stay at Darren. At the camp the clear skies offer an incredible opportunity for stargazing. The lack of light pollution at this altitude allows you to see a sky full of stars, adding another dimension to the beauty of the trek. Total walking distance today 10 kms.

Day 7. Darren Ghati to Sarahan.

 The trek from Daranghati to Sarahan in Himachal Pradesh is a less-traveled but incredibly rewarding journey that takes you through the remote and picturesque landscapes of the Western Himalayas. This trek offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and the thrill of exploring off-the-beaten-path trails. Today we will walk on a old trail which takes us to the village of Sarahan. The trail goes through apple plantations and dense forests. On the way you have amazing views of the Baspa ranges. Sarahan is a picturesque village located in the Himachal Pradesh state of India, nestled at an elevation of about 2,313 meters (7,589 feet) in the Sutlej Valley. It is often referred to as the "Gateway to Kinnaur" due to its proximity to the Kinnaur district. Sarahan is famous for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and religious significance.  Evening stay at a Hotel in Sarahan. 

Day 8. Sarahan  to Shimla

Early in the morning we visit the Bhimakali temple, which is a short walk from the hotel.  The Bhimakali Temple is the most prominent attraction in Sarahan. Dedicated to Goddess Bhimakali, the temple is a fine example of Indo-Tibetan architecture. The temple complex is made of wood and stone, with intricate carvings and pagoda-style roofs. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and holds great religious significance. The temple's unique architecture, with its blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences, makes it a must-visit for both devotees and architecture enthusiasts.  After that we will start our journey back towards Shimla. Eving stay at a hotel at Shimla. 

Day 9. Shimla to Chandigarh.

Time to bid goodbye . After breakfast we leave for Chandigarh Airport. 

Inclusions.

Twin sharing tents when on campsites and  room on some destinations. 

All meals including morning tea, Breakfast, Lunch ( including packed),

Evening Tea and Dinner. Veg and Non Veg.

Vehicle for all transport sections in the trip,  Chandigarh to Chandigarh.

Experienced qualified Himalayan trekking guides.

First Aid and  Evacuation support .