The secluded district of Kinnaur is studded with towering peaks, high altitude valleys, glaciers, and fast-flowing rivers. The breathtakingly beautiful1 district is sparsely populated with about 77 villages and no major urban center.
Kalpa
This main town of Kinnaur district is set at a height of 2759 m. about 12 kms. from Recong Peo, surrounded by vineyards, apple Peo, orchards, chilgoza pines, cedar, and deodar forests. It affords a panoramic view of the majestic Kinner Kailash and came into prominence when Lord Dalhousie proposed the construction of Hindustan- Tibet Road in the 19th century. Places worth seeing are the Narayan – Nagini temple and Buddhist monasteries. The thickly wooded Lippa, located nearby on the banks of Taiti stream is known for its Buddhist monasteries.
Recong Peo
Recong Peo, the headquarters of Kinnaur district is perched at an altitude of 2290 meters amidst scenic surroundings. There is an ancient gompa – Hu-Bu-Lan-Kar established by Rinchensang-po (950 1055) and a new gompa commemorating the venue of Kalachakra initiation conducted by Dalai Lama in 1992. The sight of Kinner Kailash from here is awesome.
Sarahan
The beautiful gateway to Kinnaur lies 176 kms. from Shimla. It is known for majestic Bhimkali Temple, surrounded by snow-clad mountains. The sacred shrine is revered by the Hindus and Buddhists. A Pheasant Breading Centre and stadium are also worth seeing.
