Hindustan Tibet Highway - Memories

Usually, the journey along the Hindustan Tibet Highway involves travelling from Kaza to Manali, which is something I have done twice. The very first time would have been over 20 years ago when there was hardly any tourism in these parts and practically no cars on the roads. Now, things are different as both overseas visitors and Indians have discovered the charm of Spiti and the spirit of adventure in road journeys. I can never forget my first visit with Archana. As we drove towards Nako and saw the vast expanse of the dry barren hills and the river in the valley deep down, we were awe struck and stopped the car. At that time I had a Toyota Land-cruiser Prado, very reliable and sturdy. In fact, the ideal vehicle when you are on your own without support because you know they will never break down. We stopped along the road, brought out the foldable chairs that we used to carry and drank a cup of coffee whilst gazing down the valley below in admiration of nature's wonders. I remember as we began winding up to recommence the journey, I thought gosh if the car does not start here, there is absolutely nothing I could do. We did not see a single vehicle cross for over two hours.

The journey from Kaza to Manali usually takes about 7 hours as the 200 kms comprises in some parts in the Lahaul valley of very difficult terrain where you literally have to inch forward. It is a stunning drive though, through Kumzum and Rohtang Pass, and through different mountain ranges including Chandrabhaga; Pir Panjal and the Great Himalayan ranges. Bird sightings are wonderful - Himalayan Griffons, Golden Eagles, Himalayan Partridge, Monal, Alpine Swifts, Himalayan Cuckoo, etc. As you pass Rohtang, the surroundings begin to change to green and as you descend into Manali you are enveloped any the beauty of Himalayan Cedar and Oak.

But on this trip, Uday, Ashim and I drove back to Simla Via Kalpa and in my next post I will share some beautiful pictures of the Kinnaur Kailash mountain range taken from Kalpa town. The journey was eventful with a serious landslide.