5-Day Budget-Friendly Himachal Pradesh Tour from Shimla via Reckong Peo, Kalpa, Sangla, Chitkul, Rakchham, and Sarahan

Day 1: Shimla to Kalpa

Shimla to Kalpa, India on May 26, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Wake & Bake Cafe, Shimla

Start your day with a budget-friendly European breakfast at this popular cafe open from 7AM to 10:30AM.
INR150, 1h

8:30AM

Drive from Shimla to Reckong Peo

Embark on a scenic 6-hour drive covering approximately 210 km through the beautiful Sutlej valley to Reckong Peo, known as the district headquarters of Kinnaur.
INR1500 (shared taxi), 6h

2:30PM

Lunch at local Dhaba in Reckong Peo

Enjoy authentic Himachali cuisine like Chha Gosht or Sidu at a roadside dhaba offering affordable meals.
INR200, 1h

3:30PM

Visit Reckong Peo Market

Explore local handicrafts and the buzz of the small market town to soak in local culture.
Free, 1h

4:30PM

Drive from Reckong Peo to Kalpa

Short 1-hour drive to the serene village of Kalpa, famous for stunning apple orchards and views of the Kinner Kailash range.
INR300, 1h

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Apple Valley, Kalpa

Have a simple Himachali dinner in a budget hotel with beautiful mountain views, open till 9PM.
INR300, 1h

Day 2: Kalpa to Sangla and Rakchham

Kalpa, Sangla, Rakchham, India on May 27, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hyatt Heritage Kalpa

Enjoy a simple buffet breakfast with local and Indian options available, open from 7AM to 10AM.
INR250, 1h

8:30AM

Drive Kalpa to Sangla

Travel approx 1.5-hour drive covering 35 km through stunning valleys to Sangla, known for its apple orchards.
INR400, 1.5h

10:00AM

Visit Baspa River and Temples in Sangla

Spend a relaxing couple of hours walking along the Baspa River and visiting ancient temples like Kamru Fort.
Free, 2h

12:00PM

Lunch at D'Ziring Hotel & Cafe, Sangla

Savor regional dishes like Rajma and Thukpa at this budget-friendly spot open 10AM-8PM.
INR250, 1h

1:00PM

Drive Sangla to Rakchham

Short 45-minute drive to Rakchham, a tranquil village famous for nature walks and mountain views.
INR200, 45m

2:00PM

Explore Rakchham Village and Nature Trails

Take gentle treks along pine forests and admire natural beauty in this quiet hamlet.
Free, 3h

5:00PM

Return to Sangla

Drive back to Sangla to rest and prepare for the next day.
INR200, 45m

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Sangla Valley

Eat a budget-conscious dinner featuring Himachali dal, rice, and vegetables, open till 9PM.
INR300, 1h

Day 3: Chitkul Day Trip

Sangla and Chitkul, India on May 28, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Cafe Paradise, Sangla

Light breakfast with parathas and tea, open by 7AM.
INR150, 45m

8:15AM

Drive Sangla to Chitkul

Approximately 1-hour drive to Chitkul, the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibet border, known for breathtaking views.
INR300, 1h

9:30AM

Explore Chitkul Village

Walk through the quaint village, visit traditional wooden houses, and enjoy views of the Baspa River. Chitkul is open year-round.
Free, 2h

11:30AM

Nature Walk to Rakchham Meadows

Optional 1-1.5 hour easy trek to beautiful meadows near Rakchham for panoramic mountain scenery.
Free, 2h

1:00PM

Lunch in Chitkul at local home stay cafe

Simple homemade meal with local ingredients at budget prices.
INR200, 1h

2:00PM

Drive back to Sangla

Return drive approx 1 hour.
INR300, 1h

3:00PM

Free time in Sangla

Relax and explore local shops or rest at your accommodation.
Free, 3h

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Sangla Valley

Enjoy another hearty Himachali meal to end your day.
INR300, 1h

Day 4: Sangla to Sarahan

Sangla to Sarahan, India on May 29, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sangla Valley

Buffet breakfast with local breads and tea available from 7AM.
INR250, 1h

8:30AM

Drive Sangla to Sarahan

Long 6-hour journey covering approx 180 km through scenic roads to Sarahan, famous for the Bhimakali Temple.
INR1500 (shared taxi), 6h

2:30PM

Lunch at local eatery in Sarahan

Affordable meals featuring Himachali cuisine including local vegetables and lentils.
INR200, 1h

3:30PM

Visit Bhimakali Temple

Explore this 7-century-old temple dedicated to Goddess Bhimakali, open until 7PM.
Free, 1.5h

5:00PM

Walk around Sarahan Village

Enjoy picturesque village views and surrounding Himalayas.
Free, 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Hill View Sarahan

Basic, budget-friendly dinner with local flavors, open till 9PM.
INR300, 1h

Day 5: Sarahan to Shimla Return

Sarahan to Shimla, India on May 30, 2025

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel Hill View Sarahan

Simple breakfast to start your return journey early.
INR200, 45m

7:45AM

Drive Sarahan to Shimla

Long 6-7 hour drive covering approx 160 km through mountainous terrain arriving Shimla by mid-afternoon.
INR1500 (shared taxi), 7h

3:00PM

Lunch Stop at Jeori

An affordable roadside dhaba serving quick Himachali food to recharge midway.
INR150, 45m

5:30PM

Arrive Shimla

Check in to budget hotel to rest or explore Mall Road if time permits (shops open till 8PM).
INR500 (hotel), Rest of day

7:30PM

Dinner at Ashiana & Goofa Restaurant, Shimla

Enjoy affordable North Indian cuisine with good variety, open till 10PM.
INR400, 1h