Kalpa is a small town situated in the shadow of the
Kinnaur-Kailash massif, at an altitude of 2,300 m in
Himachal Pradesh. It is 9 km along a twirling road from
Rekong Peo or can be reached by foot along various step tracks. Its narrow atmospheric lanes and the dramatic location astride a rocky bluff, high above the right bank of the
Sutlej, make the hike enchanting. Kalpa is 250 km north-east of
Shimla.
Kalpa is spread in the middle of chilgoza forests, apple plantations and deodars. Places of tourist interest include the ancient Tibetan
Gompa founded by Rinchen Zangpo, Narayan Nagini Temple, a Shiva temple and the Jorkaden and Raldang peaks. The remnants of the India–Tibet road can be found up the valley.
Kalpa is far more an attractive place to stay than Rekong Peo. Accommodations are available at Kinner Kailash Resort, Kinner Villa, Shivalik Rest House, the cheapest of the lot and Blue Lotus Guest House.
The nearest railhead and airport is at Shimla. The
National Highway 22 passes through Kalpa.
