The national highway built along the high ridges is in itself an engineering marvel.
The road at times resembles a tunnel with one of the four walls missing. Cut out a sheer rock face!
The valley of the Baspa is very fertile with chilgoza and plum in full bloom in early spring.
Picture post card houses with slate roofs nestled in the magnificent crucible formed by the Himalayas.
The view from within looking at the mountains in Raksham.
The post office cum hotel with the manager.
Everything here is made of stone and wood.
Fire accidents are common and building and rebuilding happen all the time.
The Baspa is much more tame in Raksham & can be crossed by a fairly sturdy bridge.
You could take invigorating walks along the banks of the river.
The Himalayas reflected in a pool of clear water.
The conifers abound at Raksham.
Wood is cut and stored in the open.
Fir acorns mingle with the rocks.
Just a few paces from the snow line, the trees make a great backdrop.
Near the river, a many centuries old tradition of, carving a prayer on the rocks and leaving it there for posterity still survives. We found similar carvings on the banks of the Holy Mansrovar.
The locals are constantly seen collecting and storing dry foliage and wood.
They have sharp features and weather-beaten appearance.
The Kinnaurs are described as halfway between humans and Gods. Public transport is convenient, safe and advisable.
The Baspa comes from Tibet beyond the mountains and flows along Chhitkul.
The locals collect at the bus stand.
The sun rises a little late to allow you a long night of rest.
The valley sleeps for much longer as the mountaintops wake up and let you get used to their magnificence.
The external plumbing is left open permanently is prevent freezing in the and ice formation in the pipes.
Local mandir (temple). Sanatan Dharam co exists with Baudhic Dharam
The main temple in Chhitkul is part stone and part ornately carved wood.
Night descends much earlier and makes the temple look ethereal in the glow of the lamps.
The dwellings serve as hotel and house and are fairly comfortable.
Stylish exteriors and solar powered electricity make this look like a swiss chalet.
In Chhitkul the Baspa has a centuries old rock strewn bed.
The water is cold, crystal clear and glacial.
The Yak abounds here and if down South is Ishwars own land then this must be his HQ!
The school is just outside the village abutting the banks of the river.
An overview of the School. Open on all four sides you see a playground in front and snow clad mountains in the background. A dream location!