Day 7 - A Journey Through Landslides, Stunning Views, and the Last Village of India

Today was packed with adventure and unforgettable experiences as we made our way deeper into the Himalayas on our journey from Sarahan to Chitkul. It was a day that tested our endurance, rewarded us with breathtaking views, and introduced us to one of the most iconic villages in India.

Early Start for Sunrise Timelapse

We began the day early, waking up with the goal of capturing a beautiful timelapse of the sun’s rays hitting the peaks of the Sarahan mountains. Though we had hoped to catch the first light on the Kailash Parvat, we weren’t entirely sure where to look. Regardless, the morning light touching the surrounding peaks was mesmerizing, and the effort to wake up early paid off. It set a serene tone for what would become an adventurous day.

Blessings at Jai Bhadra Kali Mata Mandir

Before hitting the road, we made a stop at the Jai Bhadra Kali Mata Mandir to take blessings for a safe journey. The temple is a remarkable structure, built using a unique combination of stones and wood, stacked in a distinct and beautiful way. The peaceful energy of the place left us feeling spiritually grounded as we prepared for the long ride ahead.

Packed and Ready for Chitkul

With our bags packed and our spirits high, we gathered for a few group photos before leaving Sarahan. The journey ahead to Chitkul, the last village of India, was around 90 km. The hotel owner in Sarahan kindly helped us secure accommodation in Chitkul, which gave us peace of mind for the ride ahead.

Unexpected Landslide Delay

As we made our way through the winding roads, we encountered a landslide that had blocked the road ahead. Local authorities had stopped all vehicles, and we were forced to wait for about two hours until the road was cleared. It was an unexpected delay, but it’s all part of the adventure in the Himalayas. The forced break gave us a chance to rest and admire the rugged beauty around us.

Capturing Scenic Moments

Once the road reopened, we resumed our journey with renewed energy. The scenery was nothing short of spectacular, with towering cliffs on one side and deep valleys on the other. Every now and then, we stopped to capture the beauty around us—whether with photos, drone shots, or just to soak it all in. Riding through this pristine landscape felt surreal, and we made sure to document as many moments as possible.

Tough Road to Chitkul

As we approached Chitkul, the road became more challenging. The path was filled with rough patches, narrow lanes, and overhanging rocks. One wrong move could send us tumbling into the valley below, so we rode with caution. The road tested our patience, but the dramatic views on both sides made the ride worth it. It was a thrilling experience that demanded focus and skill.

Arriving at Chitkul

By evening, we finally reached Chitkul, though we missed the sunset by a little. Despite that, the excitement was palpable as we arrived at the "Last Village of India." The chilly weather reminded us just how remote we were, and despite wearing full winter gear, the cold still managed to seep through. We quickly snapped photos at the iconic village sign, documenting our arrival at this

significant milestone on our journey.

A Stop at the Last Dhaba of Hindustan

Hungry from the long ride, we made a quick stop at the last dhaba of Hindustan for some snacks. There’s something truly special about eating at such a remote location, knowing it’s one of the last stops before the border. The simple food and warm tea provided a much-needed break before continuing.

Night Stay at Rakcham

After exploring Chitkul, we continued onward to Rakcham, where we would spend the night. On the way, we encountered a massive herd of sheep being herded home. It was quite a sight, and navigating through thousands of sheep made for a fun and unexpected moment during the ride. We carefully made our way through the herd and arrived at our night stay, exhausted but satisfied after a long day of riding.

End of the Day

Once settled in, we enjoyed a delicious dinner, reflecting on the day’s challenges and highlights. battling landslides, and navigating tough roads, it felt great to finally relax. We’re all preparing for an early start tomorrow at 6 AM as we set out for Tabo, eager to see what new adventures await us on the next leg of our journey.