Kalpa in February

The February story

February's heavy snow cover creates Kalpa's most dramatic landscapes. The Kinner Kailash massif against blue winter sky, with every ridge and glacier defined by snow, is visual overload. The apple orchards in snow — bare branches creating geometric patterns against white — attract the rare photographer who makes it here. The village temple complex, with its wooden carvings and stone base, demonstrates the earthquake-resistant engineering that Kinnauri builders perfected centuries ago. For a winter day walk, the trail from Kalpa to Roghi village (3km) passes through forest with valley views — carry ice grips for shoes. The local Kinnauri diet in winter is warming: siddu (steamed wheat bread), chutneys, and red rajma. A hot meal at any guesthouse after a cold walk is a simple, deep pleasure. Accommodation: Rs 500-800. Confirm heating and hot water before booking. The nearest hospital is in Reckong Peo (12km). Road from Shimla: check conditions daily, carry chains for tyres.