by It was a bumpy trek of over an hour, with my feet aching severely as I descended the hill at one point and had to climb a cliff at the next turn. Suddenly, the trail went out of sight as if it had never existed. All around were large boulders and icy-cold water of the Supin River, which was flowing so fast as if to engulf anything that came in its way.
Kalap Village, Uttarakhand—An Untouched Gem in Garhwal
The only way to cross it and reach Kalap Village Uttarakhand, was to cling to the rope and cross the river. I felt for the first time that my life was hanging by a thin rope of nylon! Crossing the river was a challenge of a lifetime for me, but I did it somehow. The trek ahead took me 3 hours, and just when I was about to give up, the oak forest transformed into a yellow mustard field. This was the Kalap village Uttarakhand, a nondescript village in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. This village is located approximately 8 km from the road at Motwar village and is one of the recommended places to visit in Garhwal.
My Trek to Kalap—An Adventurous Beginning
Kalap village came into some kind of public attention when, in 2014, the Kalap Trust was set up by Anand Sankar. The trust helped set up a medical clinic and a school. Well, for me, who belongs to the hill state of Himachal Pradesh, Kalap village seemed similar to the Haripur Dhar region of the Sirmaur district, which incidentally adjoins Uttarakhand.
Life in Kalap Village Uttarakhand
Coming back to my visit, I slumbered to sleep the moment I reached Kalap village Uttarakhand, as I had trekked much beyond my capabilities in a day. Rising to the first glimpse of sunlight, I experienced the raw feeling of being in a village years later. Standing on the balcony and savoring a hot cup of tea, I felt in heaven, which Uttarakhand indeed is.
Local Cuisine and Homestay Experience
Since I was staying in a homestay at Kalap village Uttarakhand, it meant relishing the local cuisine of Uttarakhand. On the menu was homegrown mandava, or finger millet, and wheat woven into small balls. These were to be flattened like chapatis, and the filling of roasted bhangjeera and jaggery was done in these.
I ate these hot with bhangjeera chutney. The taste was simply amazing. Later, I also tried goshua, which was spicy and sweet at the same time.
It was time to hike around Kalap village, and for it, I decided to walk to Karba, a hilltop around Kalap.
Image Courtesy: Breathedreamgo
Kalap Trust has done some remarkable work for Kalap. To know more about it, read here: Kalap trust
Medicinal Herbs and Himalayan Wellness
Since Kalap Uttarakhand is at a quite high altitude of 2377 meters, the area has rich herbal wealth. I do not remember the exact names now, but my guide, an elder from the village, gave me roots, which are known to heal eye problems; some herbs, which reduce the pain of broken bones; and leaves that toned down joint pain. I also ate some wild berries that were rich in calcium.
I also found that most people in Kalap village Uttarakhand, were healthy and fit. This is because the village is far away from the hustle and bustle of cities, grows its organic food, and has hardworking people. What else is needed for a healthy life?
History and Culture of Kalap village Uttarakhand
It is said that around 200 years ago, a shepherd from the Sangla region of Himachal Pradesh was grazing his sheep, and he came over to this region. He found that the forests and ambiance of the place were so unique that he decided to settle here.
Later, the village grew slowly, and most of the houses in Kalap village Uttarakhand were built in the Koti Banal architecture. In this architecture style, four to five stories are built using stone and no cement. The stones are just thrust into each other (different from Kathkuni, in which wood is also used). Intricate wooden carving has also been done on doors and windows.
Currently, you will find that most of the houses in Kalap village Uttarakhand, are one-storied only. Most of the villagers go to Karba to tend to their orchards. Most of the villagers have apple, peach, apricot, and plum orchards.
Travel Tips for Kalap
- Carry ample water
- Wear good trekking shoes
- Pre-book your homestay.
FAQs
Where is Kalap Village?
Kalap village Uttarakhand, is a remote village. It is situated in the Garhwal area of Uttarkashi. The altitude is around 7800 feet. You can also say that it lies in the Tons Valley, which is adjacent to the border region of Himachal Pradesh.
How to reach Kalap Village?
You will have to travel to Dehradun in Uttarakhand to begin the journey to Kalap. From Dehradun, it is an 8-10-hour road trip to Netwar of Kotgaon. Stay at Netwar or Kotgaon, as it would be a long trek to Kalap the next day
Should everyone trek to Kalap?
Good question. The trek distance is well over 7 km, so only adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those who like solitude should trek this distance. For other travelers, such treks are not recommended.
Why is Kalap village famous?
Pristine beauty, a glimpse of Garhwali culture, traditional Uttarakhand wooden houses, and an unmatched view of the Himalayas are what make Kalap, Uttarakhand, popular.
What can be done in Kalap Village?
You can trek to nearby meadows, explore traditional wooden houses and crafts, learn about local agriculture and lifestyle from welcoming villagers, indulge in stargazing and photography, and try some local food.
Is there internet or phone connectivity in Kalap?
Limited mobile network in patches. You will experience what is known as digital detox here. Connect with nature and leave all your worries behind.
Where to stay in Kalap Village?
Do not expect any hotels here. You can stay in basic homestay accommodation with villagers. Kalap Trust also promotes ecotourism here, and you will enjoy the experience.
What is the best time to plan a visit?
The best time to visit is either from April to June or from September to November. Winters can be very harsh here, so plan during these months only.
Is it safe to trek to Kalap?
Yes, generally it is safe, but do get some local support in advance. It is not recommended to travel alone or without a local guide. Be a part of this journey and promote ecotourism in Uttarakhand.
Planning a trip to Kalap Village? Drop your questions in the comments!
Read about such offbeat locations like Jana Village in Himachal here.
Featured image: Outdoor Journal
