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Pangi Valley in the upper part of
Chamba District
is a remote world in itself. This hidden valley located between Pir Panjal
and the Greater Himalayan Zanskar ranges is cut off from the rest of the
world. Killar the headquarters of this area has a helipad. During winter
and spring this valley is completely cut off. River Chanderbhaga aka
Chenab gorges through it.
From
Kilar, trekkers can go west to Badarwah,
Jammu &
Kashmir and east to Lahul
Spiti, and
Manali via the
Rohtang Pass. The major tribe
inhabiting this area is Pangwal. These rugged people, who are Hindus, have
their unique customs, traditions, and institutions. It looks as if time
has come to a standstill in this peaceful place.
In the northern part of the valley in the Zanskar hills live the Bhot
tribals. They are a mixture of Aryan and Mongolian races. Their religion
is Buddhism mixed with a primitive form of the Hindu religion and myths.
The foaming river, the high crags of the gorge and the difficult terrain
are a challenge for intrepid trekkers. The Sach Pass 4,428m opens the way
to several trek routes. Thick forest the habitat of varied wildlife
surround the Pang i Valley and the numerous side valleys - Saichu, Hunam,
Sural Nallah, that are also endowed with remarkable natural beauty.
The temple of Mindhal Basan Devi in Pangi is an important shrine.
Appropriately, the people of Pangi are as attractive as the tract they
inhabit. There is a rest house also available in Pangi.