Anand Mahindra fell for India's ‘last village' in Himachal and you might too after seeing the viral photo

Time of India

2 days ago

A single photograph recently mesmerized the internet, raising one simple question: is it art, AI, or nature? Industrialist
answered that question by sharing a stunning image of Chitkul, the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border in Himachal Pradesh.
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Captured by photographer Divya L Chaitanya, the image looks almost unreal — showcasing the turquoise Baspa River snaking between snow-capped peaks under a crystal-clear sky.
Mahindra's post went viral within hours, stirring emotions, admiration, and awe across platforms. But beyond the visual magic lies a real village rooted in sustainability, natural beauty, and rich Himalayan culture.
Anand Mahindra captures Chitkul's magic in viral photo that looks too perfect to be real
The viral image features a panoramic view of Chitkul, where the Baspa River glistens like liquid emerald against a backdrop of towering Himalayan ranges. Wooden houses dot the landscape while snow-covered peaks stand sentinel in the distance. Shared on X (formerly Twitter), Anand Mahindra captioned the photo:
"Nature's brush or digital magic? But the image is raw and untouched… reminding us that NO artist can outpaint nature's canvas."
The photo sparked thousands of reactions, with viewers questioning whether it was a hyper-real painting or a digitally enhanced render.
Where is Chitkul and why is it so special
Chitkul, located at an altitude of 3,450 meters, is the last Indian village on the Indo-Tibetan road in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. Accessible only during specific months due to snow and weather conditions, the village represents the frontier of human settlement.
What sets Chitkul apart is not just its remoteness but its breathtaking setting—surrounded by alpine meadows, glacial rivers, and panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
The village is sparsely populated, retaining a sense of untouched serenity rarely found in more commercialized hill stations.
Sustainability in the mountains: Chitkul's green model for tourism
Beyond its scenic allure, Chitkul is a model of eco-conscious living. According to the Incredible India tourism board, the local community actively:
Practices organic farming with little to no chemical use
Engages in reforestation to combat soil erosion and preserve native tree species
Encourages the use of eco-friendly alternatives over plastic
Promotes responsible tourism to ensure the environment remains undisturbed
These practices have helped maintain Chitkul's pristine environment even as tourism gradually increases.
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Chitkul as a spiritual and adventure destination
For trekkers and spiritual seekers, Chitkul is a gateway to one of the Himalayas' most revered routes — the Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama. This sacred pilgrimage encircles the Kinnaur Kailash peak and is believed to be deeply connected to Lord Shiva. The trek attracts both seasoned mountaineers and religious devotees, offering a mix of spiritual fulfillment and physical endurance.
Visitors also engage in shorter hikes through apple orchards, riverside paths, and nearby meadows rich in Himalayan flora and fauna.
How to reach Chitkul : Travel essentials
Reaching Chitkul is an adventure in itself. Here's a quick guide:
By Air: The nearest airport is Chandigarh.
By Train: Chandigarh and Kalka are the most accessible railheads.
By Road: From Chandigarh or Delhi, one must travel to Shimla, then onward to Reckong Peo via Sangla Valley.
By Bus: HRTC buses from Delhi and Chandigarh go to Reckong Peo, from where taxis or local buses take you to Chitkul.
The final leg of the journey is scenic but challenging, often through winding, narrow mountain roads.
Source: Incredible India
Chitkul's viral photo ignites online praise and calls for nature conservation
Once Mahindra's post went live, netizens across platforms couldn't stop praising the surreal beauty of the image. Many shared their own travel experiences, affirming that no photograph can truly capture the tranquility of Chitkul in person. Others remarked how no filter or digital manipulation could compete with nature's raw splendor.
Photographers praised the composition and lighting, while nature lovers emphasized how such places reinforce the need for conservation and mindful tourism.
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