Rora Kanda

Published on August 30, 2025

Rora Kanda – A Peaceful Meadow Hidden in the Himalayas

High up in the beautiful Kinnaur region of Himachal Pradesh lies Rora Kanda, a quiet meadow that feels untouched by time. Surrounded by high mountains and cool breezes, this hidden gem is perfect for those who love nature, adventure, and peace. While many travelers head to Yulla Kanda Lake and Krishna Temple, only a few know about this serene spot close by.

Where is Rora Kanda?

Rora Kanda lies in the upper reaches of Kinnaur, at an altitude of around 3,500 to 3,800 meters. It is not far from the more famous Yulla Kanda trek. The meadow itself is a wide, open space covered with soft grass and surrounded by rugged mountain slopes.

You can reach it after trekking through pine forests, rocky paths, and small streams. Because it is less known, Rora Kanda stays calm and crowd-free – perfect if you want to avoid busy tourist spots.

The Journey to Rora Kanda

• Starting Point – Yulla Khas Village: Most treks begin from this peaceful Kinnauri village with traditional wooden houses and apple orchards.

• Through Forests and Valleys: The trail winds through cedar and pine trees, with birdsong as your background music.

• Into the Open Meadows: As you climb higher, the trees give way to rolling pastures where you can finally see the open skies and distant snow peaks.

The trek usually takes 5–6 hours depending on pace, with gentle slopes and a few steep patches.

Why is Rora Kanda Special?

1. Unspoiled Beauty
   Unlike popular tourist spots, Rora Kanda has not been commercialized. There are no shops, no hotels, and no crowds – just pure nature.

2. Ideal for Camping
   The meadow has flat grassy patches perfect for pitching tents. Spending a night here under the star-filled sky is magical.

3. Peace and Quiet
   The only sounds you hear are the wind, distant streams, and occasional bird calls. It’s a great place to relax your mind.

4. Breathtaking Views
   Surrounded by high ridges and Himalayan peaks, the scenery changes with every hour as the light moves across the mountains.

5. Close to Yulla Kanda
   Many trekkers combine both meadows in a single trip. After visiting Yulla Kanda Lake and Krishna Temple, you can take a short detour to explore Rora Kanda.

Best Time to Visit

• June to September: Meadows are lush and green, filled with wildflowers. Days are pleasant, though nights are cold.

• October: Clear skies but colder winds; still beautiful for trekking.

• November to May: The trail and meadow are usually snow-covered and difficult to access.

Things to Do at Rora Kanda

• Camping under open skies – Set up a tent, make a small campfire, and watch the stars.

• Photography – Capture the beauty of untouched meadows and panoramic views of the Kinnaur Himalayas.

• Trekking – Use Rora Kanda as a rest stop or base camp for longer hikes.

• Relax and Meditate – The peaceful surroundings are perfect for reading, journaling, or simply doing nothing.

• Nature Walks – Wander around the meadow to spot flowers, butterflies, and mountain birds.

Tips for Visiting Rora Kanda

• Carry warm clothes – Even in summer, nights can be very cold at this altitude.

• Pack food and water – There are no shops or tea stalls on the way or at the top.

• Wear strong trekking shoes – The trail has rocky and slippery stretches.

• Travel with a local guide – Villagers know the safest paths and best camping spots.

• Start early in the day – Afternoon weather in the mountains can change quickly.

• Leave no litter – Keep the meadow clean and pristine for future travelers.

The Experience of Staying in Rora Kanda

Imagine walking through a quiet meadow where soft green grass brushes against your boots and fresh mountain air fills your lungs. You pitch your tent on an open patch, cook a simple meal under the fading evening light, and watch the sun dip behind snow-capped peaks.

At night, the sky is full of stars – far brighter than you’ve ever seen in any city. You wake up to the first rays of the sun touching the mountains, turning them gold. The silence is so deep you can hear your own heartbeat, broken only by the chirping of birds.

This is the simple joy of Rora Kanda – no noise, no rush, just you and nature.

Nearby Attractions

1. Yulla Kanda Lake – A beautiful high-altitude lake surrounded by meadows and peaks.

2. Krishna Temple at Yulla Kanda – Believed to be the highest Krishna temple in the world.

3. Yulla Khas Village – The base point for treks; experience Kinnauri culture and apple orchards.

4. Kalpa and Sangla Valleys – Famous spots nearby with stunning views of Kinner Kailash range.

5. Alpine Meadows (Bugyals) – Other meadows along the trek route, perfect for short halts.

Who Should Visit Rora Kanda?

• Nature Lovers: Enjoy unspoiled Himalayan landscapes.

• Trekking Enthusiasts: Moderate trails with rewarding views.

• Photographers: Capture mountains, flowers, and starry skies.

• Peace Seekers: Escape city noise and find calmness.

• Adventure Travelers: Experience high-altitude camping away from crowds.

A Hidden Treasure in Kinnaur

Rora Kanda may not be famous, but that’s what makes it special. It’s a place where you can walk on soft grass, watch clouds drift over tall peaks, and feel the pure joy of being surrounded by nature. Whether you visit for a few hours or spend the night camping, the memory of this quiet meadow will stay with you forever.

If you are planning a trip to Yulla Kanda, add Rora Kanda to your list. It’s a short detour, but it offers something priceless – peace, beauty, and the feeling of discovering a hidden corner of the Himalayas.