Yulla Khas

Published on August 30, 2025

Yulla Khas – A Cultural Village and Trekking Gateway in Kinnaur

Nestled in the peaceful valleys of Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh, Yulla Khas is more than just a village. It is the starting point for the famous Yulla Kanda trek, a journey that takes travelers to high-altitude meadows, sacred lakes, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. But before the trek even begins, Yulla Khas itself welcomes visitors with warmth, tradition, and charm.

This small village offers a blend of natural beauty and rich culture. Surrounded by apple orchards, wooden houses, and mountain slopes, Yulla Khas is not only a base for adventure but also a destination to explore and experience authentic Kinnauri life.

Where is Yulla Khas?

Yulla Khas is located in the Kinnaur region of Himachal Pradesh, at an altitude of around 2,700 meters. It is the last motorable point before the trek to Yulla Kanda Lake, Krishna Temple, and nearby meadows.

Travelers usually reach Yulla Khas by road from Reckong Peo or Kalpa, which are well-connected by buses and taxis from Shimla. From here, the road winds up through picturesque valleys, apple orchards, and terraced fields until you arrive at this peaceful hamlet.

Why is Yulla Khas Important?

1. Starting Point for Trekkers
   The Yulla Kanda trek, known for its sacred lake and panoramic views, begins here. The village serves as a base camp, where trekkers rest, gather supplies, and prepare for the climb ahead.

2. Experience Kinnauri Culture
   Yulla Khas gives you a chance to see local traditions up close. The people here wear traditional Kinnauri caps, speak their local dialect, and are known for their warm hospitality.

3. Scenic Beauty
   The surroundings are a mix of dense forests, terraced farms, and snow peaks in the distance. It’s peaceful, calm, and far from city crowds.

4. Gateway to Remote Meadows
   Apart from Yulla Kanda Lake, trails from Yulla Khas can lead to alpine meadows (bugyals), hidden valleys, and lesser-known trekking routes.

What to See and Do in Yulla Khas

1. Explore the Village Life

Walking through the narrow lanes of Yulla Khas, you’ll see wooden houses decorated with intricate carvings, traditional granaries, and locals busy in their daily routines. Interacting with villagers gives you a glimpse into simple mountain living.

2. Visit the Apple Orchards

Kinnaur is famous for its juicy apples, and Yulla Khas has many orchards. If you visit during apple season (August–October), you can see farmers harvesting apples and even taste fresh ones straight from the trees.

3. Local Temples and Shrines

Like most Kinnauri villages, Yulla Khas has small temples and sacred spots. These are beautifully built in wood and stone, showcasing the unique architecture of the region.

4. Prepare for Trekking

Before starting your trek, you can arrange guides, porters, and supplies in Yulla Khas. Locals know the terrain well and can help you with the safest and most scenic routes.

5. Photography and Nature Walks

With green fields, snowy mountains, and traditional houses, the village is a photographer’s delight. Even short walks around Yulla Khas offer stunning views of the valley.

The Yulla Kanda Trek from Yulla Khas

• Altitude: Around 3,900 meters at Yulla Kanda Lake

• Trek Distance: 5–6 hours from Yulla Khas

• Difficulty Level: Moderate (steep sections in places)

• Key Highlights: Krishna Temple, Yulla Kanda Lake, wildflowers, bugyals (meadows), and mountain views

The trail starts gently through pine and cedar forests before climbing into open meadows dotted with wildflowers. It is a spiritual as well as scenic trek because of the sacred Krishna Temple near the lake.

Best Time to Visit Yulla Khas

• May to October – Best for trekking and clear views

• August to September – Lush meadows and apple harvest season

• November to April – Snowfall makes the region difficult to access

Tips for Travelers

• Stay with locals – Yulla Khas has homestays where you can enjoy home-cooked meals and learn about Kinnauri traditions.

• Pack light but wisely – Carry essentials like water, food, warm clothes, and trekking gear before heading upward.

• Hire a local guide – They ensure safety, help navigate trails, and share local stories.

• Respect culture – The area is sacred to locals; avoid littering or disturbing temples and shrines.

• Start early – Mornings are best for trekking as weather in the mountains can change suddenly.

What Makes Yulla Khas Unique?

• Authentic Mountain Hospitality: Villagers are friendly and always ready to help travelers.

• Traditional Wooden Architecture: Houses and temples are beautifully crafted, showing old Kinnauri designs.

• Peaceful Environment: Unlike crowded tourist spots, Yulla Khas feels calm and untouched.

• Cultural Heritage: The region still follows age-old customs, visible in dress, festivals, and lifestyle.

Nearby Attractions

1. Yulla Kanda Lake and Krishna Temple – Sacred high-altitude site surrounded by meadows.

2. Rora Kanda Meadow – Quiet alpine meadow ideal for camping.

3. Kalpa Village – Famous for its apple orchards and views of Kinner Kailash peak.

4. Moorang Fort – Ancient structure showcasing Kinnauri history.

5. Chitkul Village – Known as the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border.

Life in Yulla Khas – A Personal Experience

Staying in Yulla Khas feels like stepping back in time. You wake up to roosters crowing, fresh mountain air, and the smell of wood smoke from village kitchens. Children walk to school along dirt paths, while elders sit outside weaving or tending to animals.

Evenings are peaceful, with villagers gathering around small fires, telling stories or singing folk songs. Guests are often invited to share tea or traditional food like sidu (steamed bread) and madra (a local curry). This warmth makes Yulla Khas more than just a trekking base – it becomes a memorable cultural experience.

Conclusion – A Gateway to Nature and Culture

Yulla Khas is not just the starting point of a trek; it’s a window into the heart of Kinnaur. Whether you’re here for adventure, photography, or simply to relax, the village offers a rare mix of breathtaking nature and rich tradition.

From the wooden houses to the apple orchards, from friendly villagers to stunning mountain views, Yulla Khas is a place where every traveler feels welcome. And as you begin your journey towards Yulla Kanda Lake or Rora Kanda Meadow, you carry with you not just supplies for the trek, but also the spirit of this beautiful village.