Kugti Village

Kugti Village is the last inhabited settlement in Chamba district, located at approximately 2,600 meters altitude in the Pir Panjal range. Home to the Gaddi tribal community, this remote Himalayan village preserves traditional stone and wood architecture known as Khat Kuni style. The village serves as a base for treks to Kugti Pass and the sacred Manimahesh pilgrimage route, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into high-altitude mountain life.

Visitors can explore narrow stone alleyways lined with traditional two-storied wooden houses featuring carved designs and slate roofs. The village offers opportunities to observe daily Gaddi life including shepherding activities, wool weaving, and traditional cooking methods. Mountain views surround the settlement, and visitors experience complete digital disconnection with no phone network or electricity in winter months.

Kugti has served as a historic trade route connecting Chamba valley with Lahaul and Spiti regions. The village has been home to the Gaddi tribe for generations, who maintain their semi-nomadic pastoral traditions.

The village is culturally significant as a traditional homeland of the Gaddi tribal community, who practice semi-nomadic sheep herding. The Kartik Swami Temple (locally known as Kelang Wazir) holds religious importance for both Gaddis and pilgrims from across Himachal Pradesh. The village serves as a preparation point for the annual Manimahesh Yatra pilgrimage.