Chicham

Chicham

Chicham Bridge is a marvel of engineering in Spiti Valley, standing at a dizzying altitude of 4,037 meters (13,241 ft). It connects Chicham Village with Kibber Village, spanning across a deep gorge known as Samba Lamba Nallah, which plunges almost 1,000 feet below.

Before the bridge was constructed in 2017, villagers used a risky manual ropeway (jhoola) to cross the gorge. Today, Chicham Bridge is one of Spiti’s most photographed landmarks and an absolute thrill for travellers.

Best Time to Visit Chicham Bridge

  • May – October: Roads are open, making it the best time to visit.

  • July – August: Clear skies are perfect for photography.

  • November – March: The area may be inaccessible due to snow, but the bridge looks magical in winter.

Why Visit Chicham Bridge

  • To walk or drive on Asia’s highest suspension bridge.

  • To enjoy adrenaline-inducing views of the gorge below.

  • For spectacular photography against Spiti’s barren mountains.

  • To explore the nearby Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary and snow leopard trails.

Things to Do at & Around Chicham Bridge

At the Bridge:

  • Walk Across – Experience the thrill of walking on Asia’s highest bridge.

  • Photography – Capture stunning views of the gorge and surrounding peaks.

  • Enjoy Sunset/Sunrise Views – The landscape glows in golden light.

Nearby Attractions:

  1. Kibber Village (3 km) – Famous for snow leopards and high-altitude wildlife.

  2. Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary – Spot Himalayan ibex, blue sheep, foxes, and snow leopards.

  3. Key Monastery (19 km) – Spiti’s largest monastery.

  4. Chicham Village (across the bridge) – A tiny settlement with traditional homes.

  5. Kaza (22 km) – Spiti’s main town for facilities and stays.

How to Reach Chicham Bridge

  • From Kaza (22 km, 1 hr) – Drive via Key Monastery and Kibber Village.

  • From Manali (210 km, 2 days) – Via Rohtang Pass & Kunzum Pass (open May–Oct).

  • From Shimla (440 km, 2–3 days) – Via Kinnaur Valley (longer, but more reliable in early/late season).

Food & Facilities at Chicham Bridge

  • Food – No eateries at the bridge itself; nearest options are in Kibber Village and Kaza.

  • Stay – Homestays in Kibber and Chicham villages, or hotels in Kaza.

  • Shops & ATMs – None near the bridge; only in Kaza.

  • Network – Very limited; BSNL sometimes works in nearby villages.

Travel Tips for Chicham Bridge Visitors

  • Visit during the daytime – evenings can be frigid and windy.

  • Carry snacks and water – no shops nearby.

  • Don’t look down if you’re afraid of heights – the gorge is deep!

  • Combine with a visit to Key Monastery and Kibber Village for a half-day trip from Kaza.

  • Drive carefully – roads are narrow and rough.

Responsible Travel & Local Etiquette

  • Don’t litter – keep the pristine gorge clean.

  • Avoid stunts or risky selfies on the bridge – safety first.

  • Respect locals – the bridge is a lifeline for them, not just a tourist spot.

  • Travel sustainably – prefer local homestays, guides, and food.