Walking Through the Valley of the First People
Step into the living story of the Tukshipa—"the first people"—as you explore the enchanting Chug valley, where ancient wisdom flows like the gurgling Mankho river and every stone house whispers tales of generations past. This immersive village walk takes you through terraced fields, traditional homes, and oak forests where the Monpa have thrived for centuries, creating a harmonious balance between human settlement and pristine Himalayan nature.
Experience Highlights
• Walk through seasonal agricultural landscapes—lush paddy fields in summer, golden corn stalks in autumn, all framed by green mountains
• Experience the changing seasons from 28°C summer warmth to snow-capped winter peaks at 2°C
• Pluck fresh seasonal fruits directly from trees—plums, walnuts, peaches, pomegranates, and wild berries
• Discover traditional Monpa architecture with stone houses, wooden floors, and bamboo grain storage
• Learn about indigenous agriculture including terraced farming, water mills (chuskor), and three-crop rotation systems
• Walk through pristine oak forests filled with orchids and wild flowers
• Take a refreshing dip in the Mankho river (weather permitting)
• Meet local Tukshipa families and understand their sustainable way of life
• Experience the sacred geography of a valley where every stone tells a story
Itinerary
Flexible Timing | 2-3 Hours Duration
Your village walk can begin at any time of day based on your preference—morning mist, golden afternoon light, or evening serenity each offer unique perspectives of valley life.
Valley Introduction | First 30 Minutes
Begin at the heart of Chug village, where your local guide shares the origin story of the Tukshipa people. Learn how the peaceful Monpa ancestors fled the Gidu warriors from Sangti valley and transformed this wilderness into a thriving agricultural community. Understand the meaning behind "We were here first. All else came after."
Agricultural Heritage Walk | 45-60 Minutes
Stroll through the ingenious three-tier farming system:
• River valley rice fields fed by the Mankho river
• Mid-slope terraced maize climbing the mountainsides
• Higher altitude millet reaching toward the peaks
Season-dependent highlights:
• Summer: Walk through emerald paddy fields and tall corn stalks
• Monsoon: Witness the valley in its most lush form
• Autumn: Golden harvest landscapes and fruit-laden trees
• Winter: Snow-dusted peaks towering over the valley
Traditional Architecture & Culture | 30-45 Minutes
Explore the stone and wood houses built by Monpa craftsmen, see traditional bamboo grain containers, and visit working water mills (chuskor) where families still grind their flour. Learn about the Gaon Burah system of village governance and community decision-making.
Forest & Nature Walk | 30-45 Minutes
Venture into the oak forests surrounding the village, discovering wild orchids, rhododendrons, and seasonal flowers. Your guide will identify medicinal plants, wild edibles like Dang-sum ferns and Dhangra greens, and explain the Monpa understanding of forest as "second kitchen."
River & Refreshment | 15-30 Minutes
Conclude at the Mankho river where you can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear mountain water (seasonal and weather-dependent). Enjoy traditional tea and local snacks while listening to stories of festivals, food traditions, and the spiritual significance of this sacred valley.
Group Size & Pricing
• Solo Traveler: Rs. 1,000 per person
• Small Group (2-4 people): Rs. 500 per person
• Large Group (5-9 people): Rs. 300 per person
Practical Information
Experience Duration: 2-3 hours (flexible based on group pace and interests)
• Difficulty: Easy to Medium (gentle valley walking with some uphill sections)
• Weather: Summer temperatures around 28°C, winter around 2°C
• Timing: Available throughout the day based on preference
• Booking: Advance booking required 24 hours in advance
Inclusions:
• Solo Traveler: Rs. 1,000 per person
• Small Group (2-4 people): Rs. 500 per person
• Large Group (5-9 people): Rs. 300 per person
Exclusions:
Transport to/from meeting point (can be arranged on request)
• Meals (traditional lunch available at Damu's Heritage Dine on request)
• Personal expenses and additional refreshments
