Villages in Kinnaur Most of the big villages of Kinnaur District lie along the banks of the main valley of the Satluj, while a few small villages nestle inside the main subsidiary valleys. The intervening valleys are extremely avalanche prone. Some of the most picturesque villages in the Himalayas are found in the Baspa Valley of Kinnaur. Cedar wood is used for constructing houses of two storeys, with the lower floors being used for cattle sheds and storage and the upper floors for living. Slate covered roofs are an indication of the prosperity of the people and the exteriors of the houses are decorated with fine carvings.

Kinner girls. Credit: Discover India

Water-proofing is ensured by sandwiching a layer of silver birch bark and mud between the outer and the inner roof. Most houses have a sun deck for drying meats and fruits as well as for relaxing in the sun during the short winter days.