Jhaka Village: The Hanging Hamlet of Rupin Pass

Not every village on a trek leaves a mark. But Jhaka? It etches itself into your memory.

Perched precariously on a cliff along the Rupin Pass trek, this remote village in Himachal Pradesh doesn’t scream for attention — it stuns you in silence. Look up, and you will see craggy cliffs and drifting clouds.

The homes, built from local timber and stone, showcase traditional Kath-Kuni architecture — a blend of art, survival, and design.

But it isn’t just about the houses. Wooden structures cling to vertical slopes, roofs reach up toward the sky, and narrow trails cut across steep ridges with deep valleys below. Trekkers call it “The Hanging Village” for a reason.

Where Is Jhaka Village?

Jhaka sits at an altitude of 2,650 meters, about halfway along the Rupin Pass trek. You reach it after a long climb through pine forests, rustic wooden bridges, and peaceful mountain hamlets.

There are no roads, no vehicles — just your boots, your breath, and the trail beneath you.

It is also the last proper human settlement before the landscape turns rugged and alpine. Beyond Jhaka lies the untouched wilderness of the upper Himalayas.

Why Jhaka Feels Unreal

The village’s location alone is enough to leave you speechless.

Jhaka is built right on the edge of a ridge, with houses dramatically jutting out over steep slopes. Look down, and the Rupin River threads far below. Look up, and jagged cliffs scrape the skies.

The homes follow the ancient Kath-Kuni construction style, using timber and stone in ways that are both aesthetically beautiful and structurally strong — perfect for the region’s climate and seismic activity.

But what truly makes Jhaka magical is its atmosphere: the stillness, the scent of woodsmoke in the air, the hush of wind through cedar trees, and the easy hospitality of villagers who greet you with warmth, not words.

A Glimpse into Remote Himalayan Life

In Jhaka, there’s no mobile signal. No internet. Yet, nothing feels missing.

The residents live simple, self-sufficient lives — mostly as farmers and shepherds. There’s a small school, a humble temple, and a few modest homestays where trekkers can rest.

Children play with handmade toys, elders gather on sunlit rooftops, and tiny shops sell Maggi noodles, chai, and sometimes — stories of the mountain passed down over generations.

Trekking to Jhaka: What Trekkers Should Know

Trail Stretch

The section from Bawta to Jhaka is steep and scenic, marked by sharp switchbacks and narrow ridge walks. It’s one of the most challenging — and most stunning — stretches of the Rupin Pass trek.

Altitude Gain

The climb is noticeable. It’s important to pace yourself and stay hydrated.

Trail Character

Expect beauty and difficulty in equal measure. This part of the trek tests your legs and rewards your eyes with dramatic Himalayan views.

Don’t Miss These in Jhaka

Sunrise Over the Rupin Gorge

A surreal golden light floods the gorge at dawn — a sight worth waking early for.

Traditional Kath-Kuni Architecture

Admire the ancient building style unique to the region, with interlocking wooden beams and stone masonry.

Local Childhood Games

Witness village children playing traditional games with handmade wooden toys — joyful and timeless.

Intricate Wood Carvings

Some homes and temples in the village feature stunning, intricate carvings on wooden panels and doors.

The Final Trail Ledge

The narrow, thrilling trail just before entering Jhaka offers a view — and an experience — that’s hard to forget.

Final Reflections

Jhaka is more than just a rest stop on the Rupin Pass trek — it’s a moment of stillness and clarity.

Its lifestyle is minimal, but never meaningless. The comforts are few, but what you gain is profound. Perspective. Peace. A sense of presence.

So when you reach Jhaka, take time to pause. Sit on a stone wall. Breathe the cedar-scented air. Watch the ever-changing sky above this humble mountain village that quietly thrives on the edge — yet feels more real than any modern city ever could.

Jhaka reminds us: even if you feel like you’re hanging by a thread, it doesn’t mean you’re falling — it might just mean you’re flying.