Reckong Peo

Reckong Peo is the district headquarters of Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh, situated at about 2,290 to 2,670 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views of the Kinnaur Kailash and Raldang peaks in the Himalayas. It is a serene town known for its extensive apple orchards and rich cultural heritage, inhabited mainly by the Kinnauri people who have preserved their traditional lifestyle.

The town serves as an administrative, commercial, and travel hub of the district with key attractions like the Chandika Devi Temple and Brelengi Gompa monastery. Reckong Peo is also the base for the annual pilgrimage trek to the sacred 80-feet high Shivalinga rock pillar considered a manifestation of Lord Shiva. The region has a temperate climate with long winters and short summers, and lies in a rain shadow area, supporting the cultivation of apples, chilgoza pine nuts, and dry fruits.

Visitors can reach Reckong Peo via Shimla or Kullu-Manali airports and accessible roads with regular bus services from major cities. The town is culturally vibrant and naturally scenic, surrounded by apple orchards, valleys, and snow-capped peaks, making it an important gateway to the Kinnaur district's religious and natural landmarks.