No roads, just boats: How this Chamba village stays connected in Himachal's hills

Credit: Incredible India X page

Nestled in the rugged mountains of Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh, the secluded village of Tipri remains cut off from reliable road access, forcing its residents to depend on boats as their primary link to the outside world.

Surrounded by the tranquil Chamera reservoir and dense hills, the village and its neighbouring settlements like Chaklu, Dugg, Kehla and Sehru struggle with isolation, their fortunes tied to the fragile waterways that serve as their lifeline.

For Tipri’s 160 residents, the only functional road is frequently damaged, making boat travel not just preferable but often essential. "Traversing this path on foot can take up to an hour and a half — a physically demanding journey through rugged terrain. In contrast, the boat journey to the main road takes merely 10 to 15 minutes, which significantly reduces the travel time and effort and is comfortable,” said Madan, a local, was quoted as saying by TOI. From there, buses connect villagers to Chamba or Pathankot for work, healthcare, or supplies.

Another resident, Manjit Singh, explained to TOI that the two main routes out: one by boat to Chaklu, followed by a 20-minute walk to the nearest bus stop, and another to Taleru boating point, a quicker 15-minute crossing with just a five-minute walk to the road.

Despite its scenic beauty, Tipri remains off the tourist map. The Taleru boating point attracts visitors, but few venture further. Locals say boat operators often refuse requests to visit the village, citing permissions or safety concerns as most boats lack life jackets.

Gajinder Kumar, who runs Tipri’s lone shop selling basic goods, believes tourism could transform the area. He told TOI that if the government supports them with boating licences or homestays, this place could thrive. A nearby hotel already offers ferry rides for guests, but villagers remain excluded from such opportunities.

Education is another challenge. The village has a small government primary school, but attendance is sparse as families prioritise survival. Fishing provides meagre income for some, while a few residents operate boats, charging Rs 20 to Rs 50 per trip.

Chamba Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repaswal told TOI that while all villages in the region have road access, heavy rainfall occasionally disrupts travel. The administration is constructing all-weather roads to ensure reliable connectivity, he said was quoted. Additionally, lakeside docking spots are being developed to improve transport and promote tourism in the area.