The World’s Highest Hikkim Post Office: The Fascinating Story of Rinchen, Serving the Himalayas for 42 Years

India Post! It is indeed the pride of our nation! A department that holds the record for the world’s largest postal network! One of the most efficient departments under the Government of India!

There was a time when letters were the only means of sending messages across India. For centuries, even during the reign of kings, messages were carried through pigeons and royal messengers. In the modern era, during British rule, the postal department came into existence in India. Later, in independent India, the government expanded postal services to include not just letters but also financial services. This department has illuminated countless homes and families. Many eagerly awaited the postman, wondering when he would arrive with a letter. A single letter was enough to bring happiness to a household. Letters reached every corner, no matter how remote.

Among the many proud institutions under India Post is one extraordinary post office. Do you know where the world’s highest post office is located? Did you know that it is right here in India? Yes! The world’s highest post office is in the state of Himachal Pradesh, in the Spiti Valley, a region that attracts lakhs of tourists every year. At an altitude of about 14,500 feet, nestled among the Himalayan ranges, lies the tiny village of Hikkim, home to the world’s highest post office.

The story of this post office is truly fascinating. Established in 1983 as a branch post office, it has been managed for the past 42 years  since its inception  by Rinchen Chhering, who has been serving as postmaster (or Gramin Dak Sevak). When the idea of opening a post office in Hikkim was first considered in 1983, officials were looking for someone who could move quickly. Rinchen, known for his agility and who also owned a bicycle at the time, caught their attention. He was appointed as the Gramin Dak Sevak. Another special aspect is that the post office and Rinchen’s house are located in the same building.

Hikkim, situated amidst the Himalayan ranges, is known for its harsh weather. Freezing cold, heavy snowfall and steep, dangerous roads are part of daily life. Yet, despite all these challenges, Rinchen has continued his service for 42 years. He not only manages the post office but also delivers letters within its jurisdiction. Operating between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., the post office functions briefly each morning. After completing his work, Rinchen collects the day’s mail, fills his postal bag and travels nearly 20 km  either on foot or by bicycle through steep, treacherous roads  to deliver it to the sub-post office in Kaza. From there, he collects fresh mail and returns to Hikkim to distribute it across his service area. His commitment ensures that Hikkim remains connected to the rest of the country.

The temperatures here range from 20°C to 0°C during the day and drop to 0°C or lower at night. In winter, the temperature falls to as low as –20°C. Even in such extreme weather, Rinchen continues his work tirelessly. The COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill, but not his service. Despite the crisis, the postal service at Hikkim continued uninterrupted, demonstrating the resilience and greatness of India Post. Only during periods of heavy snowfall, when roads are completely blocked, does the post office remain closed. Otherwise, for the people of Hikkim, this post office is nothing short of a lifeline. Today, it is also a tourist attraction. Visitors to Spiti Valley make it a point to visit this unique post office and often send special letters from here to their loved ones.

As for services, the Hikkim Post Office offers mail delivery, parcel services, financial services (postal banking, money orders and others), retail and premium services (stamps, postal insurance, etc.), government services and much more  just like any other branch post office. In such a small, remote and difficult-to-reach village, the presence of this range of services is remarkable. Both India Post and Rinchen Chhering deserve great appreciation for this.

This is the story of the Hikkim Branch Post Office and Rinchen’s dedication. Across India, in many villages, remote corners and hill regions, Gramin Dak Sevaks continue to serve under such branch offices. From small villages to large cities, thanks to the work of post office staff, our letters reach safely to different destination. Our parcels and couriers are delivered securely from one corner to another, even across countries, at affordable rates. Post offices also provide us with financial services at attractive interest rates, insurance facilities,and bill payment systems.

This is the pride of India Post, the story of the Hikkim Branch Post Office and the story of Rinchen Chhering. In my view, they are all true heroes!

Let us all take a moment to express our gratitude to them.

✍ Shreekara B

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