Chalcopyrite α‐CuInSe2 (α‐CIS) was prepared from mixed powders of Cu2Se and In2Se3 by annealing in the Se‐ and the non‐Se environments. The mechanically ground powders were in an overall amorphous state. The mechanical alloying produced Cu3Se2 and CuSe compounds. At relatively low temperature, Cu3Se2 decomposed, Cu2−xSe and CuSe formed. The reaction for the formation of α‐CuInSe2 occurred essentially at a temperature at ∼350 °C in both the Se‐ and the non‐Se environments. In the non‐Se environment, reactions occurred by a solid–solid reaction and a certain amount of Se were released from the mixed powder, resulting in poor crystalline α‐CuInSe2 powders. When annealed in the Se environment, low‐melting Se‐rich Cu‐Se compounds were produced during reaction. The reactions occurred by a liquid–solid reaction above 450 °C. Large‐grained and good crystalline quality of chalcopyrite CIS with near stoichiometric atomic ratio was obtained above 450 °C.