The Spiti Valley is undoubtedly one of the most pristine spots in India. Road-tripping here is fun on an altogether different level, and the chilling winds and clear skies add to its beauty, surrounded by the mighty Himalayas on either side. A must-visit in the valley is Kaza, the largest town in the valley and serves as headquarters for the region. Here’s your guide to exploring Kaza and everything else that lies nearby. By Anushka Goel
Located about 250 kilometres from the nearest airport (Bhuntar Airport), Kaza is a quaint little town that will captivate you with its simplicity and serenity. Mobile networks can be tough to come by here. This makes the place the perfect getaway for those looking to escape from city life, away from the piles of office files and the mad deadlines at work or school.
The best (and probably the only) way to reach the town is by road since the nearest airport and the nearest railway stations are more than 250 kilometres away. A great way to reach Kaza is to make a road trip of the journey, via Shimla or Manali.
Kaza has several small hotels and hostels to accommodate you, whether you’re travelling with family or with friends. Food options are limited, but the places serve vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian and Tibetian meals. Once in the town, spend about two days exploring the region, and visit the major monasteries, lakes and other spots nearby. And if you’re wondering how you can plan your trip, we have the guide ready for you!
How to reach Kaza
By Road: Via Manali
View this post on Instagram
You can board an overnight bus to Manali, where you should spend the day to acclimatise better. From there, thanks to the Atal Tunnel, Kaza is about 184 kilometres away. Reach the Rohtang Pass and spend some time in the snow. From there, via the Atal Tunnel, you’ll reach Chandrataal, passing by Gramphu and Batal. The picturesque road has lots of breathtaking hill views, and as you inch closer towards Kaza, you’ll see the foliage thin out due to the low oxygen levels as you climb up. From Chandrataal, cross the Kunzum Pass and reach Losar before you finally begin the descent to Kaza.
En route, you can visit Chandrataal Lake and see the Kunzum pass, both must-visit places around the town. Soak in the clean, crisp air you won’t get in the polluted cities.
By Road: Via Shimla
View this post on Instagram
The Shimla to Kaza route is open throughout the year and offers scenic sights of the valleys, mountains and glaciers. Roughly 420 kilometres, the route takes you through some of the must-visit spots around Kaza, such as Nako and Tabo. Also, it’s advisable to cover this journey over two-three days, to help you acclimatise to the high altitude.
Begin the journey in Shimla, and reach Rampur Bushahr (via Narkanda). Here, you’ll see a beautiful fort which belongs to the royal family. The small place is a beautifully-built structure, so be sure to stop and soak in its beauty.
From there, travel to Kalpa, where you can spend the night. Kalpa is a beautiful town, from where you get some stunning views of the Kinner Kailash mountains. From there, head to Tabo and see the Tabo Monastery, and reach Kaza to complete your journey.
Things to see in and around Kaza
Key Monastery
View this post on Instagram
The largest monastery in the Spiti Valley, Key Monastery, is a beautiful place located at an elevation of 4,166 metres. It offers a peek into the Buddhist tradition, cuisine and culture. Along with breathtaking views, the monastery has a lot of history as it’s over 1,000 years old. You’ll be welcomed with warm smiles and an equally warm herbal tea that will provide relief from the biting cold. The monks take you through the monastery, the traditional-style kitchen learning centres for the Lamas and allow you to bask in the sunkissed glory of the place.
Chandrataal Lake
View this post on Instagram
A trekker’s paradise, Chandrataal Lake is located at an altitude of 4,300 metres. It is becoming a popular spot among youngsters these days because of its location and the calm, serene vibe it exudes. The lake’s crescent shape is what gives the lake its name. The place is a perfect getaway from city life with its crystal clear water, clear blue skies and weather.
Self-mummified monk (Sangha Tenzin) in Gue
View this post on Instagram
In the Lahaul and Spiti district is an eerie secret – a self-mummified monk, which is said to be of Sangha Tenzin, in the village of Gue. Said to be about 500 years old, the mummy was found in 1974 after an earthquake hit the region. However, it was excavated much later in 2004 and is housed in a temple now, with its body stripped of fat, giving off the image of a living buddha.
Kunzum Pass
View this post on Instagram
A high pass in the Himalayas, Kunzum Pass connects Lahaul and Spiti, and those driving from Manali here will cross the pass to reach Kaza. Located at an altitude of 15,060 feet above sea level, the pass boasts breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas and fifteen hairpin bends along the way, which are undoubtedly a thrilling experience for those who love some adventure.
Kibber Village
View this post on Instagram
A small, arid village (due to the low oxygen levels), Kibber is among the most inhabited villages in Lahaul and Spiti. The small, recluse village has about 360 residents and is known for housing the Kibber Monastery and the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. One of the best features here, which you definitely will not miss, is the most beautiful views that surround you from all sides as you walk through the village bylanes!
Dhanker Lake and Dhanker Monastery
View this post on Instagram
Believed to be about 1,000 years old, Dhanker Monastery is another must-visit spot when you visit Kaza. Located at an altitude of 3,894 meters, it makes for some spectacular sights, Buddhist scriptures, medicine Buddha and more, which will provide you with an insight into the Buddhist religion.
Barely two kilometres from the Dhanker Monastery is the Dhanker Lake, which offers scenic views as the water seems to change colour every few kilometres – and no, it is no magic, but simply the reflection of the sun’s rays and the surroundings on the water!
Nako Lake
View this post on Instagram
The quiet, serene spot of Nako Lake is in the small village of Nako, which falls en route Kaza when one is travelling via Shimla. The small lake provides a sudden sense of calm, and the clear waters are icy cold because of the high temperatures. Be assured that the spot will make a permanent place in your heart.
