Best Places to visit in Lahaul 2024

Best Places to visit in Lahaul 2024

Best Places to visit in Lahaul: Lahaul, known as the “Land of High Passes,” is a part of the Lahaul and Spiti district in Himachal Pradesh, India. It’s a cold desert valley located at a high altitude, offering stunning mountain scenery, glaciers, serene lakes, and ancient monasteries. Here are some of the best places to visit in Lahaul:

1. Keylong: Best Places to visit in Lahaul

Keylong: The headquarters of the Lahaul district, Keylong is a scenic town situated on the banks of the Bhaga River. It serves as a base for exploring nearby places like Suraj Tal and Chandra Taal.

Keylong, also spelled Keylong, is a town and the administrative center of the Lahaul and Spiti district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is located along the Manali-Leh Highway, about 71kilometers north of Manali via the Atal Tunnel and 120 kilometers from the Indo-Tibetan border.

Here are some things you might find interesting about Keylong:

• High Altitude Haven: Located at an altitude of 3,080 meters (10,100 feet), Keylong is a beautiful hill station surrounded by stunning mountain views.
• Gateway to Adventure: Keylong is a popular stop for trekkers and adventure seekers on their way to Leh. It is also a great base for exploring the Lahaul and Spiti valleys.
• Buddhist Monasteries: The town is known for its Buddhist monasteries, including the Kardang Monastery, the largest monastery in Keylong.
• Natural Beauty: Keylong is surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the Himalayas. The Lahaul Valley, with its lush meadows and clear rivers, is a particular highlight.
• Accessibility: Keylong was once inaccessible for six months of the year due to heavy snowfall at Rohtang Pass. However, the opening of the Atal Tunnel in October 2020 has made it much easier to reach all year round.

2. Suraj Tal: Best Places to visit in Lahaul

Suraj Tal: Located at an altitude of 4,550 meters, Suraj Tal is one of the highest altitude lakes in India. It’s a mesmerizing sight, especially during winters when it freezes completely.

Yes, Suraj Tal is a beautiful high-altitude lake located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Here’s some information about it:

• High Altitude Beauty: Suraj Tal, also known as Tso Kamtsi or Surya Tal, is perched at a staggering height of 4,883 meters (16,017 ft), making it the third-highest lake in India and the 21st-highest in the world.
• Stunning Location: The lake lies just below the Bara-lacha-la pass, on the Leh-Manali Highway. This scenic location makes it a popular stop for travelers braving the high mountain roads.
• Crystal Clear Waters: Suraj Tal is known for its crystal-clear waters, fed by glaciers and snowmelt from the surrounding peaks. The name itself translates to “Lake of the Sun” in Hindi, and the lake’s surface often reflects the sun’s rays in a mesmerizing way.
• Adventure Hub: The region around Suraj Tal is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Hikers, trekkers, and mountain bikers can find challenging trails in the area. The lake also serves as a refreshing stopover for those on the arduous Manali-Leh trek.
• Religious Significance: Some believe that taking a dip in the pristine waters of Suraj Tal can cleanse one’s sins. This adds to the mystical aura of the place.

If you’re looking for a breathtaking natural wonder in the Himalayas, Suraj Tal is definitely worth a visit. Just be sure to check the weather conditions before you go, as the area is inaccessible during the harsh winter months.

3. Koksar: Best Places to visit in Lahaul

Koksar: The first village and the gateway to Lahaul, Koksar offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a popular spot for camping and trout fishing.

Koksar is a village located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Here’s some information about the place:

• Location: It is situated on the Leh-Manali highway, about 19 kilometers from Rohtang Pass and 7 kilometers from the North Portal of Atal Tunnel Rohtang.
• Meaning: The name Koksar translates to “Alpine, Big, Colossal, Gigantic, Highland, Huge, Mammoth, Tall and Towering”
• Climate: Koksar is known for being the coldest place in Lahaul. It experiences heavy snowfall during winters and the temperatures remain low throughout the year. During summers, the weather is pleasant and most shops and eateries open up.
• Offbeat Charm: Koksar offers a glimpse into a remote Himalayan lifestyle. Unlike some of the more touristy areas in Himachal Pradesh, Koksar retains a peaceful and undisturbed atmosphere. It boasts some local eateries and a PWD rest house for visitors.
• Attractions: While Koksar is a small village, it offers stunning scenery of the mountainous landscape. Here are some things you can see and do in Koksar:
  • Visit the charming monastery located in the village.
  • Enjoy the scenic beauty of the mountains.
  • Explore the area by going on hikes.
  • Experience the local culture and traditions.

4. Sissu: Places to visit in Lahaul

Sissu: This picturesque village is situated on the banks of the Chandra River. It’s known for its scenic beauty, apple orchards, and Tibetan-style gompas.

Sissu is a picturesque village nestled in the Lahaul Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including snow-capped mountains, glacial rivers, and lush meadows. Sissu is also a center of Buddhist culture, with several gompas (monasteries) located in the village.

Here are some of the things you can do in Sissu:

• Hike or trek in the surrounding mountains. There are trails to suit all levels of experience, from gentle walks to challenging climbs.
• Go fishing in the Chandra River. The river is teeming with trout, making it a great spot for anglers.
• Visit the gompas in Sissu and the nearby villages. These monasteries are beautiful and offer a glimpse into Buddhist culture.
• Relax and take in the scenery. Sissu is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the mountains.

Since Sissu is located close to Manali, it is a popular day trip destination for visitors to that hill station. However, Sissu is worth a stay of a day or two in its own right. There are a number of guesthouses and homestays in the village, as well as a few hotels.

Here are some things to keep in mind if you are planning a trip to Sissu:

• The best time to visit Sissu is from May to September. The weather is pleasant during these months, and the roads are generally open.
• Sissu is located at a high altitude (3,120 meters), so it is important to acclimatize yourself to the altitude before you start any strenuous activity.
• The temperature in Sissu can drop below freezing at night, even in the summer, so be sure to pack warm clothes.

5. Gondhia: Best Places to visit in Lahaul

Gondhia: A small village located on the banks of the Chandra River, Gondhla is famous for its scenic beauty and gompas. There’s a gompa here dedicated to the 21 Taras.

Gondhla refers to a village located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It’s known for two interesting attractions:

• Gandhola Monastery: This monastery is situated on a hill above Tupchiling Village, at the meeting point of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers, which together form the Chenab River. The village itself is at an elevation of 10,370 feet.

• The Tower Fort of Gondhla: This seven-story building is a local landmark. Built in the 1700s by Raja Man Singh of the Kulu Kingdom, it was originally a castle for the local chieftain. The architecture is a unique style that uses alternating layers of stone and timber, and is called Kath-Kuni style.

6. Tandi: Best Places to visit in Lahaul

Tandi: This village is situated at the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers. It’s known for its scenic beauty, gompas, and hot springs.

Tandi village is located in the Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated at the confluence of the Bhaga and Chandra rivers in the Pattan valley, about 10 kilometers from Keylong, the district headquarters. Tandi is an important stop for travelers on the Manali-Leh highway, as it is the only place to get gas for the next 320 kilometers. The village is also considered sacred by the people of Lahaul, and there are several mythological stories associated with it.

Here are some things to do in Tandi:

• Visit the confluence of the Bhaga and Chandra rivers. This is a sacred spot for Hindus and Buddhists, and it is a beautiful place to take in the scenery.
• Explore the village. Tandi is a small village with a traditional way of life. There are a few shops and restaurants in the village, but it is not a very touristy place.
• Go for a hike. There are several hiking trails in the area, including one that leads to the Suraj Tal lake.
• Visit the nearby Keylong Monastery. This is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery that is located in Keylong, the district headquarters.

If you are planning a trip to Lahaul-Spiti, Tandi is a great place to visit. It is a beautiful and peaceful village with a rich history and culture.

7. Jispa: Places to visit in Lahaul

Jispa: A popular camping spot, Jispa is known for its scenic location and adventure activities like trekking and mountain biking.

Jispa is a small village located at an elevation of 10,500 feet in the Lahaul district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated on the banks of the Bhaga River and is known for its scenic beauty, surrounded by the Himalayas. Jispa is a popular stop for travelers on the Manali-Leh Highway, and it is also a great place to go for camping, trekking, and mountain biking.

Here are some of the things you can do in Jispa:

• Go camping: Jispa is famous for its camping grounds, which offer stunning views of the Himalayas. You can rent a camp or set up your own.
• Go trekking: There are many great trekking trails in the area, ranging from easy to difficult. Some popular trails include the Pin Parvati Pass trek and the Hampta Pass trek.
• Go mountain biking: The Manali-Leh Highway is a great route for mountain biking, and Jispa is a good place to start or end your ride.
• Visit the Serai Jispa: This is a luxurious hotel located in Jispa. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas and all the amenities you could ask for.
• Visit the Suraj Tal: This is a beautiful lake located about 25 km from Jispa. It is a popular spot for camping and picnicking.
• Visit the Kunzum Pass: This is a high mountain pass located about 42 km from Jispa. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is a popular spot for photography.

8. Darcha: Places to visit in Lahaul

Darcha: The last village on the road to Manali, Darcha is a beautiful and remote place. It’s a starting point for treks to the Baralacha La and Shinku La passes.

Darcha is a small village nestled in the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh, India. Located at an elevation of over 3,300 meters, it’s a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Here’s what Darcha is known for:

• Gateway to Treks: Darcha serves as the basecamp for some of the most stunning treks in the region, including the Darcha-Padum trek and the route to Baralacha La Pass. These treks offer breathtaking scenery, challenging hikes, and a chance to experience the remoteness of the Himalayas.
• Stopover on Manali-Leh Highway: Situated on the Leh-Manali highway, Darcha is a convenient stop for travelers journeying between these two Himalayan towns. It provides a chance to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude before continuing your adventure.
• Serene Himalayan Beauty: Darcha’s surrounding landscape boasts majestic mountains, clear skies, and a peaceful atmosphere. The village itself has a unique charm, with traditional dry-stone huts and tent camps.
• Basic Amenities: While Darcha is a remote village, it offers basic amenities like a school, healthcare center, and electricity. You’ll also find shops and places to stay, including tents with food and bedding.

Overall, Darcha is a perfect destination for those seeking an adventure in the Himalayas. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or simply looking for a picturesque stopover, Darcha has something to offer.

Places to visit in Lahaul Spiti

By Yogender Thakur

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