Kaza- Spiti Valley, A Paradise on Earth
Imagine spending time in a remote village surrounded by the natural splendor of the Himalayas; wouldn’t it be a dream come true?
It’s not because you can experience heaven on Earth in Kaza. Kaza, surrounded by spectacular snow-capped mountains, gushing rivers and streams, and gorgeous desolate terrain with sporadic patches of green, is a dream vacation.
Monasteries, temples, small villages, and other historical sites add to the attractiveness of this wonderful city. Kaza Spiti is a dream place to be for solo travelers, backpackers, and adventure enthusiasts. Spiti tour packages take you through some of the most stunning places of Kaza.
11 Places to visit in Kaza
Tabo Monastery
Tabo Monastery, often known as the Ajanta of the Himalayas, is the oldest Buddhist monastery and is of great religious significance to the Tibetan Tholing Gompa. The Monastery is surrounded by paintings, murals, and sculptures depicting Buddhist deities, religious texts, and holy inscriptions. Above the monastery are historic caves that were used in the past, and some are currently used by monks for meditation.
Pin Valley National Park
Pin Valley National Park is the highest cold valley national park in India. This national park preserves Himachal Pradesh’s valuable and endangered flora and animals. It is home to a number of endangered species, including the snow leopard. Photographers from all over the world travel to this location to capture a glimpse of the big cat. The valley shares a glimpse of the verdant plains and valley with the majestic snow-covered Himalayas.
Sakya Tangyud Monastery
Sakya Tangyud Monastery, located on the outskirts of Hikkim village in Kaza Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, is one of the highest altitude gompas (monasteries) in India and belongs to the Sakya sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is a major center for Buddhist culture, tradition, and teachings and the best thing to do in Kaza. This sacred place was established with the noble purpose of spreading Buddhism while also conserving the region’s distinctive cultural history. This magnificent monastery is a mesmerizing place that draws people all over the world
Kunzum Pass
Kunzum Pass is one of India’s highest motorable mountain passes, located in Himachal Pradesh. Hundreds of bikers visit this location to experience the most exhilarating ride through the picturesque entrance of Kunzum Pass. This region is a heaven for bikers, providing a dream-like experience. Trip through the pass gives a glimpse of the spectacular Chandra Bhaga mountains, snow-capped Himalayas, glaciers, and the Spiti valley.
Dhankar Monastery
Dhankar fort served as the fortress in ancient times and provided the strategic view of the valley. In the latter years the fort was converted into Buddhists Monastery which preserved as well as showcase the Tibetan and Indian distinctive architecture, rich history that drewhoards people from all over the world. The Monastery through its paintings, murals gives a peek into the Buddhists culture and tradition.
Key Monastery
Key Monastery is the largest monastery in Kaza Spiti Valley and a religious training facility for monks. The walls of the monastery are adorned with ancient paintings and murals and houses precious texts, Thangkas, stunning paintings, stucco figures, and unique wind instruments. Lamas continue to utilize these wind instruments during Key Monastery’s annual summer festival.The Key Monastery holds an amazing collection of antiquities including the ancient weapons.
Kibber Village
Kibber village is well-known for its natural beauty, barren landscapes, and breathtaking views of the valley. Kibber Village is blessed with Kibber monastery, temple, and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. The wildlife sanctuary provides breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains, rare flora found exclusively in Himachal Pradesh, and endangered animals such as the red fox, Himalayan wolf, and snow leopard. Visiting the wildlife is the best thing to do th Kaza.
Komic Village
Komic Village is a remote village in Spiti Valley, at a height of 4587 meters. The iconic signboard from the public works department describing Komik as the “Highest village in the world connected with motorable road” is one of the most recognised monuments of Komic village in Spiti valley. People flock to Komic village only to take photos in front of the famous signboard.
Keylong
The best thing to do in Kaza is to visit Keylong which is the Lahaul and Spiti valley’s administrative center, housing government offices. Keylong’s attractions include the Shashur Monastery and the Tribal Museum. Keylong is also the best shopping destination for travelers. Tourists may purchase unique handmade souvenirs and handicrafts.
Chandratal Lake
Chandratal Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Kaza, situated at an elevation of around 4300 meters. The name “Chandra Taal” (Lake of the Moon) refers to its crescent form. The water in this sacred lake changes color during the day, from reddish to orange to blue to emerald green. The location has religious significance. Lots of hindu Pilgrims flock to this place when religious festivals are organized.
Hikkim Village
Hikkim Village is best-known for having the world’s highest post office. Hikkim village is a tourist site that provides visitors with a breathtaking view of snow-capped mountains, brown and green valleys, and a lovely starry night. This village is also known as the only village with the tallest post office, which is maintained by a single postmaster who has worked there since the office’s founding.
Suggested Read: Spiti Valley Trek
The best time to visit Kaza
The picturesque village of Kaza is known as the “freezing desert.” During the winter, a thick blanket of snow covers the whole area.The severe winters caused the access points to Kaza to remain shut. Nonetheless, summer is the best time of year to travel to Kaza.
Kaza has lovely summertime weather that is perfect for relaxing or going on adventures. May through October are the best months to visit Kaza if you’re planning to take a vacation in this pristine place. However, carrying light woolens is a must in this place even during the summers since the night experiences cool and chilly breeze.
Suggested Read: Lahaul And Spiti Travel Guide
How to reach Kaza
By Air: There isn’t an airport located in Kaza in Himachal Pradesh. The two airports closest to Lahaul Valley are Bhuntar Airport which is 250 km away, and Shimla, which is some 445 kilometers away, is also the closest airport.Travellers can go on their road trip from there.
By Train: Chandigarh is the biggest train station closest to Kaza. Alternatively, you might travel 445 km by toy train from Kalka to Shimla, then continue your journey by car.
By Road: Regular Himachal transport buses operate from Kullu to Kaza via Manal. To catch the bus, travelers will need to monitor the time that they operate. The most practical option, though, is to use your own car or a taxi service.
Places to stay In Kaza
The most suitable place to stay is in Kaza homestay. Tourists get a glimpse of the customs and culture of the inhabitants of the area.Homestay in Kaza are regarded as the greatest lodging choice. On the other hand, the area offers plenty of options for both affordable and exotic hotels and guest houses.
What to eat in Kaza
The cuisine of Kaza in Himachal Pradesh has its own aroma. In and around Kaza, tourists may find an opportunity to taste the delectable Tibetan Cuisine. Both veg and non-veg options are available however the places to eat are quite limited.
What activities can one indulge in while in Kaza?
Kaza in Spiti Valley is a destination for everyone. Adventurers can get the dream-like experience of hiking in the majestic Himalayas. Camping beneath the stars by the crystal-clear sea is an unforgettable experience. Stargazing here will leave you with lasting memories. However, those who just want to spend some time resting in nature may take a leisurely stroll through the village, mingle with the inhabitants, and learn about their culture and traditions.
How is the road condition to Kaza, and what transportation options are available?
The Kaza in Spiti Valley is a high-altitude desert with cold temperatures and tough terrain. It is advised that you hire a cab from the local village to see the sites as they are experienced with the terrain. Driving here requires exceptional skills and complete focus. The nearest airport to Kaza is Manali airport and the nearest railway station is Shimla railway station. However from both places tourists will have to continue on the road trip.
What are the must-visit attractions in Kaza?
Kaza is surrounded by breathtaking views of the Himalayas and small villages in the surrounding area, which add to the region’s charm. The place must -visit attractions include Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, Pin Valley National Park, Sakya Tangyud Monastery, Kunzum pass, Dhankar pass, Kibber village, Komic village, Keylong, Hikkim village, and Chandratal.
What is the best time to visit Kaza in Spiti Valley?
The best season to travel to Kaza is said to be the summer. The greatest time to engage in outdoor and adventurous activities in Kaza is during these months because of the comfortable temperatures. The most challenging seasons to visit this place are the winter and the monsoon. In the winter, there is an excessive amount of snowfall, which blocks the roads to Kaza, and in the monsoon, it experiences landslides that make the terrain difficult to navigate.
