Lahaul Valley in Spiti: The Road Less Traveled

The high altitude of Lahaul Valley, which offers the most exotic and unique destination, showcasing the majestic snow-covered Himalayas, numerous waterfalls, and lakes, renders heaven on earth for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Lahaul Valley is home to several small villages, each with its own distinct experience, culture, customs, and architecture.

The Lahaul valley is home to an energetic culture and distinct customs that have been preserved over time. The residents are polite and welcoming, and they are proud of their history.

Lahaul Valley Spiti is an excellent destination for anyone looking to soak up the beauty of nature and discover the greener side of the Lahaul-Spiti District. So, check out the best Spiti tour packages for the go!

Places to visit in Lahaul Valley

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass, located on the Pir Panjal Mountain Range in the Himalayas, provides an exquisite panorama of the glaciers and peaks of Lahaul Valley. This pass connects the Lahaul and Spiti valleys in Himachal Pradesh. It is located 53 kilometers from Manali and connects Kullu Valley to the Lahaul Valley.

Koksar Village

Koksar is a key halt for passengers on their way to Keylong, the Lahaul Valley headquarters. Koksar is gifted with an extraordinary view of the snow-covered Himalayas, crystal-clear river streams, verdant valleys, and breathtaking mountains. This village prepares guests for the sights they will see on their upcoming journey. Koksar is also a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts and hikers.

Sissu Village

Sissue village is located on the banks of the Chandra River in Lahaul Valley. This village is located 20 kilometers from Keylong and provides the finest insight into the lives of Buddhist monks, including their culture, traditions, architecture, and cuisine. This is a popular spot for vacationers looking to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city.The Sissu village is flanked by snow-capped Himalayas, waterfalls, and a picturesque road lined with poplar trees.

Gandhloa Village

Gandhola, Lahaul Valley, Spiti is widely known for the Gandhola Fort and Monastery. This village is a Buddhist architectural wonder. The fort dates back to the 17th century and is constructed in traditional Tibetan style. It gives an insight into the region’s rich architecture, traditions, and culture.
The Gandhola Monastery is one of the well known religious centers for Buddhists, hosting many religious and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Tandi  Village

Tandi Village holds religious significance in the life of the residents of the Lahaul and Spiti valleys. The settlement is located near the confluence of the Chandra and Bagha rivers. There are several mythical legends surrounding this location. One of the best-known stories is that Rishi Vashista was cremated at this confluence. This place provides a majestic view of the confluence of the rivers.

 Keylong

Keylong is the most popular destination in Lahaul Valley since it serves as the administrative headquarters for both Lahaul and Spiti valleys. Keylong also includes a market where tourists may buy local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Himachali items.

Kardang Monastery is a major attraction in Keylong and one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the Lahaul Valley. The monastery is on a mountaintop above the town and provides panoramic views of the surrounding region.

Chandra Taal

Chandra Taal, also known as the Lake of the Moon, receives its name from its crescent form. The lake is situated at a high elevation and is only accessible during the summer months. Camping is popular  in the neighborhood of the lake. This location draws large numbers adventurers for camping and trekking
Chandra Taal Lake also carries special religious significance for the Hindu community. According to legend, the Chandratal Lake is located near where God Indra’s chariot picked up Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandava brothers, in the Mahabharata. Religious and cultural events are held near the lake, attracting pilgrims from throughout India.

Suraj Taal

Suraj Taal the third highest lake in India is located at an elevation of 4,890 meters.This lake is located below the peak of Baralacha Pass in Lahaul Valley. Suraj Taal is the source of the Bhaga River.This location has been the subject of several mythical and horror myths and legends
  For adventurers, this location offers a fantastic trekking and camping experience.

5 Things  to do in Lahaul Valley

Camping

Lahaul Valley is the main attraction for campers. Solo travelers and groups alike visit the area, particularly to camp beneath the stars. Several professional organizations also pitch a tent beside the river, stream, or at the base of the valley for an ultimate adventurous experience.

Stargazing

This detached area of the country is far from pollution. As a result, one may find Mother Earth and nature in their purest state. One of the best things to do in Lahaul Valley is to spend an enchanting night beneath the beautiful night sky. The breathtaking view of the Milky Way Galaxy is surely a remarkable experience.

Skiing

Lahaul Valley has opened its arms for the tourists even in the Winters. Skiing for all levels  intermediate and higher levels of backcountry skiers and snowboarders is available. The state government is trying to construct winter sports infrastructure in the valley that will equal European ski resorts.

Wildlife watching

The Suraj Tal and Chandra taal wildlife Sanctuary in Lahaul Valley is home to a variety of animal species, including Tibetan wolves, Himalayan snowcocks, golden eagles, and other migratory birds. Wildlife routes in the Lahaul Valley allow visitors to engage with the region’s abundant fauna and flora while also discovering its biodiversity.

Trekking

The Lahaul Valley contains several hiking paths, some of which have yet to be discovered. The paths range in complexity and duration, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. The walking paths provide spectacular views of the snow capped Himalayas and valley below.

Suggested Read: Spiti Valley Trek

The best time to visit Lahaul Valley

The best time to visit Lahaul Valley is in the summer. April through June is the greatest time to visit the region. The weather during the season is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. The days are warm, but the evenings are chilly. Several cultural events are held in Lahaul Valley villages and monasteries throughout the season, attracting large crowds to the region.

Monsoon season is considered the most popular time for explorers and environment lovers to visit Lahaul Valley. The surrounding greenery is in full bloom at this time of year. Natural waterfalls spring to life during the monsoon season. The Lahaul Valley receives less rain since it is semi-arid and shadows the rain. However, landslides make the terrain tough.

Winter is the most challenging time to visit here. Lahaul gets the most snowfall, and the entire area is coated in a white blanket. The road leading to the location is closed. Winter is, however, not the best time to visit the location. To enhance the visitor inflow throughout the winter. Skiing and numerous cultural festivals are organized at the conclusion of the season.winter. Skiing and numerous cultural festivals are organized at the conclusion of the season.

Suggested Read: Lahaul And Spiti Travel Guide

How to reach Lahaul Valley

By Air: The nearest airports to Lahaul Valley is Kullu Manali Airport or Bhuntar Airport. However, the nearest major airport is Chandigarh. From here, you may continue your road trip to Lahaul Valley

 By Train: The largest railway station nearest to Lahaul Valley is Chandigarh. However, you may take a toy train from Kalka to Shimla, which is around 169 kilometers from Lahaul Valley, and then continue on a road trip.

By Road: On a road journey to Lahaul, you may go on an adventure through the newly constructed Atal Tunnel Rohtang. This pass is available throughout the year. Atal Tunnel Rohtang connects Shimla and Manali, taking you to Keylong, the headquarters of Lahaul, which is around 330 kilometers away.

Places to stay In Lahaul Valley

1. Camps

Various organizations operate in Lahaul Valley and provide camping services to guests seeking an out-of-this-world experience. The campgrounds are located in remote areas and are designed specifically for adventurers, hikers, and backpacking groups.

2. Hotels

Keylong, Jispa, and Sissu all provide a variety of hotel and guest house alternatives. However, small villages do not have hotels, but you can definitely locate a homestay in Lahaul Valley.

3. Homestays

Following the easy accessibility of roads through the Atal Tunnel Rohtang and a surge of tourists to Lahaul Valley, people have transformed a portion of their homes into homestays in Lahaul valley. This provides travelers with an opportunity to witness how people live in secluded areas. Tourists might experience living in mud dwellings and taste delectable local cuisine and homestyle dining. Locals also provide mountain hiking services for the tourists.

Tips to remember when visiting Lahaul Valley

•   There is no need to obtain a permit to go to Lahaul via Atal Tunnel. However, there has been a restriction on the number of vehicles going to Rohtang pass.
•   Only BSNL and Airtel connections function at this location, and you should expect full cutoff in remote areas and select regions. However, WIFI connections are available at certain hotels.