To appease your wanderlust in Himachal Pradesh, Kaza in Spiti Valley happens to be one of the best spots to visit and explore. With a blend of snowy mountains and desert-like terrains, there are many places to visit in Kaza that appease every traveller’s exploration. From offering prayers at Dhankar Monastery to witnessing the beauty of the Chandratal Lake, or visiting Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Kaza offers a unique experience. Catering to every traveller’s interests, the list of experiences is extensive.
10 Places To Visit In Kaza
Situated at an elevation of about 3,800 metres, there are many places to visit in Kaza as it serves as a gateway to attractions of the Spiti Valley.
1. Key Monastery
Photo: Nomad Bikers / Unsplash
Key Monastery (Kye Gompa) is possibly one of the top tourist attractions in Kaza that lets you get a glimpse of Tibetan culture, religion and traditions. It is one of the oldest and most magnificent monasteries in Spiti Valley, which is located on top of a hill. The highlight of visiting this monastery lies in the beauty of the surrounding views, the lush greenery, and the extensive collection of old books. The peace and tranquillity of this place further contribute to your experience, enabling you to learn about Buddhism more innately.
Location: Pinjore, Himachal Pradesh 172114
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
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2. Chandratal Lake
Photo: Shiva Garg / Wikimedia Commons
No trip to Kaza is complete without visiting Chandratal Lake. Also known as “Moon Lake,” the beauty of this crescent-moon-shaped lake is beyond what words can explain. This high-altitude lake is situated at an elevation of 4300 metres and is one of the most picturesque lakes in the area. The combination of the crystal-blue water with the stunning surroundings adds to the beauty of this lake. You can trek to the lake and camp around as well. The reflection of the surrounding mountains on the lake’s surface creates a mesmerising view, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Distance From Kaza: 97 km
Timings: 24*7
3. Kibber Village
Photo: Ksuryawanshi / Wikimedia Commons
Kibber Village, situated at an altitude of 4,270 metres, is one of the highest inhabited villages in the world. There are several old monasteries and traditional houses that are located in the village too. There are multiple Tibetan-style houses in the village, made out of bricks and stones, which add to the beauty of the place. The village is alternatively known as Kyibar and the most popular tourist attractions include Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary and the Kibber Monastery. It’s one of the Kaza tourist places you wouldn’t regret exploring.
Distance From Kaza: 18 km
Timings: N/A
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4. Pin Valley National Park
Photo:Buddhadeb Ghosh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
A perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts, Pin Valley National Park is another popular sightseeing spot that you can visit from Kaza. It is the country’s highest cold valley national park that is home to a variety of local and endangered species. Inside the national park, you can find a variety of wild animals including Ibex, Snow leopards, and even a variety of bird species. The national park is named after the Pin River, which flows adjacent to it. Beyond enjoying safari experiences, you can also explore different trekking trails around the area.
Location: Kaza Valley, Himachal Pradesh 172117
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
5. Hikkim Village
Photo:Sakshi Patwa / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Hikkim Village is famous for housing the highest post office in the world, situated at an altitude of 4,440 metres. You can climb up to the unmanned post office to send a postcard, a unique experience that travellers cherish. The village offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a perfect place to experience the traditional Spitian way of life. Also, there is an ancient monastery in the village, which you should also visit for a value-added experience.
Distance From Kaza: 15.4 km
Timings: N/A
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6. Langza Village
Photo: Sumita Roy Dutta / Wikimedia Commons
Another one of the popular places for Kaza trip is Langza Village, whose significance is the existence of the prehistoric fossils and the magnificent Buddha statue overlooking the valley. Langza offers breathtaking views of the Chau Chau Kang Nilda Peak and is a perfect destination for trekking and nature walks. Due to its offbeat location, visiting Langza Village on a day trip from Kaza allows you to unwind, relax and have a good time, rejuvenating your mind and body.
Distance From Kaza: 16 km
Timings: N/A
7. Dhankar Monastery
Photo: Mdipa / Wikimedia Commons
Dhankar Monastery is one of the most significant places to visit in Kaza Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the oldest monasteries in the area, located at an elevation of 3,894 metres, offering panoramic views of the Spiti Valley and Pin River. According to historical evidence, the monastery is reportedly a thousand years old. Inside the monastery, you can find a variety of Buddhist scriptures, murals, and thangkas, which hold a lot of importance among the local community. Another popular attraction is the Dhankar River which flows adjacent to the monastery.
Location: Sichling-Dhankhar Gompa, Dhankhar, Himachal Pradesh 172113
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
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8. Kunzum Pass
Photo: Gerd Eichmann / Wikimedia Commons
Kunzum Pass is one of the highest passes to visit in Kaza Valley, located at an elevation of 4,551 metres. 15 hairpin bends around the pass connect Spiti Valley to Lahaul, providing a scenic driving experience. However, the roads are not for the faint of heart. From trekkers to bikers, this is one of those tourist places in Kaza that is loved by many. However, due to the high altitude, acclimatisation can be a hassle for many. You can also witness the Bara Shigri Glacier on your trek to this pass.
Location: Lahaul and Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh, India
Timings: 24*7
9. Gue Monastery
Photo:Rollinghopes / Wikimedia Commons
In your Kaza tourist places list, consider adding Gue Monastery for a laidback experience. It houses the mummy of Sangha Tenzin, a Buddhist monk who is believed to have mummified himself in the 15th century. The mummy is remarkably well-preserved and is a fascinating sight for visitors. Also, due to its unique experience and the beauty of this place, you might feel an eerie associated with the entire exploration of this monastery.
Location: Geu tach, Himachal Pradesh 172111
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
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10. Komic Village
Photo:Sakshi Patwa / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Last to be included in the list of places for the Kaza trip is Komic Village. It is located at an elevation of 4,587 metres and you can also witness breathtaking views of the Spiti Valley. Once you reach the village, you can also stop to explore Tangyud Monastery, which is one of the highest monasteries in Asia. The village is also known for its unique geographical features, making it a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts, especially hikers and trekkers.
Distance From Kaza: 23 km
Timings: N/A
There is an abundance of places to visit in Kaza, each catering to the interests of every traveller. You can explore high-altitude villages, trekking trails and a variety of serene lakes and rivers, which offer respite from the daily hustle of life. Plan your next trip to Himachal with TripXL and make a detour to visit and explore Kaza.
Cover Photo:Kashish Lamba / Unsplash