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A major landmark in Tibetan Buddhism, Komic Monastery attracts people for its unusual location. Rising to an amazing height, it boasts the status as one of the highest motorable monasteries in the world. Featuring vibrant prayer flags and complex artwork, the monastery’s architecture follows the traditional Tibetan style. Monks at Komic maintain age-old practices, preserving their spiritual heritage in this remote location. The nearby Himalayan mountains breathtakingly frame this holy place.
Komic Monastery Location
Photo: Glenn Carstens-Peters / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Komic Monastery is near Komic village in Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti Valley. This village is among the most highly inhabited settlements worldwide, at around 15,027 feet (4,570 metres) above sea level. Komic is around 19 km from the closest town, Kaza. A motorable road connects Komic to Kaza, making the monastery accessible to visitors. The high altitude position gives amazing views of the nearby Himalayan mountains.
How To Reach Komic Monastery
Photo: Amanda Sandlin / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
There are several ways to reach Komic Monastery:
By Air: The closest airport is Bhuntar Airport in Kullu & Manali. Flights connect Delhi to Spiti. However, service is limited, especially in winter, because of the weather. Take a bus to Kaza from the airport, then hire a taxi to Komic Village.
By Road: The most practical way is via bus to Manali or Shimla, then to Kaza, the closest town to Komic Village. Taxis are available for the final leg of the trip from Kaza to Komic. This journey has breathtaking views of the Himalayan terrain.
By Rail: The closest train station, almost 364 km from Kaza, is Joginder Nagar Railway Station. Upon arrival, take a taxi to Kaza and then another to Komic Village. While this option takes longer, it offers a unique travel experience through mountainous terrain.
Places In And Around Komic Monastery
Here are five popular destinations near Komic Monastery that showcase the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness:
1. Hikkim Village
Photo: Sumita Roy Dutta / Wikimedia Commons
4 km from Komic Village, Hikkim Village is 14,500 feet above sea level. Comprising 75–80 people, this small settlement is well-known for its rural beauty and cultural legacy. Mostly, the residents make their living from farming and breeding animals. Hikkim boasts one of the world’s highest post offices, making it an important site to visit near Komic Monastery. Unlike any guidebook, visitors may engage with friendly residents to learn about Spitian culture, therefore providing a more real experience.
Timings: 24*7
Distance From Komic Monastery: 4 km
Location: Hikkim Village, Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
2. Langza Village
Photo: Madhumita Das / Wikimedia Commons
About 10 km from Komic Village lies Langza Village, a calm and lovely town in Spiti Valley. Langza, 14,000 feet above sea level, has amazing backdrops and valley views. With a population of around 150, this remote community depends on farming and animal raising for survival. Langza’s natural beauty and traditional lifestyle make it a must-see destination near Komic Monastery for those seeking to experience authentic Spitian culture.
Timings: 24*7
Distance From Komic Monastery: 10 km
Location: Langza Village, Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
3. Chandratal Lake
Photo: Vivek Kumar Srivastava / Wikimedia Commons
Chandratal Lake, known as Moon Lake, sits at an altitude of 14,000 feet above sea level. Its crystal-clear waters and mountain reflections are breathtaking. Local beliefs hold that gods created this natural beauty and that the lake’s water originates from the Chandra River. Near the lake, visitors may engage in camping activities and experience the absorbing beauty of the surroundings. Chandratal Lake is a place to visit near Komic Monastery that offers a unique blend of natural splendour and spiritual significance.
Timings: 24*7
Distance From Komic Monastery: 54 km
Location: Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
4. Kanamo Peak
Photo: keshavadav1111 / Shutterstock
Rising at 19,600 feet (5,964 metres), Kanamo Peak is close to the villages of Kibber and Tashi Gang. Known as the “White Lady,” this mountain provides panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, including Kinnaur and Ladakh. The difficult hike to the peak runs around 27 km and requires high physical fitness. Trekkers on this trek get chances to see Spiti’s great beauty and rich cultural legacy, including visits to old monasteries and interactions with local communities.
Timings: 24*7
Distance From Komic Monastery: 15 km
Location: Spiti, Dhar Dum Bachen, Himachal Pradesh
5. Tangyud Monastery
Photo: Mike Shaw / Wikimedia Commons
Tangyud Monastery, also known as Sa-skya-gong-mig Gompa, is one of the biggest and oldest Buddhist monasteries in Spiti Valley. Situated about 15,000 feet above sea level, it dates back to the 14th century. Linked with the Sakya School of Tibetan Buddhism, the monastery is well-known for its paintings, unique building design, and breathtaking valley views. It houses Buddhist scriptures, artefacts, prayer rooms, meditation chambers, and a large assembly hall, making it a major attraction in Komic Village.
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Distance From Komic Monastery: 0 km
Location: Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India
Where To Stay
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Various accommodation choices are available near Komic Monastery, which suit a range of preferences. The closest town to Komic, Kaza, has various decent lodging options. Additionally, Hotel Deyzor & Restaurant offers comfortable lodging along with a house restaurant. On NH505, Blue Mountain Hotel & Cafe has nice accommodations along with a cafe. In addition, Hotel Spiti Heritage combines modern amenities with classic building style.
Where To Eat
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Dining options near Komic Monastery are limited but offer unique experiences. The Spiti Organic Kitchen offers mouthwatering cuisine surrounded by breathtaking scenery close to the monastery. Most guests like handmade food at their homestays in Komic, savouring basic, real, local cuisine. Hikkim Himalayan Cafe & Home Stay offers a nice eating choice for those ready to go somewhat farther. Lastly, Tsedup’s House Homestay in Hikkim also offers meals to guests.
Best Time To Visit
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One should visit Komic Monastery ideally between June and September. Temperatures in these months fall between 10℃ and 20℃. Hence the weather is nice. Trekking and camping activities surrounding the monastery find perfect conditions in this mild climate. During the day, visitors should wear light, airy attire, yet they should also bring thick layers for cold nights. One should be aware that, even in summer, the weather might be unpredictable. The winter months are rather tough, from November to February, with a lot of snowfall sometimes blocking roads. If you are considering a winter trip, be ready for extreme cold and maybe interrupted travel.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Ylanite Koppens / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- Check road conditions before travel, especially in winter months
- Carry any necessary medications as medical facilities are limited nearby
- Be mindful of the monastery’s prayer times and avoid disturbing ongoing rituals
- Bring a reliable power bank, as electricity can be inconsistent
- Learn a few basic Tibetan or Hindi phrases to communicate with locals
- Consider staying in a nearby homestay for an authentic cultural experience
Komic Monastery has a unique fusion of serenity of soul and amazing Himalayan views. This high-altitude haven offers guests a unique experience of Tibetan Buddhist culture along with breathtaking natural beauty. From historic relics to expansive views, Komic provides something for any visitor looking for an amazing journey. Book your trip to Komic Monastery today through TripXL and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Cover Photo: SWeta / Wikimedia Commons
