Best Places to Visit in Lahaul and Spiti – Monasteries, Lakes & Mountain Passes

1.Rohtang

Lahaul is an exotic place, but to get there you need to travel past Rohtang pass which sits at 13050 feet and connecting Kullu to it. It was named Rohtang in Tibetan which means “a heap of dead bodies,” and the pass truly reflects this name. Disasters have to destroy lives and property on a regular basis. This is the case because after 11 A.M., drastic snow storms and snow blizzards known as Biannas can occur at any moment. Often, avalanches make passing through the mountain even more dangerous.
When summer comes, the top of the pass becomes a green meadow full of violets and numerous wild Himalayan and Alpine flowers. Thousands of different and beautiful butterflies fascinate anyone who visits the Solang nullah. The pass became significant because this is where Beas Rishi (the famous Vyasa Rishi, writer of the epic Mahabharata) traveled and to the left lies the lake Sarkund. Tens of thousands of individuals visit the lake on the 20th Bhadon, as they believe and wish that bathing in it early in the morning will cure their diseases.Right close by, across the lake, is the well-known Sonapani glacier. Situated a little off to the left are Gyephang La’s two peaks, where the old Himalayan gods of Jamulu and his brother Gyephang stayed. All of these mountains have streaks and layers of snow. You can see the peak from Kunzom, Pangi Lahaul and Serchu plains by crossing Baralacha La. If the sky is clear, one can spot the higher peak from Shimla’s Ridge. Snacks and tea are served at the top of the airplane. Yet, for meals, one should stop at Marhi.

2.Sissu

The village is set on the right side of the Chandra River at a height of 3130m. The village is on a wide flat area and lies above the Chandra river. At certain points in the summer, the dense willow and poplar trees on each side of the road block out the sun. You can find potato, peas, barley and buck wheat growing here. Large areas of handsome alpine flowers and white, red and yellow wild roses make these hills and mountains look even more beautiful.

The river has a wet area near it where the wild duck and geese pause on their journey back to the Indian plains. You can also find snow trout in the village, located by the river.

The Gyephang peak, considered the most sacred by locals, can be found behind the hill where the village is built. In Lahaul, Lord Gyephang or Ghepan is the chief deity who looks after the people. Long ago, people in Lahaul fought and went to battle under the lead of Lord Gyephang. Here, the temple dedicated to Lord Ghepan is located. Only the residents have access to the temple. Somewhere in the cycle of a few years, devotees take the god /goddess out of the temple in a procession.

Before we arrive at the village, the Sissu nullah flows rapidly through a narrow valley from water coming from the Gyephang peak ice.

Across the water it is possible to see the Sissu fall cascading over a cliff from the steep area between the two mountains. You can reach the charming waterfall easily, as there is a suspension bridge over the river. Photos of the fall are usually very good when viewed from the road leading up to the P.W.D. rest house.

This village also has two fountain slabs from the 1lth or 12th century AD.

3.Key Monastery

People visiting Spiti Valley usually add Key Monastery or Kye Gompa, in the Kaza region to their list of must-visit places. At an altitude of 4112 m above the Spiti River, Key Monastery has a famous Buddha shrine, ancient books and manuscripts and interesting murals. Key monastery is an impressive place to visit due to its Chinese-style fort, stunning assembly hall and lovely Tengyur room. Almost every Spiti Valley sightseeing tour includes the place.

• The ideal time to visit is in May to September.

• The hotel is well-known for its Chinese design in each room.

4.Chandratal 

If you find inspiration in nature, you must visit Chadratal when in Lahaul, Spiti Valley. It was given its name because it appears like a crescent moon. This irresistible nature site is found close to Kunzum Pass and impresses every photographer. Because the water is crystal blue and the place is surrounded by greenery and snowy mountains, it is a beautiful destination for camping and hiking. So, don’t wait any longer! Taking a Spiti Valley trek can greatly move and inspire you.

• June through September is when people usually visit this place.

• Famous because of: Beautiful Scenery

5.Suraj Tal

Sun Lake, known as Suraj Tal, is a beautiful location to see in Lahaul and Spiti. Close to Baralacha Pass, visitors to this lake are usually nature lovers, ardent trekkers and photographers. To enjoy the beautiful sights, visit Suraj Tal any time from May to October.

• Between mid-May and mid-October is the ideal time to travel to Russia.

• This place is popular for: Trekking, Sightseeing, Photography

6.Dhankar Lake 

Anyone who visits Spiti Valley is sure to love the breathtaking view of Dhankar or Sar Kund Lake, a lake sitting at the top of a cliff 4270 meters tall. You must trek a little, but when you arrive at this lake, you will be rewarded with beautiful views and the gentle lapping of soft water.

• I recommend going during May to September.

• Its main attraction is sightseeing.

7. Kunzum Pass

At 4590 m in the Kunzum Range, the Kunzum mountain pass joins the Kullu and Lahaul Valleys to Spiti Valley. This place plays a significant role in the Spiti Valley area. You can hike from Chandratal Lake to reach the Chandrabhaga Range and enjoy its spectacular scenes. The beauty of this place is enhanced by its Buddhist flags and an ancient Devi Temple.

• Between June and September is when most people travel to Thailand.

• The place is famous for offering great views from Chandrabhaga.

8.Baralacha Pass

The Baralacha La in Zanskar is a challenging place for adventure lovers, since it connects numerous winding roads between Lahaul and Ladakh on the Manali-Leh Highway. Here, you will notice how Pir Panjal, The Great Himalayan and Zanskar ranges meet. The presence of these two rivers on the flanks enhances the beauty of the past. Camping and trekking at this beautiful tourist attraction in Lahaul and Spiti is sure to satisfy. Baralacha in Spiti is a must-see if you plan a Ladakh road trip with your friends or partner.

• The best time to go is between April and October.

• Camping and Biking are two popular reasons to visit it.

9.Pin Valley National Park

Close to the chilly streams, Pin Valley National Park makes it easy to spot rare and endangered flora and fauna. The Park allows visitors to see snow leopards, snowcocks, chukar partridges and Siberian ibex in the reserve. People also encounter a variety of medicinal plants, alpine vegetation and cedar and deodar trees in this place. As it is set against the beautiful Himalayas, adventure seekers, photographers, nature admirers and bird watchers will have a perfect place in the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve.

• July to October is when tourists recommend you should visit.

• Flora and fauna are the main draws there.

10.Kibber

Kibber, located in Spiti Valley, is one of the prettiest hillside villages you can see. Popular among those seeking adventure, it is definitely among the most amazing and demanding destinations in Spiti Valley. Locals call it Kyibar and Kibber is a small community at 4205 m with a monastery and Gompa that lets you enjoy beautiful scenery. It is a significant location during the trek in Spiti Valley.

• The best months to see seashells are May, June and July.

• It is most known for its local culture.

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