Kaza

Kaza is the administrative headquarters of Spiti and is located at an elevation of 3,660 meters above sea level. It is a natural wonder with lush landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and breathtaking views. 

Kaza has two sections: New Kaza and Old Kaza. The former houses the king’s palace, while the latter houses government offices. The array of historical treasures, monasteries, and gompas adds a magical touch to this picturesque town. Today, the Himalayan town of Kaza offers an unusual blend of ancient culture and modernity that will leave any visitor completely enthralled and fascinated.

 Kaza’s scenic landscapes and rugged topography attract visitors interested in spirituality. It is a reasonably secluded location that is great for connecting with your inner self. Several monasteries in close vicinity provide ideal meditation retreats. Popular stopovers include the monasteries of Ki, Hikkim, Komik, and Langja. 

 

The location also serves as a base camp for visitors interested in activities such as mountain climbing and trekking. Pin-Bhaba, Parang-La, and Pin-Parvati are some well-known paths that begin in Kaza. Aside from practicing adventure sports and seeing various Buddhist shrines, travelers flocking here also like to take a walk to the little villages surrounding Kaza town.

How to Reach

Kaza is accessible via the Lahaul and Kinnaur valleys. While the latter route is open all year, the former route is only open during the summer. The winter season in this destination brings exceptionally low temperatures, making the town’s weather particularly cold. 

The best method to go to Kaza is by bus. The town of Kaza is easily accessible by road from all major regions of the country. Regular government buses run from and to Kaza. Shimla to Kaza has two daily buses, one leaving at dawn and the other at dusk. There are two HRTC daily buses that run from Manali to Kaza, both of which depart early in the morning. 

Unfortunately, there are no direct train or aircraft services to the city. The nearest airport to Kaza is Bhuntar Airport, which is approximately 250 kilometers away. The nearest railway station to the town is Joginder Nagar, which is 365 kilometers away.

 
Best Time to Visit

The months of June to October are ideal for visiting the Himalayan town of Kaza. During this period, the Manali and Shimla routes remain available for passengers to reach Kaza easily. Moreover, the Kunzum Pass is open during these months. 

During the winter months of November to February, tourists like to visit the chilly desert of Kaza. During this season, travelers can access the town by taking the Shimla road, which is available all year.

 

Nearby Places to Visit 

Sakya Tangyud Monastery

Tangyud, one of the most magnificent monasteries on the outskirts of Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, is one of the famous attractions in Kaza. It is precisely placed in Spiti Valley’s Komic Village.

This is one among India’s highest gompas, rising 4520 meters above sea level. The monastery was built in the shape of a castle on the rim of a deep gorge. It is one of only two Sakya monasteries still standing in the Spiti Valley.

Kibber 

To say Kibber is lovely is an understatement – dry landscape, rugged mountains, meadows ablaze with colorful wildflowers, and all of this set against a pure pollution-free atmosphere. Stargazers and photographers alike go to Kibber for the unparalleled beautiful views of the Milky Way. Visit the neighboring Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary to see Himachal’s spectacular biodiversity, including ibex, blue sheep, red fox, snow leopards, and wolves.

You can go hiking on the short trails around the area or visit numerous minor monasteries. The residents are welcoming and provide a warm, if not lavish,  and a pleasant place to stay with both Indian and Tibetan home cooked meals.

Kunzum Pass

The Kunzum Pass, one of the most intriguing and quirky places to explore in Spiti Valley, is a gateway to the beautiful Spiti Valley via Kullu and Lahaul. Treat your photography-obsessed soul by capturing breathtaking scenery around you. Take in the panoramic view of the beautiful Bara Shigri Glacier blanketed in virgin white snow, the barren mountains of the Chandrabhage range, the turquoise waters of the Spiti River, and the rocky hills of Spiti Valley.

Pay your respects at the temple of Goddess Kunzum Devi and marvel at the bright prayer flags flapping in the breeze. And if you enjoy mountain biking, the Kunzum delivers a unique sense of accomplishment, as it is India’s highest motorable pass, standing at a jaw-dropping height of 4000 meters.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Coming from Manali, you can reach Kaza without a permit by taking Batal and Losar. If you intend to go from Kaza to Dhankar or Tabo, you will need a permit, which you may obtain in Kaza. Please keep in mind that if you are departing from Manali, you must first obtain the Rohtang Pass Permit.

Carry Diamox (a preventive AMS medicine) if you are not allergic to sulfur. Diamox helps in treating acute mountain sickness. You may also carry sniffing camphor tablets, which aid with breathing in high-altitude passes. You may also need medications for a headache, fever, stomach ache, cold and cough syrup, or motion sickness.

The winter brings severe winds and thick snow, with temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius. Because of the high altitude, oxygen levels are low, and visitors often have difficulty breathing. Special Note: People with breathing issues should consult their doctor before visiting.

Kaza has numerous monasteries for Lord Buddha worshipers. The list of monasteries include Sakya Tangyud Monastery, Dhankar Monastery, Key Monastery, and Tabo Monastery. People who seek peace of mind in their lives visit these monasteries. Kaza has various sites to visit that will leave you amazed.

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