Kaza Himachal Pradesh
Kaza is situated at an altitude of around 3800 mtrs above sea level. Kaza is the capital and most developed town in Spiti Valley. Kaza is the district headquarters of Spiti in Himachal. This place has a highly influence of Buddhism and a dream destination for tourists. Kaza is covered with majestic snow capped mountain peaks, rivers and scenic beauty of nature. This place is divided into two parts – Old and New Kaza, the new town contains the administrative buildings. There are lots of places for tourist to enjoy like Monasteries, Gompas, and other historical places. Kaza has two accesses one is from Kinnaur valley and other is from Lahaul Valley. The route through Kinnaur is open throughout the year, except at the time of sowfall and landslides.
Kaza is known for its festivals and the ancient Tangyud Gompa. Kaza is situated in central location which makes this an ideal place for camping, trekking, mountaineering and tours directed to other parts of the valley. Kaza is known for its colorful festivals.
Connectivity
By Air: Bhuntar is the nearest Airport which is about 250 km away from Kaza , alternatively Shimla is another Airport at a distance of around 445 km and other International Airport is Chandigarh which is around 211 km from Kaza. Cabs/taxi can be hired from Airport.
By Rail: Joginder Nagar is the nearest Railway station to Kaza which is about 365 km . Cabs/taxi can be hired from Railway station.
By Road: HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) runs buses from Kulu to Kaza via Manali.
Seasons:
Summer (March - June): The temperatures rarely drop below 15 degrees Celcius. Days are hot and the best time for trekkers and campers.
Monsoon (July - September): Monsoon season receives moderate to heavy rainfall, it is not advisable to visit in this season due to road blockage and landslides.
Winter (October - February): The winter season is very chilly and someone is medically fit can visit this place, otherwise you can avoid. Food
Although Kaza is a small place but still you can get the Tibetian and Indian cuisines here . The most famous dishes is Thukpa , momos with different varities , potatoes and peas gravery. Tibetian bread and roti made from barley or other millet flours with butter, omelette and jam.
Restaurants in Kaza
Park View Restaurant
Sachin Kunga Restaurant
Sol Café
Attractions
Key Monastery
This monastery is built in 14th Century and architecture is influenced by Chinese style. This place is situated at a height of 4112 mtrs. It is the oldest and the biggest monasteries and has a collection of ancient books.
Shopping in Kaza
One can shop for wool shawls, carpets and woolen clothes , local jewelleries from here as a memory of this place.
Chandratal Lake
The name “Chandra raal” ( Lake of the Moon) comes from its shape like a moon , it is located at an altitude of about 4300 m in Himalayas. The lake water color changes from reddish to orange to blue to emerald green till the day end. It gives a amazing view to the tourists
Dhankar Monasteries
This monastery is about 40 km from Kaza and can be easily accessible by a cab or Himachal Pradesh Road Transport bus. It is situated on a cliff inbetween Kaza and Tabo. One can view the beauty of Spiti river from here. This Monastery has a statue of ‘Vairocharan’ displaying 4 statues of Buddha seated in 4 directions.
Dhankar Lake
Dhankar Lake is above Dhankar Village , one can trek till lake , the trek is not easy it is quite difficult . The loose pebbles and crisp mountain canmake you breathless. The beauty of the lake is mind blowing .
Kunzum Pass
Kunzum Pass is situated at an altitude of about 4551m. Goddess Kunjum (Durga) temple is situated on top to guard from evils. The pass connects the Kullu and Lahaul Valley with the Spiti Valley. In Chinese Kunzum Pass, is called as Kunzum La.
Pin Valley National Park
Pin Valley National Park is home to the rare species of famous Himalayan snow leopards and their prey, the Ibex. The Valley was converted into National park in 1987 covering the area of almost 9700 sq km. Due to its high altitude only few animals and plants live here.
Animals here include woolly hair, Tibetan gazzle, snow leopard, fox, wolf, ibex, bharal, Himalayan marmot, Indian porcupine, blue sheep, red-billed chough, Patridge, snow Patridge, blue rock pigeon and Tibetan wild ass among many others.
Sakya Tangyud Monastery
This monastery is situated at the height of about 4587 mtrs above the sea level. One can get the learning of Buddhism here.
Co-operative society run shops in Keylong
These Co-operative society runs shops of clothes, utensils, jwelleries, stone gems and unique things which are popular among tourists, one should bargain for the best prices.
Komic Village
This village has its own monastery and womens are not allowed during prayer time. It is situated at a height of around 4275 mtrs.
