Kaza Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Kaza, including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, accommodations, and local culture.


Introduction to Kaza

Kaza is a remote town located in Eastern Himachal Pradesh, in the Himalayan North of India. With high-altitude deserts, snow-capped mountains, and stunning natural landscapes, Kaza is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The town is situated at an altitude of 11,980 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest inhabited places in Asia. Kaza serves as an important base for trekking to nearby peaks, including the famous mountain range of Kinnaur-Kailash.

List of Places to Visit in Kaza

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Komic Monastery: One of the highest monasteries in the world, Komic Monastery is located at a height of 14,830 feet above sea level. It is known for its Buddha statue made of 10kg gold.
  • Tangi Monastery: Tangi Monastery is located in the Spiti Valley and is known for its extensive collection of Buddhist artifacts, including a 14th-century statue of Guru Rinpoche.
  • Key Monastery: Key Monastery is one of the largest monasteries in Spiti Valley and is located at an altitude of 13,668 feet above sea level.

Natural Attractions of Kaza: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pin Valley National Park: A wildlife sanctuary that spreads across the Pin Valley of Spiti Valley, Pin Valley National Park, is home to several endangered species like snow leopards, ibexes, and musk deer.
  • Chandra Taal Lake: Chandra Taal Lake is located at the Samudra Tapu plateau in Spiti Valley. The crescent-shaped lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is one of the most scenic spots in the region.
  • Kunzum Pass: Kunzum Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass situated at an altitude of 15,059 feet above sea level. It offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kaza

  • Ancient Monastery Trek: This trek takes you to some of the most ancient and remote monasteries of the Spiti Valley. The trek spans over six days and includes several high-altitude passes.
  • Pin Parvati Trek: The Pin Parvati Trek takes you across the Pin Parvati Pass, which is located at an altitude of 17,450 feet above sea level.
  • Spiti Valley Bike Trip: The bike trip takes you through some of the most remote and sparsely populated areas of Spiti Valley.

Best Things to Do in Kaza: Activities and Tours

  • Motorcycle Tours in Kaza: Motorcycle tours are a great way to explore Spiti Valley. You can rent motorcycles in Kaza or opt for a guided tour.
  • Wildlife Safaris: The Pin Valley National Park is the best place to spot endangered species like snow leopards and musk deer.
  • Yak Safari: Yak Safaris are a unique way to explore the Spiti Valley. The yak safaris take you through some of the most remote parts of the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kaza

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Kaza
2 Visit Key Monastery and Kibber village
3 Trek to Dhankhar Monastery
4 Visit Pin Valley National Park
5 Trek to Chandra Taal Lake
6 Explore Kunzum Pass
7 Depart from Kaza

Food and Drink Scene of Kaza

Must-Try Dishes

  • Thukpa: Thukpa is a Tibetan noodle soup that is popular in the Spiti Valley region.
  • Momos: Momos are bite-sized dumplings that are filled with vegetables, meat, or cheese. They are a popular snack in the Spiti Valley.
  • Chhang: Chhang is a traditional alcoholic drink made from fermented rice, maize, or barley.

Local Beverages

  • Butter Tea: Butter tea is a creamy beverage made with tea and yak butter. It is a popular drink in the Spiti Valley region.
  • Apricot Juice: Apricot juice is a refreshing drink made from fresh apricots that are grown in the Spiti Valley.

Where to Stay in Kaza: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Spiti Sarai: Spiti Sarai is a luxurious homestay located in the village of Rangrik, just outside Kaza. The rooms offer unobstructed views of the Himalayan Mountains.
  • Zostel Kaza: Zostel Kaza is a backpacker hostel located in the heart of Kaza. The hostel offers dormitory-style accommodation and a common area for travelers to socialize.
  • Hotel Deyzor: Hotel Deyzor is a boutique hotel located in the village of Kaza. The rooms are designed in traditional Tibetan architecture.

What to Buy in Kaza: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handwoven Carpets: Handwoven carpets are a specialty of the Spiti Valley region. They are made using local wool and dyed using natural ingredients like walnut shell and madder root.
  • Prayer Flags: Prayer flags are a traditional Buddhist symbol and can be found in various sizes and colors in the markets of Kaza.
  • Handmade Tapestries: Handmade tapestries are made using traditional Spiti Valley designs and are perfect for decorating your home.

Local Culture and Customs of Kaza

The Spiti Valley region has a rich cultural history and is home to several ethnic groups, including Tibetans and the Kinnauris. The people of Spiti Valley speak the Spitian language, which is a dialect of the Tibetan language.

Best Time to Visit Kaza

The best time to visit Kaza is from May to September when the weather is mild and the roads are open. The winter months from November to February are not recommended as the region experiences heavy snowfall and the roads are closed.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kaza

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.
  • Carry enough cash, as ATMs are not available in some parts of the region.
  • Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.

Don’t:

  • Remove stones or rocks from any natural landmarks as it is considered disrespectful to the local culture.
  • Buy or consume drugs as it is illegal in India.
  • Take photographs of locals without asking for their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kaza

Kaza is a safe place to visit. However, travelers should take precautions while trekking or biking in the region as the terrain can be challenging, and accidents do occur. It is advisable to hire a local guide and carry sufficient equipment while trekking or biking.

Health in Kaza

Altitude sickness is a common condition experienced by travelers in the Spiti Valley. It is advisable to take some time to acclimatize to the altitude, drink plenty of water and carry appropriate medications.

Getting to Kaza: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kaza

The nearest airports to Kaza are Bhuntar, which is located 245 km away, and Shimla, which is located 430 km away.

Bus Stations Near Kaza

Kaza is well-connected by road to major cities in Himachal Pradesh. Regular buses run from Shimla, Manali, and Reckong Peo to Kaza.

Other Options

Travelers can also hire private taxis from Shimla, Manali, or Reckong Peo to reach Kaza. However, it is advisable to book in advance.

How to Get Around in Kaza

The best way to get around in Kaza is by hiring a taxi or a motorcycle. Local taxis can be hired for day trips or sightseeing. Motorcycles can be rented from several providers in Kaza.

Where to Go Next from Kaza: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tabo: Tabo is a historic town located 44 km from Kaza. It is known for its ancient Tabo Monastery, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Nako: Nako is a picturesque village located 115 km from Kaza. It is known for its scenic Nako Lake and the Nako Monastery.
  • Sangla Valley: Sangla Valley is located 180 km from Kaza and is known for its stunning natural beauty and apple orchards.

Conclusion

Kaza is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The town offers several outdoor activities like trekking, biking, and wildlife safaris. It is also a great place to explore the local culture and traditions of the Spiti Valley region. Plan your trip to Kaza in advance to make the most of your journey to this beautiful Himalayan town.

Downtown Kaza - 2004 Downtown Kaza - 2004 Sakya Gompa in Kaza Sakya Gompa in Kaza