Keylong, the charming headquarters of the Lahaul and Spiti district in Himachal Pradesh, is a hidden gem nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and pristine rivers, Keylong offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. It serves as a gateway to some of the most picturesque trails and passes, including the famous Baralacha La and Rohtang Pass. The town is renowned for its monasteries, such as the Kardang Monastery, which exude spiritual serenity and showcase Tibetan Buddhist heritage. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking to escape the chaos of urban life, Keylong promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
1. Shashur Gompa
Shashur Gompa, near Keylong in Himachal Pradesh, is a serene 17th-century Buddhist monastery known for its vibrant wall paintings and rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by stunning Himalayan views, it hosts an annual festival featuring traditional masked dances, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
Location : Shashur Gompa is located about 3 km from Keylong in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India.
Timing : Shashur Gompa generally follows the opening hours of 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit Shashur Gompa.
2. The Kardang Buddhist Monastery
The Kardang Buddhist Monastery, located about 7 km from Keylong in Himachal Pradesh, is one of the largest and most important monasteries in the Lahaul Valley. Established in the 12th century, it belongs to the Drukpa Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful murals, and a large collection of ancient scriptures and artifacts. It also serves as a spiritual center for the locals and offers a peaceful atmosphere for meditation and reflection. Surrounded by breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains, Kardang Monastery is an essential stop for those exploring the cultural and spiritual richness of Lahaul and Spiti.
Location : The Kardang Buddhist Monastery is located about 7 km from Keylong in the Lahaul Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India.
Timing : The Kardang Buddhist Monastery is generally open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee for visiting Kardang Buddhist Monastery.
3. Lynx Outdoor Adventure
Lynx Outdoor Adventure offers adventure activities around Keylong, Himachal Pradesh, catering to those seeking outdoor thrills in the stunning landscapes of Lahaul Valley. The company organizes trekking, camping, and river rafting expeditions, taking advantage of the region’s rugged terrain and breathtaking beauty. With Keylong as a base, adventurers can explore nearby spots like Baralacha La Pass, Jispa, and Lahaul Valley, making it a great location for both beginners and seasoned explorers. Lynx Outdoor Adventure ensures safety and provides guides to lead participants through the exciting and scenic routes of the Himalayas.
Location : Lynx Outdoor Adventure operates primarily from Manali, Himachal Pradesh, but their activities extend to Keylong, Lahaul, and surrounding regions.
Timing : Lynx Outdoor Adventure typically operates throughout the year, but the best time to participate in their activities is during the summer months (May to October).
Entry Fee : Lynx Outdoor Adventure’s entry fees vary depending on the type of activity you choose.
- Trekking and Camping: Fees are typically charged based on the trek duration, the difficulty level, and the number of participants.
- River Rafting, Mountain Biking, and Other Activities: Prices will differ based on the specific activity and the location.
4. Suraj Tal
Suraj Tal is a stunning high-altitude lake situated at an elevation of 4,890 meters (16,043 feet), making it one of the highest lakes in the world. It is located near the Baralacha La Pass in the Lahaul-Spiti region of Himachal Pradesh, India. Suraj Tal is revered not only for its breathtaking natural beauty but also for its religious and cultural significance in the region.
Location : Kardang Monastery is located in the Lahaul Valley, about 7 km from Keylong, in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India.
Timing : Kardang Monastery is generally open for visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit Kardang Monastery.
5. Baralacha La Pass
Baralacha La Pass is one of the most famous and scenic mountain passes in the Himalayas, located in the Lahaul-Spiti region of Himachal Pradesh, India. The pass stands at an impressive 4,890 meters (16,043 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest motorable passes in the world. It connects the Lahaul Valley with the Zanskar Valley and is an important route for those traveling between the states of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh.
Location : Baralacha La Pass lies on the Manali-Leh Highway (NH 3), approximately 73 km from Keylong, the district headquarter of Lahaul and Spiti.
Timing : The timing for visiting Baralacha La Pass largely depends on the season and road conditions.
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee specifically for crossing or visiting Baralacha La Pass.
Famous Food In Keylong
1. Siddu
Siddu is a traditional Himachali dish, especially popular in regions like Keylong and other parts of Lahaul and Spiti Valley. It’s a type of steamed bread made from wheat flour and is typically served with ghee, chutney, or dal (lentils). The dough for Siddu is prepared by mixing wheat flour with water, kneading it into a soft, thick dough, and then stuffing it with ingredients like sesame seeds, sugar, or dry fruits for added flavour.
Ingredients : wheat flour and dry fruits
2. Chana Madra
Chana Madra is a traditional Himachali dish, particularly popular in the Kullu Valley and other parts of Himachal Pradesh, including Keylong. It is a rich, creamy curry made with chickpeas (chana) and flavored with a variety of spices, yogurt, and sometimes a hint of coconut, giving it a distinctive taste that sets it apart from other Indian chickpea curries.
Ingredients : Chickpeas and yogurt
3. Dham
Dham is a traditional Himachali feast, often considered the pride of Himachali cuisine. It is a ceremonial dish usually prepared during festivals, weddings, and other special occasions. Dham is not just a meal but an integral part of Himachali hospitality and culture, representing a mix of flavors and textures that are both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients : chana dal, rice and yogurt
4. Thukpa
Thukpa is a hearty and flavorful noodle soup that originates from Tibet and is widely enjoyed in regions like Himachal Pradesh, especially in areas like Keylong and Manali, which have strong Tibetan influences. Thukpa is a popular comfort food, particularly in cold weather, as it is warm, filling, and packed with vegetables and spices. It’s perfect for travelers and locals alike who need a nourishing meal to keep them energized in the Himalayan regions.
Ingredients : Vegetables, noodles, meat(optional) and spices
5. Apple Cider
Apple Cider is a popular beverage made from freshly pressed apples, often associated with regions that have abundant apple orchards, like Himachal Pradesh, particularly in Kullu Valley and Spiti Valley. The region’s cool climate and fertile soil make it ideal for apple cultivation, and apple cider is a refreshing drink that’s often enjoyed during the apple harvest season.
Ingredients : fresh apple and sugar
