Himachal Pradesh • 4 monuments
Encircled by brown mountains and snow-dominated Himalayan peaks, the town of Keylong (also called Kyelang or Kyelong) bustles with unbound nature’s splendour. Keylong serves as the district headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti District. Located on the bank of River Bhaga and close to the interesting intersection of Chandra, Bhaga and Chenab Valleys, Keylong is well-known for its religious sites. Buddhist monasteries of Kardang, Tayul and Shasur and ancient gompas at Gondla are some of the noteworthy places. Palden Lhamo Dhar waterfall is another natural marvel located close to the town. The biggest attraction of the town is its annual Lahaul Festival in July, when some extremely entertaining cultural activities are organized. The local bazaars turn colourful and offer a number of exciting handicrafts and souvenirs. At the height of about 10,100 ft., green fields, stunning landscapes and willow tree plantations add to the region’s magnificence. Many scenic natural trails allow wonderful sightseeing of the place. A tribal museum in the bazaar is another notable tourist spot
One of the most difficult passes to access in the world, Baralacha Pass is located in the Greater Himalayas at a height of 16,500 ft. Apart from offering breathtaking views of mountains, valleys and rivers, the pass is geographically important for many reasons. Not only does it connect the Zanskar region of Himachal Pradesh with Ladakh region of Jammu & Kashmir, it is also the meeting point of crossroads to Lahaul, Spiti, Ladakh and Zanskar. The pass is also a natural division between Rivers Bhaga and Yunam. Rivers Chandra and Bhaga originate in the region and later join to form River Chandrabhaga. The pass is also the starting point of a number of popular treks, the most popular being the one leading to the very majestic Surya Taal (Sun Lake). Baralacha Pass is indeed a natural vista surrounded by breathtaking beauty. Warnings Altitude sickness is quite common. Make sure you carry the required medications.
One of the eye-pleasing attractions from 17th Century, Shashur Monastery is aneminent learning centre for Buddhists. The monastery get its name from the word Sha-shur, meaning “blue pines” in the local accent. Drawing pilgrims from all across the world, the monastery resembles most Buddhist monastery that has blurred room where oil lamps are burnt over the day. Situated on the top about 2 km. from Keylong, the monastery has a 5 mt. Thangka - a silk painting topped with eye-popping embroidery. The monastery has an attractive yellow roof and lovely Mani walls that has the sacred mantras of the Buddhists - ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’ meaning ‘The Jewel in the Heart of the Lotus’ engraved on it. Among the many highlighting features of the monastery are the impressive paintings exemplifying the history of 84 Buddha’s and a sculpture of Namgyal. Visitors to this place can also explore nearby attractions like Lha Opa Gompa, Ghemur Gompa,Pin Valley National Park, Lingti Valley, Baralacha Pass and many more.
Amidst sub-zero temperatures, Pin Valley National Park located in the valley formed by River Pin is no less than a paradise which remains covered with snow throughout the year. With respective core and buffer areas of 675 sq. km. and 1.150 sq.km., the park is home to the endangered species of snow leopard and Siberian ibex. Visitors to the park may also come across other animals of Himalayan origin, including Tibetan wolf, Tibetan gazelle, Himalayan brown fox, red fox, Himalayan marmot, Himalayan blue sheep, mouse hare, snow hare, weasels and others. Some very exotic Himalayan birds like Himalayan snowcock, snow partridge, choughs, Tibetan snow finch, kestrel, blue rock pigeon and golden eagle can also be spotted here. Vegetation is scant and the likes of alpines, cedars, and a variety of medicinal herbs can be best explored from July to August. The park is dotted with snow-clad peaks (with heights ranging from 11,500 ft. to 20,000 ft.) and many popular Buddhist monasteries like Dhankar Gompa and Kungri Monastery. Indian tourists need to obtain inner line permit, while foreigners are not allowed at the park due to its close proximity to the Indo-Tibetan border. Trekking is the best way to explore the park, but should be done in expert company.
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