Keylong is one of the hidden gems in Himachal Pradesh.
This serene town, nestled between the Lahaul and Spiti districts, offers the perfect escape from the bustling tourist hotspots of the state. While the dry, cold weather may not boast of lush greenery, the mist-covered, snow-capped mountains more than make up for it with their breathtaking beauty.
At an altitude of 3080 meters, Keylong is a small hamlet with a rich culture and a laid back, small-town vibe. It may just be a stop-over for many tourists traveling through the region, but those who stay a while will discover hidden monasteries, breathtaking walks, and an atmosphere that will soothe the soul.
Do note that Keylong is cut off from the outside world from November to mid-May due to heavy snowfall at the Rohtang Pass. The best time to visit is between May and October, but be prepared for the peak tourist season of May and June. You can reach Keylong by bus or by car in about 4 hours, but if you’re driving, make sure to choose a bigger car with more ground clearance as the mountain roads can be narrow.
Don’t forget to take a permit from the Tourist Development Council Manali before you embark on your journey. And keep in mind that the National Green Tribunal has restricted the entry of 800 petrol and 400 diesel vehicles to Rohtang Pass to conserve the environment, so you’ll need to pay INR 500 and an extra INR 50 for congestion charge and get an undertaking certificate from the SDM office in Manali. Do not drive 10 years older car here, you may not get the permit.
Oh, and avoid traveling to Keylong on Tuesdays as the BRO carries out maintenance work and vehicles are not allowed.
Now, let’s take a look at some must-visit sights in Keylong:
- Kardhang Monastery – located just 8 km from Keylong, this pristine place is a popular destination for Buddhists, monks, and travelers who come to pray and cleanse their souls. With spellbinding architecture and an ancient library with Buddhist texts and weapons from the 12th and 13th centuries, this is a not-to-miss spot.
- Barachaa La Pass – this pass with “crossroads on the summit” offers stunning mountain views and is the birthplace of three rivers – Chandra, Bhaga, and Yunam. It’s the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.
- Shashur Monastery – this 600-meter-high monastery peacefully sits atop a hill 3 km from Keylong and is adorned with beautiful paintings of the 84 Siddhas of Buddhism. The best time to visit is during the annual festival in June and July.
- Tayul Monastery – translated to “the chosen place,” this 6 km away monastery houses a grand library with thousands of ancient texts and a huge statue of Guru Padmasambhava.
- Suraj Tal – believed to be the lake of the Sun God, this 4960-meter-high lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains is considered pure and rejuvenating.
- Ancient Fort at Gondla – built in the 18th century and situated 18 km from Keylong, this eight-story fort boasts intricate architecture and is located near the Chandra River.
So pack your bags and head on over to Keylong for a truly unique and unforgettable experience!
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