Nako Monastery is built during the 11th Century Monastery in the Indo Tiber border in Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh.
This secluded village, 360 m above sea level in the Himalayan range, is a must-visit for those looking to experience the true essence of the Himalayan and Tibetan cultures. The famous Nako Monastery, dated back to 1025, is a popular tourist attraction and a true gem of the village.
Comprising of four large and spacious halls, the oldest of which is known as Dukhong, the Nako Monastery is a feast for the eyes. The walls of the Dukhong are adorned with the complete mandala decorations, and the smaller hall on the eastern side is also painted with mandalas on its roof and walls.
The complex also houses a shrine dedicated to Purgyal, the local deity known as the ‘spirit of the mountain,’ and the clay sculptures of the five Dhyani Buddhas are a sight to behold in the main hall.
Nako Village can be explored on foot and acts as a halting stop for tourists heading to the famous Nalling Mullah. Due to its proximity to the Tibetan border, visitors need to have an Inner Line permit to visit the village. However, the small extent of the village and its untouched natural beauty make it worth the hassle. The mind-soothing calmness of the village under a sky full of sparkling stars is a life-changing experience.
Apart from the Nako Monastery, there are several other hidden gems in the village that are worth visiting.
Chitkul, the last location beyond which tourists cannot go without a permit, is a snow-covered village situated at the banks of the Baspa River, making it a favorite among young travelers.
Chango Gompa, a few kilometers from Nako, is famous for its 500-year-old prayer wheel made of yak skin, and Kinnaur Kailash, the mountain of Lord Shiva, boasts a breathtaking landscape and natural beauty.
Sarhan, known as the “Gateway to Kinnaur,” serves as a base for several treks in the Himalayas and is famous for the centrally located temple of Bimkali and Devi Kali, with a mesmerizing view of the peak of Mount Shrikhand.
Remember, Nako is a restricted area and all international tourists need to get a permit to visit. You can either get a permit from Reckong Peo worth INR50 or from Shimla and Kaza for free. The months from April to October are the most favorable for visiting the Nako Village. So, pack your bags, grab your Inner Line permit, and head on a journey to discover the hidden gems of Nako village in the magnificent Himalayas. Happy travels!”
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