LAHAUL & SPITI - The Cold Desert

Spiti is the sub division of Lahaul and follow the same religion. Hence both these valleys are having some important and known Monasteries. Like temples here too the villagers have small gompas in almost every village. The people are charming, friendly and hospitable with their The two twin valleys Lahaul & Spiti in the north eastern corner of Himachal, protected by distance, is a region of nature at its wildest which has lent it much enchantment. The threshold of the Lahaul plateau is nourished by Chandra & Bhaga rivers.

Dry and very cold, it is surrounded by high mountain on all sides, the great Himalayan in the north ,the Pir Panjal to the south and the Spiti – Chandra watershed to the east. From Lahaul, the Himalayas can be seen in all their mighty splendour. The barren landscape and sparse vegetation lends a magnificent charm to this otherwise bleak country. With their slant Mongol eyes, prominent cheek bones and cheerful smiles, the people give visitors an enthusiastic welcome Rahul was the son of Buddha and the name Lahaul is derived from lahaul.

The district Headquarters, Keylong is situated at the height of 3440 meters and in the heart of Lahaul, on the Manali Leh road. It is located above Bhaga river, the district headquarters of Lahaul & Spiti has been described as oasis of green field. It is the only place in Lahaul which has a regular bazaar. This is the most populated and busy village having more than 250 houses with a population of around 1800.

The Khardong Monastery is 4 km from here contains barrel like prayer drums, paintings, ancient weapons, musical instruments and life size statue of lord Buddha. There are three Monasteries in the radius of few kilometers. Tayul, Khardong and Shashur.Keylong is the headquarter of the Lahaul sub-district. It is located in the fertile valley of Bhaga.