Kaza

Kaza is the main town of the high-altitude Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh. At about 3,800 m above sea level, it feels like a different world, everywhere you look, you witness tall brown mountains, old monasteries and small villages with prayer flags. Life moves slowly here, and the air is cool and clean. Because of its location, Kaza has a great combo experience of adventure and calm: you can trek to remote spots, meet friendly locals, or simply watch the Milky Way at night.

All Spiti Valley tour packages include Kaza as it’s the centre for hotels, cafes, shops and local transport. The town’s history goes back to the old trade route between Tibet and India, so you’ll still find Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient temples and even fossils nearby. Kaza is unique for travellers because it’s still not crowded like Leh or Manali. You get raw scenery, authentic village life and peaceful monasteries in one trip.

Best Time to Visit in Kaza:

The best time to visit destination Kaza is from May to October. In these months, the high mountain passes open, buses and jeeps run regularly, and the weather is pleasant. June to August is greener and warmer, while September and early October give clear skies and golden light. Winters here (November to April) are very cold with heavy snow; many roads close, and only locals stay back. Unless you’re an experienced winter traveller, summer to early autumn is the easiest and safest season to explore.

How to Reach Kaza:

Because Kaza is deep inside the mountains, reaching it is a whole other experience in itself.

1. By Air: There is no airport in Kaza. The nearest ones are at Bhuntar (near Kullu–Manali) and Shimla. You can also fly to Chandigarh or Delhi and then continue by road.
2. By Rail: There is no railway station in Spiti. The closest big stations are Chandigarh, Shimla or Ambala. From there, you have to take a bus, shared jeep or taxi.
3. By Road: This is the most common and the best way, and part of the fun of the Kaza tourism experience. From the Manali side, you cross the Atal Tunnel and Rohtang/Kunzum Pass (open only in summer). From the Shimla side, the road stays open longer, but is longer. Roads are rough and slow but extremely scenic, so plan extra time and check road updates before travelling.

Places to Visit in Kaza:

Here are 5 major places to visit in destination Kaza and nearby:

1. Key Monastery: An iconic hill-top gompa with old murals, a big prayer hall and sweeping valley views.
2. Komic Village: One of the world’s highest villages connected by road. Meet locals, visit the small monastery and enjoy fresh mountain air.
3. Hikkim & Langza: Post a letter from the highest post office at Hikkim, then see the giant Buddha and fossils in Langza.
4. Kunzum Pass: A High pass linking Lahaul and Spiti with snow peaks and colourful prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
5. Chandratal Lake: “Moon Lake” with blue water and surrounding peaks; camping here under the stars is magical.