Nako
Nako is a beautiful remote place located in the breathtakingly beautiful Himalayan ranges of Himachal Pradesh in Kinnaur district. It is located at a height of 3662 meters above sea level, which offers splendid views of the surrounding landscape.
What’s more fascinating is that it is located near the banks of the charming Nako Lake which reflects the surrounding snow-covered mountain ranges. The Nako Lake is considered to be sacred; it is often visited by the locals to gain spiritual experience and adds a magical charisma to the place. Locals and tourists visit this lake to enjoy a walk around the lake and motivating their senses.
Nako is also popular for its ancient monasteries, which offers a historical and spiritual experience to the tourists. One of the popular monasteries in Nako is the Nako Monastery which is one of the oldest monasteries in India; it was built in the 11th century. The architectural design of the monastery comprises of Tibetan Buddhism architectural style and has many important ancient scriptures, paintings, manuscripts and statues of Buddhist Gods. The Nako Monastery complex also has a collection of stupas and adds to spiritual significance and allure of the place. Also, there is a rock near the monastery which is believed to have imprinted the footprints of Guru Padmasambhava. Many pilgrims and visitors visit this place to have a glimpse of the footprint.
Tourists will be able to visit the Nako village, interact with the local villagers, know about their lifestyle, agriculture, culture and traditions. When visiting the village you will be able to get a glimpse of the traditional Himachali houses made of stone and wood. The houses are built in such a way that it is able to withstand the cold harsh climatic conditions of the region.
Adventure lovers can engage in activities like trekking to high-altitude regions like Reo Purgyil which is in fact the highest peak in the state in Himachal Pradesh. Nako village is also the gateway to explore the Spiti Valley which is filled with natural wonders and spiritual places to visit.
Since Nako is located in the extreme part of Himachal Pradesh it is less crowded and an offbeat tourist destination. Whether you are seeking for spiritual or cultural experience or want to have a relaxing and adventurous experience Nako provides one of the best inspirational experiences.
Best time to visi Nako
To visit Nako the best time is considered to be from April to June during the autumn season i.e. from September to October. During this time-period the temperature is pleasant and the weather is favorable to explore the region. Avoid visiting during the monsoon due to heavy rainfall and during the winter season due to heavy snowfall. Also, the roads might be inaccessible during this time period.
How to reach Nako?
By Air
If travelers are planning to come by flight, they have to take a flight from Delhi or Chandigarh to Shimla. From Shimla take a bus or taxi to Nako.
By Train
If you are planning to come by train, you have to take a train from Kalka to Shimla though the epic Kalka-Shimla Toy Train Route. From Shimla continue to Nako by taking a local bus or taxi.
By Road
If travelers are planning to come by bus, they have to take a flight from Delhi or Chandigarh to Shimla. From Shimla you have to move forward towards your destination by takeing a bus or taxi to Nako which will take around 8-10 hours to reach, as it is 220 km away.
Best places to visit in Nako
Nako village is the main tourist destination of this region. The village comprises of traditional houses with flat roofs and is made of stone and mud. These houses are built in such a way that it protects from the cold climatic waves of the region.
Nako Monastery is an important spiritual center for the Tibetan Buddhist; it was built during the 11th century. It is in fact one of the oldest monastery in Himachal Pradesh. The monastery houses collection of ancient Tibetan paintings, sculptures, statues of Buddhist Gods.
Guru Padmasambhava’s Sacred Footprints is located near Nako Monastery. Guru Padmasambhava was an important respected figure in Tibetan Buddhism. Footprints of Guru Padmasambhava can be found on a rock and is an important spiritual site for the locals.
The Nako village is beautifully surrounded by stupas, providing an important spiritual significance of the region. The stupas are decorated with complex Tibetan carving and prayer flags. These stupas add to the spiritual significance of the region.
Things to do in Nako
Since Nako is an enchanting region that is blessed with charming landscape, valleys, rugged mountain ranges, rocky terrain and snow covered surrounding peaks, and rich culture and heritage, which make it a wonderful place to enjoy many activities. Here is a list of the best things to do in Nako:
Since Nako comprises of high mountain ranges, valleys, rocky terrain, rugged mountain ranges and scenic landscape, tourists can engage in trekking and hiking in Nako. One of the popular places for trekking and hiking in Nako.
Those who love sleeping in the open under the starry sky, opt for camping in Nako. Tourists should opt for camping through camping tour operators as they provide an all-inclusive experience.
If you want to explore the villages of Nako, visit Chango and Sumdo which are situated near Nako. Chango and Sumdo villages offer a unique experience as you will be able to know about the culture and tradition of the region.
Fishing is another relaxing and exciting activity in Nako. One of the famous place for fishing is Nako Lake, however most fishing activity organized in Nako Lake, the fishes caught are returned to Lake as the lake is considered to be sacred.
Those who want to enjoy some thrilling activities they should opt for mountain biking in Nako. Mountain biking through Nako is challenging as the region comprises of rugged terrain, steep slopes, and rocky hills.