Heavenly Heights-Keylong’s Himalayan Wonderland

Keylong

Keylong is the administrative center of the Lahaul and Spiti district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is a town located in the northern part of the state and serves as a gateway to the remote and beautiful Lahaul Valley. Keylong is situated at an altitude of around 3,080 meters above sea level. It lies along the Manali-Leh Highway and is surrounded by towering mountains. Due to its high altitude, Keylong Himachal Pradesh experiences a cold desert climate. Winters are extremely harsh with heavy snowfall, while summers are relatively mild. The region remains covered with snow during the winter months.

Keylong itself may not have many tourist attractions, but the surrounding areas offer stunning landscapes and cultural experiences. Nearby places of interest include the monasteries of Lahaul, the Suraj Tal (Lake of the Sun God), and the Baralacha La Pass. The Lahaul Valley, where Keylong is situated, is known for its unique culture that is a blend of Indian and Tibetan influences. The people of the region follow Tibetan Buddhism, and there are several ancient monasteries in the vicinity.

Keylong Weather

Keylong experiences a cold desert climate due to its high altitude. Here’s an overview of the typical weather conditions in Keylong Himachal pradesh –

Winter (November to March)

Winters in Keylong Himachal pradesh are extremely harsh with temperatures dropping well below freezing point. Heavy snowfall occurs during this period, and the region remains covered in snow. Roads may be closed or challenging to navigate due to snow accumulation, especially in the higher mountain passes.

Spring (April to June)

Spring marks the transition period with the melting of snow, leading to a gradual thaw. The temperatures begin to rise, and the landscape starts to turn green as the snow melts. Daytime temperatures can range from cool to moderately warm, but nights remain chilly.

Summer (June to September)

Summer is the most pleasant time to visit Keylong, with relatively milder temperatures. Daytime temperatures can range from cool to mild, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. It’s also the time when the region experiences occasional rainfall. The monsoon season, though not as intense as in other parts of India, can bring some precipitation.

Autumn (October to November)

Autumn is characterized by cool temperatures as winter approaches. The landscape may showcase vibrant autumn colors as the vegetation prepares for the colder months. Nights become colder, and snowfall can start in higher reaches.

Given the extreme cold and heavy snowfall during winter, travel to the place during this period can be challenging. The best time to visit for more favorable weather conditions is during the summer months (June to September).

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Places to visit in Keylong 

The Place, though a small town, serves as a gateway to the beautiful Lahaul Valley in Himachal Pradesh. While the town itself may not have many tourist attractions, the surrounding areas offer stunning landscapes, monasteries, and cultural experiences. Here are some places to visit in and around Keylong-

Kardang Monastery

Located about 8 kilometers from Keylong, Kardang Monastery is one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in the Lahaul Valley. The monastery offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Shasur Monastery

Situated near Keylong, Shasur Monastery is another important religious site in Lahaul. It is known for its beautiful frescoes and ancient artifacts.

Tandi

Tandi is a small village near Keylong, located at the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers. It is known for its scenic beauty and is often a stopover for travelers on the Manali-Leh Highway.

Suraj Tal (Lake of the Sun God)

Suraj Tal is a high-altitude lake located on the way to Baralacha La Pass. It is one of the highest lakes in India and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Baralacha La Pass

Baralacha La is a high mountain pass connecting Lahaul and Ladakh. It is known for its challenging terrain and is a popular stop for travelers on the Manali-Leh Highway.

Gondla

Gondla is a picturesque village near Keylong with traditional Himachali architecture. The village offers a glimpse into the local way of life.

Darcha

Darcha is a small settlement on the Manali-Leh Highway and is known for its mesmerizing landscapes. It’s often a base for trekking expeditions.

Things to do in Keylong

Keylong, being a small town in the Lahaul Valley of Himachal Pradesh, offers a serene and picturesque environment. While it may not have a multitude of tourist attractions, the surrounding areas and the unique cultural setting provide various activities for visitors.

Explore Monasteries

Visit the ancient monasteries in and around Keylong, such as Kardang Monastery and Shasur Monastery. Explore the religious and cultural aspects of these Himalayan monastic institutions.

Scenic Drives

Enjoy breathtaking views and scenic drives around Keylong. The Manali-Leh Highway passing through Keylong offers stunning landscapes. Be sure to stop at viewpoints to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding mountains.

Trekking and Hiking

Engage in trekking and hiking activities. The surrounding mountains and valleys provide opportunities for both novice and experienced trekkers. Popular trekking routes include the Kardang Monastery trek and the trek to Baralacha La.

Visit Suraj Tal

Travel to Suraj Tal, the “Lake of the Sun God.” Located on the way to Baralacha La Pass, this high-altitude lake offers a serene and picturesque setting.

Baralacha La Pass Exploration

Explore Baralacha La Pass, a high mountain pass on the Manali-Leh Highway. The pass offers challenging terrain and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Attend Local Festivals

If your visit coincides with local festivals, take the opportunity to participate and witness traditional dance, music, and cultural performances. The festivals often reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.

River Rafting

If you are an adventure enthusiast, consider river rafting in the Bhaga River. The region offers opportunities for white-water rafting during the suitable season. The clear mountain skies make Keylong an excellent place for star gazing. On clear nights, you can witness a stunning display of stars and constellations.

How to reach Keylong

Keylong does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport) near Kullu, which is approximately 190 kilometers away from This place. From the airport, travelers can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Keylong. Regular bus services operate between Manali and Keylong. The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) and private operators offer bus services on the Manali-Keylong route.

From Leh

Keylong is also accessible from Leh in Ladakh, making it a part of the Manali-Leh Highway. The journey from Leh to Keylong covers a considerable distance, passing through high-altitude mountain passes like Baralacha La. This route is usually open from late spring to early autumn, depending on weather conditions.

Manali to Keylong distance

The distance between Manali and Keylong is approximately 115 to 120 kilometers when traveling by road. The journey typically takes around 4 to 6 hours, depending on the mode of transportation, road conditions, and traffic. The route between Manali and Keylong includes mountainous terrain and passes through scenic landscapes along the Manali-Leh Highway.

The road journey offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains, including high mountain passes like Rohtang Pass. The route is known for its challenging yet stunning landscapes. Travelers often take this route to reach Leh in Ladakh, making Keylong a common stopover.