NAKO, District: Kinnaur, H.P.

Location : The River Sutlej enters into the Indian Territory through Ship-Ki La flowing westward from Tibetan plateau (west of Manas Sarobar). Here, the River is a very narrow stream flowing through the large boulders at a high speed. It meets with the Spiti River (coming from the North-West side) at Khab near Nako. The combined discharge becomes massive and flows with full strength southward towards Karcham in Kinnaur District. Khab is 75 KM from Recong Peo. After passing 25 KM along the NH 22 by the side of Spiti River turn right and move up another 7.5 KM steep road gaining altitude suddenly to reach Nako, the biggest village of Hangrang Valley.

General description : It is a very small village at an altitude of 3650 M. The Nako Lake is a part of the boundary of Nako village and seems that the village is half buried in the lake's border. It is about 3,662 metres (12,010 ft) above sea level. The lake is surrounded by willow and poplar trees. The constructions of the houses are so typical that it needs a very close observation. The entire village is covered with deep snow including the frozen lake. The inhabitants have developed an indigenous method to survive in such a cold climate. The landscape around the lake is charming. Near the lake there are four Buddhist temples. Near this place there is a footlike impression ascribed to the saint Padmasambhava. A few miles away there is a village called Tashigang where it is believe that Guru Padmasambhava meditated and gave discourse to the followers. There is a waterfall nearby which has snow water falling like a river of milk. Legend says that it is a heavenly realm of fairies.In one of the cave you can still able to see the live footprints of these fairies or other demigods. It is a sacred place for the people of these valley. Followers come from as far a place as Ladhak and spiti valley

Safety : Safe. Roads : Motorable mountain road. Delay may occur for road blockage due to land slide. Road traffic: Careful and slow driving in hill roads suggested. Medical support: No; Fuel Pumps: No, Nearest at Recong Peo and Powari; Car repairing: No; Market & Shopping Centre: No; Tourist Information Centre: No;Railway & Air Ticket: No; Hotels & Restaurants: A few; Sports & Game Centers: No. Cellular service: No; Car rental: No.

Places of interest : Minimum days of stay: One. The Mountain View on the way to Nako from Kalpa/ Recong Peo is breathtaking. Suddenly the trees have been vanished from the mountain range and colorful raw rock surfaces have been exposed. No one can think of this beauty unless the place is visited particularly in the noon with bright sunshine. The scenic beauty is of different type and breathtaking view of the surroundings mesmerizes the visitors. There are four Buddhist temples with murals and stucco images on the northern side of the lake. The ancient monastery at Nako can also be visited. There are footprints of the Guru Padmasambhava on the mountain.

Transport : Bus service is available from Recong Peo.

Special mention: Excellent himalayan photographic area.

Accommodation facilities:

The advance booking can be made directly or through www.arraytours.com. Please call +91 9433001192, (Phone) +91 33 24427635. The above data are indicative as provided by the respective hotel or collected from various sources. The author is not responsible for any difference with the actual.

Last Updated on Thursday, 30 September 2010 00:47