4 Best Places to Visit in Nako: Updated 2025

Places to Visit in Nako, Himachal Pradesh​

1. Nako Lake
2. Nako Monastery
3. Nako Gompa
4. Lipa- Asrang Sanctuary

There are several beautiful places to visit in Nako- a lush, green, beautiful village located in Himachal Pradesh, in Northern India. Because of its scenic beauty and adventurous route, Nako has become a popular tourist attraction and there are many natural and historical places you can visit here. Places like the Nako Lake are known for their incredible atmosphere, clean air, and natural beauty that is ideal for photography. Explore Nako and other magnificent places in the region with a Spiti Valley tour package, providing a smooth and memorable travel through Himachal Pradesh's breathtaking scenery.

You can also visit many historical stupas, monasteries, gompas, and sanctuaries - all of which are some great places you can visit when you are in Nako. Some of the most ancient monuments are the Nako Monastery and the Nako Gompa which are also very scenic, apart from being historically significant. The Lipa-Asrang Sanctuary is a peaceful haven for exotic animals that you can spot when you take a safari through the park. There are many picturesque places you can visit when you are in Nako to make your trip exciting, memorable, and unique.
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Spiti Road Trip Packages Explore All (8)
01

Nako Lake

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Situated at an elevation of 3,636 metres, the Nako Lake is the main tourist attraction in the valley. The dense willow trees and the poplar trees bordering the shores enhance the natural beauty of the Nako Lake. The lake itself is well within the ranges of Nako village, on the mountainous slopes of Reo Purgyil of the Srikhand Range. One of the most fascinating features of the lake is the many migratory birds who come to the lake during migration season.

The lake is famous for the beautiful bird sounds you can hear which makes it a perfect stop for anyone on a Spiti bike tour. As you ride through the stunning Spiti Valley, the peaceful lake and the soothing bird calls create a magical experience. During winter in Spiti, the surface of the lake freezes over, which makes it the perfect place to enjoy ice-skating. Another attractive feature of Nako Lake is the many urban legends attached to it. Locals worship the lake as an ethereal body, while a nearby waterfall where the water is white because of its foamy texture, is believed to be the home of the fairies. There are many caves, temples and valleys nearby that you can explore when you are at Nako Lake. 


Altitude:
  • 3,662 meters (12,014 feet) above sea level
Significance:
  • A serene high-altitude lake in the Spiti Valley region
  • Known for its tranquil beauty and reflection of the surrounding snow-capped mountains
  • Sacred to the locals and an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists
Best Time to Visit:
  • May to October (best time for pleasant weather and clear views)
  • The lake remains frozen during winter (November to April), making it less accessible
Distance of Nako Lake from various cities:
  • Distance from Spiti: 116.9 km
  • Distance from Shimla: 312.7 km
  • Distance from Manali: 313.1 km
Read More: Manali to Spiti Valley Guide
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02

Nako Monastery

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Nako Monastery is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Spiti Valley. The monastery was built in 1025 AD, making it one of the oldest standing structures in the region. It is a restoration centre and museum for ancient Buddhist paintings and murals.  

The monastery consists of four temples built on the same compound, where the exterior of the temples showcases exquisite Victorian architectural styles while the interiors are comparatively simpler. While there is no entry fee, the authorities at the monastery do accept donations from visitors and pilgrims.

Altitude: 

  • 3,662 meters (12,014 feet) above sea level
Significance:
  • One of the oldest monasteries in the region
  • A center for the preservation of ancient Buddhist murals and scriptures
  • Follows the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism

Architecture:

  • Consists of four temples in the same compound
  • Exterior features Victorian architectural influences
  • Interiors house murals, thangkas, and sculptures of Buddhist deities

Entry Fee:

  • No entry fee
  • Donations are accepted for monastery maintenance

Timings: 

  • Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (timings may vary on special occasions)

Best Time to Visit:

  • May to October (pleasant weather and accessible roads)
  • Winters can be harsh due to heavy snowfall & dropping temprature of Spiti.

Distance of Nako Lake from various cities:

  • Distance from Spiti: 117.7 km
  • Distance from Shimla: 311.6 km
  • Distance from Manali: 313.9 km
Read More: Delhi to Spiti Valley Travel Guide
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03

Nako Gompa

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Situated on the western side of the village of Nako, this gompa is a combination of ancient 11th-century architecture and modern construction designs. The Nako Gompa is located in a relatively secluded area from where you can see vast, uninterrupted expanses of the Himalayan mountain range. It is the perfect place to plan a road trip, and to take some memorable photographs of the surrounding natural beauty, making it one of the top things to do in Spiti..

The interiors of the gompa are decorated with dance masks from different hill festivals. There are also sculptures and murals that are similar to the sculptures found in the famous Tabo Gompa, a well-known monastery in Spiti. According to popular beliefs, this is one of the 100 gompas established by the “Great Translator” - Rinchen Zangpo. There is no entry fee to visit the Gompa, other than the general permit you need to enter the Nako area.

Altitude:
  • 3,662 meters (12,014 feet) above sea level
Significance:
  • One of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the region
  • Associated with Guru Padmasambhava, who is believed to have meditated here
  • A center for Tibetan Buddhist teachings, murals, and scriptures
Architecture:
  • Follows traditional Tibetan-style architecture
  • Features four temples, each with unique frescoes and sculptures
  • Houses ancient thangkas, prayer wheels, and Buddhist relics
Entry Fee:
  • No entry fee
  • Donations are accepted for monastery upkeep
Best Time to Visit:
  • May to October (best for pleasant weather and accessible roads)
  • Winters can be extremely cold with heavy snowfall
Distance of Nako Gompa from various cities:
    • Distance from Spiti: 117.6 km
    • Distance from Shimla: 310.3 km
    • Distance from Manali: 314.5 km
    Read More: Travel Guide for Shimla to Spiti Valley
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    04

    Lipa- Asrang Sanctuary

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    The Lipa-Asrang Sanctuary is amongst the most popular places to visit in Nako on Thrilllophilia's Spiti group tourSituated in the district of Kinnaur at an elevation of 5,000 metres above sea level and spread over a vast area of 30.89 square kilometres, this sanctuary is a sought-after destination for nature lovers. The flora of the sanctuary consists of dry Alpine scrub, western Himalayan temperate forest land, dry broad leaves, coniferous forests, dwarf juniper shrubs, and many more exotic blooms.

    If you are lucky, you may also spot some of the exotic animals that have made this area their home. Animals such as the brown bear, blue sheep, yaks, gorals, ibex, leopards, the Himalayan black bear, musk deer and other beautiful animals can often be seen in the area. The best time to visit the Sanctuary is between April to October when the weather is dry and pleasant and not too cold. This is the time when the trees are in full bloom and the animals are not yet in hibernation. To enter the sanctuary, however, special permissions are required, even though there is no entry fees.

    Altitude:

    • Ranges between 2,500 meters to 5,022 meters above sea level

    Total Area:

    • 30.89 sq. km

    Best Time to Visit:

    • May to October (ideal for wildlife spotting and trekking)
    • Winters (November to April) experience heavy snowfall, making access difficult

    Flora & Fauna To See:

    • Flora: Alpine forests, coniferous trees, juniper, and high-altitude grasslands
    • Fauna: Himalayan Black Bear, Snow Leopard, Blue Sheep, Musk Deer, Red Fox, Monal Pheasant, Snow Partridge, Himalayan Griffon

    Activities:

    • Wildlife spotting and photography
    • Trekking and nature walks
    Distance of Lipa- Asrang Sanctuary from various cities:
        • Distance from Spiti: 175.2 km
        • Distance from Shimla: 251.4 km
        • Distance from Manali: 323.6 km
        Read More: Travel Guide For Chandigarh to Spiti valley Tour
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        People Also Ask About Spiti Valley

        1. What is Nako famous for?

          Nako is famous for its serene beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness. Located in the Spiti Valley, it is known for the Nako Lake, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and serves as a peaceful retreat. The village is also home to the ancient Nako Monastery, featuring intricate Buddhist murals and sculptures. Nako's picturesque landscape, with its apple orchards and traditional architecture, makes it a hidden gem for travelers. Additionally, its proximity to trekking routes and wildlife sanctuaries adds to its appeal, making it a must-visit destination in Himachal Pradesh.
        2. What is the history of Nako village?

          1. Nako dates back over a thousand years and was an important stop on the ancient Silk Route, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between India, Tibet, and Central Asia.
          2. The village’s strategic location in the Spiti Valley made it a vital stop for traders and pilgrims traveling between the two regions.
          3. Rinchen Zangpo, the “Great Translator,” is believed to have established the Nako Monastery and other religious sites in the area.
          4. The Nako Monastery, built in the 11th century, is one of the oldest in the region and features Buddhist murals, sculptures, and artifacts.
          5. Nako’s history is closely tied to Tibetan Buddhism, with the village serving as a center for both religious practice and cultural exchange.
        3. How is the flight connectivity to Spiti? Do Thrillophilia travel packages include flights?

          Nako, a picturesque village in the Spiti Valley, is accessible via connecting flights from major cities in India. Although Nako itself doesn’t have an airport, the nearest airports are Bhuntar Airport (Kullu) and Shimla Airport, both about 250-300 km away. Travelers can fly into these airports and proceed by road to Nako, making it an ideal destination for a scenic road trip.

          Connecting Flights:
          • Bangalore to Nako: Travelers from Bangalore can book connecting flights via Delhi or Chandigarh. Airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara offer direct flights from Bangalore to Delhi. From Delhi, travelers can take a connecting flight to Kullu with Air India or Vistara, or opt for a road journey to Spiti.
          • Mumbai to Nako: For those traveling from Mumbai, connecting flights through Delhi or Chandigarh are available. Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara operate direct flights from Mumbai to Delhi. From Delhi, travelers can take a flight to Kullu or Shimla with Air India or drive to Spiti.
          • Chennai to Nako: Travelers from Chennai can fly to Delhi or Chandigarh with airlines like IndiGo or Air India, and then connect to a flight for Kullu or Shimla via Air India. Alternatively, travelers can take a road trip to Spiti from these airports.
          • Kolkata to Nako: Connecting flights via Delhi or Chandigarh are the best way for travelers from Kolkata to reach Spiti, with further road access from Kullu or Shimla. Airlines like IndiGo and Air India provide direct flights from Kolkata to Delhi. From Delhi, connecting flights to Kullu or Shimla are available with Air India.
          Spiti Valley Packages Including Flights:
          For a more convenient travel experience, Thrillophilia offers Spiti Valley packages from various cities, including flight arrangements and other travel services:
          These packages provide a seamless travel experience, ensuring that travelers can focus on exploring the stunning landscapes and culture of Spiti without worrying about individual bookings.
        4. What is the elevation of Nako in ft?

          Nako is situated at an elevation of approximately 12,140 feet (3,700 meters) above sea level, making it one of the higher villages in the Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh.
        5. Which are the best hotels in Nako?

          Here is the list of some best hotels in Nako:
          1. Reo Purguil
          2. NotOnMap - Tashi's home
          3. Lovon hotel
          4. RIKPA homestay
          5. lake view hotel
          6. Himalayan paradise hotel
          7. Hotel norbuling
          8. Knaygoh Kinner Camps
        6. How to create an 7-day itinerary for Spiti Valley?

          Here’s a 7 days itinerary for Spiti Valley:

          Day 1: Arrival in Manali
          • Arrive in Manali, explore the town, and relax to prepare for your upcoming journey.
          Day 2: Manali to Kaza
          • Drive from Manali to Kaza, passing through Rohtang Pass and Kunzum La Pass. This scenic journey takes about 10-12 hours. Check into your accommodation in Kaza and relax.
          Day 3: Kaza to Tabo
          • Visit Tabo Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the region, and explore its ancient murals and sculptures. Afterward, return to Kaza for an overnight stay.
          Day 4: Kaza to Kibber and Chandratal Lake
          • Explore Kibber, one of the highest inhabited villages in the world, and visit Kibber Monastery. Continue to Chandratal Lake for an overnight camping experience by the serene lake.
          Day 5: Chandratal to Nako
          • Drive to Nako, famous for the scenic Nako Lake and the peaceful Nako Monastery. Spend the day relaxing and exploring the village before staying overnight in Nako.
          Day 6: Nako to Kaza via Dhankar
          • Head back to Kaza, making a stop at Dhankar Monastery, which offers stunning views of the Spiti Valley. Continue your journey and stay overnight in Kaza.
          Day 7: Kaza to Manali
          • On your final day, drive back to Manali, completing your 7 days itinerary for Spiti Valley. This will be a long drive, so plan for a comfortable journey back.
        Newly Added Spiti Valley Experience

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        18 June 2019
        Excellent
        I went to Spiti Valley with my family from Chandigarh and we booked our trip from Thrillophilia. The place is so beautiful, the view is so captivating. the trip was really wonderful we had a very nice ti me on the trip. Thanks, Thrillophilia for the great experience!!!
        15 October 2019
        Excellent
        We went to Spiti from Shimla. We booked the trip from Thrillophilia and must say they have arranged everything so nicely, the stays, meals everything was so nice. We had an amazing time on the entire trip.
        27 September 2019
        Excellent
        The Spiti Valley trip from Delhi was so amazing, The entire trip was so nicely planned, the meals and stays everything was so good. we had a great time on the trip. The place is so beautiful.
        22 October 2019
        Excellent
        we went to Spiti valley from Delhi and it was one of the best trips ever, The beautiful hills and mountains are so alluring, Key Monastery, Lhalung Monastery, Dhankar Lake, Pin Valley National Park, and Kunzum Pass all are so beautiful. We had an amazing time at the trip. Thanks Thrillophilia for the wonderful experience!!!
        04 November 2019
        Excellent
        Spiti Valley is so beautiful and mesmerizing. The trip to Spiti valley was an amazing experience, I booked the trip from Thrillophilia and they have arranged things so well. The guide provided to us with the tour was so helpful. We had a very good time on the entire trip
        10 July 2019
        Chapala Pothuvaal Spiti Valley Bike Trip
        Excellent
        Thrillophilia just arranged the best trip of my life! The guide was excellent, the bikes were in good condition and so were the other arrangements! The whole trip was so well arranged that we saw the best of Spiti.
        18 May 2019
        Excellent
        I opt for solo bike trips regularly, but this is the best experience- bike in perfect condition, itinerary well planned, and the best support team to help out whenever necessary!
        18 May 2019
        Aanandaswarup Pothuvaal Manali to Spiti Valley Bike Trip
        Excellent
        I opt for solo bike trips regularly, but this is the best experience- bike in perfect condition, itinerary well planned, and the best support team to help out whenever necessary!
        03 July 2019
        Vidur Namboothiri Spiti Valley Bike Trip
        Excellent
        It was a great trip for me. However, there were some pros and cons. Pros: • The bikes were in good condition, and there were regular breaks for riders. • The trip guide was excellent and very clear with instructions. • They selected excellent viewpoints and regular stops. All the pre-decided places were duly shown to us. Cons • The food could have been improved • The internet connectivity throughout was very poor.
        06 August 2019
        Akshaj Dwivedi Spiti Valley Bike Trip
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        An unforgettable trip for my friends and me- Thrillophilia arranged it in the best way possible! The trip could not have been better executed! Our operator was the best- he gave us the whole itinerary minute by minute in Chandigarh on the first day and was there for every issue we had!

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