Lahaul is one of the most unexplored tourist destinations in Himachal. It is often used as a pass through by Bikers to Leh / Ladakh.
My 2nd solo trip; the last time I had visited Spiti valley but formed a group, this time however, I was completely on my own. I wanted to visit Suraj Tal and Deepak Tal and fortunately, I did get an opportunity to visit this time.
My love for the Himalayas, just keeps increasing with every trip.
About Lahaul: The word 'Lahaul' is derived from the Tibetan word Lho-yul meaning 'country in the south'. Another meaning Lhahi-yul stands for 'country of the gods.
Although it lies in Lahaul and Spiti district, the views are contrasting than that of Spiti valley. Personally, I found Lahaul more beautiful and greener rather, however Spiti has it own charm.
Manali --> Keylong --> Shinku La
Manali to Keylong: Via Atal Tunnel. HRTC Bus 7:30 AM. Fare: Rs. 156 Only. Distance: 3 hours.
Boarded HRTC bus from Mall Road, Manali around 7:30 AM to Keylong. The bus left from Manali at 8:15 AM and reached Keylong at 11 AM.
Hotel Rajgundha: Incase of bookings please contact Karan Mobile No: 9459248600.
The Hotel right on the road and Keylong bus stand is just 1-1.5 kms away.
For Cab bookings and Local Trips in Lahaul Contact Praveen @ 8626869932 . I had pre-booked a Cab for 2 Days in Lahaul. It was a great experience.
Keylong: Set at an altitude of 3080 meters, Keylong is the perfect blend of the green and brown landscape. It is amazing to see the two different sides of nature at the same time.
The Hotel is located in Keylong town with superb views surrounded by a number of good Dhabas and Restaurants. One can experience Thukpas; Momos, Local Rajmah Chawal, etc.
Shinkula was the highlight of my trip. This location was not even on my mind until the last week of travelling to Himachal. I would like to thank my Wife for getting this location added to my itinerary.
About Shinkula
Located above 16,500 ft above sea level, Shinkula connects the Lahaul region of Himachal Pradesh with the Zanskar region of Ladakh.
To my surprise the road leading to Shinkula is quite good; and took me around 2-3 hours to reach Shinkula from Keylong. Kudos to BRO's tremendous efforts in making these roads accessible.
Experience: As Shinkula is 16500 ft above Sea Level, advise is to carry sufficient water and need to keep sipping during the journey to avoid acclimatization issues. I had added 3 raw garlic in the water; it improves the functioning of the respiratory system.
In terms of Height this is the Highest pass I've visited; the 2nd highest was Hikkim 14,400 Ft.
I would describe Shinkula as 'Majestic'; limited Tourists makes this place more serene. I was absolutely thrilled with the views. Visiting Shinkula was the highlight of my Lahaul solo trip.
Keylong--> Suraj Tal --> Deepak Tal
About Suraj Tal : Also called Tso Kamtsi or Surya Tal; is an 800 m (2,600 ft) long lake that lying just below the 4,890 m (16,040 ft) high Bara-lacha-la pass in Lahaul and Spiti district. It is the third-highest lake in India and the 21st-highest in the world.
Experience: Suraj Tal is just 2-3 km from Baralacha la. We were supposed to cover Baralacha Pass but then; our car was stopped due to land slides on the way leading to Baralacha Pass and we decided to stop at Suraj Tal.
I was quite impressed with the breathtaking views of snow clad mountain and the beautiful Suraj Tal. The lake was partially frozen.
It is exactly the location that the roads leading to Spiti, Ladakh and Zanskar meet.
While returning from Suraj Tal to Keylong Deepak Tal falls on the way.
It is a small body of water but is very scenically located and acts as a stopover for people traveling from Manali to Leh or vice versa.
The water was crystal clear. I enjoyed my time at Deepak Tal by trekking down to the lake.
Keylong --> Manali
On the 3rd day I boarded a bus from Keylong @ 9:30 AM for Manali.
Overall my travel experience in Lahaul was superb. The best time to visit Lahaul is around May - June and then around end of August - September.
The local people are very welcoming and helpful. I hope I travel again to this wonderful place.
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