Nako

Nako is a scenic trans Himalayan village perched at a high altitude of 12,014 feet (3,662 metres) in the Hangrang Valley of upper Kinnaur. Serving as the cultural border bridge between Kinnaur and Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, it enchants travelers with stone houses and barren mountain desert landscapes.

Sacred Nako Lake and Willow Groves

At the edge of the hamlet lies the serene Nako Lake, enclosed by lush weeping willow and poplar trees. In folklore, a rock near the lake edge preserves the sacred footprint impression of Guru Padmasambhava (Lord Rinpoche). Devotees circle the tranquil shoreline clockwise spinning handheld prayer wheels.

11th Century Monastery and Mud Murals

Truth is, the historic Nako Monastery founded in the 11th century by Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo preserves ancient Tibetan stucco statues and clay murals. Exploring the narrow cobbled lanes reveals traditional mud brick homes, sun dried apricots, and warm Kinnauri homestays.