Nako Lake — Attraction in Himachal Pradesh

Nako Lake is a picturesque high-altitude lake located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Nestled at an elevation of approximately 3,662 meters (12,014 feet) above sea level, it is one of the most serene and enchanting destinations in the region.

Location and Surroundings? Nako Lake is situated in the village of Nako, which lies along the ancient Silk Route and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayas. The village is part of the scenic Spiti Valley, known for its stark beauty and unique cultural heritage. The lake itself is surrounded by willow and poplar trees, adding to its charm and providing a tranquil atmosphere for visitors.

Cultural Significance? The lake holds significant religious importance for the local Buddhist community. There are several monasteries and chortens (stupas) in the vicinity, reflecting the deep-rooted spiritual traditions of the area. Nako Monastery, located nearby, is an important site for Buddhist pilgrims and features ancient murals and scriptures.

Activities? Visitors to Nako Lake can enjoy a variety of activities:

Trekking: The region offers several trekking routes with stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

Photography: The lake and its surroundings provide excellent opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the landscape is bathed in vibrant colors.

Exploration: Walking around the lake and the village gives visitors a chance to explore traditional architecture and interact with the friendly locals.

Best Time to Visit? The best time to visit Nako Lake is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and the roads are accessible. During winter, the region receives heavy snowfall, which can make travel challenging.

How to Reach? Nako Lake is accessible by road, and the journey itself is a memorable experience due to the dramatic landscapes. The nearest major town is Reckong Peo, which is well-connected by road to Shimla and other parts of Himachal Pradesh. From Reckong Peo, Nako is approximately 100 kilometers away and can be reached by local buses or private vehicles.

Accommodation? There are several guesthouses and homestays in Nako village that offer comfortable accommodations for travelers. Staying in these local establishments provides a unique opportunity to experience the hospitality and culture of the region.

Nako Lake is a hidden gem in the Himalayas, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or an adventure lover, Nako Lake is sure to captivate your senses and leave you with...

Frozen Nako Lake, Nako, Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh, December 2023

Nako Lake is a high-altitude lake located in the Kinnaur district of the Himachal Pradesh state of India. It is part of the Pooh subdivision. It bears the name Nako and is a portion of the village's perimeter. The elevation above sea level is approximately 3,662 meters (12,014 feet). Poplar and willow trees encircle the lake. Four Buddhist temples can be seen close to the lake. The saint Padmasambhava is credited with leaving a foot-like impression close by. The Tashigang village, located several miles away, is home to a number of caves where it is said that Guru Padmasambhava once meditated and delivered teachings to his followers. There's a nearby waterfall where snowmelt cascades down like a milk river. It is said to be a heavenly fairie paradise. You can still see these fairies' or other demigods' live footprints in one of the caverns. For the residents of these valleys, it is a hallowed location. Visitors travel from as far away as the Spiti Valley and Ladhak.

In winter as you can see you can experience the beauty of the Frozen Nako Lake and not many visitors are due to extreme harsh weather. This picture was clicked when the temperature was -13°C. Often the temperature goes down with a minimum of -20°c at night. So be prepared for the extreme coldness. If you are traveling without taking proper rest and food and plenty of water, you can feel altitude sickness and breathing problems can occur. Please drink plenty of water (hot...

Nako Lake is a high-altitude lake in the Pooh sub-division of the Kinnaur district of the state of Himachal Pradesh in India. It forms part of the boundary of Nako village and is named after it. It is about 3,662 metres (12,014 ft) above sea level. The size of the lake is around 500 meters long and 200 meters wide and the depth of the lake is estimated to be around 60 meters. The lake is surrounded by willow and poplar trees. Near the lake, there are four Buddhist temples. Near this place, there is a foot-like impression ascribed to the saint Padmasambhava. Several miles away there is a village called Tashigang around which there are several caves where it is believed that Guru Padmasambhava meditated and gave discourse to 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 caves, you are still able to see the live footprints of these fairies or other demigods. It is a sacred place for the people of these valleys. Followers come from as far a place as Ladakh and...