The Lahaul Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh is known for its mysterious beauty and untouched experiences. But in this entire valley, Koksar village and Koksar Valley have a different identity. This place is not only a paradise for travelers, but the culture, atmosphere and natural scenery here are such that you will hardly find in any other Himalayan valley. In this blog, we will tell you in detail what makes Koksar special and why it is called the hidden gem of Himachal.
Koksar Valley: An Overview
Koksar is located in the Lahaul Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh and it is the first village on the Manali-Leh route. Koksar altitude is around 10,000 feet, due to which the weather here remains cold and snowy throughout the year. This village is small but is very special for travelers because from here you get to see the real glimpse of Lahaul Spiti.
What is there in Koksar that is unique?
The local culture and the simplicity of the people here immediately impress you. In winter, the snowfall here covers the entire valley with a white sheet. This place is very close to the Rohtang Pass and is the main stopover for travelers going to Leh-Ladakh.
Photography spots are spread all over in Koksar Valley. High mountains, waterfalls and snow-capped peaks make the pictures amazing. There are trekking and camping options around here that let you experience adventure in solitude, away from the crowd.
Koksar Travel Guide
This Koksar travel guide contains all the useful bits of information. More about the travel tips and recommendations can be found in the below sections.
How to reach Koksar Valley?
Here are a few ways to reach the Koksar Valley:
- By Road: Koksar is about 40 kilometers from Manali. You can easily reach here by taxi, bike or your car.
- Koksar Valley Road Travel Guide: As soon as you leave Manali, you will pass through Rohtang Pass. Koksar is the first village after the pass.
- The nearest airport is Kullu (Bhuntar) and the nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar.
Things to do in Koksar Valley
These are the things to do in Koksar Valley:
1. Koksar Trek
There are many small and big trekking routes around Koksar. These treks take you to snow-capped mountains, lush green pastures and calm rivers. To enjoy a blissful experience in the lap of nature, you must plan one of these treks.
2. Camping in Koksar Valley
If you like adventure activities, then you can enjoy camping here on the river bank and among the mountains. The experience of camping under the stars is unforgettable in Koksar. The clear sky, pleasant weather, and offbeat camping places make it a best place for couples.
3. Experience the Local Culture
The local culture in Koksar Village is still associated with old traditions. Here you will get a glimpse of Tibetan and Lahauli culture.
4. Photography
The photography spots in Koksar Valley are so beautiful that the camera comes out automatically. Be it sunrise or snowfall, every scene here is like a picture.
Best Time to Visit Koksar Valley
May to October is considered the best time to visit Koksar Valley. During this time, it is neither too cold nor the roads are closed. In winter, adventure travelers come here to enjoy snowfall, but the paths can be difficult.
Why is Koksar Valley an offbeat destination?
Koksar tourism is still not very commercial. Therefore, this place is considered an offbeat destination. Here you will find neither crowd nor noise. Rather, the silence and natural beauty here soothes your mind from within.
Why is Koksar Valley Special?
There is no dearth of Himalayan valleys. But there are some things in Koksar Valley that set it apart from others.
1. Strategic Importance: Koksar is the place from where the Manali-Leh route and the route leading to Spiti Valley diverge. It is a major junction for travelers.
2. Longest Winters: Koksar has a very harsh climate. Winters last for more than six months here and the place remains covered with snow.
3. Heaven of Snowfall: The much anticipated snowfall in Koksar makes it a top tourist attraction for snow lovers.
4. Away from the Crowd: Compared to other valleys, tourists come very less here, so it is still an offbeat destination.
5. Culture & Folk Life: The culture of Koksar village is still connected to its roots. The people here depend on agriculture and animal husbandry and their lifestyle is less influenced by modernity. You can indulge in mountain biking, river crossing, and many other adventure activities in Koksar.
6. Photography Spots in Koksar Valley: Snow-capped peaks and valleys give you multiple photography spots in Koksar Valley.
7. Attending Local Festivals: Celebrations combining Tibetan and Lahauli traditions are worth experiencing here.
Places to Visit in Koksar Valley
Here are some best places to visit in Koksar Valley:
- Koksar to Rohtang Pass: The views of the valley from the lower part of Rohtang are mesmerizing.
- Chitkul Nala & Small Valleys: This place is ideal for hiking and picnics.
- Local Monasteries & Temples: A glimpse of Buddhist culture is seen here.
- Farming & Orchards: Apple and pea fields are the identity here.
Accommodation Options in Koksar
Here are some best places to stay in the Koksar Valley:
- Hotels in Koksar
Only basic hotels and guest houses are available in Koksar. Choose one of them according to your requirements and budget.
- Homestays in Koksar
By staying in a homestay here, you can experience the local culture and food.
- Climate and Altitude of Koksar
- Koksar Altitude: approx 10,300 ft
- Koksar Weather: Cold throughout the year, up to minus 15 degrees in winters.
Conclusion
Koksar has something that no other Himalayan valley has – simplicity, flavour of local life, untouched natural beauty and thrilling experiences. This place gives the real experience of the Himalayas.
