Nako is a small, remote village located at an elevation of 3625m in the Kinnaur District of Himachal Pradesh. The area is surrounded by lush green landscapes and a variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. Nako lakes and Nako monasteries are the village's most popular attractions, drawing thousands of tourists every year. Situated on the Kinnaur road and on the way to Spiti, Nako is a wonderful little haven that you should definitely visit. Whether you're an adventure lover or a nature enthusiast, you can't afford to miss this little gem.
Planning your trip to this village? We have created a Nako travel guide to make your trip planning easier. This comprehensive guide provides essential information about accommodation options, popular destinations, and transportation tips.
Places to Visit in Nako
Nako offers numerous charming locations to visit, ensuring that your trip will be both memorable and unique. Here are some famous places to visit in Nako that you shouldn't miss during your trip:
- Nako Lake: Nako Lake is known for its pristine, clear waters reflecting the snow-capped mountains. This lake is also an excellent birdwatching destination. Many birds live in the area, and birds chirping can be heard there. The lake's surface freezes over in winter, making it perfect for ice skating. The serene and spiritual atmosphere of Nako Lake makes it an ideal spot for meditation and self-reflection. So it is an ideal spot whether you are a birdwatcher, adventure enthusiast, or looking for peace.
- Nako Monastery: Nako Monastery is one of the best places for spiritual seekers to visit in Nako. It is one of the oldest monasteries in the region, reflecting its rich historical and cultural heritage. There are four temples in the monastery, and their exteriors display exquisite Victorian architectural styles. If you want to learn more about the cultural heritage of the region, you should visit this monastery.
These are the popular places to visit in Nako. However, many other places are worth visiting, such as Nako Gompa and Lipa-Asrang Sanctuary. It's not possible to explain all of the places in this Nako travel guide, so for more information about tourist attractions, please get in touch with our travel experts.
Things to Do in Nako
Nako offers a variety of activities to its travelers. Here are some popular activities that you should try during your trip:
- Boating: Boating is a popular activity in Nako. To enjoy this activity, you have to visit Nako Lake. Take your family and spend some quality time there. You can also enjoy a picnic at the lakeshore.
- Birdwatching: The trees along the Nako Lakeshore are home to a variety of birds, making it one of the best destinations for everyone who loves birdwatching.
- Nako Village Walk: Enjoy a stroll through Nako Village, where you can see ancient houses, and narrow winding streets, and learn about village life.
Visit the Nearby Apple Orchards:
If you enjoy nature, visit the nearby apple orchards, where apple trees are laden with fruit. Visit during harvest season to sample delicious local apples and take in the fresh mountain air.
There are many more activities to do, such as trekking. For a detailed Nako travel guide, contact our travel experts and share your preferences with them. They will provide you with a guide tailored to your needs.
Best Time to Visit Nako
The best time to visit Nako depends on the traveler's preferences. This guide provides a complete overview of the activities offered in each season, allowing travelers to pick a season based on the activities they want to enjoy.
Nako in Summer (March-June)
From March to June, the summer season is the best time to visit Nako village. During the summer, the temperatures range from 8°C to 20°C, ideal for all kinds of travel expeditions. This season is also perfect for those looking for relief from scorching heat. Tourists can visit Nako Lake to enjoy boating or picnicking.
During the summer, the region is filled with wildflowers and lush greenery, making it a great time for nature lovers. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts can go on village walks and treks and simply admire the breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Nako in Monsoon (July-September)
Nako in WInter (October- February)
The landscape changes dramatically in winter, becoming harsh and extreme, especially from December to January. For snow sports enthusiasts, winter can be a good time to visit Nako village. Nako Lake freezes completely, providing opportunities for ice skating. However, sometimes snowfall can block roads, making it difficult to reach the village. It is recommended to visit Nako Village early in the winter, especially in October when the temperatures are starting to drop. During this season, you can enjoy the harvest of fresh apples and apricots.
How to reach Nako?
There are two routes to reach Nako: one via Manali and the other via Shimla. The Manali route is preferable for people coming from high-altitude regions, such as Ladakh or Jammu and Kashmir. The Shimla route is preferable for people coming from Delhi or Chandigarh.
Remember that you will not get a direct bus to Nako village. If you are coming from Delhi, book a taxi or bus to Shimla or Rampur to go up to Recong Peo. You can take another bus or taxi from there to the Nako village. If traveling via Manali then take a bus to manali from here take another bus to Reckong Peo to Nako.
The nearest airport to Nako is Shimla Airport, which is very well connected to other airports in India. Tourists can find many flights to this airport. Upon reaching the airport, they can take a taxi or bus to Reckong Peo and then proceed to Nako.
Accommodation in Nako
Nako offers a variety of accommodation options to suit a wide range of preferences and budgets. Nako's Reo Purguil offers a comfortable stay with essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a dining area, parking, and in-room service. Those who wish to stay in camp should consider Knaygoh Kinner Camps, which provides delicious meals, campfires, and a great place to observe the stars.
Travel Tips to Visit Nako
- Travelers from India require an Inner Line Permit (ILP); international tourists need a Protected Area Permit (PAP).
- It is essential to pack warm but light clothes.
- To cope with high altitudes, you must acclimatize.
- Enjoy local delicacies such as momos, thukpa, and traditional Kinnauri cuisine.
- When traveling during the monsoon season, it is recommended to hire a local driver.
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
Using this Nako travel guide, tourists can easily plan their trip. For a hassle-free experience, tourists can contact our travel experts, who will tailor their trip to their preferences.
