Posting a letter to your future self from the world’s highest post offices in Hikkim village is one of the most enchanting things to do in Spiti Valley for the ultimate experience. Write the letter about what a privilege it was to be here in Hikkim village in Himachal Pradesh, witnessing the magnificent view of the beautiful mountains, and experiencing the culture, tradition, and life of the Buddhist community. Spiti tour packages provide a perfect glimpse into Buddhist culture, traditions, and the architecture of monasteries.
Hikkim village in Himachal Pradesh is located 4,400 meters above sea level and is India’s highest inhabited settlement. This community proudly boasts the world’s highest - Hikkim post office, which is managed by a single postmaster. The village’s residents are all Buddhists who follow the Gelugpa sect of Buddhism and religiously follow its rich traditions, culture, and heritage.
Hikkim Village Highlights
Here are some facts about Hikkim Village that you should know about! Let’s get started before you plan your trip to Spiti Valley!
1. Hikkim village is connected by a 46 Kilometer road stretch to Kaza, so Kaza to Hikkim distance can be covered in an hour.
2. Hikkim is one of the highest Indian places that retains its population throughout the year. Hikkim height is approximately at 4,400 meters, with some unpaved paths as well.
3. Many people living in the Hikkim village follow Buddhism.
4. You will witness the world’s highest post office since 1983.
5. Hikkim village also has its mention in the Limca Book of World Records as the world’s highest polling station, but later it was taken over by Tashigang village.
5 Best Things to Do in Hikkim Village
Hikkim village is also known as the fossil village because millions of years ago Spiti Valley was submerged under the Tethys Sea. The notion is backed by the unexpected finding of some amazing, rare ancient marine fossils while going fossil hunting in Spiti Valley. Several villagers collect these sea fossils and they sell them to tourists at affordable prices. A lot of investigation has been done on these fossils, and it has been discovered that they are much older than the Great Himalayas.
2. The world’s highest post office
Hikkim village is credited with the tag of being the world’s highest Post Office and this is one of the places to visit in Hikkim village. This post office is a small mud hut with a single postmaster who manages all the work and has been working here for almost 30 years.
For tourists, it is one of the most amazing things to do in Hikkim village sending colorful postcards to themselves, friends, and loved ones. They especially mention that this postcard has been sent from the highest post office in the world.
- It is connected to Kaza, the postman here would have to deliver mails on foot.
- These mails are sent to Reckong Peo by bus, then to Shimla which then reaches to Delhi.
- The postal index of the village is 172114 and you can easily send a postcard from the village.
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3. Stroll through the village lanes
Take a stroll through the simplicity of Hikkim village life. Time stands still in these small mud houses, and the meaning of life can be found in peaceful moments spent with sympathetic and simple yet meaningful cultures and traditions. Buddhist flags and monasteries contribute to the ambiance of the location.
Pollution fails to spread its wings in this pristine setting, rendering Hikkim village an excellent destination for night gazing. Whether you’re an experienced astronomer or simply like gazing at the night sky, Hikkim village provides an unmatched chance to immerse yourself in the glories of the sky away from the hassles of urban life. Go and indulge in one of the best things to do in Hikkim village!
Also, stargazing in Spiti Valley comes out as one of the most special things about the place! People are really keen about this thing and want to spend their time relaxing and gazing at night!
5. Enhance tastebuds with authentic cuisine
Break the monotony of life and indulge in some of the Buddhist community’s best flavors. Drawing influence from old traditions passed down through generations, Hikkim village cuisine offers a perfect balance of simplicity and health, enriched with local herbs and spices. Each meal celebrates life and community sharing.
Best time to visit Hikkim Village, Spiti
The best time to visit Hikkim village is during the summer months. The weather is pleasant with a cool breeze at night, and the roadway heading toward the village is accessible. However, if you want to see the location at its most magnificent peak, you have to wear adventurous jackets, scarves, and layers and be bold enough to visit during the winter. During this season, everything here turns snow-white, the temperature falls as low as -20C and the roads become inaccessible.
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How to reach Hikkim Village
So, here is a guide for you to know the transportation in Hikkim village and know the place better for your convenience.
- By Air: The nearest airport to Hikkim is Kullu Manali Airport or Bhuntar Airport. Once at the airport, you may rent a cab or take the bus to Hikkim village via Kaza. Kullu Manali airport is well connected to adjacent major airports such as New Delhi and Chandigarh.
- By Train: The largest railway station closest to Hikkim village is Chandigarh. However, tiny stations like Pathankot and Joginder Nagar are also accessible from Hikkim Village. However, all trains from across India do not stop at these stops.
- By Road: Hikkim village is well connected by road to the major cities nearby. You may easily book a cab from these areas to Hikkim Village. State transport buses are also accessible to Hikkim village via Kaza Village. This is how to reach Hikkim village conveniently.
Distance and travel time from major cities to Hikkim Village
Distance: 467 Km
Travel Time: 11 hours and 32 minutes
Distance: 235 Km
Travel Time: 6 hours and 30 minutes
Distance: 196 Km
Travel Time: 5 hours and 23 minutes
Distance: 431 Km
Travel Time: 11 hours and 41 minutes
Distance: 705 Km
Travel Time: 15 hours and 30 minutes
Distance: 413 Km
Travel Time: 11 hours and 42 minutes
Distance: 677 Km
Travel Time: 15 hours and 55 minutes
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Tips for a trip to Hikkim Village
- You may experience a little less connectivity with the world since the mobile connections are not so strong in the village and nearby locations.
- The last bank ATM where you can withdraw cash is in Kaza Village. So carry enough cash with you since you’ll find no banks or ATMs in this village.
- Don’t expect a modern stay with all the amenities, as there are no hotels in Hikkim village. This area is far from the luxurious hotels and resorts. All you can afford in this location are authentic homestays in Hikkim village. However, these homestays will provide you with a sense of rural life and make you feel like a member of their community.
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Though there are not many options to try out, if you are thinking about what to eat in Hikkim village and exploring something new, here’s what you got! The place specializes in mostly local food in Spiti valley and organic food, influenced by the Tibetan and Buddhist culture! So, here are some of the things and what to eat in Hikkim!
You must have heard about this dish many times. It is made with noodles, vegetables, and meat which turns out to be really delicious. If you are coming to Spiti in winters, it is the ideal time to taste out this amazing delicacy. Also, you can find this amazing thukpa dish in most of the homestays and hotels in Hikkim that you can enjoy with some spicy chutney and bread.
Momos, the steamed dumplings which have everyone’s hearts! It is filled with minced meat, cheese and vegetables that makes it yet another popular dish in the Himlayan region. Served with hot and tangy sauce, you can find this amazing dish in most of the areas when you are thinking about what to eat in Hikkim!
You would be aware of this local alcoholic beverage which is made from fermented barley, rice or millet. This traditional drink in the Himalayan region is taken by people to keep them warm and celebrate sometimes.
It is usually served in a wooden cup with a metal straw which is really unique. So, you should be careful and drink it moderately as it can be really strong and intoxicating.
Where to Stay in Hikkim in Spiti
Thinking about where to stay in Hikkim in Spiti? So, at Hikkim, you will need to stay in a homestay because villagers welcome guests into their homes. They provide the warmest and cosy accommodations with freshly cooked homemade meals that can really please you! What’s better than that? Having good food at the highest village, away from your home?
So, make sure you book the best kind of homestay in Hikkim in Spiti!
