Nako Lake & Village: All You Need To Know Before You Go

Nako is a popular word for “No”, which is exactly what you can’t say to this place. Nako Lake and Nako village are nothing less than nature’s gift to the Himalayas. Imagine a tiny village that is lined with Buddhist shrines that stand tall next to the lake, amidst the towering mountains that provide a type of calm you may not find anywhere else.

If you are planning to take one of the Spiti Tour Packages, you should ensure that Nako Lake and village is a part of it.

• Location: Nako Village, Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh
• Elevation: Approximately 3660 meters above sea level
• Major attractions: Nako Monastery, Nako Lake, traditional village
• Ideal Time: May to early November, depending upon weather
• Time Required: 3-4 hours
• Nearby Spots: Tabo, Gue and Kaza

Located right in the heart of the Nako Village is the Nako Lake, which is surrounded by willow trees. This Lake is a striking contrast between the dry rugged landscape and the greenery, making it look like a picture from a painting.

An interesting thing about the lake is that it is quite closely connected to the spiritual identity of the village and the local communities consider it sacred. According to local beliefs, Guru Rinpoche, also known as the Guru Padmasambhava, meditated in the surrounding area, making it one of the spiritual places to visit in Spiti Valley.

The best part about Nako Lake is that it does not require you to do long treks or hikes to witness its beauty, which makes it really easy to explore on foot, and enjoy every bit of it.

Walking the Parikrama Around Nako Lake

You can take a leisurely walk around the lake, by following the accessible paths around the water, and treat your eyes to the beautiful backdrop of the mountains. This walk is a perfect way to unwind after a long time on the winding mountain roads.

Seasonal Changes: From Summer Reflections to Winter Ice

Nako is not just any regular lake, and that is why its appearance does not remain the same throughout the year. As the seasons change, the appearance of the lake changes too. Sound’s cool, right?

As winter approaches, the lake transforms into a sheet of ice. Even though the sight is beautiful, the winter season, with its snow, and ice makes travelling a little challenging. This does not mean that the lake will be completely frozen on your chosen date because it totally depends on the temperature.

However, in summers, it remains still and the crystal clear water gives stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains.

Nako is not just about the lake, but it also features a historic Buddhist monastery, which dates back to 996 CE, as per some travel references, Himachal Pradesh Tourism on the other hand dates its establishment to 1025 CE, so the precise year of foundation is still debatable.

The Nako Monastery offers an insight into the region’s traditions both artistic and religious and is associated with Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo, who was a renowned translator.

The History and Legacy of Nako Gompa

Let’s dive into the history of the Nako Monastery, which belongs to a network of historic Buddhist institutions. These monasteries played an important role in preserving religious teachings, cultural connections and artistic traditions all across the region of Himalaya.

Once you visit the monastery, you’ll witness historic murals, clay sculptures and architectural details that will leave you in awe.

Inside the Four-Shrine Monastery Complex

Inside the monastery complex, you will find four temples, and each temple has its own artistic character. You will also encounter traditional Buddhist imagery, painted surfaces, and minute details that make it stand out.

While exploring, it is advisable to stay quiet and follow the instructions given by the care taker. Most of the time, photography is restricted, so don’t try to take pictures secretly because that would be very disrespectful.

Buddhist Heritage and the Rinchen Zangpo Connection

Nako Monastery’s name has been etched with Rinchen Zangpo, who was an important figure in the history of Buddhism especially in the western Himalayas. His contribution with translating religious scripts and association with monasteries helped in connecting Nako to a broader region, including historic centres for Tibetan Buddhist learning.

The best way to explore Nako Village is on foot. Most travellers head to the highway, right after they have visited the lake and the Monastery, but we would like to suggest that you stay back and give yourself time to wander through the settlement and soak in the peaceful surroundings.

Traditional Mud-Brick Architecture and Narrow Lanes

You will come across traditional mud houses, built using the materials available locally. The narrow lanes will take you between small courtyards and pathways, which makes it distinct from a regular hill town.

While strolling through the narrow lanes, please keep in mind that these lanes are a part of the local’s daily routines and they have their homes here, so it’s always polite to ask permission before taking pictures.

Prayer Wheels, Mountain Views and Everyday Village Life

You must have seen people post pictures and reels of prayer wheels, similarly there are prayer wheels, Buddhist symbols, and small shrines that are an important part of the village’s culture.

The Changing Landscape of Nako Village

Nako has made significant measures to maintain its traditional character, so that the place does not lose its essence but growing popularity and increasing tourism has influenced how the tourists experience the settlement, thus there are plenty of accommodation options including guest house, homestays and more.

Due to lodging options, visitors can spend the night here rather than pass through it.

It totally depends on your comfort with the altitude, route, and your pace. The village can be a rewarding place to spend the evening if you wish to explore the Nako Spiti village life without rushing. It also allows you to take a halt for the night and start again fresh the next morning.

Nako vs Kalpa vs Tabo: Choosing Your Overnight Halt

Kalpa is known for its popular traditional Kinnauri setting and beautiful mountain views, Nako on the other hand offers a high-altitude lake and a village with a history older than time itself. If you are into monasteries and Buddhist heritage, then Tabo could be a good choice.

If you want to explore a lake with crystal clear water, and a village at a more comfortable and relaxed pace, then Nako could be a better option for you. Both the places have something or the other to offer, so the choice is yours.

Accommodation Options: Homestays and Guesthouses

It is not very difficult to find accommodations in Nako as there are plenty of guest houses where travellers can spend the night. Options are limited as compared to other tourist spots because of high elevation.

If you are planning to visit during the peak tourist season, ensure that you have made stay arrangements beforehand.

Note that you will not get the same range of facilities that you may find in other major towns, so carry all your essentials including medicines, suitable warm clothing and personal supplies.

Acclimatisation Considerations at High Altitude

Located at an elevation of 3660 meters, Nako is high enough for people to experience altitude related symptoms, especially if you are travelling rapidly from a lower elevation to a higher one.

Allow yourself to acclimatize to the weather and altitude, keep yourself hydrated, and pay attention to what you feel. If you feel any kind of discomfort, immediately inform your guide, or your Trip Captain.

Symptoms of high-altitude sickness include headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, difficulty breathing, etc. If you feel the symptoms are worsening, seek immediate help.

To avoid AMS, ensure that you are fully acclimatized, avoid smoking or drinking or staying empty stomach, stay hydrated and don’t push yourself.

While leaving from Nako, you will come across a landscape of barren mountains, deep valleys, and isolated settlements. This part of your journey is the Kinnaur to Spiti route, making Nako a natural stop for anyone going from Tabo to Kaza region.

The Road Ahead: Nako to Tabo

Travellers, who are into the history of the Himalayas, often prefer stopping at Tabo because of its Buddhist heritage. The drive from Nako to Tabo requires attention to road conditions, changing weather and the total travel time.

While driving through the mountains, the journey takes longer because of the rough patches, temporary closures and other possible reasons, so it’s advisable to start early in the morning and avoid a tight schedule.

The Gue Monastery and Its Mummified Monk

Gue Monastery is one of the popular places to visit in Spiti because it is home to the naturally preserved remains of Buddhist monk Sangha Tenzin. Visiting the Gue monastery means taking a detour, which means extra driving time. Confirm local access conditions and opening arrangements before you head there.

Planning the Next Leg Towards Kaza

Kaza is the main town and the most common base for exploring the attractions of Spiti Valley, including its remote villages, monasteries, picture perfect views, etc.

The journey from Nako to Kaza is not simply a direct transfer if you plan to stop at Gue, Tabo or other attractions along the way. The best time to visit Kaza is between July to October.

Break the drive into manageable sections, check current road conditions and leave enough daylight for the journey. Travellers comparing alternative routes or cultural stops can also explore Kalpa Monastery in Spiti.