Kinnaur, which is a district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is a captivating destination amidst the majestic Himalayas. It is a place of immense beauty and wonder. Located in the southeastern part of Himachal Pradesh, Kinnaur was carved out as a separate district fromthe Mahasu district in 1960. Kinnaur has mountain ranges, rivers, valleys, waterfalls and lakes. This article takes you on a journey to the breathtaking lakes in Kinnaur and gives an insight into their unique charm and significance.
Kinnaur Geography
Kinnaur is located in the Great Himalayan Zone and boasts an altitude of 4500 meters and above. The region is home to several remarkable peaks, including the highest peak, “Shila” with an impressive height of 7025 meters. Another notable peak is “Liyo Parijal” with an altitude of 6791 meters. Moreover, Kinnaur is home to the famous “Kinnar Kailash” with a majestic height of 6500 m, which adds to the impressive natural splendour of the region.
The Climate of Kinnaur
In the summer months, Kinnaur has a temperate climate, while in the winter it has a semi-arctic environment with heavy snowfall. Snowfall usually begins in October and transforms the entire valley into a picturesque snow wonderland through March and April.
Lakes in Kinnaur
Kinnaur was once a forbidden land, being close to the international border with China. Now it is open for tourists as it offers some breathtaking views of landscapes and mountains. Kinnaur also has a number of lakes, some known, some unknown and hidden. Here are the details of three prominent lakes in Kinnaur.
Nako Lake
Nestled in the pristine landscape of Kinnaur, Nako Lake is a true gem of the region. Its tranquil waters reflect the surrounding mountains and offer a breathtaking sight. Located just 2 km from the Hangrang Valley and 105 km from Kalpa, Nako is known for its natural beauty and the tranquillity that surrounds the area. The village of Nako, located at the highest altitude of the valley, is an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking peace and quiet.
Sorang Lake
A hidden lake in Kinnaur, Sorang Lake, a high-altitude wonder, enchants visitors with its heavenly beauty. Located in the mountains of Pragamang and Sairag in Kinnaur, the lake has great religious and cultural significance for the nearby villages of Jani and Ramni. Every year or once every three years, villagers gather at Sorang Lake to worship their revered deities and ask for blessings for good fortune and prosperity. The festivities include prayers, offerings, and joyful dances that create an atmosphere of celebration and devotion.
Temso Lake
Temso Lake is another of the hidden, enchanting lakes in Kinnaur, often overlooked by tourists and adventurers, waiting to be explored. It is accessible from the villages of Labrang, Giabung, Kanam and Lippa. The shortest route is from Labrang village. The lake, located at an altitude of 4800 meters, captivates with its serene beauty and the barren hilly landscape that surrounds it. The crystal clear waters of the lake reflect the breathtaking panorama, offering a truly captivating sight that will resonate in the hearts of those lucky enough to visit this hidden paradise.
Kara Lake
Kara Lake is a captivating high-altitude lake in the Bhaba Valley of the Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh, India. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,550 meters (11,650 feet), this serene lake is a hidden gem offering breathtaking scenery and a tranquil escape for nature lovers and trekkers. Surrounded by snow-clad peaks and alpine meadows, the lake remains frozen for most of the year and is accessible only during the summer. Kara Lake Trek is a must do trek if you are a trekking enthusaost and are in Kinnair.
Yula Kanda Lake
Hidden amidst the rugged wilderness of Kinnaur, Yula Lake—also known as Yulla Kanda—is one of the most unexplored treks in India. Tucked at a breathtaking altitude of around 4,200 meters, this high-altitude lake in Himachal offers a spiritual, scenic, and soul-stirring escape. Sacred to the locals and believed to be the site of the world’s highest temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, Yula Lake isn’t just a trek—it’s an experience that fuses mythology, adventure, and alpine beauty into one unforgettable journey.
How to Reach Kinnaur
Shimla is the nearest major town to Kinnaur District. This is how one can reach Reckong Peo, the district headquarters of Kinnaur.
From Shimla (235-250 km)
Bus (HRTC): Most common and affordable. Regular buses from Shimla ISBT Tutikandi to Reckong Peo (6-10 hours). Book online or at the station.
Taxi/Private Car: Most comfortable and flexible. Takes 5-7 hours. Costs ₹5,500-₹7,000 one-way, ₹7,422-₹10,920+ round-trip. Book from taxi stands or online.
From Chandigarh (330-350 km)
Bus (HRTC): Direct buses to Reckong Peo (9-11 hours) or connect via Shimla. Book online or at Chandigarh ISBT.
Taxi/Private Car: Direct and comfortable, 6.5-10 hours. Costs ₹8,000-₹10,000+. Book online or from taxi services.
Train + Bus/Taxi (Indirect): Take a train to Kalka (35 mins), then the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train/taxi/bus to Shimla, and finally bus/taxi to Kinnaur. Scenic but longer.
From Delhi (570-600 km)
Bus (HRTC): Direct overnight buses from Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate (18-20 hours). Most economical. Book online or at the station. Private operators like Abhi Bus and Red Bus also operate a bus on this route. Please check their websites.
Train + Bus/Taxi (Recommended): Take an overnight train to Kalka (4 hours), then Kalka-Shimla Toy Train/taxi/bus to Shimla, and finally bus/taxi to Kinnaur. Breaks up the long journey.
Air + Bus/Taxi (Fastest, Costly): Fly to Chandigarh (IXC) (more reliable, 310-360 km) or Shimla (SLV, 235 km, limited flights). From the airport, hire a taxi directly or connect via Shimla/Chandigarh by bus. Total travel 8-12 hours.
Famous places to visit in Kinnaur
Kinnaur is one of the twelve districts in Himachal Pradesh. There are many popular tourist attractions in the District of Kinnaur, each offering unique insights into the local culture and stunning Himalayan vistas. Reckong Peo is the district headquarters and a central point for travel within Kinnaur. Here are some important towns in Kinnaur and their approximate distances from Reckong Peo:
Kalpa
Approximately 13 km from Reckong Peo. Kalpa is famous for its panoramic views of the Kinnaur Kailash range and its apple orchards. It’s a short, uphill drive from Peo.
Sangla
Approximately 38 km from Reckong Peo. Sangla is the main town in the beautiful Sangla Valley (Baspa Valley), known for its lush greenery, traditional Kinnauri houses, and the Baspa River.
Chitkul
Approximately 65 km from Reckong Peo. Chitkul is the last inhabited village in the Sangla Valley, located very close to the Indo-Tibet border. It’s renowned for its pristine beauty and a sense of being at the “end of the road.” It’s about 25 km from Sangla.
Kothi
Approximately 3 km from Reckong Peo. Kothi is a small village known for its ancient Chandika Devi Temple, featuring unique Kinnauri architecture.
Pooh
Approximately 58 km from Powari (near Reckong Peo), which translates to around 55-60 km from Reckong Peo itself. Pooh is a significant settlement on the Hindustan Tibet Road (NH-5) towards Spiti Valley, known for its vineyards and a Buddhist monastery.
Nako
Approximately 102 km from Reckong Peo. Nako is a high-altitude village in the Hangrang Valley, famous for its serene Nako Lake and ancient Buddhist monasteries. It’s often a stopover for those heading further into Spiti.
Moorang
While specific distances from Reckong Peo can vary slightly depending on the exact route, Moorang is another notable village further up the NH-5 past Karcham and before Pooh. It’s known for its fort and ancient temples. The exact distance is not as commonly cited as the others, but it’s generally considered to be in the range of 35-45 km from Reckong Peo, situated between Karcham and Pooh.
Conclusion
Kinnaur, with its breathtaking lakes and enchanting landscapes, is a destination that leaves a lasting impression on all who venture near it. From the tranquillity of Nako Lake to the lively festivities of Lake Sorang and the hidden beauty of Lake Temso, these natural wonders stir the imagination and inspire a sense of wonder. In addition, the famous places of Kalpa, Sangla, Chitkul, Ribba and Kothi offer rich cultural heritage and breathtaking views. Kinnaur invites adventurers and nature lovers to explore its hidden treasures, promising a journey filled with breathtaking sights and unforgettable experiences.
Below are some videos featuring these lakes. I want to clarify that I have no personal connection to the content creators; I’m simply sharing their work.
