Ever thought about visiting a calm mountain village with snow-covered peaks and bright blue skies all around? Losar village in Spiti Valley gives you exactly that experience. It is one of the most quiet and elevated villages in the area and is located close to the Spiti River with an altitude of about 4,000 metres. The air feels crisp and fresh, views take your breath away, and locals greet you with genuine warmth. The village has a unique appearance due to small houses constructed with mud and stone, which makes it ideal to those travellers who desire peace and nature.
People also know Losar village as one of the coldest spots in Spiti and it often becomes the first stop when entering from Manali. You can explore nearby attractions easily from here, and many choose Spiti Valley tour packages for smoother travel arrangements. This guide covers everything about this peaceful Himalayan village and explains why it belongs on your travel list.
Best Time to Visit Losar Village
The best time to visit Losar village is during the summer months when the roads are open and the weather is gentle. In summer (roughly late May to September) the village warms up enough for easy walks, exploration, and travel. During this season you might see daytime temperatures between about 5 °C and 20 °C, making the journey comfortable around Losar Spiti.
When winter sets in (October through April), Losar becomes very cold, and access from many routes can be blocked by heavy snow. Nights in winter often drop well below zero at the Losar altitude, and most guest-houses limit their services. Travelling in this period is possible, but only if you are well-prepared.
How to Reach Losar Village
Getting to Losar Village in Spiti Valley is an exciting journey. The roads take you through high mountains, rivers, and small villages. Travelling here gives you a real feel of the Himalayas and the peaceful life of the valley.
By Road
Most people reach Losar Spiti valley by road from Manali. You first drive to Kaza and then continue to Losar. The Losar to Manali distance is about 200 kilometers. It usually takes 7–8 hours, but the travel time might change depending on the road conditions. The roads are narrow and winding, so it is better to hire an experienced driver. Along the way, you can stop at small villages and enjoy the mountain views there.
By Bus
Himachal Pradesh state buses (HRTC) run from Manali to Kaza in the summer. From Kaza, shared taxis or local jeeps take you to Losar. Bus travel is cheap, but it can take longer because of stops and slow winding mountain roads.
By Air
The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport near Kullu. From Bhuntar, you travel to Manali and then drive to Losar. This is useful if you are coming from far away in India.
Extra Tips
Road conditions in Spiti are tricky in winter,summer from May to October, is the safest.
Places to Visit Near Losar Village
Tucked away in the beautiful Spiti Valley, gives you access to some of the most breathtaking and culturally important destinations in this mountain region. Here are five must-visit spots near Losar Village:
1. Kunzum Pass
Kunzum Pass acts as a magnificent gateway connecting Lahaul and Spiti valleys. This mountain pass rises to 4,551 metres making it one of India's highest roads where vehicles can travel. People love this pass for its sweeping views of snowy mountain peaks and the small Kunzum Mata Temple where travellers pray for protection. From Losar Village, you need to cover roughly 16 kilometres to reach the pass which becomes a short but exciting mountain drive. The road to Kunzum Pass stays open only from June through October when snow clears giving you time to experience the harsh terrain and quiet mountain scenery.
Activities to do: Photography, trekking, and visiting the Kunzum Devi Temple.
Distance from Losar Village: Approximately 16 km.
2. Chandratal Lake
Chandratal Lake, called the "Moon Lake" by locals, has a crescent moon shape and lies 4,300 metres above sea level. This stunning lake is about 38 kilometres from Losar Himachal Pradesh and requires a trek from Kunzum Pass to reach it. The lake became famous for its perfectly clear water that reflects the snow-covered mountains around it creating views that look almost unreal. Setting up camp near the lake allows you to experience complete silence and nature at its purest which is why trekkers and mountain lovers keep coming back here.
Activities to do: Camping, stargazing, and photography.
Distance from Losar Village: Approximately 38 km.
3. Kibber Village
Kibber Village rises to 4,270 metres altitude making it one of the planet's highest villages where people actually live all year. You will find this village roughly 42 kilometres from Losar Spiti valley and it became known for its special building designs and stepped farming terraces. The village serves as your base camp for exploring Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary which has many rare plants and animals including the hard-to-spot snow leopard. Kibber's mountain location also opens up trekking routes going to Parang La Pass that links Spiti with the Ladakh area.
Activities to do: Visit the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, explore the village's traditional architecture, and spot wildlife like snow leopards.
Distance from Losar Village: Approximately 42 km.
4. Gandhola Monastery
Gandhola Monastery, which some people call Guru Ghantal Monastery, is a very old Buddhist monastery built where two rivers Chandra and Bhaga come together. This monastery became famous because of its unusual architecture and deep historical roots. You can see wooden Buddha statues inside and black stone carvings of various goddesses all placed against towering icy mountains behind. The monastery is about 20 kilometres before you reach Keylong on the Manali route making it convenient for travellers passing through.
Activities to do: Explore the monastery's unique architecture, meditate in the serene environment and learn about its history.
Distance from Losar Village: Approximately 115 km.
5. Key Monastery
Key Monastery, also called Kye Monastery, holds the title of being Spiti Valley's largest monastery. Built at 4,166 metres height, it overlooks the flowing Spiti River below and has become a major hub for Buddhist studies and meditation. The monastery features many whitewashed buildings decorated with colourful wall art and spinning prayer wheels. You will find it about 14 kilometres north of Kaza town and you can drive there by road from Losar village. Visitors experience the peaceful holy atmosphere and can participate in prayer ceremonies making this a major cultural treasure in the entire region.
Activities to do: Visit the monastery, talk with the monks who live there, and take in the wide sweeping views of Spiti Valley spread below.
Distance from Losar Village: About 46 kilometres away.
Tips for Visiting Losar Village
Visiting Losar village can become a truly wonderful experience when you plan things properly. The following few tips should assist you in ensuring that you have a comfortable and safe trip as you explore the gorgeous beauty of Losar Spiti:
Carry Warm Clothes – The weather is extremely cold even in summer. Bring a variety of clothing to wear in case of chilly mornings and evenings when it is freezing.
Keep ID and Permits Ready – SThere are areas in Spiti which require permits to get into. Always keep your valid ID documents and any permits you need to be able to carry them with you to avoid delays and issues.
Hire a Local Driver – Mountain roads in these places are very rough and dangerous. It is rather less stressful and safer being driven by a local driver who is familiar with Losar Spiti roads.
Carry Cash – You will find very few ATMs working in Losar village. Keep plenty of cash with you for buying from small shops and paying for local services.
Stay Hydrated – High altitude areas cause your body to lose water faster. Drink lots of water throughout the day while you explore Losar village.
Pack Snacks – Food shops and restaurants are very limited here. Bring dry snacks and light meals that you can eat during long travel days.
Protect Against Sun – Even when the weather feels cold, sunlight becomes very harsh at high mountains. Use strong sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and keep a hat on your head.
Respect Local Culture – Losar Spiti has old traditional customs that people follow seriously. Be polite with locals, wear modest clothing, and follow village rules to show proper respect.
Conclusion
Losar village is a small and beautiful village that provides a real impression of what life in Spiti Valley is. Surrounded by mountains and open skies, it is perfect for nature lovers and those who enjoy quiet, simple living. You may visit local monasteries and Chandratal Lake or you may just stroll around the village to witness old houses and meet new people. The trip to Losar village is an adventure by itself with beautiful scenes that leave a lasting impression. Visit the village to experience its unique culture, amazing scenery and tranquillity. Don’t miss the chance to experience this hidden gem of Himachal Pradesh.
