Have you ever pictured yourself standing next to a calm mountain lake with snow-covered peaks all around and colourful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze? Nako Lake sits tucked away in a tiny village in Kinnaur district, and it's honestly one of the most peaceful and beautiful places you'll find in the Himalayas. Lots of people who plan a Spiti Valley tour package make sure to add this spot because of its peaceful atmosphere and the lovely old monasteries sitting nearby.
This guide takes you through everything worth knowing about Lake - how you actually get there, when's the best time to visit, and things you can do once you arrive. It's a brilliant destination for anyone who enjoys quiet mountain scenery, stunning views, and that special feeling of being properly connected with nature
About Nako Lake
Nako Lake is a peaceful high-altitude lake in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. The height of Nako Lake sits at roughly 3,662 metres above sea level. Tall mountains surround it and small willow and poplar trees grow scattered around. The water stays very still and clear, reflecting the nearby peaks like a perfect mirror. This beautiful Nako Lake view looks almost unreal when you see it first time. The lake changes completely with seasons. During summer it looks green and full of life, then freezes into thick ice when winter comes. Nearby you'll find old Buddhist temples and caves linked to Guru Padmasambhava, which gives this place real historical importance. The village around the lake stays small and quiet. Traditional stone houses sit there and friendly locals live simple mountain lives.
Best Time to Visit Nako Lake
The best time to visit Nako Lake is from May to October. During these months, the weather stays pleasant, and the sky is clear. The lake reflects the surrounding mountains beautifully, creating perfect photo moments. The Nako Lake temperature during this season stays between 10°C and 25°C, which is great for walking around, boating, or relaxing by the water.
If you love snow and quiet views, visit Nako Lake in winter. The lake freezes completely, turning into a sheet of ice with white peaks all around. Though it’s very cold, the sight is magical. This is also the best time to visit Spiti for those who enjoy snowy adventures and peaceful mountain scenes.
How to Reach Nako Lake
If you're wondering how to reach Spiti Valley from Delhi or its beautiful Nako Lake, you have two main options: by road and by air. Most people pick the road route for stunning mountain views and the freedom to stop along the way. Here are the common ways to reach Nako Lake.
By Road
The most common way to reach Nako Lake is by road. From Shimla, it's roughly 312 kilometres taking 10 to 12 hours. The route goes through Rampur, Reckong Peo, and Pooh. From Chandigarh, it's about 445 kilometres taking 12 to 14 hours. Many people take shared taxis from Reckong Peo or Pooh for the last part. Roads slow down in winter, so start early.
By Air
Nearest airports are Shimla and Chandigarh. Most people fly to Chandigarh since Shimla has fewer flights. After landing, hire a taxi to Reckong Peo, then continue to Nako Lake by road. Flying saves time initially but you still need road travel to reach Nako.
By Train and Public Transport
No direct trains go to Nako Lake. Nearest stations are Chandigarh and Kalka. From there, take a bus or taxi to Reckong Peo, then to Nako. HRTC buses run from Reckong Peo to Nako but come rarely. Public transport suits budget travellers but needs patience.
Places to Visit Near Nako Lake
Several amazing spots sit close to Nako Lake that are worth exploring. These places show you old monasteries, quiet villages, and stunning natural beauty. Here are the best places to visit near Nako Lake that you shouldn't miss during your trip.
1. Nako Monastery
The Nako Monastery is an old Buddhist monastery located near Nako Lake. This place has existed for more than 500 years and holds rare ancient texts plus old paintings on the walls. You'll see wooden buildings and prayer wheels all around, built in traditional Himalayan style. When winter comes, snow blankets the whole area and the monastery looks stunning. The peaceful atmosphere matches perfectly with the beautiful lake sitting close by.
Distance from Lake: Approximately 1 km (a short walk from the lake)
Entry Fee: Free; donations are appreciated
Timing: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
2. Hikkim Village
Hikkim Village is one of the highest villages in Spiti Valley, sitting not too far from Nako Lake. People know this village mainly because it has the world's highest post office. The village stays calm and quiet with old stone houses and narrow paths running through it. During winter, thick snow covers everything and the whole area looks beautiful. You can reach Hikkim easily from Nako Lake since it's just a short drive away.
Distance from Lake: Approximately 7 km
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: Accessible all day
3. Tabo Monastery
Tabo Monastery sits about 45 km from Nako Lake and is one of the oldest monasteries here. Built in the 10th century, people call it the "Ajanta of the Himalayas" for its stunning wall paintings. The monastery has temples, prayer halls, and monk quarters. Walking through and seeing the artwork teaches you about Buddhist history. The peaceful hills around it make it relaxing to visit. During winter, snow-covered mountains surrounding the monastery make everything look even more beautiful.
Distance from Lake: Approximately 47 km
Entry Fee: Free; donations are appreciated
Timing: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
4. Kaza
Kaza is Spiti Valley's main town, about 50 km from Nako Lake. Travellers stop here because it has hotels, restaurants, and shops for basic stuff. The town sits up high with great mountain views everywhere you look. There are monasteries and cultural places to check out too. Lots of people use Kaza as their base for visiting nearby villages and lakes. During winter, the clear skies give you stunning views from higher spots in town. Kaza helps you reach other places easily while exploring around Nako Lake.
Distance from Lake: Approximately 50 km
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: Accessible 24 hours
5. Gue Village and Mummy
Gue Village is famous for keeping a naturally preserved mummy of a Buddhist monk from over 500 years ago. The village stays small and quiet, with mountains all around, making it a nice stop near Nako Lake. You can visit the monastery and learn the story of this ancient monk. The place has wide views and looks great in photos. Gue Village shows you the cultural and historical side of this region. The drive from Nako Lake doesn't take long, so you can easily visit this unusual site while enjoying the high mountain scenery.
Distance from Lake: Approximately 45 km
Entry Fee: INR 30 (₹30)
Timing: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Things to Do in Nako Lake
Nako Lake rests peacefully in the mountains surrounded by traditional villages. You can do lots of different activities here, from enjoying nature to experiencing local culture. Here are the top 5 things to do in Nako Lake that will give you great memories.
1. Walk Around Nako Lake
Walking beside Nako Lake lets you take in its beauty at your own speed. The water stays so calm it reflects mountains and monasteries like a mirror. Just walking around relaxes you and shows you the quiet village life here. That stunning Nako Lake view sticks with people long after they go home.
2. Visit Nako Monastery
Nako Monastery sits near the lake and holds spiritual importance for locals. Inside there are old buildings, wall paintings, and prayer rooms to see. Time spent here helps you understand Spiti Valley's culture better. The peaceful setting suits quiet reflection.
3. Photography and Nature Observation
Areas surrounding Nako Lake look fantastic for photos and nature watching. Snow peaks, traditional houses, and the lake itself give you great shots. Bird lovers can spot various Himalayan species flying around. Bring a camera because views stay beautiful throughout the year, though each season looks a bit different.
4. Trekking and Nature Trails
Trails around Nako Lake suit people wanting some adventure. Paths wind through meadows, cross small streams, and climb rocky slopes. You get wide views of the lake and distant peaks. Join a guided trek or try shorter walks yourself. Either way, it adds excitement to your trip.
5. Experience Nako Lake in Winter
Winter transforms Nako Lake completely. Water freezes into solid ice and snow buries the mountains around it. Everything goes silent and peaceful. When ice gets thick and safe, you can walk on frozen parts carefully. Nako Lake in winter looks and feels nothing like summer visits.
Conclusion
This is a hidden treasure in Spiti Valley that gives you a proper break from hectic city life. The peaceful water, mountains covered in snow, and traditional villages around it make this place ideal for anyone who loves nature or wants to experience local culture. You may stroll slowly around the edge of the Nako lake, or enter the ancient monastery, or simply sit somewhere out of the way and have the quietness of the place fall upon you. The lake alternates its mood depending on the season, the summer is green and active, the winter turns everything white and silent. Pick the season that suits what you want to do, then choose your travel dates accordingly. Book your trip and come see Nako Lake yourself.
