From Monastery to Lake – Exploring Peace in Nako Village

Spiti Valley had been on our travel wishlist for years—a land of high mountains, rugged trails, and centuries-old monasteries. Known as a cold desert valley, it has a raw beauty that draws travelers from across the world. Finally, in June 2025, we set out to explore it. Because of my spine issue, we planned a gentle route: Shimla to Kaza, and then back the same way.

Enroute to Spiti Valley, one place that truly stole my heart was Nako Village—the first major stop after entering Spiti Valley via Khab. Tucked away in the mountains, Nako is serene, welcoming, and perfect for travelers who want to soak in the local way of life. We wandered along a short trail that connects Nako Monastery to Nako Lake, passing quiet homes, neat farms, and small animal shelters along the way.

At 12,000 feet, the Nako Monastery feels like it’s floating in the Himalayan silence. Built in the 11th century under the patronage of Western Himalayan kings and Rinchen Zangpo—the man who spread Vajrayana Buddhism and translated sacred texts into Tibetan—it holds stories as old as time.

The walk from the monastery to the lake was like stepping into another era. Narrow lanes led us past green fields neatly fenced with wooden sticks, clean little shelters for animals, and glimpses of daily village life untouched by rush or noise.

Nako Lake itself is a small gem, surrounded by willow and poplar trees and edged with a stone pathway. Its water flows from the slopes of the Reo Purgyal mountain. Close to the shore lies a rock believed to bear the footprint of the revered Padmasambhava, adding a touch of mystique to this peaceful setting.