Nako is a small village in the eastern end of Kinnaur district, on the banks of Spiti river, in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated at an altitude of 3,662 meters above sea level, and is surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks. Nako is a hidden gem in the Himalayas, that offers a unique blend of culture, history and nature. It is a perfect destination for those who seek peace, tranquility and adventure.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about nako, such as the nako lake, the nako monastery, the nako weather, the nako shopping and the nako tips. We will also provide you with some recommendations and insights from our own experience of visiting nako. Whether you are a solo traveller, a couple, a family or a group, you will find something that suits your interests and search intentions in nako. So, let’s get started!
Nako Lake
One of the main attractions of nako is the nako lake, which is a prominent feature of the village. The nako lake is a natural lake that is formed by the melting of the glaciers. It is a beautiful lake that reflects the clouds and the snow-capped mountains. The nako lake is also a sacred lake, as it is believed to have the footprints of Padmasambhava, a revered Buddhist master who introduced Buddhism to Tibet. The nako lake is a popular spot for boating, photography and camping. You can also enjoy the sight of the migratory birds that flock to the lake in the winter season. The nako lake is rated 4.5 out of 5 by the visitors, and is a must-visit place in nako.
Nako Monastery
Another attraction of nako is the nako monastery, which is an ancient monastery dating back to the 11th century. The nako monastery is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the region, and is a fine example of the Vajrayana Buddhism. The nako monastery has four large halls, each with a different theme and purpose. The main hall has a mandala with a fire-circle and deities, which is used for meditation and rituals. The second hall has a sculpture of Yellow Tara, a Buddhist deity of compassion and wisdom. The third hall has a statue of Maitreya, the future Buddha. The fourth hall has a collection of ancient paintings, depicting the life and teachings of Buddha. The nako monastery is rated 4 out of 5 by the visitors, and is a must-visit place in nako for the spiritual seekers and the art lovers.
Nako Weather
One of the things that you need to know before visiting nako is the nako weather, which is influenced by the high altitude and the proximity to the Spiti valley. The nako weather is cold and dry throughout the year, with the average temperature ranging from -10°C to 15°C. The nako weather is divided into four seasons: winter, spring, summer and autumn.
The best time to visit nako is from April to October, when the weather is mild and the roads are accessible.
Nako Shopping
One of the things that you can enjoy in nako is the nako shopping, which is a great way to experience the local culture and support the local economy. Nako is famous for its woolen products, such as carpets, shawls, sweaters, gloves and socks, which are handwoven by the local women. You can also buy dried apricots, which are grown in the nearby orchards and are a delicious and healthy snack. You can also buy souvenirs, such as prayer flags, prayer wheels, Buddha statues, Tibetan paintings and jewelry, which are made by the local artisans.
Nako Tips
One of the things that you need to know before visiting nako is the nako tips, which are important tips and precautions that you should follow while visiting nako. These nako tips will help you to have a safe, comfortable and enjoyable trip. Here are some of the nako tips that you should keep in mind:
Obtain a permit: If you are visiting nako from the Spiti side, you will need to obtain a permit from the Reckong Peo or the Kaza office, as nako falls under the restricted area. The permit is valid for 7 days and costs Rs. 100 per person. You will need to show your identity proof and passport size photos to get the permit. You will also need to show the permit at the check posts along the way.
Avoid alcohol: You should avoid consuming alcohol in nako, as it can dehydrate you and worsen the effects of altitude sickness. Alcohol is also prohibited in the nako monastery and the nako lake, as they are sacred places. You should also respect the local customs and beliefs, and refrain from drinking in public places.
Respect the local culture: You should respect the local culture and traditions of nako, as they are very rich and diverse. You should dress modestly and cover your head and shoulders when visiting the nako monastery and the nako lake. You should also avoid touching or disturbing the prayer flags, the prayer wheels, the Buddha statues and the paintings, as they are sacred objects. You should also greet the locals with a smile and a namaste, and learn some basic words in the local language, such as julley (hello), tashi delek (good luck) and khamzang (thank you).
Acclimatize yourself: You should acclimatize yourself to the high altitude and the low oxygen level in nako, as it can cause altitude sickness, which is a serious condition that can affect your health and well-being. You should drink plenty of water, eat light and nutritious food, avoid strenuous activities, and take rest frequently. You should also carry some medicines, such as Diamox, Paracetamol and Aspirin, to prevent or treat the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, dizziness and fatigue. You should also consult a doctor before and after your trip, and seek medical help if you feel unwell or uncomfortable.
Plan your itinerary: You should plan your itinerary carefully and wisely, as nako has a lot to offer and you may not have enough time to see and do everything. You should prioritize the places and activities that interest you the most, and allocate enough time for each. You should also consider the weather, the road conditions, the availability of transport and accommodation, and the cost of travel. You should also book your tickets and packages in advance, as nako can get crowded and expensive during the peak season. You should also keep some buffer time and flexibility in your itinerary, as nako can surprise you with its beauty and charm.
Nako is a hidden gem in the Himalayas, that offers a unique blend of culture, history and nature. It is a perfect destination for those who seek peace, tranquility and adventure. So, what are you waiting for? Visit nako and experience the magic of the Himalayas.
