History OF LAHOUL SPITI

Origin of the Name of the District History of District as an Administrative Unit

Lahaul & Spiti is a big district having international boundary with Tibet. It attained the status of a district in the
year 1960. Till then it was merely a tehsil of Kullu Sub-division. The valleys. mountains, glaciers, rivers,
forests, pastures, gompas (monastries) and ancient buildings of the former ruling dynasty are the principal
objects of study.

The rugged awe-inspiring snow clad mountains are standing invitation to the hikers, mountaineers and
adventurers. The entire district is full of natural scenery exorting the tourists and visitors to explore and imbibe
its hidden grandeur. The customs, myths, beliefs and conventions of the simple unsophisticated people are the
unique features of this border highland. Every village or a hamlet has a prayer flag fluttering over the Buddhist
monastery. These shrines are the centers of the cultural life of the people that have influenced their religious
beliefs for centuries and round which their social life revolves.

Origin of the Name of the District

Lahaul & Spiti, which now form, a district of Himachal Pradesh, bordering Tibet, were at one time separate
Himalayan waziries or cantons of the Kullu sub-divisions, and Kullu itself formed a part of Kangra district of
Punjab.

As is clear from the name ‘Lahaul & Spiti’, the district comprises two different mountains tracts, one known as
Lahaul and the other as Spiti. Hence the name of the district came into being with the formation of these two
parts into a revenue district. The names, Lahaul & Spiti, have different origins.

Hiuen Tsiang stated Lahaul to be 1800 or 1900 li (575 or 610 Km) distant by road from the middle of Kiu-lu-to
(Kulu). It is a gross overestimate as the first village in Lahaul is only about 70 kms from Sultanpur. Despite this
error, whatever its source may be, Lahaul is clearly the country referred to here. But the Tibetan Li-yul has also
ben identified by Rockhill with Khotan. If this is correct Hiuen Tsiang's placing Lo-u-lo at 1800 or 1900 li north
of Kulu might be intelligible though an under-estimate. Probably Hiuen Tsiang confused the two countries as
Li-yul (Khotan) and Lo-u-lo (Lahaul) in his estimate of distances, admittedly derived from hearsay.

In ancient Buddhist scripures, 'Padma thangyiang' and 'Mam-kambum' there is mention of a country named
Khasa or Hasha to the south of Ladakh and Zangskar. It is possible also that 'Garzha' may be corruption of
Khasa or Hasha. Between the 6th century B.C. and the 5th century A.D., the Saka and Khasa tribes, after
having been driven out from Central Asia by the Huns, crossed over into India. many of these settled down in
the valleys of Mid-Himalayas between Garhwal and Ladakh. This is borne out by the numerous remains of
their graves found in these valleys. There is a nullah near Keylong known as Shaks, which seems to have
taken its name after the Saka tribe settled in the Bhaga valley.

The Histroy of the District as an Administrative Unit

The two units of the district i.e. Lahaul & Spiti, have separate historical backgrounds. In the distant past Lahaul
had been changing hands between the rulers of Ladakh and Kulu. In the second half of the seventeenth
century with the disintegration of Ladakh kingdom, Lahaul passed into the hands of the Kulu chief. In 1840,
Maharaja Ranjit Singh took over Lahaul along with Kulu and ruled over it till 1846 when the area came under
the sway of the British. From 1846 to 1940, Lahaul formed part of the Kulu sub-division of Kangra district and
was administered through the local jagirdars/thakurs. One of the thakurs was designated as Wizier of Lahaul
& was invested with judicial and executive powers. Another thakur was given the powers of a Revenue
Officer. These functionaries exercised traditional as well as other power conferred by the Government. The
Assistant Commissioner. Kulu used to visit the area once a year for a month or so. In the late thirties the
unprecedented prosperity of the people through growing kuth and their consequent awakening created a
formidable challenge to the power and influence of the Wizier of Lahaul, which gradually started declining. The
inadequacy was soon noticed by the Government which considered the extension of the regular system of
administration. Accordingly in 1941, a separate sub-tehsil comprising Lahaul & Spiti was formed and a naib-
tehsildar was posted at Keylong thereby divesting the thakurs of their powers. The system remained in vogue
till June, 1960 when Lahaul & Spiti district came into being. Simultaneously, Lahaul was constituted into a
separate tehsil, and, later on it was formed into a sub-division.

The East India Company took over the possession of the Spiti portion in the year 1846 after the cessation of
cis-Satluj States as a result of the Anglo-Sikh War. Before that it formed a part of Ladakh, a subsidiary of
Jammu & Kashmir. Because of its remoteness and poverty of natural resources, the British following the
example of the Ladakhi rulers, did not introduce any substantial changes in the administrative set up of the
territory. The Nono of Kyuling was recognized as the hereditary Wizier of Spiti (re-affirmed by the Spiti Frontier
Regulations of 1883) and was suppose to represent the British India Government. He collected the land
revenue for the Government, his judicial jurisdiction included trial of all criminal cases, except cases of murder;
and he performed all functions and enjoyed all necessary powers for the fulfillment of his tasks and duties, as
laid down in the regulations of 1883.

In 1941, Spiti,with Lahaul, was constituted into a separate sub-tehsil of Kullu sub-division which had its
headquarters at Keylong. Later on, after the formation of Lahaul & Spiti into a district, in 1960, Spiti was
formed into a sub-division with its headquarter at Kaza.

Fact File
POPULATION 2001 Census
33,224 (Lahaul=22,674,
Total Number
Spiti=10,550)
Male Number 18,413
Female Number 14,811
Rural Number 33,224
Urban Number Nil
Sex Ratio 804 Women per 1000 Men
Per Square
Denisty of Population 2
KM
Birth/Death Rate 16/1000 LB Birth Rate
3 Death Rate
PEOPLE & CULTURE
Major Religions Hindu & Bodh
Manchad Dialects, Bhoti,
Languages Spoken
Sanskrit
Culture Tibetan & Bhoti Culture
Traditions God Prayers
Art Forms Tibetan
LITERACY RATE
73.17%
AGGREGATE
Male Literracy 82.76%
Female Literacy 60.94%
GEOGRAPHICAL AREA Square KM 13,835
Forest Area Hectare 1,35,369
Cultivated Area Hectare 4459
Unusable Area
10,050 feet
Above Mean
Altitude
Sea Level Ranges lies between 5,480
metres and 6,400 meters
Lies between East Longitude 76
Longitude
46' 29" and 78 41' 34"
Lies between North Latitude 31
Latitude
44' 57" and 32 59' 57"
Major Rivers CHANDRA + BHAGA =Chenab
CLIMATE Generally Cool
Humidity Generally Dry
Rainfall/Snowfall Scanty/Heavy
From State
DISTANCES
Capital Shimla
Nearest Railway Station Shimla 341 Km
Bhuntar for
Lahaul 166 Km
Nearest Airport
Shimla for 341 Km
Spiti
ADMINISTRATIVE SET UP As on 01st July'2003
Sub-Divisions 3 (Keylong, Kaza, Udaipur)
2 (Lahaul at Keylong, Spiti at
Tehsils
Kaza)
Development Blocks 2 (Lahaul, Spiti)
GramPanchayats 41 (Lahaul=28, Spiti=13)
Villages 272
As on 01st
HEALTH SET UP July'2003,CMO Office,
Keylong
DistrictHospitals 1
Community Health Centres 3 (Udaipur, Shansha, Kaza)
9 (Sissu, Gondhla, Gemur,
Primary Health Centres Tholang, Jhalma, Thirot,
Tingret, Tabo, Sagnam )
5 (Darcha, Phura, Kibber,
Civil Dispensaries
Lossar, Hansa)
Sub Centres 35 (25 in Lahaul, 10 in Spiti)
TBA 36
Ayurvedic Hospitals 1
Ayurvedic Dispensaries 21
EDUCATION
Primary Schools 205
Middle Schools 28
High Schools 14
Sr Secondary Schools 11
Colleges 1 at Kukumseri (Udaipur)
Medical/Engg Colleges Nil
DIET 1 at Tandi
University Nil
ANIMAL HUSBANDRY
Hospitals 14
Dispensaries 36
AI Centres -
Mobile Units 1
CATTLE POPULATION 63,647

GENERAL
Telephone Connections Around 500
Villages with link road 190 approx
100%
Electrified Villages
Electrified
Nationalized Bank
8
Branches
Name of Lead Bank SBI
Cooperative Bank
Branches
3

Major Crops Potato, Peas

ASSEMBLY
REPRESENTATIVE
Sh Ragh Bir Singh, Indian
National Congress
RELIGIOUS PLACES
1. Triloknath Temple,
Udaipur (Lahaul Valley)
2. Mrikula Mata Temple,
Udaipur (Lahaul Valley)

3. Lady Of Keylong
 1. Kardang
2. Shashur
3. Gemur
4. Tabo
BODH MONASTRIES
5. Kee
6. Tayul

7. Guru Ghantal

1. Chandra
River
2. Bhaga River 1. Chandra Tal
RIVER & LAKE
3. Chandrabhag 2. Suraj Tal
a
4. Spiti River 3. Neel Kanth

5. Tsarab River
1. Rohtang (3978m)
2. Baralacha La (4830m)
3. Kunzam (4551m)
4. Pin Parvati (5319m)
5. Ghunsarng (5600m)
6. Monirang (5335m)
PASSES
7. Sara Umga (5019m)
8. Hamta (4268m)
9. Kugti (5040m)
10. Kalicho (4803m)

11. Tarsalamu (5358m)

PWD CIRCUIT HOUSES 3 (Keylong, Udaipur, Kaza)
24 (Keylong, Jispa, Patseo,
Thirot, Udaipur, Tindi, Gondhla,
PWD REST HOUSES Sissu, Koksar, Chhatru, Chota
Dara, Kaza, Tabo, Losar, Samd,
Poh, Sagna)
IPH REST HOUSES 7
Forest REST HOUSES 4 (Keylong, Jahalman, Udaipur)
HPSEB REST HOUSES 3 (Karga, Thirot)
1. Stingri
2. Barring
3. Sissu
4. Tingret
HELIPADS 5. Udaipur
6. Rawa
7. Jispa

8. Tindi
 1. Tandi (Lahaul) 105 Km
away from Manali on
Manali-Keylong-Leh
PETROL PUMPS highway.

2. Kaza (Spiti) 421 Km

away from Shimla.

Access
Access to Lahaul & Spiti district by road can be made from two different locations one is Sumdo through
(Kinnaur District) for entry into Spiti valley and another is through Manali (Kullu District) for entry into
Lahaul valley. The nearest airport is Bhutar Airport (Kullu) & nearest railheads are Jogindernagar, Shimla &
Chandigarh.

• Blue Line (Route from Shimla to Kaza [Spiti Block])

412 Kms (About 20 Hours journey excluding one night halt)
This road is almost all weather road upto Kaza.

• Red Line (Route from Shimla to Keylong [Lahaul Block])

375 Kms (About 18 Hours journey)
This road closes during winters for more than 6 months due to closure of
Rohtang Pass.

• Green Line (Route from Keylong to Kaza i.e. Lahaul block to Spiti block)
185 Kms (About 6 Hours journey)
This road closes during winters for more than 9 months due to closure of
Kunzam Pass & heavy snowfall w.e.f. Oct/Nov-June/July.

Important Destinations & Distances

Shimla-Rampur-Sumdo(Kinnaur)-Kaza (412 km)
The Northern Route from Kaza to Manali (total 209 km)
Chandigarh-Mandi-Kullu-Manali (334 km)
Tandi-Thirot-Udaipur-Rohli-Killar (124 km)
Manali-Leh Road (473 km)
IMPORTANT DESTINATIONS & DISTANCES
From Delhi to Lahaul valley
-- Delhi - Manali (via) Chandigarh - Ropar - Kiratpur - Bilaspur - Mandi - Kullu (570 km)
-- Delhi - Manali (via) Karnal - Shahabad - Pinjore - Swarghat - Bilaspur - Mandi - Kullu (560 km)

-- Delhi - Keylong (via) Shimla - Rampur - Tabo - Kaza - Gramphoo (989 km)

-- Delhi - Leh (Ladakh) (via) Manali - Keylong - Darcha - Sarchu (1043 km)
From Delhi to Spiti valley
-- Delhi - Kaza (via) Shimla - Rampur - Puh - Sumdo - Tabo (801 km)
From Shimla to Lahaul valley
-- Shimla -Manali (via) Darlaghat - Bhararighat - Brahmpukhar - Ghaghas - Sundernagar - Mandi - Kullu (260
km)
-- Shimla -Manali (via) Tattapani-Aisindhi-Charkufri-Chindi-Chail Chowk-Baggi-Nerchowk-Mandi-Kullu (289
km)
-- Shimla-Manali (via) Theog-Kingel-Luhri-Bainakhad-Ani-Khanag-Jalori Pass(3223m) Shja-Banjar-Larji-Aut-
Kullu (267 km)
-- Shimla - Keylong (via) Manali (via) Brahmpukhar - Ghaghas - Sundernagar - Mandi (375 km)
-- Shimla - Keylong (via) Kaza (via) Rampur - Puh - Kaza - Kunzum Pass (4551m) - Batal - Gramphoo - Tandi
(609 km)
From Shimla to Lahaul valley
-- Shimla - Kaza (via) Rampur - Puh - Tabo (412 km)
From Manali
-- Manali - Keylong (via) Rohtang Pass - Gramphoo - Tandi (115 km)
-- Manali - Leh (Ladakh) (via) Rohtang Pass - Keylong - Baralacha Pass (473 km) with Road Map
-- Manali - Kaza (via) Rohtang Pass - Batal - Kunzam Pass (200 km)

Tourism
General Information
Tourist Map Monasteries

Accomodation Fairs/ Festivals

Tourist Places in Lahaul Adventure Tourism

Tourist Places in Spiti Trekking

Shopping Foreigner Section

Geographical Conditions :

The valley of Lahoul is situated to the south of Ladakh. For this very reason this place derived its name “Lho-
Yul” meaning "Southern Country". To its south is situated the beautiful valley of Kullu across the Rohtang
Pass (3195Mtrs) and the Bara Bangahal (Kangra) across the “Asakh” pass (5051Mtrs) . Its western
boundaries touch the Pangi and Churah areas of Distt. Chamba. To its north situated the valleys of Zanskar
and Ladakh across Shingola (5090 Mtrs) and Baralacha la (5450 Mtrs) respectively. Its eastern and south
eastern boundaries coincide with those of Spiti and Western Tibet across the Kunzom Pass (4500 Mtrs).

Area & Popoulation :

As per census 2001, the area of Lahaul & Spiti District is 13,835 Sq. Kms. and population is 33,224. The
density of population is 2 persons per sq. Km against the figure of 93 persons for the whole state and sex ratio
is 804 females per 1000 males. There is no town in the district and entire population is rural.
No. of villages = 521 (Inhabited =265, Uninhabited =256). No of Panachayats = 41 (Lahaul =20, Udaipur=8,
Spiti=13)
Panchayat Samittis = 2 (One in Lahaul and One in Spiti )

Approach :
 Approach To Lahaul Valley: Upto Kullu by air (Bhunter Airport) or road then proceed to Manali from
where one can easily reach Keylong the Headquarter town of Lahoul valley through Rohtang Pass by
Bus/ Jeep. Its a 115 Km journey from Manali which takes 6 hours. Although one can opt for other
approaches such as Shimla- Reckong Peo- Kaza – Kunzom – Keylong. Leh- Tanglangla – Baralacha la
– Keylong.

Approach To Spiti Valley: Spiti is linked via the Sutlej valley of Kinnaur with motorable road. Upto Shimla by air,
rail or road. By road from Shimla to Kaza (The headquarter of Spiti division) the distance is 412 kms. This is
via Narkanda, Rampur, Jeori, Wangtu, Karcham, Powari, Jangi, Puh.
Due to closure of Rohtang Pass the road to Lahaul valley remains closed from Nov to May every year and
due to closure of Kunzam Pass the road from Lahaul valley to Spiti i.e. Koksar-Batal-Kaza remains closed
from Nov to June, however the road to Spiti valley from Kinnaur is almost all-weather road.

Climate :

Since the valley is situated in rain shadow area, north of the Pir Panjal ranges the weather remains pleasant
and quite comfortable during summers i.e. from May to mid Oct. This is the best season to visit this valley. It
seldom rains, and the Mercury level does not exceed 300c and never falls below 150 c through out the period
mentioned above. One can always enjoy bright sunshine wandering within lush green valley. There is little or
no rain in monsoons. The climate remains dry & invigorating. The days are hot and night are extremely cold.
Heavy/Light woolens are recommended.
During winter, i.e. from Nov. last to April because of western disturbances it snows heavily and the temp. goes
down below minus. There is an average annual snow fall of about 7 feet.

Best Time to Visit :

The best time to visit Lahaul & Spiti is during summer i.e. from May to mid October, since the district is
snowbound area and Lahaul valley remain isolated from rest of the world from October-May due to closure of
the Rohtang Pass. Although Spiti is an almost all-weather place.

Food habits:

The peoples of Lahaul & Spiti have three meals a day-Ken or tshema in the morning, Shod or chicken in the
noon and yangskin or Gongal at night. Their staple food is buckwheat locally known as Kathu. Barley, Wheat
and Rice also consumed. Besides they consume a lot of lugri or tsagti, chhang (beer) and salted tea mixed
with butter. Arak ( Local distilled liquor) is also taken occasionally. Smoking of Tobacco is very common
among the aged people, but is forbidden for the ladies.

Petrol Pumps :

In district Lahaul & Spiti there are only two petrol pumps one at Tandi (Lahaul valley) which is 105 Km away
from Manali and second in Kaza (Spiti valley) which is 421 Km away from Shimla. In Lahaul valley after Tandi
another petrol pump is situated at Leh (J & K) which is 368 Km away from Tandi.

Museums/Art Galleries, Forts :

KEYLONG MUSUEM : A museum of Tribal Art along with an auditorium is being established at Keylong, the
building is under construction and will be completed in about a couple of years. The museum apart from
archaeological finds will display Thanka Painting, objects of everyday use as they existed before the
achievement of modern mechanised equipments in the District. The museum will also display manuscripts in
Bhoti Scripts and Tankri documents. The auditorium will host dramas depicting lifestyle of Lahaul, Spiti and
Chamba- Lahaul areas which constitute culturally three separate identities.
At Kyuling (Spiti) the sect of the nono of Spiti ( the ruling Wazir of Spiti area under the nominal British control
before Independence) have also established a small museum of artefacts.

Pin Valley National Park, Spiti :

It is located in the Pin valley of Spiti at height of 12,000 m above sea level. It is home to endangered species
like Snow leopard, the endemic Himalayan Ibex, the mighty Bharal or Blue Sheep and Lynx.

Police Assistance:
To ensure safety and security of the tourists, and to guide them about the terrain, routes, weather etc kindly
contact police station located in the district at following areas:
Police Station, Keylong Tel: 01900-222223
Police Station, Udaipur Tel: 01909-222210
Police Station, Kaza Tel: 01906-222253
For more information on Himachal Pradesh Police, please visit http://hppolice.nic.in.
And about Inner Line Permit for foreigners visit foreigner section.

Medical Assistance:
To provide the medical facilities in the district, Civil Hospital is located at district headquarter Keylong. The
contact number of OPD is 01900-222255 and of emergency is 01900-222211. The hospital provides all types
of medicines to the patients. The Community Health Centres are located at Udaipur, Shansha, Kaza and
Primary Health Centres are located at Sissu, Gondhla, Gemur, Tholong, Jhalman, Thirot, Tingret, Tabo,
Sagnam and Civil Dispensaries are located at Darcha, Phura, Kibber, Lossar, Hansa.

Besides these Auyurvedic Hospital, Tibetan Dispensary & Veterinary Hospital are also located at Keylong
 Position of Himachal Pradesh in India

On the north of Himachal, Jammu & Kashmir lies, whreas on the east Punjab, east southern Haryana, Uttar
Pradesh & UT Chandigarh, on west side newly state Uttranchal and border of China exist.

Position of District Lahaul & Spiti in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal comprises of 12 districts in total, covering the area of 55,673 sq km. Its total population is 6,077,248
as per 2001 census. The valley of Lahoul is situated to the south of Ladakh. For this very reason this place
derived its name “Lho-Yul” meaning "Southern Country". To its south is situated the beautiful valley of Kullu
across the Rohtang Pass (3195Mtrs) and the Bara Bangahal (Kangra) across the “Asakh” pass (5051Mtrs)
. Its western boundaries touch the Pangi and Churah areas of Distt. Chamba. To its north situated the valleys
of Zanskar and Ladakh across Shingola (5090 Mtrs) and Baralacha la (5450 Mtrs) respectively. Its eastern
and south eastern boundaries coincide with those of Spiti and Western Tibet across the Kunzom Pass (4500
Mtrs). The population of L&S is 33,224 as per 2001 census with a poulation density of 2 per sq km.

Lahaul & Spiti Tourist Map

The Lahaul & Spiti district is a unique socio-physical unit of Himachal Pradesh. Its two components, the sub-
divisions of Lahaul & Spiti, are in turn equally distinct from each other in several respects. Lahaul constitutes
the western and physically more accessible area of the district.
Separated by high mountains ranges from Jammu & Kashmir territory on the north, Kullu and Bara Banghal on
the south, Spiti on the east and Chamba on the west, Lahaul is a physically closed unit. In its west, however,
the Chenab river forces its way by a narrow valley, while in the north-east the Yunan river flows into a
Zangskar.

LAHAUL SPITI

Access to Lahaul & Spiti

Access to Lahaul & Spiti district by road can be made from two different locations one is through Sumdo
(Kinnaur District) for entry into Spiti valley and another is through Manali (Kullu District) for entry into
Lahaul valley. In between the Lahaul valley & Spiti valley the both are connected with road but road is opened
only for few months (mid June to mid Oct).

Road & River Map of Lahaul & Spiti

In Lahaul & Spiti major rivers are Chandra, Bhaga & Chandrabhaga in the Lahaul division and Spiti river & Pin
river in the Spiti division.

Chandigarh to Lahaul & Spiti Route Map

Chandigarh to Lahaul & Spiti through road:

Chandigarh to Lahaul (via Bilaspur-Mandi-Kullu-Manali)
Chandigarh to Spiti (via Shimla-Narkanda-Nako-Sumdo)

Manali to Leh
Manali-Leh (via Rohtang Pass-Keylong-Sarchu-Pang-Tanglang La-Upshi) 475 km

Monasteries in HP

E-Governance
Lahaul & Spiti is a tribal district which is virtually cut from the rest of the world for more than 6 months in a
year. Normal vehicular traffic is open between June and November only. The only presence in Information
Technology has been the lone District Centre of National Informatics Centre, Ministry of Communication &
Information Technology. The District Centre was established in the year 1988 at Deputy Commissioner
office, Keylong. However, this Centre remained non-functional for many years after 1995 due to man-
power shortage. In the year 2001, a District Informatics Associate was posted and the NIC has, with the
active involvement of the District Administration, initiated IT activities in this remote district of India. The
district website of the Lahaul & Spiti was the first step in this direction in the year 2001.

Today as a result of NIC's efforts, more and more departments are undertaking large computerisation
projects for integrating micro-level data, originating in their field offices. These include the Welfare
Pension MIS (District Welfare Office), Land Record Computerisation, Registration of Land Deeds &
Driving Licenses (Tehsil office), Payroll (IPH, SP Office, District Agriculture Office), CRISP (DRDA),
Annual Tribal Sub-Plan (ITDP), PMGSY (PWD) and various District Development Monitoring Projects
(Grievances Disposal System, Budget Planning) at District Collectorate Office at Keylong.

NIC District Centre Keylong Entrance during Winters

In the winter season, this district is cut off from rest of the world for about six months from Oct/Nov to
May/June due to closure of Rohtang Pass and the communication facilities are also badly affected. Even
the telephone systems don't work properly and Internet is not accessible over dial-up. The principal role
played by NIC, besides changing the work culture and making the administration more effective at all
levels, is in nature of demolishing barriers on information dissemination and in making the working of the
Government more transparent to the public as well in making the information more readily available from
one Department to another, from the State Government to the Central Government and vice versa. In the
year 2002, a VSAT/IPA was installed at Keylong by using of which the availablility of information,
accuratley and on a timely basis has given a new dimension to the district administration. NIC is proud that
it has made all this possible. As the major problem of this district is the bad communication channels
between Lahaul valley & Spiti valley, therefore to remove this communication barrier matter is taken up
with MIT to establish the another VSAT at Kaza in Spiti valley so that a fast & reliable communication
netwok between Lahaul block & Spiti block can be established. So that the atleast virtual isolation of the
people and officials of district can be removed.

Hardware Technical Wing NICNET

Software Trainings New Initiatives

HARDWARE
Pentium (P-III & P-IV) Clients Windows 2000 based 7
Unix Server (Sco v2.1) 1
GIST Terminals 8
Network Laser Printer 1
Laser Printer 1
Desk Jet Color Printer 1
Dot Matrix Printer 3
Scanner 1
Web Camera 1
CD Writer (External & Internal) 2
Remote Access Server 1
VSAT-IPA 1
UPS 2 KVA 2
Laminator 1

SOFTWARE
Standard Office Automation Software: These software are made available at the NIC Centre in the
Local Area Network for carrying out routine office automation activities e.g. Word Processing, Electronics
Spreadsheet, Electronic Mailing (E-mail) etc. Presently at NIC Centre, Keylong any official who don't have
computer in his office he/she can come to the centre & can use these services.

Customized Office Automation Software: These are the software developed by NIC H.P. State Unit and
District Units for specific type of office automation activities common to all the Departments e.g.
Payroll Processing, Telephone Directory, References Monitoring System, Personnel Information
System, Expenditure Monitoring System etc. Under this we have computerised the payroll process of DC
Office, SP office, IPH, Animal Husbandry deptt. Also maintains telephone directory of district. Also
developed the Grievances Monitoring System to early disposal the grievances received from the public.

Department Specific Software:These include Studying, Designing, Developing necessary Software

and Implementing the computerised Management Information Systems for various Government
Departments, as per the requirement of Database building for Planning, Controlling, Monitoring
and/or Decision Support purposes. These exercises are taken-up as Projects by NIC, which may be
sub-categorized further, as follows:

1. Land Record Computerisation:

Land Record Management Information System has been implemented in the district, the data
entry process of Jamabandi of Lahaul tehsil is going on. After completion of the data entry work
the mutation part will be started at tehsil level.
2. Driving License Computerisation:
This is the major project launched in the district with the active support of Sh Subhasish Panda,
IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Lahaul & Spiti. The software has been procured from the NIC
headquarter. This is the first initiative under E-Governance and shortly other services like Vehicle
Registration, Registration of Land Deeds & Arms License will be started.
3. Welfare Pension Computerisation:
After computerisation of records of Welfare Pensioners it has become very easy to issue the
money orders to the pensioners.
4. Payroll Computerisation:
Here at Keylong many offices have their own computers & printers but they were not fully utilising
them, to make the use of these hardware different officials get trained to cumputerised the Payroll
of their employees. Under this SP office, IPH office, Animal Husbandry office covered. Whereas
the payroll of deputy commissioner office & SK branch already computerised.
5. Grievances Monitoring System:
To early disposal of the public grievances a locally developed Grievances Monitoring System
implemented.
6. District Telephone Directory:
A online telephone directory developed for the reference of the local connected officials with the
LAN and hard copy also maintained & available at NIC centre Keylong.
7. Budget Planning:
For the budget planning for the propsed & expenditure system developed and implemented at
Deputy Commissioner office.
8. Tourism Promotion:
Lahaul & Spiti district is a great tourist destination for its exotic landscape beauty of himalays. To
promote it further tourist brochure has been developed and distributed to the hotels & displayed in
the circuit houses, rest houses & DC office. The downloadable version of same brochure made
available to the tourists in the district website.

9. Web Development & Maintenance:

NIC Keylong has considerable expertise of dynamic web deployment of any content. A
comprehensive website (http://hplahaulspiti.nic.in) developed & being maintained is a live
 example.

NICNET INFO SUPERHIGHWAY

NIC has successfully operated its satellite-based
computer-communication network, NICNET. The
District Centre Keylong also get connected with this
country wide network on July'2002, when VSAT/IP-A
was installed here. Further a local area network was
established to provide the Internet & E-Mail Services
to the Govt Departments. The info superhighway is
providing complete connectivity with very high
reliability as this is the only reliable communication
media over here.

NEW INITIATIVES

Removal of Communication Gap Between Lahaul block & Spiti block:

Lahaul & Spiti the tribal & snowbound district of Himachal Pradesh has traditionally been less developed
due to its remoteness & peculiar geographical hilly terrain. A strong communication infrastructure is
lacking. Information Technology (IT) has consistently catalysed socio-economic development. It was
envisaged by the government that extending the reach of the IT revolution to this region would give a
boost to all-round development. In particular, satellite based communication overcomes the challenge of
terrain & geographic remoteness. To combat these challanges the NIC centre was established at Keylong
in 1988 and the VSAT\IPA was installed here in the year 2002. Due to the larger geographical area &
heavy snowfall in winters the Lahaul block & Spiti block virtually cut off from each other for more than 8
months, which is the major hurdle in the development progress of the district. For the speedy action &
efficient administration following network is supposed to be implemented in this whole area:

As shown in the above map the two physically isolated by hilly terrain blocks they can be joined through
satellite computer network. As already one VSAT/IPA has been installed in the NIC DIC Keylong (Lahaul
block) in July 2002 there is a urgent need of similar VSAT/IPA at tehsil Kaza the headquarter of Spiti block
so that both block can be accessible through computers. Then further through these VSATs the email
services should provided to the rest of the inaccessible parts of the valley separately. The matter is already
taken up with MIT to establish another VSAT\IPA at Kaza to remove this communication barrier.
TRAININGS
At NIC, training is considered the most important single component for introducing new technologies, and
for bringing about cultural and attitudinal changes in the functioning of the Government. From awareness
creation of senior officials to the routine operational training of the staff at the working level. At Keylong
time to time free of charge Computer Awareness programmes are offered to Government Officials.GIST
technology based Hindi programmes are offered to Government officials to promote use of computers in
Hindi. At the Executive level to give them the exosure of new technologies in the areas of
Communications, Networking, Multimedia, CAD/CAM, Client Server computing, Object Oriented,
Databases workshops and seminars organised.

TECHNICAL CONSULTANCY
NIC Centre Keylong is providing its technical consultancy to the Govt Departments situated in or outside
Keylong in working out the hardware/software requirements for their computerisation activities, and
preparing detailed proposals thereof etc. Assist the top level management by using of IT in their decision
making, monitoring, analysis etc.

Technical Wing

Mohan Rakesh Aggarwal, DIA & I/C DIC Keylong

Deputy Commissioner Office, District Lahaul & Spiti, Keylong-175132
Tel: 91-01900-222759, email: aggarwalmr@hp.nic.in

SINGLE LINE ADMINISTRATION

The chief administrative authority within the district vests in the Deputy Commissioner, who more due to single
line administration is not only District Magistrate and Collector but for all intents and purposes is also the head
of all the district level offices. In addition to the usual and traditional role as Deputy Commissioner he has
multifarious duties. As Deputy Commissioner, he is the executive head of the District looking after
development, Panchayats, local bodies and civil administration. As District Magistrate, he is responsible for
the maintenance of law and order and is the head of Police and prosecuting agency in the district. As Collector
he is at the apex of the revenue administration and is responsible for the collection of land-revenue and all
dues recoverable as arrears of land-revenue. He is also revenue-applause authority. He ensures the
successful execution of plan-schemes and co-ordinates the functions of all development departments and in
fact due to the peculiar circumstances and situation of the area his functions are largely those of a
Development Officer. In order to avoid procedural delays and in the interest of early disposal of work, he has
been given special and enhanced powers. He has been declared Head of Department for all offices
functioning in the district.

In addition to the above the Deputy Commissioner has been invested with so many other administrative and
financial powers. He can effect transfers of non-gazetted staff within the district in respect of staff of all the
departments. The Deputy Commissioner is also the disciplinary authority and is competent to take disciplinary
action in matters concerning non-gazetted staff posted in the district. He can order any punishment, short of
dismissal and removal from service. This arrangement has been made to ensure smooth working in the area
because of its remoteness.

The concentration of powers in the Deputy Commissioner is primarily to ensure the speedy disposal of work
and execution of development schemes. These arrangements have worked very well. The people, who were
hitherto unused to the immediate presence of a high powered executive and were, therefore initially
apprehensive, that the induction of such an elaborate administrative machinery might mean a certain
curtailment of their idyllic freedom, are now convinced that from small waziris to a sub-tehsil and then to a ful-
fledged district, the change has been all along for the better.

There are two tehsils and two sub-divisions in the district namely Lahul and Spiti which are coterminous. The
Deputy Commissioner in the district is assisted by the usual compliment of ministerial and executive staff.
Three Sub-Divisional Officers (Civil) each posted at Keylong, Udaipur and Kaza are invested with powers of
Sub-Divisional Magistrate and Collector. The two Tehsildars posted in Keylong tehsil & Kaza tehsil have the
powers of the Executive Magistrate and Assistant Collectors 1st grade. They have to assist the Sub-Divisional
Officers both in Magisterial and in revenue work. Tehsildars in turn are assisted in-the revenue work by the
field revenue staff.

The following district level officers are the incharge of their respective departments, and work under the
supervision and direction of the Deputy Commissioner.

Department Designation Headquarters

Police Superintendent Of Police Keylong
Medical Chief Medical Officer Keylong
Forest Divisional Forest Officer Keylong
Development Block Development Officer One each at Keylong & Kaza
Project Officer, ITDP One each at Keylong & Kaza
Project Officer, DRDA One each at Keylong & Kaza
Panchayat District Panchayat Officer Keylong
Education Dy Director Education Keylong
Public Relations District Public Relations Officer Keylong
Public Works Executive Engineer Keylong
Industries General Manager, District Industries Corpn Keylong
Veterinary Assistant Director Keylong
Co-operation Assistant Registrar Keylong
Irrigation & Public Health Executive Engineer Keylong
Agriculture District Agriculture Officer Keylong
Horticulture District Horticulture Officer Keylong

INNOVATIVE PROJECTS
Inspite of limited working season and harsh weather conditions, three innovative projects have
been selected and work is being going on. The detail of these Projects are as follows:

Snow Harvesting Proiect at Sumnam in Gram Panchayat Tandi : Since, glaciers have been
receding fast in the recent past and the snow line is going up, therefore the only alternative left is to
harvest Snow. It is in view of this that a new Project called "Snow Harvesting Project" is being
started at Sumnam in Tandi area of Lahaul block.

Igloo Type House at Rohtang :

Rohtang Pass remains closed for most part of the year. Therefore, the only alternative to cross it is
through air service (Helicopter). Even in the month of March & April, crossing Rohtang Pass is very
dangerous. Since from Marhi to Koksar is involved a long walk. There is no place for rest and stay
 on the way. It is in this regard that Igloo type houses are being proposed to be constructed at
Harchu galu. PWD (Lahaul) has been allocated funds and instructed to start the construction work,
at the earliest

Shivak Thorn, Project at Kukumseri :

Shivak thom is a herb which produces small seeds (called sarala locally). It is used in medicine, jam
and pickle preparation. A Russian variety has been introduced which has shown better results. The
introduction and production of especially foreign varieties of Shivak thorn on commercial basis, will
bring in extra income to the valley (Lahaul).

Waterpond above every village:

To recharge water sources, to provide drinking water for wild animals, to enhance soil moisture.

Introduction of Aromatic and Medicinal Plants:

Sapling of Himrose, lavendor and lavendine already procured from IHBT Palampur.

MAJOR EVENTS
Heavy Snowfall in July 1993
There was unprecedented rains/ snowfall from 9.07.1993 to 23.07.1993 in Lahaul Spiti. Due to
heavy rains there was a loss/ damage to properties amounting to Rs. 5.00 crores. There is no
record of snow fall occuring during July in the past. During the period about 40cms, of snowfall was
recorded. The snowfall damaged hops, peas, wheat, and barley crops. Apart from above 8285
sheep/ goats and 61 horses/ pones were reported to have perished due to snowfall and extreme
cold.
It is reported that 325 tourists including 64 foreign tourists were stranded along with 49 vehicles of
all types at Baralacha pass due to landslides and heavy snowfall. The stranded people remain
stranded at Baralacha from 9th to 13th July 1993. Due to continuous snow & rains, dilapidated
condition of roads, movement of vehicles was not possible. Efforts were made to locate the exact
position of stranded people, but due to snow fall, falling of boulders and damaged Manali Leh road,
exact position could not be ascertained. So call was sent to govt. requesting for air dropping of food
and clothing at Baralacha area. Rescue parties consisting of civilians, youth clubs, panchayat
members, ITBP and SSB Jawans, Army personnel with doctors proceeded to Baralacha with food
packets, medicines and blankets etc. On 14th July 1993, Helicopter dropped fresh cooked food,
blankets and medicines in that area in two sorties from Bhunter. Timely dropping of food and
medicines in that area saved people from starvation and enabled them to walk down on foot. Since
it was not possible to cross Rohtang pass even on foot, 500 tourists including 82 foreign tourists
were accommodated in a small place, namely Koksar where food and clothing as well as medicines
were provided to all persons. The villagers of Koksar accommodated maximum people in the village
and provided them shelter and food from 10th to 17th July, An Air force helicopter lifted 18 persons
including 6 foreigners from Koksar to Bhunter while the others left for Manali by HRTC buses and
their own vehicles on 23.07.1993.

Heavy Rainfall in September 1995

Lahaul Spiti District was severely gripped by natural calamity in September, 1995 due to heavy rains
great devastation of govt. and private property, public utilities services, roads and bridges etc.was
reported. About 300 tourists including foreigners, children and ladies were stranded between
Baralacha and Sarchu and road communication was completely snapped. District Administration
immediately arranged for the helicopter and organised rescue operations. Stranded foreigners and
tourists were air lifted. Blankets and food packets were dropped to save people from starvation. 22
persons died and an amount of Rs. 475000/- was given as relief to legal heirs of the deceased
persons. Besides, 2860 heads of cattle/ goats/ sheep/ cows and horses perished and relief money
amounting to Rs.3,84,050/- was given to the deprived.

Kalchakra Ceremony 1994 & 2000

 Kalchakar- Mahavhishek were organised at Jispa in Lahaul and Key in Spiti during the year 1994
and 2000 in which thousands of devotees and tourists gathered and H.H. The Dalai Lama
delivered religious sermon.
A Millennium celebration was held at Tabo (in Spiti) on the eve of completion of one thousand years
of Tabo Monastery known as Ajanta of Himalayas in which thousands of devotees
attended. Kalchakra ceremony was held on this occasion and H.H. The Dalai Lama
delivered religious sermon.

PM Visit 2000
The Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Sh. Atal Vihari Bajpai Ji visited Keylong in the month of
June,2000. While addressing large gathering, Hon’ble Prime Minister announced the construction of
a tunnel under Rohtang pass which remains closed due to heavy snowfall for 7-8 months in a year.

SHORT COMINGS AND PROBLEMS

Limited working season
Since the area remains snowbound and landlocked for almost 6 months i.e. from December to May,
the working season for developmental activities is limited to 6 months only, resulting in delay in
completion of works and higher costs of construction.

High Maintenance Cost of Roads and Irrigation Channels

The soil of this valley is loose and sandy and as such roads and irrigation channels get damaged
even with slightest rain , melting of snow land slides, falling of boulders and avalanches. Thus the
repairs of Kuhls and roads consume hefty sums of money and sometimes it costs more than that for
new construction.

Marketing of Hops
There was no proper infrastructure for the marketing of Hops, which can become main cash crop in
addition to potatoes & peas and can reap rich benefits to the farmers of the valley, but last year with
the commissioning of Hops Palletting Plant at Baddi, the scenario has improved.

Disease in Willow Plantation

The willow trees in the valley are drying due to mysterious disease and improper irrigation facilities
due to scanty snowfall in winters. The matter regarding the outbreak of this disease has been taken
up with the Dr. Y.S Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Solan, H.P and is providing
necessary help to the people.

Non-availability of skilled and semi-skilled labour

Since the involvement of local labour is quite negligible and almost all skilled and semi-skilled
labours are imported from outside the Valley, the labour rate as applied to tribal areas is 25% above
the normal rate prevailing in other areas. Material cost and transportation charges are higher than
those in other areas of the Pradesh due to un-certain climatic conditions and difficult topography.

Expensive Transportation
In most cases, the schemes which are to be executed are situated at inhospitable altitudes and all
the materials required for the execution are to be carried through manual labour. This also causes
higher labour charges and consumes more time.

Erratic Mail System

Erratic mail system in the Valley is the main impediment in proper implementation of developmental
 activities. It has been noticed that even an ordinary mail takes a month’s time to reach its
destination. Sometimes the dak regarding allocation of budget is received when the financial year is
already over. Therefore, the regular dak system is to be ensured.

MAP OF MONASTERIES IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

in Lahaul Valley in Spiti Valley
Guru Ghantal Tabo
Kardang Dhankar
Shashur Kye
Tayul Tnagyud
Ghemur Kungri
Kibber
GURU GHANTAL
This monastery is situated on a hill above the Tupchiling village at the confluence of the rivers Chandra and
Bhaga. This gompa was founded by Padma Sambhava and is more than 800 years old. The peculiar feature
of the gompa is the wooden idols as distinguished from the clay idols found in other monasteries. The Guru
Ghantal white marble head was installed by its founder, but now the same is kept under lock and key for fear
of theft. This monastery has idols of Guru Padma Sambhava, Brijeshwari Devi and several other lamas. On
the 15th lunar day (mid June) a festival called Ghantal was celeberated at which the visiting lamas and
Thakurs used to feast for one day. The festival is no longer celeberated.

There is one blackstone statue of a goddess identified as kali in the innermost chamber which gives credence
to the theory that this was once a Hindu temple like the Trilokinath temple at Udaipur.

The wall paintings are in stone colours. Because of lack of care colours have washed away. There is lot of
seepage in the monastery. Another reason for lack of care is that most of the valuables have been transported
to the Tupchiling gompa which is easily accessible and the caretaker also hails from this village only. The
workmanship in the gompa is certainly superior to all other gompas.

SHA-SHUR
Sha-shur in the local parlance means in the blue pines. This is very apt as good patches of blue pine can still
be seen around the monastery.

This gompa was founded in the 17th C. AD by Lama Deva Gyatsho of Zangskar who was a missionary of
Nawang Namgyal, the king of Bhutan. The lamas of the gompa are of the Drugpa sect (red hat sect). Namgyal
founded this sect and the name originated from Dug which in the Bhoti language means Bhutan. Before Deva
Gyatsho renovated the present monastery, there existed a small gompa. Deva Gyatsho stayed at the
monastery till his death. When he was being cremated, this is said, his heart did not burn and was enclosed in
a black image of Gyatsho. A statue of Namgyal is also present in the gompa.

This gompa has the biggest Thanka paintings, over fifteen feet, and invalueable wall paintings depicting all the
84 siddhas of Buddhism. In the month of June/July Chham is performed in the monastery which is the most
popular Chham in Lahaul.

KARDANG
Village Kardang which was once the capital of Lahaul has the most popular and the biggest monastery of the
area. The monastery is situated on the left bank of the river Bhaga just above the village of Kardang. This was
founded about 900 years ago and stood in ruins uptill 1912 when Lama Norbu of Kardang renovated it. This
gompa is located against the backdrop of the bare mountains of the Rangcha massif which "rises above the
valley like a giant cobra standing on its tail with hood outspread, ready to strike". The monastery is perched on
a ridge below the 15000 feet high Rangcha peak. The valley is so placed that Kardang gets maximum
sunshine in winters.

This monastery houses the largest number of lamas and chomos. The library of the gompa is one of the
biggest containing full volumes of Kangyur and Tangyur. Since the monastery belongs to the Red Hat sect the
regimen is not very strict. Nuns and monks enjoy equality. Lamas can marry and generally they stay with their
families during summers to work in the fields. In winters they return to the gompa for meditation.

In the vicinity of the monastery is a silver coated Chhorten. The walls of the gompa are decorated with
colourful wall paintings. The influence of Lama Gozzangwa is easily perceptible in the monastery as one can
see a number of tantrik paintings and statues depicting a male and a female engaged in ecstatic union. The
bhandar has a large store of musical instruments, dresses, thankas and other such articles.

Its founder Lama Norbu died in 1952 and his mortal remains as also his silver Chaitya/stupa are preserved in
the gompa.

In the Kardang village one can visit another small gompa of Lama Gozzangwa and outside the gompa can
see rock carvings and two big Chhortens.

TAYUL
This gompa above the village of Satingri has the biggest statue of Padma Sambhava and his two
manifestations as Singhmukha and Vajravarahi. The statue is 12 feet tall. This gompa houses full library of
Kangyur. Thankas in the gompa depict various episodes from the life of Lord Buddha.

Tayul gompa written in Tibetan as Ta - Yul means chosen place. It is one of the oldest Dugpa sect
monasteries in Lahaul. One Dugpa lama, Serzang Rinchen of Khan region of Tibet, founded this monastery in
the beginning of the 17th C. There is a story about how this place was chosen for construction of a monastery.
Lama Serzang while making the meritorious circumambulation of the holy peak Drilburi spotted a small glade
in the juniper forest above Kyor and Tashikyang villages on the opposite side of the valley. He then told his
fellow pilgrims, "Look, over there, that is a suitable and auspicious place for a gompa". Thus the building of the
gompa began to take shape. This monastery houses a hundred million mani wheel by turning which the
minds of the sentient beings open to the compassion of the Lord. This mani wheel is reputed to be "self
turning" on auspicious occasions. According to the lamas this wheel last turned on its own in 1986.

After almost a century a Ladakhi Tulku Tashi Tanphel of Tagna monastery renovated and extended the
building of this gompa. He decorated the walls with murals, made stucco images of giant size referred to
above and brought in the Narthang edition of the Kangyur from Tibet.

GHEMUR
This hamlet is situated at a distance of 18 kms from Keylong. It has a gompa where in the month of July devil
dance is enacted by the Lamas. The Thakurs of Gushal are now settled in this village on the right bank of the
river Chandra. The place is easily accessible as it is on the Manali-Leh national highway.
Calender of Fair & Festivals
Month Place Fair/Festival Name
Jan/Feb Pattan Valley Khogla
Jan/Feb Lahaul Valley Halda
Febuary Lahaul Fagli
Febuary Bhaga Valley (Lahaul) Gothsi (Gochi)
Shashur, Kardang, Gemur, Kyi
June/July Tsheshu Fair
Gompas in Lahal & Spiti
August Kaza (Spiti) Ladarcha Fair
August Udaipur (Lahaul) Pauri Fair
August Keylong (Lahaul) Tribal Fair

LADARCHA FAIR
Previously, this fair used to be celebrated in Kibbar maidan in Spit in the month of July where
traders from Ladakh, Rampur Busher and Spiti meet in this fair to barter their produce. Due to
closure of Tibetan traders, this fair is now being celebrated at Kaza, the headquarters of Spiti Sub
Division in the 3rd week of August. A large number of visitors and traders from Kullu/ Lahaul/
Kinnaur meet there. It has now become a conference of cultures of Spiti, Ladakh & Kinnaur as
also of the Indian plains.

PAURI FAIR
This fair is celebrated during summer in the 3rd week of August every year. In earlier times this was
the most prominent fair of Lahaul. People of all casts and creed gather there, not only from Lahaul
but from Chamba and Kullu too. The fair is combination of pilgrimage and festive activities.
Preparations are made at least a week in advance and most of the people leave their homes a
day before the celebrations, where they have faced darshan of the statue of Triloknath (Shiva
Lord of Three Worlds) or Avolokiteshvara as it is regarded by Buddhist. After paying their
obeisance, people go to the parikrama gallery between the inner and outside walls of temple.
Pilgrims/ devotees usually complete three or seven clockwise circumambulations of the gallery/
rotating the prayer wheels and murmuring Mantras ( OM MANI PADME HUM) every morning
and evening till they stay there. Ghee and Mustard oil lamps are lighted continuously inside.
People donate money and Ghee/ Oil to maintain the lamps, one of which is so big as to
accommodate 16 Kgs. of Ghee/ oil. After the prayer and rituals, the fair begins. Temporary shops,
tea stalls and hotels are established at the fair ground. As soon as darkness overtakes, the
pilgrims dance in a huge circle to the melody of folk songs devotional or otherwise. On the second
morning, a traditional procession is taken out, which is headed by the Thakur of Triloknath riding
on a decorated horse. Their destination is the place where as per traditional lores, seven gods,
the youngest of whom was Trilokinath had appeared from seven springs in the past. This is the
most important ritual of the fair. The precession then returns to the fair ground for more
festivities. Some people for their native places leave as soon as the procession disperses, while
others stay until the third day when the fair is over.

TRIBAL FAIR KEYLONG

Tribal fair coinciding with Independence day is celebrated with great pomp and show from 14th to
16th August, at Keylong the headquarters of the district. People from all parts of the valley
congregate in their queer disposition and a large number of Indian and foreign tourists gather here
to witness the fair. It is being celebrated as at State level fair. In order to make the fair colourful ,
artists and cultural troupes are invited from Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Leh , Chamba, Kullu, Spiti
in addition to local artistes.

TSHESHU FAIRS
Tsheshu fair is celebrated in Shashur, Gemur, Kyi, Kardang Tabo and Mane Monasteries in the
months of June. A large number of devotees/ people gather on these occasions.

Devil dance is performed by the Lamas bedecked in colourful dresses and wearing masks of
TOURISM ACTIVITIES IN WINTER
SKING
Sking in snow is one experience, which one can even enjoy in Lahaul in the month of April, for snow skiers
there is plenty to offer at Babog, Patsieo, Keylong, Udaipur. Expert skiers can even ski from Keylong to
Manali.
for sking purpose different ski slopes are
SUMNAM SKI SLOP : One of the largest ski slopes in India. 8 Km. from Keylong. The slope is 6.5 Km. long
and width ranging 2 to 4 Km. For stay two mountain huts one owned by Layul Mountaineers and Skiers
Association Keylong and other one is owned by Great Himalayan Adventure Sports Sumnam. There are
around 20 local houses who accommodate the tourists and also provide Indian and local food on payment.
The houses are equipped with all modern facilities like phone, T.V., flush latrines & bath with geysers, cozy
warm rooms. Camp fires are arranged by local clubs. For ski equipment and mountain guides one private ski
tours provide all kind of sking equipment.

KARDANG SKI SLOP : 4 Km. from Keylong. Good ski slopes opposite to Keylong. For stay one mountain hut
at Barbog and around 25 local houses for accommodation (local style).

GONDHALA SKI SLOP : One of the biggest in Himachal. 15 Km. from Keylong and for stay one rest house
and villagers may also accommodate on request.

TRILOKNATH SKI SLOP : Gentle slopes good for beginners. Snow condition is best in March and April. For
stay temple sarai with comfortable bedding. One can also stay at Udaipur 16 Kms. by jeep.

WILD LIFE WATCH

The Snow Cock, Ibex, Marmots, Snow Fox, Silver Carp, Trout are rare wild life stocks to watch

RIVERS

The Chandra and the Bhaga rivers are the main drainage lines of Lahaul. After their, confluence at Tandi, their combined
waters constitute the Chandrabhaga or the Chenab river. In the Spiti sub-division, major river is Spiti river.
The rivers are not associated with any myths or historical events; on the other hand gods-one in each case are supposed
to reside at the various junctions of the important streams and all such places are named after these gods. Similarly
Places where ancient bridges exist are also supposed to be the abodes of gods; these gods are propitiated by occasional,
often annual, sacrifices of goats and sheep

Chandra River
The Chandra river originates from a huge snow, bed on the south-eastern side of the Baralacha la and
assumes a large size very soon. During the summer, it becomes unfordable within a short distance, about two
kilometers of its source, while the rocky bed, the icy temperature of the water and the swiftness of. the current
deter the boldest swimmer. Looking down the valley from the pass, a vista of grand peaks and glaciers, on the
right hand side, falling abruptly to the water's edge makes a memorable impression on the visitor. On the left
hand, the slopes are bare the feet of which remain perpetually covered under heavy mass of debris falling
from above. Lower down, the Chandra Tal, a kilometre long and a half wide, lies in a broad grassy plain, the
lake is placed between a low ridge and the main Kunzam Range with an outlet into the river. Following a
general south-westerly course for about 48 km the river sweeps round to the west whence a further course of
64 km west and north-west takes it to Tandi where it meets the Bhaga river. Throughout its course the river is
fed by a number of glaciers the biggest being the Shigri on its left bank, and the Samundari on the right. The
chief tributaries of the Chandra below Shigri lie on the right bank and they originate from the Sonapani glacier
opposite Khoksar and the Sissu glacier. The left bank is steep and bare, but there is good grazing ground on
the right bank beyond Khoksar. There are several villages on the right bank as far as Sissue, and from Sissue
the valley becomes richer and cultivable down to Gondhla. The hamlets grow larger as Gondhla is
approached, and the houses are seen to be better built, surrounded by groves of poplar and willow. The
northern mountains take gentler slope, but on the south, opposite Gondhla, the whole mountain side, from the
peaks over 6,090 metres to the river bed below. 3050 metres, is visible. Glaciers and snowfields overhanging
rocky steeps merge into grassy slopes below. At one point the cliffs descend for some 1,210 metres and form
the grandest precipices in the world.
From its source to its confluence with the Bhaga at Tandi, the Chandra registers a fall of about 12.5 metres
per kilometre.

Bhaga River
The Bhaga river rises in the Suraj Tal or Lake of the Sun, a name given to the small but deep tarn situated well
on the summit of the Baralacha Pass, a little below an altitude of 16,000 feet. The Bhaga is another significant
constituent of the Chenab river system. It takes its origin from the snow-bed on the south-western foot of the
Baralacha Pass and flows northwest and later curves round to the south-west. The country is barren down to
Darcha village, which is situated near the junction of the Yoche Nullah and the Zangskar Chu with the main
stream at about 3,500 metres from the sea. The total length of the river is about 65 km with an average fall of
about 28 metres per kilometre. The banks of the stream are steep and rocky.
Below the confluence of the Chandra and the Bhaga at Tandi the joint stream is known as Chandrabhaga.
From a height of about 2800 metres the fall of the river is six metres per kilometre through 25 km of length in a
north-westerly direction to the border of Chamba district. The side ravines are numerous the biggest among
them being the Chokhang nullah, which pours in from the north by the village of Thirot.

Chanderbhaga or Chenab River

In its upper course through Lahaul valley, the river Chenab is known as the Chandra-Bhaga. It is formed by the rivers
Chandra and Bhaga and hence the name. As it flows through Lahul, this river has laid thick deposits of sediments. It is in
spate during the summer season when the snow on the mountains melts. Flash floods occur with regularity in the early
afternoon in summer. They have been known to wash away hundreds of cattle each year. The river Chandra-Bhaga may
freeze occasionally during the winter season.

Spiti River

The Spiti river has its source far north on the eastern slopes off mountain ranges which ruin between Lahul
and Spiti. The river is formed at the base of the Kunzam Range by the confluence of Kunzam La Togpo and
the streams Kabzima and Pinglung. On the western side of its sour lies a vast salt-water lake. The river
follows a long winding course interloced here and there by spurs that project from the foot of the plateaus on
both sides. The Spiti has a broad and flat valley bordered by high vertical cliffs. The valley tops are flat and
plateau-like. Above the 'plateaus and land again rises in steep scarps. The length of the river within Spiti on
the south-east, is about 130 km. It continues in Kinnaur district upto a place known as Khabo where it joins the
Satluj.
The main stream of the Spiti river, which is fed by the glaciers, is a perennial one, while some of the tributary
streams disappear in the loose morain at the feet of the plateaus. During its course through the difficult,
complex terrain, the Spiti is joined by a number of tributaries from both the sides. Those which join its right
bank include: Chiomo, Gyundi, Rahtang, Ulah, Pin, Lungze, Mane, Surahl, Pomograng, Mamdang and
Sumra; the left bank tributaries are: Thamar, Hanse, Thumna, Tagting, Thumpa Lumpa, Shila, Kaza, Lingti,
Poh, Tabo, Karati, Gimdo and Parechu.
PIN RIVER
The Pin river constitutes the most important right bank tributary of Spiti river. Its main branch, Kyoti, originates
from the Lasuma mountain in the Srikand Range of the Middle Himalayas. It is joined by another branch from
the Bhaba Pass near Mudd village. Later it is fed by a number of streamlets, chief among which are Palder
Chin, polder Chum and Shang on the right bank, and Karve, Lavrang, Mudd Taking, Madang, Saguaro,
Barakuit, Gooling, Seeling and Kit 'togpos' on the left bank. The Pin is about 50 km long. The Gyundi and the
Rahtang, like the Pin, rise from the Mid-Himalayas and are fed by glaciers.
Of the left bank tributaries of the Spiti, the most important are: Lingti, Gimdo and the Parechu, all of which rise
in the main Himalayas. Lingti is about 40 km in length and there are a number of villages in its watershed.
Parechu, which starts from near the Tagling La and Parang La ranges, runs north-east and joins the Spiti at
Sumdo.
The Spiti rivers are all violent torrents whose depths vary enormously, depending upon the season. In winter,
when the water freezes, the Spiti is barely about half a metre deep and at its widest only a stone's throw
across, and has a discharge of a couple of hundred cusecs. Its water, heavily charged with silt, is generally
turbid and yellow. Fording, especially in the latter part of the day, is thus rendered perilous and almost
impossible. The maximum discharge in the river, at the point where it enters Kinnaur, may go as high as
twenty to thirty thousand cusecs. The discharges in its tributaries also are subject to seasonal, daily, and even
hourly fluctuations. None of the rivers is navigable. The larger tributaries of the Spiti flow through valleys which
sometimes resemble its own. But shortly before joining it, these are forced into narrow chasms in the rocky
heights which rise on either side of the main river. The depth of these cuttings is enormous; the walls of the
canyon in the Shila Togpo can hardly be less than 600 metres. The Pin gorge is several kilometres in length;
similar rocky chasms can be seen in the gorges formed by the Sampa, Lingti, Rahtang and Gyundi togpo.

Tsarab River

In the north, the Tsarab runs north-westwards for about fifty kilo-metres before joining the Lingti river and
entering Zangskar in Ladakh. The Tsarab is, because of its peculiar location, not used for any purpose by the
Spitians. Its watershed does not contain any human habitation; it ultimately joins the Indus in Ladakh.

Bara Shigri Glacier

The largest glacier in the district is situated in Lahaul sub-division known as Bara Shigri, Bara meaning big
and Shigri meaning glacier, in Lahaul dialect. Many mountaineers have trekked it for the sake of hobby or
geographical exploration. This glacier rises from a number of large glaciers, meeting in great valley above,
filling that up, and then pushing themselves over its rim in one great ice-stream down to the river.

Hugh Whistler, writing in 1924, says, "Shigri is applied par-excellence to one particular glacier that emerges
from the mountains on the left bank of the Chandra. It is said to be several miles long, and the snout reaches
right down to the river, lying athwart the customary road from Kullu to Spiti." Estimates differ as to the breadth
of the glacier where it is crossed, as owing to its movement and roughness no two caravans cross it in exactly
the same way, but it is not less than a mile wide. In 1836 this glacier burst its bounds and dammed the
Chandra, causing the formation of a large lake, which finally broke loose and carried devastation down the
valley. The story runs that the people of Spiti posted guards in the Kunzam Pass to watch whether the water
would rise high enough to flow across into Spiti."

The Bara Shigri glacier attracted much attention for many years because of the valuable antimony deposits
found there. The glacier was first surveyed in 1906 by H. Walker and E.H. Pascoe of the Geologiaal Survey of
India. Daring 1955 the Geological Survey of India sponsored an expedition to this glacier as part of the Indian
programme for the International Geophysical Year 1956-57, when a number of Himalayan glaciers were
examined and their snout position fixed.
The Bara Shigri glacier, whose name signifies 'boulder-covered-ice', flows northwards and debouches into the
Chandra river where its southerly course is deflected westwards, close to the Spiti border. The glacier is
above 3,950 m altitude and extends beyond 4,570 m, a 11 km length of which has been recently surveyed and
mapped. The glacier is so heavily covered with surface moraine that ice is not visible for long stretches except
along the crevices and in the ablation areas.

Across the Bara Shigri is another glacier known as Chhota Shigri. It is a comparatively smaller glacier and
does not reach down to the bed of the river, but it is most steep and slippery, difficult to cross.

Gangstang Glacier

The Gangstang glacier situated at the western border of the Lahaul region at an altitude of about 5,480 m
streaming into Shahsha nullah which joins the Chandrabhaga river at about 13 km to the south.

Sonapani Glacier
The desiccated glacier lake and the old terminal moraine are visible from the Rohtang Pass. The desiccated
lake, about 2.5 km in length, is a narrow meandering plain following the contours of bounding slopes and
consists of such fluvio-glacial deposits as mud, fine sand, pebbles and angular gravels, through which the
glacier stream runs. The glacier is about 11 km long. An ice-cliff forms the snout which is mostly covered by
stone, and the stream issues from an ice cave situated towards the western limb of the curved ice-cliff. To the
south of the snout, and near to it, is a small terminal moraine. A large terminal moraine used to hold up the
waters of the old lake. Three more old terminal moraines are cut through by the Sonapani stream after its
escape from the lake-bed.

Perad Glacier
It is a small one and is easily accessible being within one kilometre of Putiruni. There is a well marked ice-
cave and the glacier stream runs between two large lateral moraines.

ROHTANG PASS
Rohtang pass (altitude 13050 feet) separates Kullu, from the exotic charm of the Lahaul valley. In Tibetan
Rohtang means "a heap of dead bodies" and the pass stands true to its notorious name. Every year it must
take toll of life and property. This is so because after 11 A.M. sudden blizzerds and snow storms called
Biannas are only to be expected. The pass becomes all the more hazardous to negotiate due to frequent
avalanches.

The summit of the pass turns into lush green meadow in summer studded with violets and varieties of
wild Himalayan and Alpine flowers. Butterflies of numerous and rare kind and varigated hues also draw the
attention of' the visitor.

At the highest point on top to the right as one faces

Lahaul, is a small stone enclosure and a water spring
which is the principal source of the river Beas; .the other,
Beas kund is at the head of the Solang nullah. The place
gained religious significance because of sojourn of Beas
Rishi (the famous Vyasa Rishi, author of the epic
Mahabharata.

To the left of this pass is the little lake Sarkund. On the

20th Bhadon (early September) every year a large number
of people visit this lake with the belief and hope that an
early morning bath in it will cure all their ailments.

Almost directly opposite and obviously only a few kms away is the well defined Sonapani glacier. Slightly to
the left are the twin peaks of Gyephang La, seats of Pre Aryan Himalayan gods Jamulu and his younger
brother Gyephang. These peaks are snow streaked and snow covered. The higher peak is 5856 m. high.
Gyephang La can be seen from Kunzom, Pangi Lahaul and from Serchu plains across the Baralacha La. The
higher of the two peaks can be seen on a clear day from as far as the Ridge in Shimla.

Himachal tourism buses and taxi operators of Manali provide frequent and efficient service to the tourists in
the open season. Tea and snacks are available on the top. However for food one has to halt at Marhi.

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KHOKSAR
Khoksar is the first village and gate way to Lahaul. This village is situated at an altitude of 3140 m. on the right
bank of the river Chandra. There is habitation on the left bank also. H.P.P.W.D. rest house and Serai are on
the left bank. Khoksar remains covered under snow during winters. This village is surrounded by high
mountains and is avalanche-prone. Avalanches can be seen piled up even near the river bed. During winters
Khoksar is the coldest inhabited place in Lahaul. The river freezes during winters and is covered with snow to
afford regular passage for human beings as also for mule traffic. Just five kms ahead of Khoksar towards
Manali is Gramphu from where a diversion to the left leads to Kaza. During summers rich growth of alpine
flowers, beautiful potato fields and numerous water channels spell bound the visitor. Herds of goats and sheep
can be seen grazing around. This may be of interest to the reader that Khoksar was on the old trade route
from Indian plains to the West Asia.

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SISSU
This village is situated on the right bank of the river Chandra at an altitude of 3130m. The village is located on
a broad flat ground above the Chandra river. Good plantations of willows and poplars on both sides of the
road are so dense during summers that at places even the sun rays fail to penetrate. The terraces are green
with potato, peas, barley and buck wheat. Wild roses of white, yellow and red hues with expanses of alpine
flowers deck the slopes in an unforgettable feast of colours.
There is a swampy patch on the river side where the Siberian wild duck and geese halt when on their way
back from the Indian plains. Snow trout is also available in the village near the river side.
Behind the ridge on which the village is situated is the famous and most propitiated Gyephang peak. Lord
Gyephang or Ghepan is the presiding deity of Lahaul--the protector of people. In olden days people of Lahaul
fought, their wars under the banner of Lord Gyephang. The temple of Lord Ghepan is in this village. The
temple is not open to outsiders. Once in two/three years the deity is taken out of the temple in a procession.
A little short of the village is the Sissu nullah which flows down a narrow gorge from tho Gyephang peak
glaciers.
Across the river one can see the beautiful Sissu fall cascading over the cliff from the high valley between the
two mountains. A suspension bridge over the river provides easy access to this picturesque fall. Very good
photograph of the fall can be had from the road just short of the P.W.D. rest house.
Two fountain slabs dating back to 1l th or 12th C. AD can also be seen in this village.

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GONDHLA
The village is situated at a distance of 18 kms from Keylong, the district headquarters along the right bank of
the river Chandra. Situated at an altitude of 3160 m. on a fairly level expanse of land this hamlet is large as
compared to other villages in the valley. The village is surrounded by thick foliage of poplars and willows. From
Sissue to Gondhla land is cultivable and fertile. Between these two places the whole mountain side from the
peaks over 6090 m. to the river bed below 3050 m. is awe-inspiring. Glaciers and snowfields overhanging the
precipices make them one of the finest in the world.
House of the Thakur of Gondhla, called the Gondhla castle or fort, attracts a large number of tourists. The
Present Thakur Fateh Chand would like the tourists to believe the Fort is about 20 generations old, but
according to the District Gazateer of Lahaul and Spiti the fort was built in 1700 A.D. by Raja Man Singh of
Kullu whose influence stretched upto the Lingti plains beyond the Baralacha-la. This Raja also married a
daughter of the Gondhla family to cement his ties with the Thakur. ,
The castle is an example of the indigenous timber bonded stone style of the Western Himalayas consisting of
alternate courses of stone and wooden beams and cemented together with wet clay. This seven storey high
edifice is topped by a wooden verandah which runs round the upper storey. This is some thing like the Swiss
Chalet. The staircases in the building are partially notched wooden logs. The building has many apartments
which can comfortably accommodate more than 100 people.
The fifth storey was exclusively meant for the Thakur. It consisted of personal
prayer chamber and a verandah from where the Thakur used to listen to the public
and later pronounce his judgements. Once the walls of the prayer chamber were
painted all over in stone colours. Forty volumes of Kangyur can still be seen littered
around and carelessly stacked on a wooden rack. Ganesha as the main deity
carved on the facade of the prayer chamber. In one of the prayer chambers the
window connecting the outer room is an exquisite work of wood carving. The 'jali'
(net) carved on a single piece of wood looks exactly like the cane work.
Raja Man Singh of Kullu is believed to have stayed in the sixth storey of the-fort in
1720 A.D. when he was on his way to Trilokinath Temple in Udaipur. Remains of the
kitchen and utencils can still be seen in the room.
Several weapons including bows, arrows, quivers, catapults, guns and canons
beside other articles of antique value can be seen rusting in the apartments. Age
old costumes, furniture and idols are also strewn around in a state of neglect. The
Thakur is negotiating with the Department of Language and Culture of Himachal
Pradesh to sell it as he finds it difficult to maintain this structure.

Godhla Fort

Another interesting article to be seen in possession of the Thakur is Sharab Raldi, i.e., "the sword of wisdom"
as Sharab means wisdom and Raldi means a sword. Sword of wisdom (sanskrit Pragya Kharga) has great
importance among the Tibetans. Manjushri is the Tibetaa god of wisdom and he is always portrayed carrying
this sword of wisdom in his right hand.
According to the Thakur this sword was given to one of his ancestors by His Holiness Dalai Lama when that
ancestor had fled to Tibet sick of the designs of the local people. This sword seems to have been built in the
Toledo technique of spain. This technique is stated to be superior to the Sheffield technique. In Toledo thin
steel wires are beaten with a hammer to obtain the desired shape of a sword or other like weapon. One can
really observe thin lines in the length of the sword. Earlier this sword was never shown to the outsiders but
now an insistent visitor can see this prize sword of the Thakur.

The village gompa is of historical importance. Every year in the month of July a fair is held for two days. On
the first day the famous Chham or devil dance is enacted. Large number of people turn out to witness the
performance.

Near the Govt School there is a boulder bearing greater than life size rock carvings of some deities. Local
people ascribe the work to the Pandavas of the great epic the Mahabharata. But these figures resemble some
Buddhist deities, which is yet to be ascertained.
In Gondhla there is a P.W.D. rest house which is surrounded by willows. No eating joint is available in the
village.
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TANDI
The village is situated above the confluence of the rivers Chandra and Bhaga in the Pattan valley some 7
kms away from Keylong. Revenue and settlement records reveal that Tandi was founded by Raja Rana Chand
Ram under the name of Chandi which over the years got corrupted into Tandi.

There are atleast three mythological stories connected with Tandi. First, Tandi is believed to means Tan Dehi,
i.e., giving up of the body. This is associated with Draupadi, the wife of Pandav. as, who left her body at this
place. Second, this is believed that Rishi Vashishtha who meditated near the hot water springs of Manali was
cremated at this confluence; hence named Tandi, i.e., body consumed. According to the third, Chandra and
Bhaga were son and daughter of the Moon and the Sun gods respectively. They were in love with each other.
To perform their celestial marriage they decided to climb the Baralacha-la and from there run in opposite
directions encircling a vast tract of Lahaul. Thus flowing south-east and south-west both met at Tandi to enter
the wedlock.

Another village above the confluence is Gushal which looks extermely beautiful when seen from Tupchiling or
Kargha. The confluence itself is best seen from Tupchiling, Kargha -and Ghushal.

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KEYLONG
Keylong is the district head quarters of Lahaul and Spifi. At an altitude of 3156 m. Keylong is situated on
the main trade route between the Rohtang and Baralacha passes above the Bhaga river. Most of the
government offices are located at Keylong. This is also the hub-centre of all commercial activity with a regular
bazaar. Naturally Keylong is the most populated and busy village of the Lahaul valley. As far as
communication facilities are concerned, there are police and telegraph radio nets, telephone exchange at
Keylong and postal service throughout the valley. There are three light TV transmitter has been installed one
in Sumnam village, second in Baring & third in Udaipur. In the past Keylong was home for the Moravian
missionaries.

Lady Of Keylong

During summers Keylong is very green looking refreshingly striking against a backdrop of brown hills and
snow clad peaks. Because of this panoramic setting Lieut. Col., the Honble C.G. Bruce, M.V.O. likened
Keylong to a barbaric jewel--a roughly cut emerald in a bronze and silver setting. There can not be a better
simile to describe the lush green charm of Keylong during summer's. "It is an oasis of green fields and willow
planted water courses surrounded by brown hills and snowy heights".

There is a Cricuit House, a P.W.D. rest house, a Sainik Rest House, a Tourist Bungalow and many hotels
which provide accommodation to the tourists. Several eating joints and restaurants are also there for every
taste.

Three of the best known monasteries Tayul, Kardang and Sha-Shur are within a few kms. from this village.
Tourists may also like to visit the temple of the local deity Kelang Wazir in the house of one Sh. Nawang Dorje
 Top
JISPA
This beautiful spot is 22 kms away from Keylong and 4 kms ahead of Ghemur. The village is situated at the
junction of two nullahs with the main river Bhaga. Jispa has a very large dry river-bed, a rarity in Lahaul.

Just on the edge of the river Bhaga is a small PWD rest house. Near this the river is shallow and plenty of
trout fish can be caught during summers. The place is virtually an angler's delight. Good juniper plantation is
around this village.

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DARCHA
Darcha is situated at the junction of Yotche nullah and the Zangskar chhu which takes off from the Shinkun la.
Both these nullahs meet with the main river Bhaga at this place. The valley broadens out from Darcha. The
altitude of Darcha is about 3500 m. which makes it an ideal base camp for acclimatisation. Two days
acclimatisation at this place will prove useful for expeditions to Baralacha la and beyond. Darcha is the
jumping off point for treks to Padum over the Shinkun la or Baralacha la and Phirtse la and for treks or
mountaineering expeditions to Leh and peaks of Chandra Bhaga series. However no tourist bungalow or rest
house facilities are available on either side of the nullahs. A police check post is also there. Darcha is the last
village where one can see sparse growth of trees. Beyond Darcha not even a single tree can be seen on
either side of the highway. Landscape starts looking desolate and absolutely barren.

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SURAJ TAAL
Suraj Taal or the lake of the Sun god is situated
well on the summit of the Baralacha la, a little
below an altitude of 16000 feet. The Bhaga river
rises in this lake which is situated in a beautiful
natural amphitheatre just below the highway.
"During winters it remains in the grip of a pall of
ice untidy with lumps of frozen snow and jutting
stones". But in the summer season this tarn
comes back to its glorious charm, the deep blue
of its icy waters reflecting craggy mountains and
snowy heights. This is an ideal halting place for
having a bite that one might be carrying. No
shops or dhabas are available around this place.

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CHANDRA TAAL
The natural lake of Chandrataal is situated at about 14,000 ft above msl between a low ridge and about nine
kms from the Kunzom pass. The lake lies in a broad grassy plain which in ancient times was a glacier. The
lake is about a kilometre in length and half of it in breadth. Its circumambulation is five kms long. There is a
brownish patch "Samundari Tapu" in the middle of the lake which a number of people have tried to reach but
in vain. There is a story of a mermaid living in the glacial lake. This is also said that a shepherd from Hansa
village in the Spiti valley fell in love with the fairy and spent some time with her under the water. Cranes and
ducks abound in the lake.

Chandra Taal is a favourite halting place for the shepherds because of rich growth of grass. The water in the
lake is so clear that stones at its bottom are easily visible.
Alpine vegetation grows on the surrounding moraines in summer. This lake freezes during the winter season.
Its waters are crystal clear and free from pollution. A number of temples exist along the periphery of the lake.

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UDAIPUR
 This sub-divisional headquaters is situated at the junction of the mighty Mayar nullah with the main river
Chandrabhaga. Situated 53 kms away from Keylong, earlier this village was known as Margul or Markul.
Around 1695 it was renamed Udaipur when Raja Udai Singh of Chamba (1690-172'8) raised it to the status of
a district centre in the Chamba-Lahaul which his father Chatter Singh had annexed to his Chamba state.

Good kail-blue pine forests can be seen all around the village. Since the altitude is low, apples, walnuts,
apricots, etc. are grown in the area. This village is warm but avalanches-prone; the latter making it unsuitable
for district headquaters. However Udaipur offers the most thickly forested and green scenery in Lahaul.
Hermann Goetz who visited this area in 1939 complimented the natural charm of this place by comparing its
scenery to the Swiss scenery.

This place attracts a lot of tourists and pilgrims to its two unique temples, namely, Trilokinath and Markula Devi
temples.

Trilokinath temple is representative of the Kashmiri-Kannauj style of,

Lalitaditya of Kashmir (725-756). Most of the Trilokinath temple is of much later
period, but the column bases of the original porch of the sanctuary are of a
very special type characteristic of the reign of Lalitaditya. This Shiva temple
was transformed into a Buddhist shrine by Padma Sambhava. However,
according to Goetz its present Lamaistic image of Avalokiteshvara-Trilokinath
cannot be earlier than the 12th C. This temple continues to attract both the
Hindu and the Buddhist pilgrims. In the centre of the compound one can still
see the Nandi Bull of Lord Shiva. There is also a drain in a wall of the temple at
the level of the platform in the sanctorum which was probably built at the time
of construction to drain out the water or milk which was poured over the Shiva.

The temple is built in the classical style introduced in the hills in the 7th and 8th
C. As is typical to the style this temple consists of a curvilinear stone tower
(shikhara) crowned with the characteristic 'amalka' (imitating a segmented
gourd). Like plains there is no pillared hall (mandapa) in the hills perhaps
owing to non-availability of clear ground.

Every year in the month of August a festival named Pauri is held there for three days when followers of both
religions gather to offer prayers.

The Markula Devi temple goes back to Ajayvarman's reign in Kashmir, though no original work of so early a
date survives. But part of the Markula temple has been copied during repairs in the 11/12th and 16th C. The
phase of Kashmiri art in the 11th and 12th C in its transition to the Lamaistic art of Western Tibet is
represented by the inner facade of the temple; main characteristic of this transitional phase being three
headed Vishnu images.

Markula's wood carvings belong to two different periods, the earlier

one consisting of the facade of the sanctum sanctorum and the
ceiling and four main pillars of the mandapa; arid the later one
consisting of two additional pillars, the dwarpala statues on both
sides of the facade, window panels and the architraves supporting
the ceiling. The exterior of the temple is most ordinary as it had to be
renewed time and again because of vagaries of nature. The temple
is the usual structure of timber-bonded stone. The temple is covered
with a steep gable roof of wooden shingles in a steep pyramid
looking like the Shikhara temples in the plains. The interior, however,
is rich in artistic quality.

The wall panels depict scenes from the Mahabharata, Ramayana, Sunderkand, Yuddhakand, grant of ground
by Raja Bali to Vaaman, three headed incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Churning of the ocean (Samudramanthan)
 Top

Peaks in Lahaul Valley

Peaks Metres Longitude Latitude Details
Udaipur (lt.H) ­Margaon­BC (Tal 
Baihali Jot 6245m 76° 35'  32° 50'
Got).
Central Peak 6285m On Barashigri glacier.
Corner Peak 6050m On Barashigri glacier.
CB-9 6108m 77°27' 32° 34' Manali-Batal (RH)-BC

CB-10 6227m 77° 28' 32° 36'' Manali-Chhatru-Chhota Dara-Batal

(Tara Pahar) (RH)-BC.

Manali-Chhatru-Chhota Dara-Batal
CB-11 5955m 77° 31' 32° 22'
(RH)-BC.
Manali-Chhatru-Chhota Dara-Batal
CB-12 6258m 77° 33' 32° 20'
(RH)-BC.
CB-13 6264m 77° 33' 32° 21'
Manali-Chatru-Chhota Dara-
CB-13a 6240m 77°33' 32° 21'
Batal(RH)-BC.
Manali-Chatru-Chhota Dara-
CB-14 6078m 77° 34' 32° 22'
Batal(RH)-BC.
Manali-Chatru-Chhota Dara-
CB-16 5825m 77° 31' 32° 19'
Batal(RH)-BC.
Manali-Chatru-Chhota Dara-
CB-20 5695m 77° 31' 32° 24'
Batal(RH)-BC.
Manali-Chatru-Chhota Dara-
CB-22 5720m 77° 33' 32° 24'
Batal(RH)-BC.
CB-26 5840m 77° 29' 32° 20' Batal (RH)-BC.
Manali-Chatru-Chhota Dara-
CB-31 6096m 77° 28' 32° 25'
Batal(RH)-BC.
Manali-Chatru-Chhota Dara-
CB-32 5639m 77° 27' 32° 26'
Batal(RH)-BC.
CB-33 (Minar) 6185m 77° 29' 32° 28' Batal (RH)-Dekka-BC.
CB-34 5635m 77° 31' 32° 28' Batal (RH)-Dekka-BC.
CB-35 5568m 77° 30' 32° 29' Manali-Batal(RH)-BC.
Dibbokri Pyramid 6109m On Dibibokri Glacier
Gangstang 6162m 77° 48' 32° 42' Approached from Keylong
Gepang Goh 6050m On Barashigri Glacier
Kulu Makalu 6350m On Barashigri Glacier
Kulu Pumori 6553m On Barashigri Glacier
KR-2 6145m 77° 20' 32° 39' Rohtang-Pass-Darcha (RH)-BC

KR-4 6340m 77° 22' 32° 39' Rohtang-Pass-Darcha (RH)-BC

KR-5 6258m 77° 23' 32° 38' Rohtang-Pass-Darcha (RH)-BC

KR-6 6207m 77° 24' 32° 37' Rohtang-Pass-Darcha (RH)-BC

KR-7 6055m 77° 25' 32° 35' Rohtang-Pass-Darcha (RH)-BC

Lion Peak 6164m On Barashigri Glacier

Manali-Rohtang Pass-Tandi-
Menthosa 6443m 76° 42' 32° 55' Udaipur (RH)-Miyarnala-Urgos vill
(last vill)-BC.
Rohtang Pass-Darcha (RH)-Yoche
M-1 6045m 77° 20' 32° 36'
(Vill)-BC
Rohtang Pass-Darcha (RH)-Yoche
M-2 5932m 77° 22' 32° 36'
(Vill)-BC
Rohtang Pass-Darcha (RH)-Yoche
M-3 5795m 77° 26' 32° 32'
(Vill)-BC
Rohtang Pass-Darcha (RH)-Yoche
M-4 (Mulkila) 6515m 77° 24' 32° 32'
(Vill)-BC
Rohtang Pass-Darcha (RH)-Yoche
M-5 6370m 77° 24' 32° 32'
(Vill)-BC
Rohtang Pass-Darcha (RH)-Yoche
M-6 (Taragiri) 6182m 77° 23' 32° 31'
(Vill)-BC
Rohtang Pass-Darcha (RH)-Yoche
M-7 6279m 77° 22' 32° 32'
(Vill)-BC
Rohtang Pass-Darcha (RH)-Yoche
M-8 6055m 77° 21' 32° 32'
(Vill)-BC
Rohtang Pass-Darcha (RH)-Yoche
M-9 5680m 77° 22' 32° 32'
(Vill)-BC
Rohtang Pass-Darcha (RH)-Yoche
M-10 5852m 77° 19' 32° 34'
(Vill)-BC
Manali-Rohtang Pass-Tandi-
Phabrang 6172m 76° 48' 32° 46' Udaipur (RH)-Miyarnala-Urgos vill-
BC

Shigri Parvat 6645m On Barashigri Glacier

Unnamed Peak near
6309m in Parvati Valley
Parvati
Unnamed Peak north-
east of Barashigri 6309m On Barashigri Glacier
Glacier
Unnamed Peak North-
East of Barashigri 6050m On Barashigri Glacier
Glacier

Peaks in Spiti Valley

Peaks Metres Details
Approached
Chau Chau Kang Nilda-
6303m from Langia
I
village
Approached
Chau Chau Kang Nilda-
6158m from Langia
II
village
 Karcha
Fluted Peak 6139m
valley
Gya 6794m Lingti valley
Gyagar 6400m Lingti valley
Kanamo 5964m Shilla nala
Head of
Lama Kyent 6040m
Lingti valley
North of
Lhakhang 6250m
Shilla
In Lingti
Parilungbi 6166m
valley
Ratang
Ratang Tower 6170m
valley
In Lingti
Shilla 6132m
valley
Unnamed Peak in In Gyundi
6172m
Gyundi Valley valley
Unnamed Peak in In Gyundi
6035m
Gyundi Valley valley
Unnamed Peak East In Gyundi
6283m
Gyundi valley
Unnamed Peak Gyundi In Gyundi
6310m
Area valley
Passes in Spiti Valley
Chaksachan la A pass between the bend of the Lingti river
(5250 m) in eastern Spiti. From west to east it leads
to Lingti valley as the river makes a curve.
Great view of Gyagar from its top.
Ghunsarang la An alternate pass near Manirang Pass is
(5500 m) Ghinsarang la, or known locally as Ghulla
la. It also connects Mane with Ropa by a
detour on the same ridge.
Pass south of Chaksachan la, west of the
Kuli la
Lingti river. It joins the Lingti valley with the
(4880 m)
Syrma valley in eastern Spiti.
This pass is the gate to the Spiti valley from
the west. There is a motorable road running
through this pass now, which connects
Batal in the upper Chandra valley and the
first village Losar of the Spiti valley. This
pass is broad and easily crossable. The
ascent is steep, but not difficult from the
Kunzum la
upper Chandra valley, but the descent
(4550 m)
towards Spiti valley is negligible. This pass
is crossable on foot from May/June to
October/November and the snowfall on this
pass is less than on the Rohtang Pass. The
entire route is generally motorable from
early August to late September, depending
on snowfall each year.
Lepcha la connects the extreme south-
eastern end of the Spiti valley with
Shailkhar and Chango of the Hangrang
Lepcha la Pass valley in Kinnaur. There is vegetation on
(Hangrang Pass) this pass and small trees and bushes are
present. During winter there is residuary
snow for a couple of months but the pass
can be negotiated.
Manirang Pass connects the Spiti valley
with the Ropa valley of Kinnaur. This is a
high pass and there is a five km long snow-
bed on the Ropa valley side and about a
three kilometres long snow-bed on the Spiti
side. The approach to this pass from the
Manirang Pass Spiti side through village Mane is gradual
(5550 m) whereas the descent towards the Ropa
valley side is very steep through a very
narrow gorge.
There is hardly any other traffic on this
route. The tracks leading to the pass are in
a bad shape, quite tiring and in some
places dangerous.
Situated on the shoulder of Ratang Tower
North Ratang Col peak. it is approached from the side valley
(5600 m) of the Ratang and on the north leads to the
Gyundi valley after careful negotiation.
Parang la connects the Spiti valley to parts
of Ladakh. On the Spitian side of this pass,
flows the river Parilungbi and the track runs
on its side, climbing up the pass towards