Have you ever considered witnessing the gorgeous scenery of the Great Himalayas, the calmly flowing Spiti River and the beautiful Chandratal Lake in one frame? If so, Kunzum Pass is the place that can provide you with this perfect view. Kunzum Pass separates the Lahaul and Spiti districts and serves as a route across the mountains and a religious destination. While visiting the pass, you can also see a temple dedicated to Goddess Kunzum or Durga, which is supposed to safeguard travellers from all possible harm.
All You Want To Know About Kunzum Pass
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Kunzum Pass is situated in the beautiful Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is a high-altitude mountain pass where travellers can experience nature at its best. At 4,500 meters above sea level, it connects the Lahaul Valley with the Spiti Valley in the Himachal Pradesh state of India’s Kullu and Lahaul districts. Indian nationals do not need any permit to visit the Pass.
It is famous for its beautiful scenery, which includes snow-touched mountain ranges, uncultivated terrains, and valleys. This pass is remarkable for adventurers, nature lovers, and those who enjoy road trips and challenge themselves to overcome this complex and beautiful pass.
Also Read: Places To Visit In Spiti Valley
Attractions In And Around Kunzum Pass
There are various scenic places to visit in and around the Kunzum Pass. We have curated a list of the best, truly beautiful attractions, and you must visit in 2024.
1. Chandratal Lake
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Kunzum Pass is around 9 km from Chandratal Lake. It has a shining surface and moon form and is sometimes called the Moon Lake. The snow-covered hills surrounding the lake provide a beautiful setting. Chandratal Lake is an excellent location for observing the stars, photography, trekking, and camping. Visitors can also see stunning views of the lake at sunrise and sunset.
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: Open 24 hours
2. Key Monastery
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Key Monastery is one of the biggest and oldest monasteries in the country. It is situated on a hilltop with a view of the Spiti River. Roughly 250 monks live in the monastery, which is part of the Tibetan Buddhist Gelugpa sect. The monastery has a unique design that looks like a fort. It comprises Buddhist art and culture, with a collection of thangkas, murals, statues, and old scriptures. Visitors can have beautiful views of the mountains and valleys from the monastery.
Entry Fees: ₹30 per person
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
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3. Dhankar Lake
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Dhankar Lake is a hidden treasure in the Spiti Valley. The breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys make the arduous hike to the lake worthwhile. It is an odd and fascinating scene, with the lake’s turquoise blue waters and snow-capped peaks in the backdrop. Visitors can also see rare and endangered birds. For those who enjoy exploring the natural world and trekking, Dhankar Lake is a must-visit location.
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: Open 24 hour
Top Accommodations To Stay Near Kunzum Pass
We have curated a list of the best accommodation options near Kunzum Pass for a comfortable staycation:
1. Eden Spiti Homestay
Eden Spiti Homestay is a beautiful homestay with colourful mud cottages. To get to Tabo from Kunzum Pass, NH505 is the best route as it is thrilling. Travellers can see mountains being capped with snow. Eden Spiti Homestay is located near the Tabo Monastery, which is one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Spiti Valley. This makes it the best destination to connect with the local people.
Address: Near Tabo Monastery, Tabo, Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, 172113
Price: Rs 2500 onwards per night
Amenities: Colourful mud cottages, Balcony views, Traditional food
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2. Echor Mud Huts Tabo
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Echor Mud Huts Tabo is another homestay with beautiful mud cottages furnished with a sitting area and modern facilities. While coming to Tabo from Kunzum Pass, tourists can drive on NH505, which is quite thrilling, with beautiful views of snow-clad peaks, arid land, and stunning coloured Buddhist flags fluttering in the winds. Travellers can enjoy trekking, cycling, and yoga during their stay there. It is a peaceful place where travellers will feel at peace and even be grateful for being there.
Address: H505, Tabo, Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, 172113
Price: Rs 3000 onwards per night
Amenities: Modern facilities, Trekking, cycling, and yoga activities
3. Hotel Grand Dewachen Kaza
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Hotel Grand Dewachen Kaza provides comfortable accommodation with basic facilities like a television, free Wi-Fi, hot water, and a heater in each room. It also has a restaurant, bar, garden, and terrace for travellers. The Hotel’s location is amazing, as it provides spectacular views of the Spiti River and the mountain range directly from your room. Nearby attractions include the famous Key Monastery and Dhankar Monastery.
Address: Kaza, Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, 172114
Price: Rs 4500 onwards per night
Amenities: TV, free Wi-Fi, hot water, heater, and electric kettle in each room of the hotel
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How To Reach Kunzum Pass
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By air: Kullu Manali, around 157 kilometres from Delhi, Chandigarh, Kolkata, and Mumbai, is the closest domestic airport to Kunzum Pass. The drive from Bhuntar Airport to Manali takes around 1 hour.
By train: The closest train station is 271 kilometres from the pass at Joginder Nagar Railway Station. The entire trip takes 7 to 8 hours to complete.
By road: The most popular means of transportation is by road. Kunzum Pass is about 108 km away from Manali. During the winter and monsoon seasons, snow and rain block the path; however, HRTC buses and private taxis are available.
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Anyone who wants to enjoy nature, adventure, culture, and spiritual energy must visit Kunzum Pass. The location gives a unique chance to fully experience the beauty and range of Himachal Pradesh. Kunzum Pass has something for everyone, whether you want to enjoy the stunning views or discover the neighbouring sites. What are you waiting for? Get ready for a fantastic trip by booking a trip to Himachal Pradesh now.
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Cover Image Credit: Gerd Eichmann for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Kunzum Pass
When is Kunzum Pass open to tourists?
There are no set dates for the opening of Kunzum Pass as it is much dependent on the weather conditions of the Himalayan roads. The pass is usually kept open for public vehicle transport from the end of May or in the first week of June to September or early October.
When is a good time to visit Kunzum Pass?
However, the best time to visit Kunzum Pass is from mid-May to early September when the road is open, and the climate is good. This is the time when one gets to see the mountains capped with snow and deep green valleys.
What is the best way to reach Kunzum Pass?
One can reach Kunzum Pass either by road transport from Manali or through Kaza. The route that passes through Manali shows through Rohtang Pass. The other route, which is through Kaza, shows the beauty of the Spiti Valley.
Is Kunzum Pass safe for travelling?
Yes, overall, it can be considered that travelling to Kunzum Pass is safe during the months of summer. However, the roads are sometimes steep and narrow, so it is recommended to drive slowly and to anticipate changing weather conditions.
Are there any sightseeing points near the Kunzum Pass?
There are many places of interest around Kunzum Pass, including Chandratal Lake which is circular like the crescent moon and is very scenic; Key Monastery which is one of the oldest and largest monasteries in the Spiti Valley. Each of the destinations is uniquely perfect for beautifully natural and cultural sightseeing.
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