Kyelang, also spelled Keylong, is a town located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh and is the administrative center of the Lahaul and Spiti district. It is situated along the Manali-Leh Highway, approximately 71 kilometers north of Manali and 120 kilometers from the Indo-Tibetan border. The town is known for its proximity to the Kardang Monastery, the largest and most important monastery in Lahaul, and other nearby monasteries such as Shasur and Tayul. The annual Lahaul Festival is held in Kyelang each July, featuring a busy market and various cultural activities.
Kyelang is also home to several government offices and tourist facilities, including a Circuit House, a Public Works Department Rest House, an Army Rest House, a Tourist Bungalow, and small hotels. The town can be reached by car or bike via the Manali-Leh Highway, which is now accessible year-round thanks to the Atal Tunnel. Buses are also available during the summer months from Kulu and Manali. Another option is to fly to Kullu and then travel to Kyelang via the Leh-Manali highway.
It is important to remember to follow speed limits while traveling in the Lahual Spiti valley as speed cameras are in use. The peak travel season is during May-June and October, when many tourists visit Rohtang pass and the Atal Tunnel. The Atal Tunnel has shortened the distance between Manali and Kyelang by 45 kilometers and has made travel much faster and safer, taking only about 2 hours to get from Manali to Kyelang, compared to the previous 4 to 6 hours.
eylong is rich in cultural and heritage significance, being located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The area is predominantly inhabited by Buddhists and has a strong influence of Tibetan culture and traditions.
One of the most important cultural attractions in Kyelang is the Kardang Monastery, the largest and most important monastery in Lahaul, which is a part of the Drukpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The town also has several other nearby monasteries including Shasur and Tayul, which are a few kilometers away from Kyelang.
The annual Lahaul Festival, held in July, is a significant cultural event that attracts a large number of visitors. The festival features a busy market and various cultural activities, showcasing the rich traditions and heritage of the region.
Keylong also has a small temple dedicated to the local deity Kelang Wazir in the house of Shri Nawang Dorje, which may be visited upon arrangement. Visitors can experience the local culture and heritage by interacting with the friendly locals, visiting the monasteries and temples, and taking part in traditional festivals and events.
Journey to Triund trek start from Dharamkot, 6km away from Dharamshala. It is a 4hrs walk passing through lush green forest of oak, rhododendron and deodar trees that end at Triund, where you can setup your camp and taste delicious maggie made local peoples.
Note: The itinerary can be modified based on your interests, the weather conditions, and road conditions. It is recommended to check the latest information before planning your trip.
Kyelang is located along the Manali-Leh Highway, also known as National Highway 21 (NH21), and is about 71 km (44 mi) north of Manali. The quickest and most convenient way to reach Kyelang is via the Atal Tunnel, which is a 9 km (5.6 mi) long horseshoe-shaped tunnel that bypasses the Rohtang Pass and connects Manali to Kyelang year-round. The drive from Manali to Kyelang takes around 2 hours.
The nearest airport to Kyelang is Kullu Manali Airport, which is located in Kullu, about 50 km (31 mi) from Manali. From Kullu, one can take a taxi or a bus to Manali and then drive to Kyelang via the Atal Tunnel. Alternatively, one can take a flight to Bhuntar Airport, which is located in Bhuntar, about 50 km (31 mi) from Kullu, and then take a taxi or a bus to Manali.
Note: It is advisable to check the latest information about road and weather conditions before planning your trip to Kyelang.
What is Kyelang known for?
Kyelang is known for being the administrative center of the Lahaul and Spiti district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is located along the Manali-Leh Highway and is home to a number of monasteries and temples, including the famous Kardang Monastery. Kyelang also hosts the annual Lahaul Festival in July.
How to reach Kyelang?
Kyelang can be reached by road and air. By road, it is located along the Manali-Leh Highway (NH21) and can be reached from Manali via the Atal Tunnel. The nearest airport is Kullu Manali Airport.
Is Kyelang accessible all year round?
Kyelang was previously cut off from the outside world for six months from late October to mid-May due to heavy snowfall at Rohtang Pass, but the opening of the Atal Tunnel in October 2020 has made it accessible year-round. However, road blocks can occur in winter and last several days.
What is the best time to visit Kyelang?
The best time to visit Kyelang is during the peak travel season from May to June and from October, when the weather is pleasant and a lot of tourists visit the area.
What are some tourist facilities available in Kyelang?
There are some tourist facilities in Kyelang including a Circuit House, a Public Works Department (PWD) Rest House, a Sainik (Army) Rest House, a Tourist Bungalow, and a number of small hotels.
What should I keep in mind while traveling to Kyelang?
While traveling to Kyelang, one should adhere to speed limits as speed cameras are in use throughout the area. One should also be prepared for the high altitude and changing weather conditions, and carry warm clothing and necessary medications.