Tashigang, Spiti Valley (2024) - Images, Timings

Tashigang, Spiti Valley Overview

Situated in the Sutlej river valley near the India- Tibet border, Tashigang is a quaint little village in Himachal Pradesh which is also the highest point in the Spiti Valley. Perched at an altitude of 4650 m, the village has just over four homes with a meagre population of 6 families and around 40 people in all. Boasting of gorgeous mountain views and narrow winding roads, the pristine hamlet offers peace and quiet like no place else.

Besides being the most perfect place to unwind and relax amidst bounteous natural beauty and stunning views of the mountains, the sun and the valley, the highlight of Tashigang is that it is known worldwide to have the highest polling booth in the world. Aside from that, there is a beautiful lake which adds to the ambiance of the picturesque landscape. And there are tiny house built in Tibetan architecture with thatched roofs which act as insulation during snowfalls.

Things to Do in Tashigang

Walk on the endless dainty pathways across the countryside that is engulfed in beautiful fields of barley and rapeseed.
Rent a horse from a local household and go on a horseback expedition or a short trek of your own.
Interact with the locals, listen to their interesting tales and try out the traditional local cuisine home cooked by them.
You can even shop here. Along 20 minutes walking towards the east, you can find a selection of shops, some Tibetan teahouses and Chinese restaurants.
Some of the local houses in the village have been converted into guest homes. It will be a good experience to stay in one of these.
Sleep under the clear skies and watch the starlit sky. The skies are pollution free and this is considered to be one of the best experiences to have at Tashigang.
You can also hike up to the nearby neighbouring villages. All along the way, you will find a pleasant landscape, sheep grazing grass and the blue hills in the distance.

Tips

The village does not have any mobile network. So you should be prepared in advance. That also means that all the homestays bookings cannot be made beforehand. You can book one, once you have reached here. It is most likely that these homestays will have vacancy since very few people come here.
Remember to carry the first aid. Especially, medicines for altitude sickness and the like.
Do not forget to carry enough warm clothes. The wind after dark is extremely chilly.