Lidea Feed

TASHIGANG, HIMACHAL PRADESH – DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF THE WORLD'S HIGHEST POLLING STATION

Nubit April 18, 2025 12:39 PM

Tashigang, located at an impressive altitude of 15,256 feet in Himachal Pradesh, is a remarkable small hamlet. It holds the distinction of being the highest polling station in the world. Situated in the picturesque Spiti Valley, it is positioned less than 30 kilometers away from the India-China border.

Tashigang, being a remote and high-altitude hamlet in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, does not attract a significant number of tourists compared to more accessible and well-known destinations in the region. The primary reason for this is the challenging terrain and the limited infrastructure available in the area. Visitors can find basic accommodations and guesthouses in nearby towns such as Kaza, which is the main administrative center of the region.

However, adventurous travelers who seek off-the-beaten-path experiences and have a keen interest in exploring remote and lesser-known places may choose to visit Tashigang. The stunning natural beauty, the unique cultural heritage of the Spiti Valley, and the distinction of being the highest polling station in the world make it an intriguing destination for a niche group of travelers.

The allure of Tashigang lies in its pristine landscapes, serene surroundings, and the opportunity to witness the traditional way of life in the remote Spiti Valley. Travelers can immerse themselves in the untouched beauty of the Himalayas, engage with the friendly locals, and gain insights into the unique cultural practices of the region.

Visitor Experiences and Activities

Visitors to Tashigang and the surrounding Spiti Valley can partake in a range of unique experiences and activities that showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region. Here are some notable visitor experiences:

Trekking and Hiking: The rugged terrain of the Spiti Valley offers excellent opportunities for trekking and hiking. Explore picturesque trails that lead to high-altitude lakes, remote villages, and monasteries. Popular trekking routes include the Pin Parvati Pass trek, Chandratal Lake trek, and the trek to Dhankar Lake.

Cultural Immersion: Interact with the warm and hospitable locals of Tashigang and nearby villages to gain insights into their traditional way of life. Visit ancient monasteries such as Ki Monastery and Tabo Monastery, which are renowned for their architectural beauty and spiritual significance. Observe and participate in local festivals, rituals, and ceremonies to experience the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Homestay Experience: Immerse yourself in the local culture by staying in a traditional homestay. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals, savor delicious home-cooked meals, and gain a deeper understanding of the daily lives and customs of the people in the region.

Stargazing: The clear night skies of the Spiti Valley offer a breathtaking celestial spectacle. Enjoy stargazing sessions to witness a mesmerizing display of stars, constellations, and, if you're lucky, the Milky Way galaxy. The absence of light pollution makes it an ideal destination for astronomy enthusiasts.

Adventure Sports: For adrenaline junkies, the Spiti Valley offers opportunities for adventure sports such as mountain biking, river rafting, and rock climbing. These activities allow you to experience the thrill of the rugged terrain and test your physical limits.

Places to Visit Nearby

When visiting Tashigang and the Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, there are several noteworthy places to explore in the surrounding area. Here are some must-visit destinations:

Key Monastery: Located approximately 20 kilometers from Tashigang, Key Monastery is one of the most iconic and picturesque monasteries in the region. Perched atop a hill at an altitude of 4,166 meters, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped mountains.

Dhankar Monastery: Situated about 37 kilometers from Tashigang, Dhankar Monastery is perched on a cliff at an altitude of 3,894 meters. It is known for its stunning location and ancient Buddhist murals. The monastery also provides breathtaking views of the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers.

Chandratal Lake: Located around 90 kilometers from Tashigang, Chandratal Lake is a pristine high-altitude lake situated at an elevation of about 4,300 meters. Known for its mesmerizing beauty, the lake offers stunning reflections of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and clear blue skies.

Langza: A charming village in the Spiti Valley, Langza is famous for its large Buddha statue and panoramic views of the valley. It is located around 36 kilometers from Tashigang and offers a glimpse into the traditional life of the locals.

Kibber: Known as one of the highest motorable villages in the world, Kibber is located approximately 40 kilometers from Tashigang. It is nestled amidst towering peaks and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Explore the village and interact with the friendly locals to learn about their way of life.

Tabo Monastery: While a bit further away, Tabo Monastery is worth the visit. Located about 90 kilometers from Tashigang, it is renowned for its ancient murals and statues. The monastery, dating back to the 10th century, is considered one of the oldest continuously functioning Buddhist monastic complexes in India.

Pin Valley National Park: Situated in the Spiti Valley, Pin Valley National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the snow leopard, ibex, and Himalayan birds.

How to Reach

Reaching Tashigang and the Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh can be a thrilling journey due to its remote location and challenging terrain. Here are the primary transportation options to reach this region:

By Road:

· From Shimla: The most common route is to start from Shimla and travel via Kinnaur. Take a bus or hire a taxi from Shimla to Reckong Peo, which is the district headquarters of Kinnaur. From Reckong Peo, continue the journey to Kaza, the main town of the Spiti Valley. Tashigang is located about 30 kilometers from Kaza.

· From Manali: Another popular route is to travel from Manali to the Spiti Valley. Drive from Manali to Rohtang Pass and then proceed towards Gramphu, Chhatru, and Batal. From Batal, take the road towards Kunzum Pass and reach Kaza. Tashigang is approximately 30 kilometers from Kaza.

By Air:

· The nearest airport to Tashigang and the Spiti Valley is Bhuntar Airport near Kullu, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Bhuntar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to travel to the Spiti Valley via Manali or Shimla.

By Bus:

· State-run buses operate from Shimla and Manali to the Spiti Valley. You can take a bus to Reckong Peo or Kaza, depending on your starting point, and then arrange local transportation to reach Tashigang.

It's important to note that road conditions in the Spiti Valley can be challenging, with steep climbs, narrow roads, and rough patches. It is recommended to hire a local driver who is familiar with the terrain or join organized tours for a safer and more convenient journey.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Tashigang and the Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is during the summer months, from mid-May to mid-October. This period offers relatively milder weather and better road conditions, making it easier to explore the region. However, it's important to note that the weather in the Spiti Valley can be unpredictable, even during the summer season.

It's important to note that winters in the Spiti Valley are harsh, with extremely cold temperatures and heavy snowfall. Many roads and high-altitude passes remain closed during this time, making travel difficult and limited.