Keylong

Introducing Keylong

The capital of Lahaul sprawls along one side of the green Bhaga Valley, spread out below the Manali–Leh highway. It’s a friendly little town that has experienced a major economic boom since it became the main overnight stop for buses travelling between Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. Many travellers stop just for the night and leave early the next morning, but there are interesting walks in the surrounding hills and the pace of life is easy and unhurried.

By the time you read this, the bus stand should have moved from the highway to the shiny new bus stand down in the valley, where you’ll find most of the hotels. At the south end of town is the moderately interesting Lahaul & Spiti Tribal Museum (admission fee to be decided; 10am-5pm Tue-Sun), with traditional costumes, old dance masks and treasures from local gompas.

Keylong celebrates the annual Lahaul Festival in July with a big, bustling market and various cultural activities.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009