Keylong, located in the Lahaul region of Himachal Pradesh, is one of North India’s most underrated travel destinations. In this article, Getaway Experiences shares a complete Keylong Travel Guide, which is helpful for users who are planning to explore hidden gems in Manali. So Keylong is surrounded by the majestic Pir Panjal, Zanskar, and Dhauladhar ranges, Keylong offers a rare blend of spirituality, raw Himalayan landscapes, and peaceful local life.
Whether you’re planning a Ladakh road trip, a bike expedition, or just craving offbeat mountain charm, this comprehensive Keylong travel guide has you covered — including when to visit, what to see, and how to get there. For more details, you can visit Manali Tour Packages.
📍 Complete Keylong Travel Guide: Where is Keylong?
Keylong is the administrative capital of the Lahaul and Spiti district in Himachal Pradesh. Located at an altitude of approximately 3,080 meters (10,105 ft), it lies on the Manali-Leh Highway (NH3) — making it a key halt between Manali and Leh.
Despite its strategic location, Keylong retains its small-town charm, making it perfect for those looking to escape the tourist crowds.
☀️ Best Time to Visit Keylong
Keylong has a short travel season, but each month offers a different kind of magic. Here’s how to plan your visit:
May to September – Peak Travel Season
- Why Go? Clear skies, blooming valleys, and motorable roads via the Atal Tunnel.
- Temperature: 10°C to 25°C
- Activities: Ideal for sightseeing, monastery visits, and trekking.
October to April – Off-Season (Snowbound)
- Why Avoid? Heavy snowfall blocks roads, including the Rohtang Pass and Atal Tunnel approaches.
- Exception: Winter expeditions or snow photography with proper guidance.
Pro Tip: Visit in June or early July to experience greenery and pleasant weather, before the heavy monsoon or post-snowmelt crowd.
🚗 How to Reach Keylong
🛣️ By Road
From Manali (via Atal Tunnel):
- Distance: ~70 km
- Travel Time: 2 to 3 hours
- The Atal Tunnel makes this route accessible year-round (subject to weather).
From Leh:
- Distance: ~360 km
- Travel Time: 10–12 hours
- Route: Leh → Sarchu → Jispa → Keylong
- Best between June and September only.
From Shimla / Kaza (Spiti Route):
- Travel time: Long and unpredictable; not recommended unless doing a full Himachal circuit.
Tip: The HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) runs semi-deluxe and deluxe buses to Keylong from Manali and Delhi during summer months.
✈️ By Air
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu) – 125 km from Keylong
- Connectivity: Limited flights from Delhi; taxis or buses from Bhuntar to Keylong.
🚂 By Train
- Nearest Station: Joginder Nagar (~250 km away)
- This option is not very practical due to the long road travel afterwards.
🏔️ Top Attractions in and Around Keylong
1. 🛕 Shashur Monastery
Located 3 km uphill from Keylong, this 17th-century Drukpa sect monastery is known for its Thangka paintings, festival dances (in July), and panoramic views of the Bhaga Valley.
Don’t miss the annual Chham (masked dance) festival — a cultural spectacle.
2. 🧘 Gandhola Monastery
One of the oldest monasteries in Lahaul, Gandhola, is about 18 km from Keylong. It’s less touristy, offering serene vibes and ancient wooden architecture, rare for Himalayan gompas.
3. 🌄 Suraj Tal & Baralacha La
Perfect for day trips towards Leh, these high-altitude landmarks are surreal.
- Suraj Tal (Sun Lake): The third-highest lake in India, surrounded by glaciers.
- Baralacha La: A scenic pass connecting Lahaul to Zanskar.
Altitude alert: These are above 4,800m. Acclimatization is crucial!
4. 🛤️ Atal Tunnel Excursion
This engineering marvel connects Solang Valley (Manali) to Sissu and Keylong, cutting travel time dramatically.
- Enjoy a stopover at Sissu Lake or Chandra River viewpoint en route.
5. 🏕️ Jispa & Darcha Villages
Just south of Keylong:
- Jispa (20 km): Riverside village ideal for camping and star-gazing.
- Darcha (30 km): Starting point for the famous Darcha–Padum Trek.
6. 🌿 Gemur & Tandi Villages
- Gemur Monastery: Lesser-known but historically rich.
- Tandi: Scenic confluence of Chandra and Bhaga rivers, perfect for photos.
Local legends say that when Chandra (moon) met Bhaga (sun), they united at Tandi — hence its spiritual value.
🛏️ Where to Stay in Keylong
Keylong offers limited but cosy accommodation options, including:
- Hotel Dekyid – Best views and central location.
- The Chandrabhaga by HPTDC – Government-run with decent amenities.
- Zostel Keylong (Gemur) – Ideal for backpackers and solo travellers.
- Homestays – Try family-run homestays in Jispa, Sissu, or Tandi for local food and warmth.
Budget Tip: Book in advance during summer. Facilities are basic but clean.
🥘 What to Eat in Keylong
Food options are simple but hearty. Don’t expect fancy restaurants, but you’ll find plenty of charm:
- Thukpa & Momos: Tibetan noodle soup is a must-try.
- Siddu: Steamed Himachali bread with ghee.
- Chha Gosht: Mutton curry with yogurt gravy (for non-vegetarians).
- Seabuckthorn Juice: A Lahauli specialty rich in vitamin C.
Pro Tip: Ask for local barley beer or butter tea if you’re feeling adventurous!
🥾 Trekking & Adventure Around Keylong
Keylong is a starting point for multiple treks and motorbike routes, including:
- Darcha–Padum Trek (Zanskar Valley) – 8-10 days of pure adventure.
- Keylong to Trilokinath – A spiritual and scenic trail.
- Motorbike Tours: Manali → Keylong → Leh circuit is a dream for bikers.
Always check weather conditions and acclimatize properly before high-altitude treks.
📶 Connectivity & Essentials
- Mobile Network: BSNL and Jio have limited coverage; Airtel is spotty. No 4G — expect slow internet.
- ATMs: Available in Keylong, but carry cash.
- Medical Facility: A government hospital is present but limited.
- Petrol Pumps: The only fuel station in Tandi (very important for bikers).
Remember: No luxury here — come for nature and simplicity.
🧳 Packing Tips for Keylong
- Warm clothes, even in summer (nights are cold)
- Good shoes for walking and trekking
- Reusable water bottle (avoid plastic)
- Medicines for altitude sickness, motion sickness, and cold
- Power bank, torch, and basic toiletries
💬 Local Culture & Travel Etiquette
- Greet locals respectfully with “Julley” or “Namaste”
- Avoid plastic waste — carry your trash
- Respect monastery rules (no loud talking, no photos where prohibited)
- Learn a few local words – they’ll love it!
Final Thoughts: Why Keylong Deserves Your Time
Keylong may not be flashy or touristy, but that’s exactly what makes it one of Himachal’s hidden treasures. The quiet monasteries, humble mountain villages, clean air, and raw beauty offer something truly rare — peace.
Whether you’re pausing here on your way to Ladakh or coming specifically to escape the chaos of city life, Keylong welcomes you with humility, grace, and open skies.
