Sitting high and mighty atop the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh is Lahual, a simple, unassuming district which can boast of some of the most grandiose terrains in the world. Sheer cliffs, rocky mountains, mud roads, green pastures, and snow-clad mountains in the distance give Lahaul its exotic vibe. The look and feel of the district is similar to that of Ladakh, with the difference that Lahaul is slightly better developed. It is most easily approachable by the Manali-Leh road, and once there, you can stop at Keylong, the capital of Lahaul. One of the best things to do in Lahaul is backpacking which is an amazing way to explore the district. There are no conventional tourist attractions to enjoy in the main areas of Lahaul; its exotic beauty lies in its deserted mountains, remote villages, serene medieval monasteries, and untouched valleys. Echoing calls of distant birds fill the air while a deep silence hanging over the mountains at all times, broken only by the occasional thunder of a mountain bike. The skies are clear and dazzlingly blue in the day, and at night, Lahaul puts on a shimmering mantle of vast starry skies that can never be experienced in cities.
Of the best things to do in Lahaul, you can camp under the star-spangled sky in the night, with only the sounds of silence for companions, and a crackling bonfire at your feet is an unforgettable experience. You can rent a bike in Manali, and spend several days exploring the high mountain passes around Lahaul as well as visiting the secluded villages and monasteries that are scattered across the mountains of Lahaul. Visits to the neighbouring Spiti district also make for good treks. Chandra Taal, a beautiful lake in between the Lahaul-Spiti area, is a good place to trek to when in Lahaul. There is a beauty in austerity, and the mountain region of Lahaul is a truly divine area that will make you fall in love with the Himalayas in a whole new way.
