Hikkim Village in Spiti – A Traveller’s Paradise

A Taste of the Himalayas: Exploring the Village of Hikkim

Although the claim of this post office being the highest in the world is disputable. But a trip to this small unknown village of India is sure to bring a sense of adventure to you.

Hikkim village is located in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated at an altitude of 4,400 meters (14,436 feet) above sea level. Making it one of the highest inhabited villages in the world. It is also one of the most remote villages in the region is known for housing the world’s highest post office.

The village is home to around 200 people, mostly of Tibetan origin. The village is known for its traditional Tibetan culture, which is still very much alive here. The residents of Hikkim are mostly Buddhist and follow the teachings of the Dalai Lama.

The village is surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. The view of the snow-capped mountains and the vast expanse of the valley can be seen from the village. Hikkim also has a few monasteries, which are worth visiting.

The village is also known for its traditional architecture. The homes of the villagers are made of stone and mud, and the roofs are made of slate. The houses are built in a traditional style, with sloping roofs and small windows.

Hikkim is also known for its unique culture. The locals are very friendly and welcoming. The village is a great place to learn about the traditional culture of the region. The villagers are very proud of their heritage and are happy to share their culture with visitors.

Hikkim is a great place to visit if you want to experience the unique culture of the Spiti Valley. The village is a great place to relax and soak in the beauty of the mountains.

Best Time to Visit Hikkim

The best time to visit Hikkim is during the summer months of April to June. This is the time when the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges between 10°C and 25°C. The days are sunny and the nights are cool.

The monsoon months of July – September are also good for a visit as the rains bring a refreshing change in the atmosphere.

If you are looking for snowfall, then best time to visit Hikkim is during the winters of October to February. The temperature during this time ranges between -3°C and 15°C and the region is covered with thick snow.

How to Reach Hikkim

The village does not have a rail or air connectivity. It is connected to the nearest town of Kaza by road. To travel to Hikkim, you will need to reach Kaza town in Spiti. Either via Shimla, which is open throughout the year or via Manali, which is accessible from June to September.

By Bus from Kaza

The bus from Kaza to Hikkim departs daily at 5 PM. The journey takes 90 minutes and covers the Kaza-Langza-Hikkim-Komic circuit. The fare for the trip is 50 rupees. The next morning, the same bus leaves Komic at 7:30 AM, travelling the Komic-Hikkim-Langza-Kaza circuit. During winters, the bus service is unavailable, and people must take shared taxis or book entire taxis for their journey. Hitchhiking is also an option, particularly during the summer months when there is an influx of tourists.

By Own Vehicle From Shimla or Manali

If you are starting your journey from Shimla. You will have to traverse through Narkanda, Rampur, Pooh, Nako, and Tabo to reach Kaza. The journey will be of around 423 kilometers. It will take you at least two days with a break for the night at either Rampur or Reckong Peo.

If you are starting from Manali, a journey of approximately 183 kilometers which can be completed in 8-10 hours. You will have to travel through Rohtang Pass, Gramphu, Batal, Kunzum Pass, and Losar to reach Kaza.

By Air

The nearest airport to Hikkim is the Bhuntar Airport in Kullu, which is located at a distance of 244 km. Once you reach the airport, you can take a taxi or hire a cab to reach Hikkim.

By Train

The nearest railway station to Hikkim is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, which is located at a distance of 364 km. From the station, you can take a taxi or hire a cab to reach Hikkim.

Things to Do in Hikkim Village

1. Visit the World’s Highest Post Office: Hikkim Village is home to the world’s highest post office, located at an altitude of 14,400 ft. This post office is the highest post office in the world and is a must-visit for all tourists.

2. Explore the Ancient Monastery: The monastery in Hikkim is relatively lesser-known. But if you plan to visit this monastery, you won’t be disappointed as fewer people visit it.  It is a great place to explore and learn about the history of the region. The monastery is home to several paintings and scriptures. It is an ideal place to learn about the history and culture of the region.

3. Fossils in Hunting: Hikkim and Kibber are part of the high fossil belt of Spiti, which was once part of the Tethys Sea. As a result, fossils are abundant in the area, though they may be difficult to identify without prior knowledge. If you are interested in fossil hunting, it would be best to find someone with experience in the area.

4. Trekking: The beautiful landscape of Hikkim Village makes it an ideal spot for trekking. There are several routes that start from the village and lead to some of most stunning locations in the region.

5. Camping: Hikkim Village is the perfect place to spend a night under the stars. There are several camping sites in the village where you can set up your tent and enjoy the view of the majestic Himalayas.

6. Visit the Local Villages: Hikkim Village is home to several small villages where you can explore the local culture and meet the locals. You can also visit the local markets and buy some souvenirs to take back home.

7. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: The local cuisine of Hikkim Village is a must-try. You can enjoy the local delicacies such as momos, thukpa, and churpi. You can also try traditional dishes such as tsampa and butter tea.

Where Should I Stay in Hikkim

Staying in Hikkim involves homestays/guesthouse only. So, it’s important to be mindful that these are simple villagers who will do their best to make your stay pleasant. However, it’s best to manage your expectations, as the experience won’t be similar to a luxurious hotel. There are several homestays available in the village, offering comfortable accommodation and delicious local cuisine. The homestays are usually family-run and provide a unique insight into the local culture and lifestyle.

Another option is to stay at one of the guesthouses located in the village. These guesthouses offer basic amenities such as comfortable beds, clean bathrooms, and hot water. Some of the guesthouses even offer meals and other services.

Tsedup’s house is the homestay/guest house that officially caters to tourists. For a small fee, you will be provided with a comfortable bed, bathroom, and three delicious meals. It is conveniently situated close to the post office and you can reach them at 9873146404.

If nothing worked, then you can talk to the monks at the monastery as well and crash there for the night.

Finally, you can also stay at one your own camp or tents in the area. They are a great option for those looking for a more rustic experience.

No matter which option you choose, you are sure to have a great time in Hikkim.

Where to Eat?

If you’re looking for a place to grab a bite to eat or a cup of tea during your stop in Hikkim. There is a small cafe near the post office is a great option. Offering a variety of local dishes, snacks, and beverages, this cafe is perfect place to refuel before continuing your journey.

Additionally, they also sell postcards and other stationery items, making it the ideal spot to pick up a souvenir!

FAQs About Hikkim Village

What type of mobile connectivity is available in Hikkim?

Your cellphones will only have service in and around Kaza. Outside of the town, you will lose cellular connectivity within a few kilometers. You may get some network with the BSNL but do not count on it much.

At what height is Hikkim situated?

Hikkim is situated at 4400 metres or 14,400 feet.

What is the distance between Hikkim and Kaza?

The distance between Hikkim to Kaza is 15.4 Kilometres and it takes around 50 minutes to cover this distance in a vehicle.

Are hotels available in Hikkim?

There are no hotels in Hikkim. Homestay is the only choice of stay available here.

Are there any ATM/Banks available in Hikkim?

There are no ATMs or banks here. The nearest one is located in Kaza.