I’d never heard of Koksar until I passed through it while traveling from Manali to Lahaul. The break turned into one of the most relaxing and peaceful parts of the journey.
This serene village in Himachal Pradesh is not only quite, but filled with scenic views and has not yet been spoiled by the large number of tourists.
Those seeking peace, snow, and a whole new mountain experience should definitely visit Koksar.
Based on my experience and love for Koksar, these are the 10 best things to do in Koksar:
1. Watching the First Snowfall of the Season
A major plus about Koksar is how early the region receives snowfall. During my visit in late October, I was pleasantly suprised when light snow began to fall in the late evening.
Watching the snowflakes gently descend on the trees, roads, and rooftops was nothing short of magical. Overnight, the whole village was covered in snow.
If you want to experience fresh snow for the first time, Koksar is the ideal place.
2. Take in the beauty of Sissu Lake
Sissu Lake is just a few kilometers away from Koksar, and it’s stunning, just like the ride to get there. The lake is surrounded by tall peaks.
When there is snow at the top, the view becomes breathtaking. As quiet as what felt like a dream, my cup of tea’s warmth while perfectly still while the lake’s gentle waters beautifully reflected my surroundings.
By the way, don’t forget the camera. Each hour from sunrise to sunset, the sun changes the lake’s reflection which makes for perfect photographs.
3. Enjoy a roadside Hot Maggi Dhaba
Strange as this may sound, one of my unforgettable moments was eating Maggi in Koksar. After taking a stroll, you could say I was chilly. Fortunately, a small roadside eatery welcomed me with a cozy hot plate of steaming Maggi topped off with a boiled egg.
The food I tasted there that day is unbeatable, just due experiencing the truly peaceful weather along with the countless mountains surrounding the area. Koksar undeniably gave me the best Maggi of my entire life.
4. Cruise Down the Breathtaking Atal Tunnel
Atal Tunnel is one of the longest tunnels and it connects Manali to Koksar. Just like this, it stands as one of the longest tunnels in the world at this height.
The entrance from Manali side is clouded in green while the Koksar side reveals a rocky terrain encompassed by snow capped mountains.
The transformation is so spellbinding, it feels like entering a completely new world. It’s unforgettable.
5. Stroll Alongside Chandra River
The Chandra River is a beauty as it flows parallel to Koksar. This place is a sight to behold, it emerges spectacularly clean, fast as well as blue in color.
I strolled along the riverbank for a while, experiencing the wholly the sparkling stones as the water flowed and the sun shone.
Nature provides a breathtaking experience to believe in. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a calm place to be.
6. Sample Traditional Local Dishes
Visiting a small home-based cafe in town warmed my heart the most. They served thukpa (a noodle soup), momos, and also chhang, a sort of drink they make from a barley base.
The meals were humble yet delightfully flavorful. To top it off, the conversation I shared with the lady who made it was quite insightful. I gained so much from her stories about Koksar’s culture and history.
7. Time To Slow Down And Do Absolutely Nothing
Koksar provides the ultimate location for a slow paced lifestyle. With no bound itinerary, no noise, and a long list of places not to see,
I spent a whole day doing nothing. Instead, I sat in a cozy chair by the guesthouse window and tucked myself in a warm blanket while my pen spilled ink onto my travel journal. I observed the clouds drift over the mountains.
It’s like my mind was free to take a breather. For people who live their life under tight schedules, Koksar’s calming aura is a much needed escape.
8. Remain Cautious of Untamed Mountain Creatures
Koksar, being a natural place, allows one to view wild animals such as yaks, foxes and mountain goats, during a lucky visit. I witnessed a herd of bharal (blue sheep) grazing on a ridge early one morning.
And I quietly watched them from a distance. I slowly enjoyed the experience establishing a bond with nature. If you enjoy wildlife, don’t forget your binoculars!
9. Capture Stunning Pictures
Koksar is picture perfect no matter the time or device being used. Rivers, mountains, houses and roads all culminate in a single place and act as perfect subjects for photography.
I captured everything including the simplest of mundane things like prayer flags and wooden windows. Now, every picture I took has a tale to tell.
10. Use Koksar as a Base to Explore More
As Koksar is charmingly calm and holds a village like atmosphere, it simultaneously serves as a breathtaking base for numerous other locations like Spiti Valley, Keylong, and Chandratal Lake.
After spending two days in Koksar, I was eager to continue my journey towards Spiti. Nevertheless, I was glad I opted to stop here first as it provided me with the energy and stillness I needed for the remainder of my trip.
FAQs About Koksar
What is Koksar famous for?
Koksar is famous for its early snowfalls, tranquil scenery, and the peaceful village attached to it, being the first settlement marked on the Lahaul side after crossing the Atal Tunnel.
Does Koksar have snow?
Yes, winters and late autumn see Koksar receiving large amounts of snow, making it one of the coldest villages in the region.
How much above sea level is Koksar?
Koksar sits approximately at 3,140 metres (10,300 feet) above sea level.
Is Koksar in Spiti Valley?
No, Koksar is in the Lahaul region which, while being in the same district as Spiti, is a different area. Spiti is located further ahead.
Is Koksar worth visiting?
Definitely. If you enjoy quiet, snowy places, Koksar is worth visiting. It is simple, beautiful, and feels very real.
Which river flows in Koksar?
The Chandra River flows through Koksar. It’s a cold, fast-flowing river that beautifies this village.
Final Thoughts:
Koksar may not be a top travel destination on most lists, but that’s exactly why you should visit. It’s genuine and untouched, and it offers a glimpse of mountain life that you won’t experience in a typical tourist destination.
I went there without planning anything and came back with an overwhelming sense of peace and a memory-filled phone.
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