The exact age of the founding of the Key Monastery is not known but it is believed to originally date back to 1100 CE, although many believe the site is even older. Now sitting on top of a mountain foothill, the early structures built by the original monks would have been much lower. However as the peaceful Buddhists were attacked by the area Mongol barbarians the reconstruction efforts would simply build upon what had gone before, eventually creating the erratic patchwork of rooms, tight hallways, and hidden courtyards that exists today.

Much of the monastery bears a distinct Chinese design influence like many similar structures in the area, dating back to a period in the 14th century when the style came to the area. The interiors are also rich with historic murals and documents precious to the orders which have lived in the ever changing monastery.

Today Key Monastery is still a fully-functioning training ground for lamas operated by a Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhist monks. Around 250 monks reside on the site at any given time, training, farming, and generally keeping the thousand year old wonder alive.

Overlooking Kaza from a height of about 13,500 ft, the Kye monastery is the largest in the valley and holds a powerful sway over the most populous part of the valley around Kaza. The gompa is an irregular heap of low rooms and narrow corridors on a monolithic conical hill. From a distance is resembles the Thiksey monastery near Leh in Ladakh. The irregular prayer chambers are interconnected by dark passages, tortuous staircases and small doors.

Hundreds of lamas receive their religious training in the monastery. It is also known for its beautiful murals, thankas, rare manuscripts, stucco images and peculiar wind instruments that form part of the orchestra whenever Chham is enacted in the gompa in summer. Another interesting aspect of the gompa is its collection of weapons which may have been used to ward off marauders as also to maintain its control over people betraying a church-militant character.

Thousands of devotees from all over the world were attended the Kalachakra ceremony which was performed in August, 2000 by His Holiness Dalai Lama.Kalachakra initiation (Skt. Abhisheka, Tibetan Wang) is not just an elaborate puja or a religious congregation.

It is a workshop in a grand scale to make an earnest effort by both the teacher and disciples to awaken their Buddha nature by the combined forces of teaching, prayer, blessing, devotion, mantra, yoga and meditation. It is an effort by every participant to try to discover the true and permanent peace for the sake of all others. The Buddhists believe mere presence during this elaborate initiation ceremony stretching over a few days, liberates the participant from suffering and bestows on him the bliss of Enlightenment.

The ceremony focuses on five main subjects – cosmology, psycho-physiology, initiation, sadhana and Buddhahood. A Kalachakra mandala and Viswatma deitiy in union with his consort are at the centre of this ceremony guiding the disciple through the tedious process of initiation.

The gompa is approached by road from Kaza (only 12 km). However, it is only 8.5 kms trek from Kaza.

Kaza is a popular tourist place in the Lahaul and Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is divided into two areas-the old Kaza and the new Kaza, while the old kaza is called Kaza Khas and comprises king’s palace, monasteries, gompas, and ancient buildings, the new Kaza is called Kaza Soma and houses government offices, hotels & restaurants. Tourists from all over the world visit this stunning destination to get a glimpse of the beautiful mountain terrains and pristine locals that also offer adventurous activities such as trekking, mountaineering, etc.

There are three most popular trails from Kaza that conects to the lovely villages around here, plunged in a rich natural beauty of the Spiti Valley. Also, available here are some very ancient and exquisite monasteries and gompas that depict the culture and tradition of Kaza. One can easily reach this amazing spot from the Kinnaur Valley and Lahaul Valley. The route from Kinnaur Valley is most appropriate as it remains open throughout the year, while the Lahaul Valley route opens only during the summer as the Kunzum Pass closes during winter.

Kaza can be best visited in summer as the winter is quite severe with the temperature plunging to sub-zero levels. The locals remain within the confines of their houses and venture out only if it is absolutely necessary. They stock up the supply of their food that last them through the winters; the locals also utilize their time to produce handicrafts that can be sold during tourist season i.e. summer. There are many hotels and restaurants at Kaza, so one can stay comfortably and enjoy a holiday worth remembering.

Kaza makes for an ideal base camp for all the treks and tours within the valley and provides guides, porters, and most importantly permits for treks.

When it comes down to rugged mountainous views, free-spirited nature and an overall enchanting and wild trip, the Himalayan village of Khara Pathar takes the cake. The small village may not seem often be chosen in favour of its famous neighbour, Shimla and due to the extremely off track road that leads to Kharapathar, but the place’s charm is never dimmed. Kharapathar is located at the height of 8770 feet above sea level, making it the highest point on the Shimla route. The staggering height of the village makes the view here a thing of the legends, especially at night when all the scattered houses on the hill are lit up like specks. The cloud-piercing height also gives rise to clear cloudless nights which give individuals an absolutely stunning view of the millions of stars, which is a sight as rare as a shooting star in big cities or towns.

Giri-Ganga is located in Pabbar valley southeast corner of Himachal Pradesh. Kharapathar falls on the way from where trail starts to this mesmerising place. Kharapathar is located at an altitude of 2700 meters and at a distance of 70 kms from Shimla. Trail starts with a wide dirt track at a distance of 6 kms till Giri- Ganga and for those who are not inclined to walk they can hire taxi from kharapathar. Trail is mostly shaded with tall Himalayan cedar (Deodar) and pine trees. This place is the source of river Giri – Ganga which originates just below the Kuppar meadow. The story behind the place is interesting, according to local people long ago a saint was travelling back to home from Haridwar carrying a pot of Ganga- Jal (Holy water) while passing from the place he mistakenly toppled the pot. Hence the place is known as (GIRI -GANGA). Ancient temple of goddess Durga, Kali and Lord Shiva. Every year local people gather there to worship Lord Shiva during (Shivratri) and during (Navratri). Trek to Kuppar starts from Giri – Ganga temple. It takes 1:30 hrs from Giri – Ganga to reach Kuppar Bugyal. Trek grade is beginners. From top one can enjoy breathtaking views of Himalayan ranges and Pabbar valley.

Aside from its surroundings, Khara Pathar is best known as a base for several trekking and hiking routes amongst which the most famous one is the Giri Ganga River Trek. This trek is the reason Khara Pathar receives as much as tourism as it does today. The village and the area surrounding it are also often referred to as the ‘apple belt of Himachal Pradesh’ due to sprawling apple plantations dotting the hills with the reds and greens. Camping and fishing are activities that are also often taken up by individuals visiting the area.

It is very rightly termed as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India.’ Visit the famous Khajjiar Lake and enjoy the brilliant blend of three ecosystems. The pre-historic temples at Khajjiar, are sheer examples of architectural excellence. Meet the locals and experience the harmonic diversity in their traditions, culture, and beliefs. Learn some lyrics of their unique folk music; a treat for your ears.

The silver jewelry which is carved in Khajjiar is an epitome of detailing and perfection. Indulge in some adventurous activities, like skiing on the mountain tops of this town. This place hosts hundreds of tourists each year but remains untouched still. Plan a trip to Khajjiar, to beat the city chaos. Visit this hill station for a romantic weekend with your special one or just for some self-pampering and get rejuvenated.

Khajjiar, known as the “Mini Switzerland of India”, is one of the prevalent hill stations, which is about 26 km from the beautiful Dalhousie in Himachal. Along with the beautiful and snowy peaks, opulent green hills, deep valleys, dense forests and beautiful hill stations, Khajjiar is considered as mini Switzerland and the tourists’ paradise.

Khajjiar has one of the beautiful lush meadows, which is situated in the stunning Chamba valley. This is one of the essential spots, which is also famous for the beautiful and noiseless environment amongst travellers. This is situated in the northwestern part of the Himachal, which is in the northern region of India. One of the most important things about Khajjiar is that this contains almost three ecosystems such as forest, lake and the pasture. The site is located at a certain height of approx. 6500 feet.

The environment of Khajjiar is the alpine summers almost in between April-June. If you are thinking to go to Khajjiar in summer, it will not be an excellent decision for you. The entire climate of the area is quite mild in winter which is in between November to February. The environment is utterly cold and bitter as well. The nights in the winter of the place are quite chilled, and you will not be able to roam around at that time. Apart from summer and winter, you can also experience the place in monsoon too, which is in between July to September. You can experience the beauty of mini Switzerland of India at that time.

The most excellent time to visit Khajjiar is between March and June.

If you want to visit the mini Switzerland of India, you will get well-acquainted with their culture, people, and festival. Once you are at Khajjiar at the right time, you would get to see lots of beautiful fairs such as Baisakhi Fair, Dal Fair, Sayar Fair and more. The people of Khajjiar are incredibly cultural, and they are involved with the festival as well. Some of the famous festivals of the place are Baisakhi, spring festival, chet and more. In Khajjiar, you will also get plenty of shopping destinations too, and the Department of Tourism helps you to get the best deal on the travel packages.