'''Kaza''' is the regional headquarters of Spiti district in Himachal Pradesh.

Get in

Kaza is the district headquarters of Spiti district in Himachal Pradesh. It is accessible from Manali and Shimla. The road from Shimla (via Rekong Peo) is in theory an all-season one, while the Manali road via Rohtang and Kunzum passes is passable only in summer. There are Government Tourism bus services from Manali to Kaza but the road is pretty inaccessible with frequent landslides along the way. Due to lack of proper roads in this section of the Himalayas, it is advisable to hire a private MUV (Tata Sumos) from Manali to reach Kaza.

Himachal Road Transport Corporation buses link Kaza with Manali and Rekong Peo. The Rekong Peo connection passes through landslide area at Malling Nullah, with transhipment (crossing on foot and being picked up by a bus on another side) being frequently the only way of passing the landslide.

Get around

The HRTC bus station has daily buses to Manali, Kullu (via Manali) and Rekong Peo, as well as to several villages in the Spiti valley.

The taxi stand has jeeps for hire for fixed rates (listed at the booth).

See

Do

There are a host of activities that can be done in the areas surrounding Kaza. Mountain biking from Manali to Kaza is a popular activity - also popular are numerous trek routes through virgin regions.

Buy

There is a village called Mud that can be accessed from Kaza. This village lies in the Pin Valley region. In the months of June - September, villagers cultivate green peas on the mountain slopes. It is really worth your money to get down from your vehicle and get a few kilograms of fresh peas fresh from the fields. Additionally, there is a special brand of tea called Spiti Tea that can be bought from the local markets - it is made from seeds from a local fruit and locals claim it slows down ageing.

Eat

Food is not at a premium in this region - neither there are varieties to choose from. Chicken is brought from Manali, no beef is available. Some restaurants offer mutton dishes. Eggs, rice, dal and a mixed vegetable are the usual options that one can look at in this cold desert. Needless to mention, the tastiest of the lot would be a curry made from fresh peas and potatoes.

Drink

There is an 'English Wine & Beer Shop' on the main street in Kaza, selling a typical stock of beer, Indian whisky and 'Old Monk' rum.

Sleep

There is a Himachal Tourism Guest House at Kaza. One can stay in government rest houses (PWD / Forest / Irrigation departments) at various pother places, but advance booking is a must. Booking information is available on Himachal tourism (government) web-site.

There are several private hotels in Kaza. One of the more comfortable places is Mandala Hotel behind the taxi stand, charging 500 Rs for a large double with ensuite bathroom (summer 2008 price).

Get out