Are you planning a trip to Spiti Valley and wondering what Komic village is all about? Sitting at an altitude of about 15,027 feet above sea level, Komic is one of the highest inhabited villages in the world connected by a motorable road. It is a tiny hamlet of about 150 people, tucked away in the cold desert of Spiti, and it offers something that very few places in India can. Absolute silence, stunning mountain views, and a centuries-old Buddhist monastery that has survived earthquakes and droughts. In this guide, I will cover everything you need to know before visiting Komic, from how to reach, where to stay, what to see, road conditions, and practical tips for 2026.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
What Is Komic Village and Why Should You Visit?
Komic village sits about 19 km from Kaza, the district headquarters of Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh. The name “Komic” literally translates to “eye of a snow cock” in the local dialect, with “Ko” meaning snow cock and “mic” meaning eye. The village is home to roughly a dozen houses, one ancient monastery, and a population of around 150 people, including monks. There is a signboard in the village that proudly claims Komic to be the “highest village in the world connected with a motorable road.” While this claim is disputed by several other villages across the Himalayas and beyond, Komic is undeniably one of the highest permanently inhabited settlements you can drive to in India.
What makes Komic worth visiting is not just the altitude tag. It is the raw, untouched feel of the place. Barley fields stretch across a barren, wind-swept landscape with snowcapped peaks in every direction. There are no ATMs, no fuel stations, no restaurants beyond one small cafe, and barely any mobile network. You come here to disconnect, and that is exactly the point. If you are someone who loves exploring the offbeat villages around Kaza, Komic should be at the top of your list.
What Is the History Behind Komic Village and Tangyud Monastery?
The heart of Komic village is the Tangyud Monastery (also known as Sa-skya-gong-mig Gompa or Komic Monastery). Built in the early decades of the 14th century during the rise of the Sakyapa sect under Mongol patronage, it is one of only two monasteries in the entire Spiti Valley that belongs to the Sakya sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The other Sakya monastery is a smaller one in Kaza itself. According to historical records, there may have been an even earlier Kadampa establishment at this site, founded by the great translator Rinchen Zangpo (958-1055 CE).
The monastery houses a statue of the Maitreya Buddha (the Future Buddha), and locals believe that this Buddha looks after the wellbeing of all the villagers. The architecture is striking. The monastery is built like a fortified castle on the edge of a deep canyon, with massive slanted mud walls and battlements painted with vertical red ochre and white stripes. It almost looks like it has been standing guard over the valley for centuries, and in a way, it has.
Villagers will happily narrate stories about how the village and monastery came into existence. One popular story goes that centuries ago, monks at the monastery decided to shift the entire monastery lower down near Hikkim village because of extensive drought in the region. However, it is believed that the statue of Mahakaal refused to move from its spot despite several efforts. The entire monastery was relocated, and only a single monk stayed behind to pray beside the statue.
Then, around 1975, a powerful earthquake reduced the new monastery near Hikkim to ruins. You can still see the remains if you look carefully while traveling from Hikkim to Kaza. But the Mahakaal statue in the original Komic monastery stood firm despite the earthquake. Hence, the monks re-shifted the monastery back to Komic, seeing it as a sign of the sacredness of the place. It is stories like these that make Komic more than just another village on the tourist circuit.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Komic Village?
The best time to visit Komic village is between May and September, with June to mid-September being the most comfortable window. As is common with other places in Spiti Valley, the summer months are ideal because roads are open and weather is pleasant during the day (10 to 20 degrees Celsius). During winter months, from November to March, the village is completely cut off from the rest of the world due to heavy snowfall and road blockages. Temperatures can plummet to minus 30 degrees Celsius in the peak of winter.
April to mid-May is the transitional period when snow starts melting and roads from Kaza to the nearby villages become functional. However, keep in mind that the road from Kunzum Pass towards Manali typically opens only from June onwards. So if you are planning the full Spiti circuit (entering via one route and exiting via the other), aim for June to September. Also, do not worry too much about crowds. Spiti in general is quite secluded compared to Manali or Shimla, and Komic gets even fewer visitors since it requires a detour from the main highway.
How to Reach Komic Village from Delhi and Other Cities?
Komic village is accessible only through Kaza, which is the base town for the entire Spiti Valley. You can reach Kaza (and then Komic) via two main routes from Delhi.
Route 1: Delhi to Komic via Manali (754 km)
This route takes you through Manali, over the Atal Tunnel (which bypasses Rohtang Pass), through Gramphu, Batal, over Kunzum Pass (15,060 Ft), and then down to Kaza. From Kaza, Komic is another 19 km. The Manali side road is generally smoother but opens later in the season (June). You can read a detailed breakdown in our Spiti Valley via Manali guide.
Route 2: Delhi to Komic via Shimla and Kinnaur (772 km)
This route goes through Shimla, Narkanda, Rampur, Reckong Peo, Kalpa, Nako, Tabo, and then to Kaza. The advantage of this route is that it allows a more gradual altitude gain, which helps with acclimatization. The road via Kinnaur opens earlier in the season (usually by April), but some stretches can be rough due to landslides. Check our Spiti Valley via Shimla-Kinnaur guide for the full details.
I always suggest that if you have the time, complete the full Spiti circuit. Enter from one side and exit from the other. This way, you get to see both Kinnaur and Lahaul on the same trip. Check the Spiti Valley most common itinerary for suggested day-by-day plans.
Kaza to Komic (19 km)
From Kaza, you take the road towards Langza village first and then continue to Komic. The road is a mix of tarmac and gravel, and it involves a steady climb. Most travelers combine Komic with visits to Langza and Hikkim in a single day trip from Kaza. You can hire a taxi from Kaza for the Langza-Komic-Hikkim circuit for approximately Rs 2,500-3,500 for a full day (as of 2025). Shared taxis are also available for around Rs 800-1,200 per person. There is also an HRTC bus from Kaza at around 5 PM that goes to Komic via Langza and Hikkim, though the schedule can change seasonally. I suggest confirming the bus timings locally at the Kaza bus stand.
What Are the Top Things to Do in Komic Village?
Komic is not a place where you will find adventure parks or tourist activities. The charm lies in the simplicity and isolation. Here are the things that make a visit to Komic memorable.
Visit Tangyud Monastery
This is the primary attraction of Komic. The 14th-century Tangyud Monastery (also called Komic Lundup Chemmo) sits on the edge of a canyon and offers stunning views of the surrounding valley. It belongs to the Sakya sect and is one of the highest monasteries in India accessible by road. Inside, you will find ancient murals, scriptures, Buddhist art, and a stuffed snow leopard. Being situated on the periphery of the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, you might even spot a Himalayan red fox in the area. Keep in mind that some sections of the monastery do not allow entry for female visitors. Solar panels on the monastery roof are a practical touch for this remote location.
Explore the Village on Foot
The best part of any Himalayan hamlet is getting to walk through it early in the morning or late in the evening. Komic has green barley fields that contrast beautifully with the barren, stark mountain peaks behind them. Take a walk through the local pastures and tiny trails. Chat with the villagers if you get the chance. The stillness of this place, with no traffic noise and barely any other tourists, is something you will remember long after you leave.
Eat at Spiti Organic Kitchen
You might think a village of 150 people would not have a restaurant, but Spiti Organic Kitchen claims to be one of the highest restaurants in the world. They serve local teas, coffees, and home-style food including pasta made with local cheese. Spend an afternoon here sipping on arak (local barley beer) while enjoying the views. It is a surprisingly delightful experience in such a remote setting.
Which Nearby Villages Should You Visit from Komic?
One of the best things about Komic’s location is that two other remarkable villages are just a short drive away. Most travelers combine all three in a single day trip from Kaza.
Langza Village (Fossil Village)
Langza village sits at about 14,500 feet and is located on the way to Komic from Kaza. It is famously known as the “Fossil Village of India” because millions of years ago, this part of Spiti was under the ancient Tethys Sea. To this day, you can find marine fossils scattered across the slopes of Langza. The village is also known for the striking statue of Lord Buddha and the Chau Chau Kang Nilda peak (6,303 meters) that dominates its skyline. Geologists and researchers visit Langza regularly to study the fossils. It is about 10 km from Komic.
Hikkim Village (Highest Post Office)
Hikkim village sits at an altitude of about 14,567 feet (4,440 meters) and holds the distinction of having the highest post office in India (some claim in the world). Travelers love stopping here to send a postcard from this unique post office, a rare memory stamped from one of the highest points in India. Hikkim is about 4 km from Komic and has a medical shop, which is the nearest one for Komic villagers. If you need any medicines or supplies, Hikkim is where you go.
Where to Stay in Komic Village?
Accommodation in Komic is basic but authentic. There are a handful of homestays in Komic run by local families. The best known one is near the monastery itself, where the hosts serve great home-cooked food and are genuinely warm and friendly. Homestay rates in Komic range from about Rs 800-1,500 per person per night, including meals (as of 2025). There are also a couple of rooms available at the monastery itself, though these are extremely basic and cost around Rs 200-500 per day.
If you prefer more options, you can stay in Kaza where accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses (Rs 500-1,000 per night) to mid-range hotels (Rs 1,500-3,000 per night) and make the day trip to Komic, Langza, and Hikkim. However, I truly suggest that you spend at least one night in Komic or one of these small villages. The experience of waking up at 15,000 feet, with no sound except the wind and the prayer flags fluttering, is something a day trip simply cannot match.
What Should You Know Before Visiting Komic? (Practical Tips)
Komic is remote, even by Spiti standards. Here are the practical things you need to keep in mind before making the trip.
Altitude and AMS: At 15,027 feet, AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) is a real concern. Do not rush to Komic on your first day in Spiti. Spend at least 1-2 days acclimatizing in Kaza (11,980 Ft) before heading up. Carry Diamox if your doctor recommends it, and stay hydrated. If you feel severe headache, nausea, or dizziness, descend immediately.
Mobile Network: Mobile coverage in Komic is extremely limited. BSNL postpaid may get intermittent signal. Jio and Airtel are unlikely to work here. In Kaza, Jio and Airtel 4G are available, but once you leave the main town, coverage drops sharply. Do not rely on mobile data for navigation in this area.
Fuel: The nearest petrol pump is in Kaza. There is no fuel station between Kaza and Komic or in any of the surrounding villages. Make sure your tank is full before leaving Kaza. If you are driving your own vehicle, also check the Spiti Valley budget guide for fuel cost estimates.
ATM and Cash: There is an SBI ATM in Kaza but it does not always work reliably. Carry enough cash for your entire village circuit. Homestays in Komic, Langza, and Hikkim typically accept only cash. UPI may work if they have internet, but do not count on it.
Medical: The nearest medical shop is in Hikkim (4 km away). The nearest proper hospital is in Kaza. Carry your own basic medicines including painkillers, ORS, and any prescription medication you need.
Road Conditions: The road from Kaza to Langza is in good condition. The stretch from Langza to Komic is mostly gravel but manageable. The road from Komic to Hikkim has been under improvement in recent years. A regular car can handle the Kaza-Langza-Komic circuit, but an SUV or 4×4 is more comfortable, especially if it has rained recently. Keep in mind that after rain, the gravel sections can get slippery.
Permits: As of 2026, Indian nationals do not need an Inner Line Permit for visiting Komic or any part of Spiti Valley. Foreign nationals still need to obtain permits. Check our detailed permits guide for the latest information.
How Much Does a Trip to Komic Village Cost?
Here is a rough budget breakdown for visiting Komic as part of a Spiti Valley trip (per person, as of 2025). These numbers are for the Kaza-Komic-Langza-Hikkim day circuit specifically.
| Expense | Budget (Rs) | Mid-Range (Rs) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi from Kaza (full day circuit, shared among 4) | 625-875 | 875-1,250 |
| Homestay in Komic (per night, with meals) | 800-1,000 | 1,200-1,500 |
| Meals at Spiti Organic Kitchen | 200-400 | 400-600 |
| Miscellaneous (postcards from Hikkim, tea, etc.) | 100-200 | 200-400 |
| Total per person (day trip from Kaza) | Rs 925-1,475 | Rs 1,475-2,250 |
| Total per person (with overnight stay) | Rs 1,725-2,475 | Rs 2,675-3,750 |
For the full Spiti Valley trip cost including transport from Delhi, accommodation across all stops, and food, check our detailed Spiti Valley budget breakdown. If you want to do the trip on public buses, our budget Spiti Valley by public transport guide covers that in detail.
What Is the “Highest Village in the World” Claim About?
You will see a signboard in Komic that declares it as the “highest village in the world connected with a motorable road.” This claim has been a subject of debate for years. The truth is, there are several villages in the Spiti region and beyond that sit at comparable or higher elevations with road access. In Spiti Valley itself, the nearby villages of Langza and Hikkim are at similar altitudes. In Ladakh, villages like Hanle and Korzok are also very high. Globally, there are settlements in Tibet, Peru, and Bolivia at higher elevations.
So while the “highest in the world” tag makes for a great photo with the signboard, take it with a pinch of salt. What is undeniable is that Komic is among the highest continuously inhabited villages in Asia that you can drive to, and the experience of being there is extraordinary regardless of whether it holds the exact record or not.
Suggested Itinerary: How to Include Komic in Your Spiti Trip?
Most travelers visit Komic as part of the “Kaza local sightseeing” day. Here is how you can fit it into your Spiti Valley itinerary.
Day trip from Kaza (recommended for most travelers): Start from Kaza in the morning. Drive to Langza first (about 14 km, 45 minutes), spend 1-2 hours exploring the fossil village and the Buddha statue. Then drive to Komic (about 10 km from Langza, 30 minutes), visit the Tangyud Monastery, walk through the village, eat at Spiti Organic Kitchen. Continue to Hikkim (4 km from Komic, 15 minutes), send a postcard from the highest post office. Return to Kaza by evening.
Overnight stay (for those who want the full experience): Follow the same route but spend the night at a homestay in Komic. Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the Spiti Valley from 15,000 feet. Return to Kaza the next morning. This is what I truly suggest if you want to experience the real spirit of these high-altitude villages.
For a broader Spiti itinerary, you can also check out the Mane Village guide and the Spiti Valley FAQs for answers to the most common planning questions.
Conclusion
Places like Komic are the definition of why traveling to remote Himalayan villages is so rewarding. It is hard to describe the reflective stillness, the untouched landscape, and the warmth of the people, all accompanied by flowing conversations over cups of butter tea. You only get to experience it in places like Komic, where the world slows down and you get a chance to reconnect with yourself and the mountains around you.
I hope this guide helps you plan your visit to Komic village. If you have any questions about the trip, the route, or accommodation, feel free to ask in the comments section below. I will be happy to help. And if you know someone planning a trip to Spiti Valley, do share this article with them 🙂 …
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Last Updated: February 2026
Frequently Asked Questions About Komic Village
Is Komic really the highest village in the world?
Komic has a signboard claiming to be the “highest village in the world connected with a motorable road,” but this claim is disputed. Several other villages in Ladakh, Tibet, Peru, and Bolivia are at comparable or higher elevations. However, Komic at 15,027 feet is undeniably one of the highest permanently inhabited villages in Asia accessible by road.
How far is Komic from Kaza?
Komic is about 19 km from Kaza. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on road conditions. Most travelers visit Komic along with Langza and Hikkim in a single day trip from Kaza.
Can I reach Komic by bus?
Yes, there is an HRTC bus from Kaza to Komic via Langza and Hikkim. The bus usually departs around 5 PM from Kaza. However, the schedule varies by season, and the bus may not run daily in the shoulder months. I suggest confirming the timings at the Kaza bus stand before planning.
Is there mobile network in Komic?
Mobile network in Komic is extremely limited. BSNL postpaid may get weak, intermittent signal. Jio and Airtel are unlikely to work. Download offline maps and inform your family about the connectivity gap before heading to Komic from Kaza.
What is the best time to visit Komic?
The best time to visit Komic is between May and September. June to mid-September offers the best weather with daytime temperatures of 10-20 degrees Celsius. The village is completely cut off in winter (November to March) due to heavy snowfall.
Are homestays available in Komic?
Yes, there are a few basic homestays in Komic. Rates range from Rs 800-1,500 per person per night including meals (as of 2025). There are also basic rooms available at the monastery for Rs 200-500 per day. For more options, stay in Kaza and make the day trip.
Do I need a permit to visit Komic?
As of 2026, Indian nationals do not need any permits to visit Komic or other parts of Spiti Valley. Foreign nationals still need to obtain an Inner Line Permit. Check the Spiti Valley permits guide for the latest details.
Can a sedan reach Komic?
Yes, a regular sedan or hatchback can reach Komic from Kaza, though an SUV or 4×4 is more comfortable. The road from Kaza to Langza is in good condition. The Langza to Komic stretch is mostly gravel but manageable with careful driving. After heavy rain, some sections can get slippery, so drive cautiously.
