Keylong

Keylong is the administrative centre of the Lahaul and Spiti district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, 126km north of Manali and 120km from the Indo-Tibetan border. It is located along the Manali-Leh Highway, about 7km north-east of intersection of the Chandra Valley, the Bhaga Valley, and the Chenab Valley; on the banks of Bhaga River.Sights and festivalsKeylong faces the famous Kardang Monastery, the largest and most important monastery in Lahaul, of the Drukpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism, which is on a slope across the river from Keylong.Sights near Keylong include the Kardang, Shasur, and Tayul monasteries, all within a few kilometres of Keylong. There is also a small temple dedicated to the local deity Kelang Wazir in the house of Shri Nawang Dorje that may be visited upon arrangement.The annual Lahaul Festival is held here each July with a big, busy market and a number of cultural activities. In end of August it became very busy.TourismKeylong is the district headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti district and is home to most of the government offices and facilities in Lahaul, and also hosts a regular bazaar.There are some tourist facilities including a Circuit House, a Public Works Department (PWD) Rest House, a Sainik (Army) Rest House, a Tourist Bungalow, and a number of small hotels. Keylong is known for its wide range of hotels.