Komic

Komic

Komic (also spelt Komik) is a quaint Himalayan settlement in Spiti Valley, located at an altitude of 4,587 meters (15,050 ft), making it the world’s highest motorable village connected by road. Surrounded by rugged mountains and dramatic landscapes, Komic is known for its remoteness, serene atmosphere, and spiritual significance.

The highlight of Komic is the Tangyud Monastery, one of the highest monasteries in the world, built in the 14th century. With its fortress-like architecture, red-and-white walls, and ancient murals, the monastery is an essential centre of the Sakya sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

Best Time to Visit Komic

  • May – October: Best time to visit with open roads and pleasant (yet chilly) weather.

  • July – August: Perfect for village exploration and monastery visits.

  • November – March: Covered in snow, roads usually blocked, extreme cold.

Why Visit Komic

  • To stand at the highest motorable village in the world.

  • To visit the Tangyud Monastery with its ancient murals and scriptures.

  • To experience the Spitian culture, homestays, and traditional lifestyle.

  • To enjoy panoramic views of Spiti Valley and Chau Chau Kang Nilda peak.

Things to Do in & Around Komic

At Komic:

  • Visit Tangyud Monastery – Explore prayer halls, murals, and meditation rooms.

  • Interact with Monks – Learn about Buddhism and daily life at such a high altitude.

  • Stay in a Homestay – Enjoy traditional Spitian hospitality.

  • Photography – Capture the monastery, village houses, and vast barren landscapes.

Nearby Attractions:

  1. Hikkim (5 km) – Home to the world’s highest post office.

  2. Langza (9 km) – Fossil village with a giant Buddha statue.

  3. Key Monastery (19 km) – Largest monastery in Spiti Valley.

  4. Kaza (19 km) – The main town with cafes, shops, and facilities.

How to Reach Komic

  • From Kaza (19 km, 1 hr) – Via Langza and Hikkim, by taxi, bike, or shared cab.

  • From Manali (200 km, 2 days) – Via Kunzum Pass (open May–Oct).

  • From Shimla (430 km, 2–3 days) – Via Kinnaur Valley (longer but open most of the year).

Food & Facilities at Komic

  • Food – Only available at homestays and the monastery kitchen; simple meals like dal, rice, momos, thukpa, and butter tea.

  • Stay – Homestays are the only option, providing basic yet warm hospitality.

  • Shops & ATMs – None in Komic; nearest facilities are in Kaza.

  • Network – Inferior; BSNL sometimes works.

Travel Tips for Komic Visitors

  • Acclimatise in Kaza before heading to Komic – altitude sickness is common.

  • Carry warm clothes – even summer nights are freezing.

  • Start early for a day trip; roads are rough and weather changes quickly.

  • Stay hydrated & stroll to avoid breathlessness.

  • Carry cash only – no ATMs or card machines.

Responsible Travel & Local Etiquette

  • Respect the monastery – remove shoes, maintain silence inside prayer halls.

  • Seek permission before clicking photos of monks or locals.

  • Don’t litter – bring back your waste to Kaza.

  • Support locals – choose homestays, eat local food, buy local handicrafts.

Be mindful of altitude – Komic is one of the highest inhabited spots on earth.