Komic: The Highest Village In The World And How To Reach There

Nestled in the remote location Spiti Valley, lies a small village with a population of merely 150 people. Komic, which literally translates to “eye of a snow cock” is the highest village in the world connected by a motorable road. 

This beautiful village offers unparalleled views of scenic mountains and monasteries along with a unique experience of spiritual isolation. 

If you are a thrill seeker, looking to explore one of the most remote and breathtaking places on earth, then Komic must be on your list! 

Let’s explore the unique aspects of this village and how to reach this high-altitude heaven.

Which Country Has The Highest Village?

The highest village in the world is as dreamy as it sounds. It is surrounded by majestic mountains between the mystical clouds. 

So, Which country has the highest village? The world’s highest village, Komic, is located in Spiti valley, Himachal Pradesh, in India. 

Spiti Valley of India has become a popular tourist destination, not only for the immense beauty it has to offer, but also for its unique hidden gems attractions. Destinations like the Fossil Village of India, beautiful monasteries and also the highest altitude village in the world, all lie in close proximity. 

This region is known as “Little Tibet” and is famous for its raw beauty, ancient monasteries and resilient local culture. This sparsely populated village almost has a very eerie, mystical vibe. This makes a visit there all the more enchanting and captivating. The residents of this village mostly practice Buddhism.

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What Is The Height Of The World’s Highest Village? 

This beautiful village is located amidst the majestic Himalayas at a height of 4,587 meters or 15,049 feet above sea level. This means the highest village in the world stands at nearly half the height of Mount Everest! It is located only 23 kms away from Kaza which stands at 12,200 feet above sea level. This means if you travel from Kaza to Komic, you will cover 3,000 feet in just 23 kms. Hikkim and Langza are other nearby villages. 

Its high altitude is what defines this remote village. The barren landscape and harsh weather along with its spiritual air makes the time feel slowed down. Yet, it is this very remoteness and extreme environment that make Komic an unforgettable destination.

How To Reach Komic

Traveling to Komic is an adventure in itself; although breathtakingly beautiful, the journey there can be quite challenging. If you are planning an excursion, you will require careful planning and a headstrong attitude to navigate the challenging terrain and reach one of the most remote corners of India.

Here’s how you can reach Komic:

How To Reach Komic Via Road

The most common way to reach Komic is by the rugged and winding roads. The roads are steep and can be rough but offer breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. 

• By car from Kaza: The road from Kaza to Komic is a steep climb. The journey can take around 2 hours. It is a single lane road that is decently good in condition. However, it can get rough, especially during the monsoon season. The views along the way, however, will make every second of the journey worth it. 

• By bus from Kaza: There is a single bus that runs from Kaza in the late afternoon that reaches Komic in the evening. The route the bus takes is Langza-Hikkim-Komic. This same bus returns back to Kaza the next morning. 

Going To Komic Via Manali 

This is one of the more common routes amongst travelers. The route from Manali to Komic involves crossing some of the most famous high-altitude passes in India. 

• Route: Manali – Rohtang Pass – Gramphu- Batal – Kunzum Pass – Kaza – Komic
• Distance: Approximately 200 kilometers
• Travel Time: Around 10-12 hours, depending on road conditions
• Tips: Start early in the morning to avoid delays at the passes and to acclimatize properly to the high altitude.

Reaching Komic Via Shimla 

The route from Shimla to Komic is longer but offers a more gradual ascent. This makes it a better option for those concerned about altitude sickness. 

• Route: Shimla – Rampur – Pooh – Nako – Tabo – Kaza – Komic
• Distance: Approximately 450 kilometers
• Travel Time: 2-3 days, depending on your pace and stops along the way
• Tips: The route is scenic, with numerous small towns and villages. It’s advisable to break the journey into several legs to enjoy the scenery and adjust to the altitude.

This route is longer but safer. It remains open throughout the year for all 12 months. 

Traveling To Komic Via Flight 

There are no direct flights to Komic. However, the nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport in Kullu which is around 250 kilometers from Komic. From Bhuntar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kaza and then proceed to Komic.

• Tips: Flights to Bhuntar are limited, and the journey from the airport to Komic still involves a long road trip through challenging terrain.

Traveling To Komic Via Train 

Unfortunately, there are no trains that run directly to Komic or even close. The nearest railway station is in Shimla, from where you would need to continue your journey by road. 

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What Can You Do In Komic?

Apart from the picturesque views and the breathtaking landscapes, the highest village in Asia has a lot more to offer to the visitors. 

• Visit the Komic Monastery: Komic is the home to Tangyud Monastery, one of the highest and oldest monasteries in the region. The monastery is a vibrant architectural charm located at the edge of a canyon. It is one of the two monasteries there that belong to the Sakya sect. The monastery is home to a small community of monks, and visitors can learn about their way of life and the teachings of Buddhism.
  
• Explore the Fossil Village of Langza: The Fossil Village is located in Langza that is just a short drive from Komic. This village is known for its marine fossils– a reminder of the fact that this high-altitude, remote village was once submerged under the Tethys Sea. It’s a fascinating place to explore for anyone interested in geology or palaeontology.
  
• Visit the Highest Post Office in the World: Just 3 kilometers away from Komic, lies a small village called Hikkim that boasts the highest post office in the world which is shaped like a letterbox. From here you can send a postcard to your loved ones.
  
• Trekking: The region around Komic offers some excellent trekking routes, including hikes to nearby villages. These treks provide an opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes of Spiti Valley up close.
  
• Star Gazing: Being one of the most remote locations in India, the skies are remain clear and pollution free. This makes it an ideal location for stargazing. On a clear night, the Milky Way is also visible and the stars seem almost within reach.
  
• Experience Local Culture: The people of Komic are known for their warm hospitality. Visitors can stay in homestays, enjoy traditional Spitian ‘pahadi’ food, and learn about the customs and traditions of this remote Himalayan community.
  
• Visit the World’s Highest Restaurant: You can visit Spiti Organic Kitchen – World’s Highest Restaurant’ and enjoy a bowl of nice, warm maggi. 

You also choose to simply stroll around the highest village in the world to soak in the rich culture and heritage. There is truly no better experience than walking through lush meadows surrounded by the Himalayan mountains. 

There are no hotels in Komic. The only accommodation is to stay at the house of a local. The villages are more than welcoming and let you stay at their homes for a nominal charge. This is truly a one of a kind experience, where you can live and eat like a local and get to know stories and experiences that you will not find anywhere on the internet. 

Like many other places in that region, the best time to travel to Komic is during the summer. 

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Komic: An Escape To The Extraordinary 

The highest village in the world is one of the most breathtaking places in the Spiti Valley. 

Its dizzying height and enchanting vibes truly reminds one of the invincible spirit of its inhabitants who have adapted to life in one of the most remote environments on the planet.

If you are looking for a unique experience or a thrill of a lifetime, then Komic is the perfect destination for you. You will experience a journey into a different world, an experience like no other. 

Remember to be respectful to the locals and the place when you visit Komic. Happy exploring!