Keylong located at the elevation of 10200 feet (3100 meters) serves as administrative headquarters for Lahaul & Spiti districts and is popularly known as “Land of Monasteries”. Keylong is very popular with trekkers and also with people travelling from Manali to Leh for an overnight halt. Located in banks of river Bhaga, Keylong is 115 Kms from Manali and takes 4-5 hours provided you leave from Manali early in the morning. At a place called Tandi, near Keylong, There is a confluence of Chandra River and Bhaga River to form Chandarbhaga River that later turns into Chenab river that flows into Pakistan.
There are many medieval Monasteries located around Keylong, most of them centuries old. There is Shashur Monastery which is 5 Kms from Keylong, a motorable road, it was build in 17th century Lama Deva Gyatso. Kardang Monastery built in 12th century and you can drive till here via Tandi or you can hike via crossing a small footbridge over river Bhaga. Some other popular monasteries in the area are Tardong Monastery, Bokar Monastery, Tayul Monastery and Ghemur Monastery. The best time to visit Keylong if from month of June till September. One has to wait till the Rohtang pass opens. There are many guest houses, small hotels and home stays available in Keylong for overnight stay.
