Triloknath The famous Triloknath shrine has been revered by both Hindus and Buddhists for centuries. This is primarily a Buddhist place of worship situated on the left bank of the Chenab River, high above the bed. A good branch road from the Tandi-Udaipur road leads to Triloknath.

A mustard field stands out in the otherwise bleak landscape Credit: Discover India

Prayer flags that seem to always flutter in the cold mountain air adorn the approach to the shrine. The massive structure has been built in traditional Lahauli style using stones and timber. Thousands of pilgrims visit Triloknath every year.

Here, the idol worshipped as Lord Shiva by the Hindu populace is venerated as the Buddha Avilokateshwara by the local Buddhists as well as by pilgrims from Spiti and Ladakh.

There are small dharamsalas and inns for spending the night at Triloknath.

Udaipur
Udaipur is a fairly large village situated on the banks of the Chandra-Bhaga or Chenab River. Udaipur used to be the end of the road for approaching the Pangi Valley, though now the road has been extended further.

The village is still traditionally the starting point for adventure trips to the enchanting Pangi Valley. It is connected by regular bus services to Keylong and Manali.

Surajtal lake at the Baralacha Pass Credit: Karamjeet Singh

Darcha
Darcha is a sleepy hamlet on the Keylong-Leh road. The climb to the towering Baralacha Pass starts at Darcha. A large river locally known as the Zanskar merges with the Bhaga River at Darcha. There is virtually no habitation between this hamlet and the Baralacha Pass.

Suraj Tal lake
A beautiful lake virtually at the top of the main Himalayan massif in the catchment area of the Bhaga River. This lake is a major destination of trekkers in the region.