Gue Village, nestled in Himachal Pradesh's Spiti Valley, is home to India's only naturally preserved monk mummy. At 10,000 feet, this tranquil spot offers a unique peek into age-old spiritual traditions. The 500-year-old mummy, dressed in silk, draws visitors for its mystical allure amidst the serene, rugged beauty of the Himalayas. A visit to this place promises a blend of adventure and peace, with stunning landscapes and a glimpse into the village's rich cultural tapestry.
Gue Village, nestled in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. Perched at an altitude of 10,000 feet above sea level, this village is a serene retreat from the fast-paced world. Known as the Mummy Village, Gue's claim to fame is the ancient, well-preserved mummy of a Buddhist monk, whose name was Sangha Tenzin.
Discovered after an earthquake in 1975, this mummy dates back to the 15th century. It continues to fascinate people since its hair and nails are still intact. In addition, the village has a tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by majestic mountains and untouched landscapes. Gue offers a unique glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage and ancient traditions.
Gue's isolation adds to the allure of this village, making the journey to this place an adventure through winding roads and high-altitude deserts. Visitors can interact with the local Spitian community here, experiencing their warm hospitality and traditional lifestyle. The village, with its stone houses and monasteries, stands as a testament to the harmony between humanity and nature in this remote part of the world. A visit to Gue lets you soak in its spiritual and natural beauty, offering you a truly transformative experience.
Highlights
• Discover the mystery of India's only naturally preserved mummy, a 500-year-old Buddhist monk who is enclosed in a glass shrine.
• Trek through stunning Himalayan landscapes to reach the Gue village which is perched at 10,000 feet above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the Spiti Valley.
• Experience the warm hospitality of Gue villagers, offering insights into their simple lifestyle.
• Set out on treks near the village and get a chance to spot animals like the Snow Leopard, Nilgai, Jackals and more.
• Feel the peaceful atmosphere of this secluded hamlet, offering a unique blend of culture and spirituality near the Indo-Tibet border.
How To Reach
By Air: The nearest airport to Gue is the Bhuntar Airport, located in Kullu. The distance from the airport to the village is approximately 312.9 kilometres. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or catch a bus to Reckong Peo, from there you can reach Kaza. (248.5 kilometres/ 10 to 12 hours). You can also choose to go straight to Kaza (232.4 kilometres/ 8 to 10 hours). From Kaza, Gue is about 80.5 kilometres away, which takes another 2 to 3 hours to cover.
By Road: You can reach Gue via NH505, which connects the Spiti Valley from Shimla. The road passes through Kinnaur and enters Spiti via Reckong Peo. It covers a distance of 418.5 kilometres to Kaza, which takes around 13 to 15 hours. From Kaza, you need to drive another 80.5 kilometres to Gue.
By Train: The nearest railway station is the Kalka-Shimla Railway, situated around 504.5 kilometres from the village. You can take a bus or taxi to Kaza from Shimla. This journey takes 13 to 15 hours and covers 424 kilometres. Upon reaching Kaza, drive for another 2 to 3 hours to reach Gue Village.
Best Time To Visit
Gue Village is an enchanting destination that you can visit all year round, offering a unique experience with each season.
Best Season: Visit from March to June and September to October for ideal weather. These months provide pleasant temperatures and clear skies, perfect for exploring the village and its surroundings without the hindrance of rain or excessive cold.
Best Day of the Week: Any day is perfect for a visit, as Gue's timeless charm and serenity are consistent throughout the week, offering a serene experience every day.
Best Time of the Day: Try visiting during the mornings, when the roads to the village have little traffic and the skies are clear.
Other Essential Information
Tips for visiting Gue Village
1. Carry warm clothes, as Gue can get chilly, especially during the evenings.
2. Always have cash, since ATMs are difficult to access here.
3. Get BSNL or Jio sim networks, as mobile connectivity is very limited in Gue.
4. Fuel up your vehicles at Kaza which is the nearest petrol station, before you head to Gue.
5. Respect local customs, especially when visiting the mummy shrine or interacting with villagers.
6. Travel with a basic first-aid kit, as medical facilities are limited in remote areas.
You can also Checkout: 4 Days 3 Night Spiti Valley Trip
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Visit the Ancient Mummy of Sangha Tenzin
Embark on a journey to witness the 500-year-old preserved mummy of Sangha Tenzin in Gue Village. Sangha Tenzin was a Buddhist monk from Tibet. His mummy is an extraordinary relic that rests within a modest glass shrine in the village. It offers a fascinating insight into the ancient Buddhist practices and spiritual lineage of the region. The mummy maintains a meditative posture with its hair and nails still intact. It is an experience that connects you deeply to the mystic past of Gue Village and Buddhist practices.
Explore the Rugged Beauty of Gue Village
Experience the untouched beauty of Gue, set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas. Stroll through the village, admire the traditional stone houses, and interact with the locals to understand their simple yet meaningful way of life. This peaceful village is located away from the chaos of modern life, offering a serene retreat and a chance to connect with nature. Gue's unique geographical setting, nestled in a valley that boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, adds a fascinating layer to its rugged charm.
Savour Traditional Spitian Cuisine with Locals
Don't miss the opportunity to taste the unique flavours of Spiti by sharing a meal with a local family. Gue's traditional cuisine uses organic, locally sourced ingredients and provides a delicious insight into the region’s culinary heritage. Here, you can try unique dishes like Siddu, Madra, Dhaam as well as Butter Tea. Engaging with villagers over a home-cooked meal is a heartwarming experience that can enrich your visit to this village. The hospitality of the local families offers a memorable glimpse into their closely-knit community life.
Capture the Panoramic Views on Camera
Keep your cameras ready to capture the breathtaking landscapes that surround Gue. The village's high-altitude desert, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and stark landscapes, offers surreal vistas that are a photographer's dream. Each snapshot captures the essence of Gue's extraordinary beauty and the tranquil isolation it offers to the visitors. The golden hours of sunrise and sunset bring the village to life with a beautiful blend of light and shadow, adding to the village's beauty.
Embark on a Trek to Nearby Trails
Gue Village serves as a gateway to some of the most serene and off-beat trekking routes in the region. Embark on a journey through paths that weave around the village, leading to breathtaking viewpoints and untouched natural settings. These treks offer not only a physical challenge but also a chance to experience the pristine beauty of the Spiti Valley. Along the way, encounter diverse flora and fauna native to the Himalayas. The region boasts herbs like Seabuckthorn and Ratanjot, as well as animals like the elusive Snow Leopard and Himalayan Blue Sheep.
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