Introduction

One of the highest villages in world and the highest permanently inhabited one in the region now to be connected by a vehicular road, the tiny hamlet of Komic is situated at an altitude of 4,275 meters above sea level. Temperatures in summer touch the high twenties (Celsius) and plummet to the minus twenties (Celsius) in winter. With a dozen or so families and little over a hundred residents, this village comes in the periphery of the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. The Sanctuary has animals like the ibex, blue sheep, red fox, Tibetan woolly hare, Tibetan wolf, lynx, the pika and the Tibetan wild ass; this sanctuary is also home to the rare and elusive snow leopard. Despite the altitude and the adverse climate, the villagers grow peas, some vegetables and barley in their fields and rear livestock.

Komic has a double storied Buddhist monastery dedicated to Gyawa Jampa or Matreya Buddha, the Buddha of the Future. This is surmised to be around five centuries old and has around four dozen lamas, monks in residence. It is believed that the origins of the monastery lay in Tibet when it was foretold that a monastery be built between two high mountains where one should resemble a lion and the other an eagle. The space where it was to be built should resemble the eye of a snow rooster. The name ‘Komic’ is considered to be a derivative of ‘ko’ – or snow rooster and ‘mic’ – eye.

Special Attributes

Small village in the cold desert

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Conservative and comfortable attire is recommended. Since these are remote areas, it is best to avoid anything too revealing. Always factor in local sensibilities.

Connectivity

Taxis and buses

Enjoyed by

People interested in culture and nature.

Exposure

High levels of UV. Adequate protection like sunblock and head gear are recommended

Avoidable Season

November, December, January, February, March

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly.

Things Not Allowed

No shoes in the monastery area

Tip

The best time to visit is August-September

Type of site

Village