Nako Lake is a beautiful high-altitude lake located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is famous for its stunning natural beauty and the peaceful village of Nako nearby. Many travelers visit Nako Lake to enjoy the calm environment and explore the unique culture of the region.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Nako Lake from major nearby cities. You will learn about train, bus, and car travel options, along with practical tips to plan your journey confidently and enjoy your trip without hassle.

Getting from Shimla to Nako Lake – Main Options

Train

Train travel is limited for reaching Nako Lake directly, but you can use trains to get close to the region. It is suitable for travelers who want a scenic rail journey before switching to road transport.

• The nearest major railway station is Shimla Railway Station, connected to Delhi and other cities by the Kalka-Shimla narrow gauge train, which offers a scenic route through the hills.

• From Shimla, Nako Lake is about 220 kilometers away by road, so you will need to continue your journey by bus or car after the train trip.

• Train fares from Delhi to Shimla range from INR 300 to INR 1200 depending on the class, and the journey takes around 5 to 7 hours.

• Trains to Shimla are popular during summer and holidays, so book tickets early via IRCTC to avoid last-minute issues.

• The narrow gauge train can face delays during monsoon due to landslides, so check weather updates before traveling.

Bus

Buses are a common and affordable way to reach Nako Lake from Shimla and other towns. They offer frequent services but vary in comfort and travel time.

• Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) runs regular buses from Shimla to Nako village, covering around 220 km in 8 to 10 hours depending on road conditions.

• Both ordinary and deluxe buses operate on this route; deluxe buses offer better comfort and fewer stops but cost more, around INR 400 to INR 700.

• Buses depart early in the morning from Shimla’s ISBT (Inter-State Bus Terminal) to maximize daylight travel and avoid night driving on mountain roads.

• During the winter months, some routes may be suspended or delayed due to snow and roadblocks, so check bus schedules in advance.

• Food options on the way are limited; it is advisable to carry snacks and water for the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Nako Lake is a popular choice for travelers who want flexibility and comfort. The route offers beautiful mountain views but requires careful driving skills.

• The distance from Shimla to Nako Lake by road is approximately 220 km via NH205 and NH5, taking about 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Major toll plazas on the route include the NH205 toll near Mandi; toll fees generally range from INR 50 to INR 150 depending on vehicle type.

• Self-drive cars or taxis can be hired from Shimla, with daily rental rates ranging from INR 2500 to INR 4000 for a round trip including driver charges.

• Roads are narrow and winding, especially after Reckong Peo; avoid night driving and monsoon travel due to landslide risks.

• There are several roadside dhabas and small eateries along NH5 where you can stop for meals and refreshments.

Flight

There is no airport near Nako Lake. The closest airport is in Shimla, which has limited flights. This mode suits travelers combining air and road travel.

• Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti) is about 120 km from Nako Lake and connects mainly to Delhi with small aircraft.

• Flight duration from Delhi to Shimla is around 45 minutes, but flights are infrequent and weather-dependent, especially in winter.

• From Shimla Airport, you need to hire a taxi or take a bus to Nako Lake, which takes around 6 to 8 hours by road.

• Flight fares vary widely, typically INR 3000 to INR 7000 one way, and should be booked well in advance.

• Due to limited flights, many travelers prefer to fly to Chandigarh or Delhi and then continue by train or road transport.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers to Nako Lake, helping you organize your trip smoothly and avoid common challenges.

• Book your train or flight tickets to Shimla or Chandigarh early through IRCTC or airline websites to secure your preferred dates and avoid last-minute price hikes.

• From Shimla or Chandigarh, arrange your bus or taxi to Nako village. Booking a taxi in advance via local travel agents or apps like Ola can save time and ensure availability.

• Pack light but include warm clothes, as temperatures near Nako Lake can drop significantly, especially at night and in winter.

• Start your road journey early in the morning to avoid driving in the dark on mountain roads and to enjoy daylight views along the way.

• Carry sufficient water and snacks, as food options are limited en route and at Nako village, especially during off-season months.

• Inform someone about your travel plan and expected arrival time, as mobile network coverage can be patchy in remote areas around Nako Lake.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a basic first-aid kit and any personal medications, as medical facilities near Nako are limited and pharmacies may not stock all medicines.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach issues, and eat freshly cooked food from trusted eateries or dhabas.

• Use official bus and taxi services or trusted local operators to avoid scams or overcharging, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Local transport within Nako village is mostly on foot or by shared taxis; be prepared for some walking on uneven paths near the lake.

• Pack your luggage in waterproof bags or covers, as sudden rain or snow can occur, especially during monsoon and winter seasons.

• Check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling, as landslides and snowfall can cause delays or route closures.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Nako Lake is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and roads are mostly clear. Winters can be very cold with heavy snowfall, making travel difficult.

Monsoon season from July to September brings heavy rains and landslides, which may disrupt road travel and cause delays. Plan accordingly to avoid these challenges.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali or local fairs when roads and accommodations get crowded and prices rise.

• Winter months (December to February) bring heavy snowfall and roadblocks; only experienced travelers with proper gear should attempt this journey then.

• Early morning departures help avoid fog and traffic jams, especially on narrow mountain roads.

• Check local weather and road updates regularly during monsoon and winter to ensure safe travel.

Arrival at Nako Lake & What to Expect

When you arrive at Nako Lake, you will find a small, peaceful village with limited but adequate facilities for tourists. The lake area is serene and ideal for nature walks and photography.

Local transport options include shared taxis and walking paths. Most visitors stay in guesthouses or homestays in Nako village, which are within walking distance of the lake. Prepaid taxis or app-based cabs are not common here, so arrange your return transport in advance.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Nako Lake is by combining train or flight travel to Shimla or Chandigarh, followed by a road journey via bus or taxi. This approach balances comfort, cost, and scenic experience.

Plan your trip carefully by booking transport tickets early, starting your road travel early in the day, and preparing for mountain weather conditions. With proper planning and practical tips from this guide, you can enjoy a safe and memorable visit to the tranquil Nako Lake.