Hikkim village in Spiti Valley is home to the world’s highest post office at 14,567 feet. Since 1983, it has connected remote villages. Visitors can send postcards worldwide while experiencing life in this small, isolated region.
Overview of Hikkim:
In the Spiti Valley, Hikkim village holds a unique record that puts it on the world map – it’s home to the world’’ highest post office, situated at a height of 14,567 feet (4,440 meters). This tiny village, with its traditional mud houses and friendly locals, gives you a peek into life in one of the most isolated places on Earth.
Hikkim is that offbeat spot that has a special touch to your Spiti Valley Packages. The post office, which has been running since 1983, is still the lifeline for nearby villages, handling everything from letters to pension payments. What makes it even more special is that you can send postcards from here to anywhere in the world – The village itself, with its stunning mountain views and simple way of life, shows you how people have adapted to living in such extreme conditions.
What are the Key Highlights of Hikkim:
- World’s Highest Post Office: Send postcards from 14,567 feet above sea level! The friendly postmaster will help you write addresses and stick stamps. Perfect for making memories and getting that unique postal stamp on your mail.
- Traditional Spitian Houses: Walk around the village to see authentic mud houses with their small windows and flat roofs. These homes are architectural wonders, built to handle extreme weather.
- Buddhist Prayer Flags: Watch colorful prayer flags flutter against snow-capped peaks—great spot for photos and understanding local Buddhist culture.
- Local Way of Life: Chat with villagers working in their small farms, growing green peas and potatoes in one of the world’s highest farming regions.
- Mountain Views: Enjoy fantastic views of Spiti’s mountain ranges. On clear days, you can spot peaks over 20,000 feet high.
- Ancient Monastery Visit: Take a short walk to the nearby Ki Monastery, one of the oldest in Spiti Valley, dating back to the 11th century.
Timings & Entry Fees of Hikkim:
1. Post Office Timings: Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm
2. Entry Fee: None
3. Postcard Cost: INR 5 – 25 per postcard
4. Stamp Cost: INR 5 for within India, INR 20 for international delivery
(Note: Timings may vary during winter months (November to March)
Travel Tips & Essential Information for Hikkim:
- Best Time to Visit: Plan your trip between June to September when roads are accessible and the weather is pleasant. Avoid winter months as the region experiences heavy snow.
- Altitude Sickness Alert: Take it easy for the first day. Drink plenty of water and carry basic medicines. The high altitude can affect anyone, so move slowly and rest often.
- Accommodation Tips: No hotels in Hikkim. Stay at Kaza (25 km away) where you’ll find good guesthouses and hotels. Some local families offer homestays if booked in advance.
- Phone Network Check: Only BSNL works here, and that too occasionally. Download offline maps before your visit.
- Carry Cash: No ATMs nearby. Carry enough cash from Kaza for your entire trip.
- Photography Pointers: Morning light is best for mountain photos—11 am to 3 pm.
- Basic Essentials: Pack warm clothes, sunscreen, and a hat even in summer. The temperature drops suddenly during sunset, so layer up.
Also Read: Places to Visit in Spiti Valley
Must Read: Things to do in Spiti Valley
