Spiti Valley, All You Need To Know

SPITI VALLEY

Can you draw a picture of heaven and do the justice with its peerless glory? Seems impossible? Well, then you need to visit Spiti Valley, where heaven itself sparkles at its entire vista.

Get sight of snaky roads, barren landscape, breathtaking valleys, pristine lakes, and snow-capped mountains of Spiti Valley and paint the heaven beyond your imagination.

Every second on watch, every moment on the journey, and every turn on the road has something stunning to tickle your soul in Spiti Valley. So, plan a trip to Spiti Valley and get ready for millions of unforgettable memories.

Sandwiched by majesty Himalaya by all sides, Spiti Valley is the most shining jewel of Himachal Pradesh. If you want to explore it thoroughly, you need to plan at least a weeklong trip because the options of sightseeing in Spiti Valley are endless.

Here, have a look at the must-visit places of Spiti Valley.

1. LAKES OF SPITI VALLEY

In the barren landscape of Spiti Valley, the soothing lakes act as the ocean of calmness and sea of natural beauty. Guess what, some of these lakes even offer a paradisiacal experience of trekking.

You can find them at their all glory during summers. During winters, they’re completely frozen.

Chandratal means ‘Moon Lake’. It is called the moon lake because of its crescent shape. Located at a high elevation of 14,100 feet and spreading in a vast area of 2.5km, Chandratal Lake is one of the most popular lakes in Spiti Valley.

Here, indulge in soul-searching far away from the chaos of the world. Spend some calm moments in the lap of nature and admire the stunning setting and soul-stirring beauty of the lake.

If this is not enough for you to soothe your soul, spend a camping night on the banks of Chandratal Lake. Believe us, it will make you feel as if you’re in heaven.

During the night, under open sky speckled with twinkling stars, in the cradle of nature, amid the warmth of a bonfire and smoothness of cool breeze, Chandratal Lake offers a soul-rejuvenating camping experience indeed. Given its high location, it is also a delight for trekkers.

After Chandratal Lake, now visit Suraj Tal Lake (the lake of the sun), which is another splendor of nature in the land of nature. Located at the altitudes of 4950 meters, Suraj Tal is believed to be the third highest lake in the county.

It is very close to Baralacha Pass so you can explore it while going through the pass. Hemmed in by the majestic Himalaya, Suraj Tal Lake looks like a dazzling blue beauty lying in a white bed of nature.

Its glassy water perfectly mirrors the blue sky changing its colors, each of them spellbinding in its own way.

Since it is bereft of human habitation, it is unspoiled and seeped thoroughly into tranquility. Capture this calmness in your heart and the panoramic beauty in your digital lens.

Dhankar Lake is the most precious jewel in the crown of Spiti Valley. Snuggled above Dhankar Village, Dhankar Lake scatters its charm at a high elevation of 4270 meters above sea level. Reaching it is surely a bit difficult but it’s worth the effort and time.

Once you’re there, its mesmerizing lure will reinvigorate your body, mind, and senses. The lake bathed in golden sun rays looks ethereal during the daytime. The shimmering blue water kissed by the sun creates an incredibly breathtaking vista.

When looking at its crystal-clear water, it imparts a feeling of having sky at your feet and your inner soul in front of you. The picturesque surroundings of majestic mountains, verdant trees, and sweeping valleys add further charm to the spectacular panorama of Dhankar Lake.

2. VILLAGES OF SPITI VALLEY

Already explored the discernible majesty of Spiti Valley? Well, then now you need to set your feet in the lesser-known part of Spiti Valley. Yes, the remote villages, where nature plays hide-and-seek with itself.

These tiny hamlets are the massive trove of fascination and charisma. So, walk around these villages and admire the exoticism of Spiti Valley.

Have you ever fancied to stand in the highest point of the world and behold the earth from there? Yes? Well, then Komik village is the place to be. Rested at the altitude of 15,027 feet above sea level, it is believed to be the world’s highest village connected with a motorable road.

If you wonder how people survive there, ask themselves. They are very amicable. Their rustic language with a Tibetan accent sounds interesting too.

The bowl-shaped village also has a monastery. Make sure you don’t miss to visit it. If you’re a photography buff, Komik village has many surprises for you.

Things to do here: Take lots of snaps as it is thoroughly draped with picturesque natural scenery

In the beautiful land of Spiti Valley, Nako village seems to be a place from another world. Literally, its unworldly charm enthralls the visitors at first sight itself.

Located in Kinnaur district at a height of nearly 3600 m above sea level, Nako village is probably the remotest edge of the world. Here, take a stroll around the village and visit Nako Lake & Nako monastery.

Though there is no internet accessibility, no mobile network connectivity, and no modern amenities, you won’t feel like coming back from this village.

Things to do here: Walk around the village and admire the glory of nature. Chill by Nako Lake and also behold the giant Buddhist prayer wheel.

Reaching Kibber is easy as compared to other villages of the valley. Perched majestically at an elevation of 4205 meters above sea level, Kibber is a delight for nature lovers and photographers.

It is a village, where mountains kiss the sky and the land romances with green-tipped valleys. Bask in the glory of Kibber village and capture this surreal charm in your camera.

Once you have enough of rustic charm, head to Kibber wildlife sanctuary to explore the wild glory of this village.

Other than nature’s vista, the houses of Kibber village are also catchment of eyes. The village is home to nearly 80 houses, which all are constructed in the same Tibetan style.

Things to do here: Talk endlessly with the stars while gazing at the sky. Yes, a night stay!

If you’re looking for secret places to visit in Spiti Valley, start your list with Langza village. Surrounded by lofty mountains and green draped valleys, Langza village is indisputably the best-kept secret of Spiti Valley.

It is located at a high elevation and blessed with the same splendor as the other picturesque villages of Spiti Valley.

However, there is something that leaves the visitors speechless in Langza. And that is the fossils. Here, you’ll find different-shaped fossils at every step. In fact, a visit to Langza is incomplete without fossil hunting.

Also, if you want to experience an unforgettable homestay in Spiti Valley, Langza is the place to be.

Things to do here: Go for fossil hunting.

The list of tourist places in Spiti Valley can never be completed without a mention of Tabo village. Nestled at the altitude of 10,700 feet, Tabo is the land of amazement.

If you had an exhausting day exploring Spiti Valley, Tabo will surely impart you some relaxing moments as it is calm, soothing, and easy to explore.

Take a walk around the village and visit Tabo monastery, where you’ll get peace of mind for sure. Enjoy some leisure moments in Tabo village and click hundreds of snaps.

To enjoy your day fullest, stroll through the narrow swathes of garden amid the aromatic air. The garden is located next to helipad.

Things to do here: Go for sightseeing as Tabo has many worthwhile places.

You don’t need to dedicate a whole day to explore this village. It can be covered while exploring Langza or Komik. Hikkim village lies on the way to Komik and is just 6 km southwards of Langza. So, make sure to visit Hikkim while exploring any of those two villages.

Completely soaked in tranquility and draped with scenic beauty, Hikkim village holds the pride of housing the highest post office in the world.

After Langza village, it is another place in Spiti Valley where you find heaps of fossils. Yes, collect as many as you want.

Things to do here: Send a postcard from the world’s highest post office and also collect the fossils.

Do you know why it is called ‘mud village’? No idea? Well, because here every house is made out of the mud. Interestingly, they all have a prayer flag tied to their roof, which reminds you that you’re in a land of Buddhist culture.

Located at an elevation of 12,361 feet inside Pin Valley National Park, Mud village is the place, where human and animals live together in perfect harmony.

Don’t be surprised if you see a snow leopard prowling around the village. It is common here. If you want to capture more, don’t restrict yourself just to the confines of the village. Go out and explore the entire region.

Things to do here: Spot snow leopard and ibex.

Kaza is not actually a village but a town speckled with many worth-exploring places. It acts as a gateway to many other tourist destinations of Spiti Valley. Located at the altitude of 12,500 feet on the bank of Spiti River, Kaza is the largest town in Lahaul & Spiti Valley.

With the snow-capped mountains, sparkling rivers, splendid monasteries, colorful markets, historical monuments, and soothing lakes, Kaza has its own mysterious charm.

Probably, it is the only place in Spiti Valley, where you can see markets, hotels, and other new-age amenities.

Things to do here: Visit monasteries and go for shopping.

3. MONASTERIES OF SPITI VALLEY

If you’re seeking inner peace, no place can be better than these Buddhist monasteries of Spiti Valley. Cradled in the lap of mountains and far away from modern civilization, they are the perfect resorts for peace-seekers.

Here, immerse yourself in utter tranquility and meet your own soul. If you love exploring different cultures, you have a chance to learn a bit about Buddhist culture in these monasteries.

Key monastery is actually a key to your soul-searching mission. Tugged at an altitude of 4166 meters above sea level beside Spiti River, Key monastery is said to be the largest and oldest Buddhist monastery in Spiti Valley.

Though it is thousand years old, it still shines gloriously as if it was built recently only. You can see richly painted and vibrantly drawn murals all over the walls of Key monastery.

Other than its calm aura and eye-catching paintings, it is its marvelous architecture that grabs the attention of visitors.

Tagged as the ‘Ajanta of the Himalayas’, Tabo monastery is a priceless jewel of Tabo village. It has been standing tirelessly for more than millennia. Given the fact, it might appear you a derelict monument from outside, but as you’ll enter the monastery, it will capture you in its spellbinding maze.

Apart from the colorful murals, Tabo monastery is also a treasure trove of Buddhist artifacts, manuscripts, stuccos, frescoes, statues, and Thangkas (traditional Buddhist painting).

Before touching them or clicking the pictures, make sure you have taken permission from lamas.

Sandwiched atop a hill between Kaza and Tabo, Dhankar monastery is a living testimony to the glorious culture of Buddhism. Like other monasteries of Spiti Valley, it is thoroughly bedecked with the vivid murals, artistic paintings, and elegant texts.

Above all, the major catchment of eyes in Dhankar monastery is the statue of Vairocharan’(four-direction statue of Lord Buddha). Seeped deep into history and immersed completely in serenity, Dhankar monastery offers once-in-a-lifetime experience to the visitors.

You can explore it the same day when visiting Dhankar Lake.

Kardang Monastery

Spiti Valley is the powerhouse of monasteries. Among all, Kardang monastery has something different to strike you dumb. Do you know what it is? Well, here in Kardang monastery, you’ll see both men and women as monks, unlike other monasteries. You can turn to anybody if need any help.

Located in the foothills of majestic Himalayan, Kardang monastery is accessible once you have reached Khardang village.

The aesthetic paintings and life-like statues of Kardang monastery spill the legendary saga of Buddhist history associated with the monastery.

It’s not only the monasteries and offbeat places of Spiti Valley that enthrall the visitors. On the one hand, Spiti Valley is immersed in serenity, it sparkles at its wildest on the other hand. Amid the snow-draped beauty, the wild decoy of Spiti Valley is glorified splendidly too.

Even if you’re running short of time, don’t miss to explore the wild facet of Spiti Valley. Wonder, where to go? Well, head to here.

In the cold desert of Lahaul and Spiti Valley, if you want to pump up your blood, Pin Valley National Park is calling you.

Being home to some indigenous flora and endangered fauna, Pin Valley National is one of the most exotic places to visit in Spiti Valley.

With the backdrop of majestic Himalaya, endless muddles of inimitable trails, and an assortment of flora & fauna, Pin Valley National Park is surely a full stop to your wildlife hunt.

Though this rich bio-reserve is home to over 20 species of animals, it is particularly known to be a natural habitat of snow leopards.

Here, make sure your camera is with you because you can’t see a snow leopard anywhere else in the country.

Go further and explore the dry alpine pastures of Pin Valley National Park. To your surprise, this national park is home to some medicinal plants and herbs too.

Needless to say, Spiti Valley is a hub of adventurous activities. It finds a place in every thrill-seeker’s bucket list inevitably. In fact, you need to trek daunting trails in order to explore every single place in Spiti Valley.

Given the fact, there are infinite numbers of trekking destinations in Spiti Valley. So, unleash yourself in this spine-tingling thrill and experience an adrenaline rush.

If you’re going on a weeklong trek expedition, Parang La Trek should definitely be on your list. Located in Lahaul and Spiti, this trekking trail will take you to a high altitude of 18000 feet.

Start the trek only if you have strong willpower and solid stamina. No, we don’t put you off. It’s just the words of caution. This trekking is extremely challenging and gruesome.

If you feel tired in between, revel in camping. Parang La Trek has ample camping options for you.

Pin Parvati Trek is a darling among the adventurous buffs. Starting from the barren desert of Pin Valley and ending at plush green land of Parvati Valley, this trek is about 17500 feet.

Besides trekking, you’ll get to see alluring lakes, imposing mountains, appealing valleys, and fascinating landscapes on this venture.

Being one of the most loved hiking destinations in India, Pin Parvati Pass trek is truly a wholesome treat for enthusiastic backpackers.

If you trying your hands first time in Spiti Valley trek, start with Bhaba Pass Trek. It is relatively easy as compared to other trekking trails of Spiti Valley. The sloppy mountains and steep valleys of Bhaba trek will take you to the height of 16000 feet.

Doesn’t it sound mind-blowing, hiking the sky-touching mountains capturing the breathtaking views of quaint surrounding? If yes, Bhaba Pass Trek is the place for you.

If you’re looking for an easy and less exhausting trek in Spiti Valley, Spiti Left Bank Trek is the best for you.

This exciting excursion will take to the height of 14000 feet, where you’ll get to see some of the hidden gems of Spiti Valley. Yes, those remote villages, which promise an experience like no other.
In between the trekking, feast your eyes on the mesmerizing landscapes of the valley. Just sit for a moment and admire this surreal beauty.

Kinnaur Kailash trek doesn’t actually start from Spiti Valley. Rather it starts from Kinnaur, the neighboring district of Spiti Valley. But, it must be included in your Spiti tour itinerary if you want to make your trip an unforgettable affair.

If you’re going Spiti Valley via Kinnaur, you can explore this intimating trek of 6050 meters. Note that, this is the height of the mountain.

Believe us, this trek will literally take out your soul out of thrill. Once you’re done with the trekking, 79 ft tall Shivalinga will give you further goosebumps.

And you know what, this giant Shivalinga keeps transforming its color throughout the day. Yes, it does. After all, it’s the abode of Lord Shiva. Anything can happen.

6. MOUNTAIN PASSES IN SPITI VALLEY

If you call yourself a driving devil, you need to explore the breathtaking mountain passes of Spiti Valley, where driving is a thrill but a challenge at the same time.

So do you dare to hold your steering wheel in these elevated and deep gorges? Or maybe you prefer biking? Yes? Okay, here are two nerve-racking mountain passes to tickle your soul.

Separating Lahaul and Spiti Valley, Kunzum La pass is close to the heart of every motorbike enthusiast. Located at a height of 4590 meters above sea level, Kunzum La is one of the highest and most popular mountain passes in India.

Enveloped by enthralling glaciers and snow-clad valleys, it is also a popular biking destination in India. Kunzum La Pass also acts as a gateway to Spiti Valley via Lahaul and Kullu Valley.

While driving in Kunzum La, you can capture a glimpse of Bara-Shigri, supposedly the second largest glacier in the world.

If you’ll go Spiti Valley via Manali, you will get to see the breathtaking spectacle of Rohtang Pass. Located at an arduous height of 13000 feet, it acts as a gateway to Spiti, Lahaul, and Leh via Manali-Leh highway.

What makes this mountain pass so popular among others is its panoramic surroundings girdled by imposing mountain peaks. The alluring vista of nature bathed in the spirit of adventure appears really breathtaking in Rohtang Pass.

Now, what you’re waiting for? Just buckle up and hit the trail for Rohtang Pass.

SPITI VALLEY IS FAMOUS FOR?

Like other tourist destinations of India, Spiti Valley also has its own distinctiveness, which puts it apart from others. Want to know what Spiti Valley is famous for? Well, here you go:

The tourism of Spiti Valley revolves around adventure. It is a paradise for adventurous freaks and a utopia for thrill-seekers.

From hiking to motorbiking and skiing to rafting, you can indulge in any adventurous activity in Spiti Valley.

So, here taste your grit in the cradle of nature and relish the once-in-a-lifetime experience. By all means, Spiti Valley offers a thrilling and fun-filled adventurous experience.

Snow Leopard is the signature sign of Himalayan region. Particularly, Spiti Valley is the citadel of this endangered species of animal. Given the fact, the valley has garnered huge attention for its snow leopard expedition.

You too don’t miss the chance to get a sight of snow leopard on your Spiti Valley trip. If you’re unable to spot any, head to Pin Valley National Park. There, you’ll behold hundreds of for sure.

And yes, keep your camera all set because you won’t have much time when a snow leopard is before your eyes. Obviously, you can’t stand longer than a second in front of a leopard.

Do a different culture and an unusual lifestyle fascinate you? Yes? Then, the intriguing villages of Spiti Valley will surely strike you with wonder. Being close to Tibet, Spiti Valley is highly influenced with Tibetan culture.

So, here meet the local people and learn about their culture. They are wonderful to interact with. Learn their lifestyle and also some interesting facts and stories about the valley.

In front of their amiable nature and warm hospitality, you won’t feel like coming back.

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS OF SPITI VALLEY

Spiti Valley is a world inside the world. From landscape to tourism and lifestyle to culture, it is quite different from that of the world.

Don’t believe us? Okay, be a part of popular fairs & festivals of Spiti Valley and get closer to the culture of Spitian people.

Like all of us, people of Spiti Valley also celebrate their new year vigorously. Their celebration style and time period vary though. If you fancy to get a sight of their invigorating festivity of New Year, visit Spiti Valley during November.

Also known as Halda festival, Losar festival marks the arrival of winters and beginning of New Year according to Tibetan calendar. It usually takes place for three days somewhere between mid-November to 1st week of December.

Again, cultural activities, traditional dances, and customary rituals are highlights of the festival. Moreover, people worship God in many ways and seek blessings.

Ladarcha Fair

Unlike other fairs and festivals of Spiti Valley, Ladarcha Fair has nothing to do with culture and traditions. Ideally, it is a congregation of traders taking place in Kaza every year.

It is held in the 3rd week of August. A herd of tourists and traders from nearby areas visit the fair and enjoy the festivity.

Don’t miss to attend Ladarcha Fair if you want to fill your shopping bags with indigenous items of Spiti Valley.

Fagli festival

If you’re visiting Spiti Valley in February, you can feel the vibes of this grand festival. This multi-day festival takes place in the first or second full moon week of February. Fagli festival also marks the end of winters and arrival of the spring season in Spiti Valley.

Fagli is to Spitin people what Diwali is to Hindus. The festival is celebrated in the same way too to some extent. Like, oil lamps are lit and every house is decorated gorgeously. Some traditional cuisines are also prepared in every household.

Be a part of it and enjoy the festive cheerfulness of Spiti Valley.

• First of all, pack woolen clothes, sweatshirts, mufflers, gloves, blanket, and everything else that you need to cover yourself in freezing cold of Spiti Valley.
• If you have a little space left in your bag after packing, keep a raincoat too. Though it is not really necessary, it will help you in case the weather betrays you during your trip. Not to mention, the weather is unpredictable all the time in Spiti Valley.
• Keep essential accessories, toiletries, and electronics. Remember, you just need to keep only the vital items. You obviously would not prefer a heavy backpack while hiking. No?
• Go with only and only trekking and snow-proof shoes. The landscape is really harsh in Spiti Valley. So, any other types of shoes can’t withstand the condition here.
• Above all, keep a flashlight along with you. Don’t rely on a mobile torch. Your mobile’s battery would obviously be dead in 2-3 days. So, better keep a flashlight.
• Be ready for a detached life. Here, don’t yearn for a mobile, internet, or a luxurious lifestyle.
• Keep a bunch of snacks and edibles along with you. Keeping basic medicines can also be wise.
• On top of all, your DSLR must be along with you. Else, you’ll spoil half of the fun of your trip.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SPITI

When you’re in Spiti Valley, don’t restrict yourself just to trekking, biking, and peace-seeking in monasteries. Other than these activities, there is a lot more to experience.

No idea what else to do? Worry not! Here are the must-do things in Spiti Valley that will make your Spiti trip a fascinating affair.

Spiti Valley is the Mecca for the adventurous buffs. By now, you must have enough of trekking, hiking, and biking. Now, it’s time to taste your grit in the daunting river rafting in Spiti River.

This intimidating expedition is certainly not for the faint-hearted. Amid the puissant waves of Spiti River, rafting is indeed an experience for a lifetime. So, sail on your thrilling ride capturing the panoramic landscape of Spiti Valley.

Are you traveling Spiti Valley with your soul mate? Yes? Then, there can’t be anything more romantic to do in Spiti Valley than sitting under the sky and gazing at the sky endlessly. Just two of you under the canopy of stars amid the utter calmness all around! Just wow!

Yes, of course, you can do it from your house itself, but the experience of stargazing in Spiti Valley is just unmatched.

The beautiful villages of Spiti Valley are the best place for this soul-soothing activity.

Once in a while, heart craves for something different and something unusual. Isn’t? Daily lifestyle is monotonous no matter how beautiful and happening it is. So, just ditch it for some time and take the shelter of camping in Spiti Valley.

If you wonder where to set up your camps, head to Chandratal Lake. A camp stay in Chandratal Lake is one of the top things to do in Spiti Valley.

This camp stay offers an experience that no words can describe and no picture can display.

Can you come back from a trip without filling your shopping bags? Of course not! No? Don’t worry! The vibrant markets of Kaza won’t let you come back without heaps of shopping bags either.

Buddhist handlooms, handicraft, and accessories are hard to resist anyway. So, here buy till you drop and get unnumbered of things back home with you.

Yes, you might not send a postcard in your daily lifestyle, but this is a must-do activity in Spiti Valley. Know why? Well, because Hikkim village of Spiti Valley is home to the highest post office in the world.

Wouldn’t it be interesting to send a postcard to your loved ones from an altitude of 15500 feet? Sound dreamy? Well, then turn it into a reality and let your dear ones know how much you miss them.

Visit the Mummy of Giu village

Do you fancy to behold a mummy in front of your eyes? Yes? Then, it’s time to make your fancy a reality. No, we won’t ask you to visit Egypt. Why would we when it is in our country itself.

Just visit the tiny village called Giu of Spiti Valley. Sandwiched between villages of Sumdo and Tabo, Giu village is home to a 500-year-old mummy.

According to legend, this mummy is of a mediating lama that has been preserved for the years.

Have you ever enjoyed a yak ride? Probably, you haven’t. Obviously, it is not possible in our world. So, when you’re in the outlandish world of Spiti Valley, don’t miss a chance to revel in yak Safari.

Believe us, it offers a pleasure like none other. Needless to say, it is the best offbeat experience to do in Spiti Valley.

On your Lahaul Spiti tour, you can treat yourself to many Tibetan dishes too. Of course, you have to visit the local restaurant or café for that. But, if you want to enjoy just simple Spitian foods, no place can be better than the monasteries.

In fact, having lunch in monasteries is a must-do thing in Spiti Valley. Other than monasteries, you can also have this pleasurable experience in the villages of Spiti Valley.

Nowadays, fossils are really hard to be seen. Nevertheless, if you want to capture the one, visit Hikkim and Langza villages of Spiti Valley.

They are so abundant with fossils that it is impossible to walk around for 4-5 minutes and not find the one.

If you’re exhausted and can’t search for fossils at your own, don’t worry. You can still get them. Many local kids come to tourists selling their fossils. So, buy a few as the souvenir.

Ah, wait! Before heading out, know the ideal time to explore Spiti Valley. As Spiti Valley is a diverse tourist destination, it greets the visitors with a different splendor in every season.
If you want to see valley draped thoroughly in milky white attire, winter is undoubtedly the best season for you to visit Spiti Valley.

Here, play with the snow, go on an ice-skating, and pump up your blood amid the freezing cold. However, a large part of Spiti remains masked during this season.

Ideally, the best season to visit Spiti Valley is summers. During this season, the mountains gleam, land shines, and the valley comes alive after months of heavy rainfall. Between the months of March to June, the weather remains pleasant and the transportation is also hassle-free.

Needless to say, Monsoon months are a big no to visit Spiti Valley. Obviously, you won’t want rain to spoil all the fun of your trip. No? Moreover, slippery roads, landslides, and natural calamities are dangerous too to some extent.

Once you have planned your Spiti Valley tour, it’s time to think about how you’re going to reach there. Since Spiti Valley is located at the attitude of 12,500 feet above sea level, getting there is not easy.

It doesn’t have its own railhead or airport. So, you need to land in nearby halts if you’re going by air or rail. From there, you can hire public transport to get Spiti Valley.

To sum up it in a sentence, the best way to get Spiti is by road. Regular buses ply to Spiti Valley from major cities like Delhi and Shimla.