Spiti Valley Tour Ultimate Travel Guide 2024 – 2025
Himachal Pradesh is known as the perfect destination for adventure junkies. During the trail to Himachal, you will be going through the charming places crossing the forests and several small streams. One of the most popular tourist hotspots is Spiti Valley.
Spiti Valley is a dignified desert in the north-eastern part of Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 12,500 ft above the sea level. It is enclosed by Lahaul, Ladakh, Kinnaur and Kullu. Spiti Valley tour has emerged out to be the most well-liked place for the tourists.
Spiti Valley Tour is a total escapade for the travellers and it gives immense pleasure to witness the landscapes filled with exotic flowers, green meadows, pine forests, snow-covered mountains, quaint villages and rivers. This alluring valley is packed with small villages and the beautiful Buddhist monasteries settled by people who live simple lives and they welcome tourists with open arms. The people of Spiti Valley are completely inspired by the Tibetan Buddhism, so for all the travel enthusiasts, this is a must-go destination to explore the religion and culture followed by the locals here.
There are so many places to visit during the Spiti Valley tour including Key Monastery, Langza Buddha Statue, Tabo Monastery, Chitkul Wildlife Sanctuary, Pin Valley National Park, Kaza, Hikkim, Dhankar Village, Kibber and many more, Also to go through the highest mountain passes like Rohtang and Kunzum La Pass. The path might not be easy for all because of the rocky terrain and rough weather conditions, heavy snowfall. This is challenging but once you complete the trail you will feel a sense of accomplishment. One can go on the Spiti Valley tour during the months of March to June when the weather remains pleasant and good.
Best Time for Spiti Valley Tour:
- May to June
The most ideal time to go to Spiti Valley is from the months of May to June when the weather remains pleasant, favorable and most of the roads open for the tourists who wanted to travel and experience the Spiti Valley. The temperature ranges between 0°C and 15°C during this time which makes it even more convenient for Sightseeing and other fun activities. During this time the passage from Shimla and Manali is easy-going.
- August to Mid October
During the autumn months from August to Mid October, the Spiti Valley Tourism is on it’s peak. The weather remains quite cold at night but the paths are open for the journey and surrounded by exotic flowers and leaves which makes the valley look even more beautiful. The Spiti River gives the shade of greenish-blue which looks attractive and exciting to see during the Spiti Valley Tour.
- November to March
Spiti Valley is covered with white snow during the winters every year. Travelling to Spiti Valley during the winter months is a dream to many travel enthusiasts who love winter adventures. You can enjoy fun activities like snow trekking, waterfall climbing, and more. But you should know that there is harsh, bone-chilling cold so think before you go to the Spiti Valley Tour during that time. This will be a challenge to cope with the intolerably chilly nights in Spiti Valley.
Places to Visit in Spiti Valley:
- Chitkul:
Chitkul, a small village situated in the Sangla Valley of Himachal Pradesh at a height of 3,450 meters above the sea level. Sangla is 25 km and about 2-3 hours to arrive at Chitkul. The trail to the village has a very calm and peaceful atmosphere. The people are very warm and welcoming and they believe in both Hinduism and Buddhism. It is said that in ancient history the people of Chitkul were called Kinnaras which means the Halfway between Gods and Humans.
- Nako:
Nako Lake is situated in the Nako Village of Kinnaur district. The lake is a freshwater body nearby Nako Village. This destination is enclosed by beautiful places that are worth seeing. There is a Nako Monastery for spiritual visitors. It is truly a heaven for travellers and has the most panoramic views all around.
- Gue Village:
Gue village belongs in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh at a height of 10,499 ft above the sea level. The place is having a 500 years old mummy of a Buddhist Monk. The mummy is known as the living God by the villagers. Thus, it is an admirable village with historical beliefs that one should definitely visit during the Spiti Valley Tour.
- Tabo Monastery:
Tabo Monastery is located in Lahaul and Spiti Valley at a height of 3050 meters above the sea level. This Monastery is also known as the “Ajanta of Himachal Pradesh”. It is one of the most famous historical sites. It has some remarkable paintings, sculptures, statues. The Archaeological Survey of India declared this Monastery as the “National Historic Treasure” of India. Devotees from all over the world come here to find tranquility and calmness. You will actually live and love every moment exploring this monastery with Spiti Adventure from dusk until dawn.
- Dhankar Lake:
Dhankar Lake in Spiti Valley has the most mesmerizing and incredible views. If you need a break from the hustle-bustle of the large town and searching for fascinating experiences then this will be the best choice. Also, the region offers you the best landscape views in the entire Himachal. You will find beautiful temples and monasteries there. Dhankar Lake attracts all kinds of travellers because of it’s sheer beauty.
- Kungri Monastery:
Kungri Monastery is located in Lahaul and Spiti Valley. It is one of the oldest and largest Monasteries of Spiti Valley. It has an eminent collection of silk paintings, Tibetan texts, and large statues. The main highlight is the Devil Dance during the month of July every year. This is the place where you can enjoy the rich culture and traditions of the local people of Spiti Valley.
- Mudh Village (Pin Valley):
Mudh Village is the prettiest village in Pin Valley alongside the Pin river. It is the last motorable village in Pin Valley. One can enjoy trekking to Pin Parvati Pass (5319 m) and Pin Bhabha Pass (4900 m). This region has the foremost enticing scenery, the rocky and lush greenery, lofty mountains, diversity of landscapes all around makes it even a lot of stunning. Once you reach the top you might able to see the snow-covered peaks close by Mudh Village at the end of July which looks exquisite.
- Kaza:
Kaza is one of the most amazing place to visit during the Spiti Valley Tour. It is known as the most peaceful destination surrounded by snow-capped mountains, panoramic landscapes, shimmering streams which is no less than the heavenly kingdom for travel enthusiasts. There are monasteries which adds magic to this place. Also, trekking and mountaineering here is a totally enjoyable experience. Thus, a trip to Kaza will leave you spellbound and wanting more.
- Key Monastery:
Key Monastery situated in Himachal Pradesh at a height of 4,166 meters above sea level and is known as the oldest Tibetan Monastery of the region. This Monastery depicts Buddhist artifacts, manuscripts, instruments with a rich culture heritage. Key Monastery is one of the places to visit in Spiti Valley where you can see unique styles of architecture. One can stay at the monastery overnight and attend the early morning prayers that gives happiness. A lot of travellers from all over the world visit this place and it gives them tranquility and peaceful atmosphere.
- Kibber:
Kibber is a small village of Spiti Valley at a height of 4,270 meters above the sea level. The village is a home of the Kibber Monastery and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. It is also the highest motorable village in the entire world. Kibber is a famous hotspot for trekking and adventure junkies. This trail will take you through the panoramic beauty of the lush green hills and clear skies. It is one of the most popular and must-have experiences in your travel-bucket list with Spiti Adventure if you are someone who seeks adventure.
- Langza Village:
Langza Village is situated at an altitude of 440 meters above the sea level. One should definitely go to this place during the Spiti Valley Tour. The buildings and historic Monasteries attracts a lot of travellers from all over the world. It has an ancient temple which is enclosed by beautiful views, mud houses and snow-covered peaks through which Chau Chau Nilda is visible. These tourist spots will provide a lot of learning and offer gazing and captivating views.
- Hikkim:
Hikkim is the world’s highest post office located at an altitude of 4440 meters above the sea level. This is the most interesting and exciting place to visit during the trip. For the travellers it gives a unique opportunity to send letters to your close ones from the highest post office. Not only this the region also offers picturesque views of snow-covered mountains and the fascinating Spiti Valley. It is different and unexpected from the other places that will make you bewitched.
- Losar Village:
Losar Village is located at an elevation of 4,085 meters above sea level. It is the biggest village of the Spiti Valley and before crossing through Kunzum La Pass it is the last location having stay facilities. When you reach at the top of the village there is a little Monastery having historical and cultural beliefs. To explore you can visit with Spiti Adventure the nearby places including Yangchen Choling Nunnery at Pangmo and Choling Monastery School at Morang. It is believed that this region has an infamous way of making you fall in love.
- Kunzum La Pass:
Kunzum La Pass is a paradise to experience a thrilling adventure. It is believed that Goddess Kunjum guards to the 4,551 meters, Kunzum Pass. This region has to face a lot of snowfall, that’s why not open throughout the year. It is closed for about 8 months and opens during the months of June to October. Though, this trail will give you a sense of achievement, peace, tranquility, and a lifetime of memories.
- Chandratal Lake:
The ultimate destination of the Spiti Valley Tour is the beautiful Chandratal Lake which is located amidst the pristine surroundings dominated by the white peaks and clouds above. It is also popularly known as the “Moon Lake”. The view from the top gives a spectacular scene of the region all around. This place will give you such happiness with the stunning picturesque that should be captured. For adventure seekers it is the perfect destination for camping under the sky, feeling the warmth of a bonfire on the foot of the mountain then this will be the best choice.
Best Local Dishes in Spiti Valley:
- Like other parts of the country, Spiti Valley has it’s own traditional and local food. One of the best parts of exploring in Spiti Valley is to savor different dishes and cuisines prepared by the locals. It mainly offers multi-cuisine including Korean, Tibetan, and Chinese. Thupka, Tsampa, Chhurpi, buckwheat chiltas, Momos and a lot more are the most delicious food of Spiti that one must try. For food lovers, Spiti food is healthy and simple not as spicy as Indian Cuisine.
- In winter people prefer to have Tibetan salt and butter tea, also known as Cha-Cha to keep themselves warm.
- To have something healthy Yak Cheese also called Chhurpi is the best choice to make and it is mainly available in the market area of Kaza.
- A kind of beer, Chhang is also popular in Spiti Valley and it is available in most of the houses of Spiti.
- These local foods are available in all the restaurants, markets of Spiti Valley at the most affordable price. So, before leaving the town you must taste the specialty of the Spiti.
What to Buy during Spiti Valley Tour:
It is not possible for anyone to visit Spiti Valley and came back home empty-handed. Shopping is a must thing to do when you visit a new place. Spiti Valley is the best choice for shopping because the market has a taste of the whole culture. The crowded market in Spiti Valley is full of Tibetan handicrafts. Some of them are:
- Most selling item, Choktse, it is a beautiful carved wooden painting in different amazing colors. • Authentic Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava Statues which have it’s own significance of different shapes and sizes.
- You will likely find a lot of variety in the markets of Singing bowls which are crafted from Copper and brass.
- Prayer wheels, flags, beads, masks, carved Chhang pots of brass or copper, bamboo baby cradles, and work baskets.
- Kashmiri Shawls, Pearl’s and stones, and traditional jewelry will make it a must-visit shopping in Spiti Valley. You will surely return bags full of goodies.
Local Festivals in Spiti Valley:
- Losar: Losar Festival celebrated on the occasion of new year in all the monasteries in the month of February. It is a 3 day festival as per the lunar calendar. The main highlight of this festival is the Chham dance which is performed by the lamas. It is not only celebrated in Spiti but also in the other parts of the county like Sikkim, Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh. Ladies dress their best for this festival and everyone enjoy with great enthusiasm.
- Dachang: Dachang is celebrated during the months of winter from the end of February or early March. It is held for 7 days where dancers perform mask and sword dance and are dressed in traditional clothes. The major attractions are the comic charades, bonfires, archery games organized for the villages.
- Namkan: Namkan which is also known as Namgan or Namkhan. This is a pre-harvest fest. This is a one or two-day festival celebrated in the month of August. In this festival, multiple horse races are held all day long and one winner is selected by the end of the day. One can enjoy dance, music and good food in this festival.
- Ladarcha: Ladarcha Fair is undoubtedly the biggest festival celebrated in the Spiti Valley in the month of July in Kaza. Earlier it was celebrated on the occasion for people to exchange goods, basically like a barter trade. Now it is recognized not only in Spiti but also in Ladakh and some other parts of the country. In this fest, there are also archery games, folk dances, Buchen performances organized.
- Cham Dances: This summer festival is celebrated at the various monasteries of Spiti including Gemur Key, Kardang, Tabo, Shashur, and Mane in the months of June or July. The major highlight is the Devil dance performed by the lamas in which they wear colourful costumes and masks of birds and animals. This festival teaches us the victory of good over evil. Devotees from all over the world pay a visit during that time to celebrate this festival with great joy.
- Buchen Dance Performances: The fest is basically celebrated during the winter season in Pin Parvati Valley of Spiti. During this festival, the lamas conduct an unusual puja in a dance form to chase away the evil from the villages and houses.
Important things to know before planning your Spiti Valley Tour:
- Hotel or Homestay facility in Spiti Valley:
Accommodation is the first thing that comes to mind before we plan to go somewhere. It basically depends on our comfort, location, budget. In Spiti Valley, there are hotels, homestays, guest houses, tents, campsites etc. It is advised to book prior to your tour because in the tourist season all the hotels, homestays are booked. So, you must book your accommodation prior as per your wish. If you are planning to stay in the campsite then take advice of your guide about safety precautions, meals and other facilities.
- Mobile Networks Connectivity in Spiti Valley:
One should know while travelling that only postpaid sims work in some of the places in Spiti. For good connectivity, there is BSNL and JIO. Sometimes due to lack of electricity, the phone lines don’t work.
- Petrol pump in Spiti Valley:
Petrol pumps are not available during the Spiti Valley tour except for Kaza and Kalpa.
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Spiti Valley Weather:
During the months of June to September, the temperature goes to The mid 20 degrees Celsius with a minimum of 9-10 degrees Celsius. Some of the places in Spiti Valley are very cold and chilly including Bataal, Hansa, Chandratal. During the winter months, from December to March the temperature goes to -30 degrees Celsius.
- Things to carry during Spiti Valley Tour:
- Track pants are necessary.
- Trekking shoes should be added.
- Warm cap, base layers, fleece jackets, thermal socks, the jacket is recommended.
- First aid kit.
- For changing dry clothes and towels.
- Avoid carrying jewelry, cash, watch, and camera while trekking.
- Personal toiletries and medications if necessary.
- Flashlight.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen lotion.
- Extra polythene bags and a whistle.
- Gumboots for bike riders.
How to Reach Spiti Valley?
To reach Spiti Valley you can travel by flight, train, or road from the city Shimla and Manali.
• Spiti Valley Tour via Manali:
If you are planning to travel by air then the nearest airport is Kullu. From outside the airport, you can hire a cab, bus, or taxi to reach Spiti, which takes 10 hours.
There are also overnight regular bus services provided from Delhi and Chandigarh to Manali. Also, there is no direct train facility for Manali, so you can go to Chandigarh and then hire a cab or bus from there to arrive at Manali.
The route that one takes to go to Manali is Rohtang Pass – Chattru – Kunzum Pass to Kaza and at last to our destination Spiti Valley.
Though Manali is considered to be the easier path to reach Kaza but traveling at a higher altitude might cause high altitude sickness. Manali is open during the months of June to October because this time the weather remains pleasant but other months there is heavy snowfall.
- Spiti Valley Tour via Shimla
To reach Spiti you can board a flight or train to Chandigarh passing through Shimla. It takes 2 days. There are also Volvo services for Chandigarh.
The route is Shimla – Kinnaur – Reckong Peo/ Kalpa – Nako – Kaza – Spiti Valley. The route from Shimla takes a much longer time because of the high altitude but there will be no altitude sickness. The Shimla route is quite thrilling and beautiful. It passes through Kinnaur and is open throughout the year.
The most ideal route is the circuit in which you will start your journey from Shimla, enjoy in Spiti and come back to Manali. It can only be done during the months of June to September and it takes at least 8 – 10 days to cover all the major places.
Cost of Spiti Valley Tour:
Budget is always an important factor to decide while travelling. To cover all the tourist attractions it will take 6-10 days. If you plan to take a route from Delhi for a 6-10days package including stay, transport, meals and other charges on basic needs then it will cost 14k to 35k per person. The cost of the Spiti Valley Tour only depends on you on the basis you choose transport, accommodation, food. You should know that if you book a private taxi, cab or motorbike then the amount will manually exceed the nominal cost.
Writer – Himani Regmi