Spiti, Himachal Pradesh

Mystical Himalayan Escape
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Overview

Welcome to Spiti! If you're seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, Spiti is the perfect destination for you. Nestled amidst lush meadows, pine forests, and snow-capped mountains, Spiti offers a serene escape to relax and rejuvenate. The age-old monasteries add a soulful touch to your visit, leaving a lasting impression even after you've returned home. As you venture into Spiti Valley, you'll be greeted by long winding roads and valleys that unveil breathtaking glimpses of the cold desert and snow-crowned mountains. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, Spiti Valley, located in Himachal Pradesh, sits at an altitude of 12,500 feet above sea level and enjoys around 250 days of sunshine each year, making it one of the coldest places in the country. The name 'Spiti' translates to 'The Middle Land', signifying its position as the separation between India and Tibet. This mystical land is home to several monasteries, with the Key Monastery standing out as a thousand-year-old marvel and the largest monastery in the entire Spiti Valley. With its sparse population, Spiti offers an adventure enthusiast's paradise, featuring a variety of trekking trails and mountain passes to explore. From Kaza, the capital of Spiti, you can embark on these treks, leading to panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains. The enchanting Dhankar Lake, accessible via an easy 1.5-kilometre trek along the Spiti River from Dhankar Monastery, promises stunning views of the villages below, providing a tranquil setting to unwind amidst the cool mountain air. Another mystical site to visit is the Chandratal Lake, where the water transitions from reddish to orange to blue to emerald green as the day comes to a close. Due to the thick Himalayan snow isolating Spiti from the rest of the country for approximately 6 months a year, the summer months are the only direct access time via motorway. Get ready to experience the magic of Spiti!
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How to Reach Spiti

By Air
  • The nearest airport to Spiti Valley is in Bhuntar, near Kullu, approximately 245 km away.
  • Bhuntar airport has limited operations, and the nearest international airport with good connectivity is in Chandigarh, around 522 km away.
By Train
  • The nearest broad gauge railway station with good connectivity to Spiti Valley is in Chandigarh.
  • Another option is the railway station in Jogindernagar, which is closest to Spiti but has poor connectivity.
By Road
  • To reach Spiti Valley by road, travelers have two main options: via Kinnaur through the Hindustan-Tibet Highway or via Manali.
  • Travelers can take public or private buses to Kinnaur from Shimla, with an overnight bus option to Reckong Peo.
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Places to Visit in Spiti

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Key Gompa (Key Monastery)

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Perched at an altitude of 4,166 metres, the Key Monastery, also known as Kye Monastery, is a renowned Tibetan Buddhist monastery nestled close to the enchanting Spiti River in the picturesque Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. Founded in the 11th century, it is a treasure trove of ancient Buddhist ar...
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Sarchu

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Sarchu, also known as Sir Bhum Chun, is a captivating overnight stop for travelers along the Leh-Manali Highway, situated at an altitude of 4,290 meters. Nestled between the Baralacha La and Lachulung La mountains, this high-altitude haven offers a breathtaking dual view of nature. Travelers can cam...
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Tabo Monastery

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Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, the Tabo Monastery stands as a timeless sanctuary of spiritual tranquility and historical richness. Dating back to its founding in 996 AD, this ancient Buddhist enclave exudes a sense of peace and reverence that captivat...
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Baralacha La Pass

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Nestled within the majestic Zanskar range of the Spiti region in Himachal Pradesh, Baralacha Pass, also known as Baralacha La, stands as a captivating high mountain pass, perched at an impressive elevation of 16,040 feet. This 8-kilometer stretch serves as a crucial link connecting the Lahaul distri...
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Chandrataal

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Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas in Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, lies the enchanting Chandratal Lake, also known as 'Chandra Taal' or 'Lake of the Moon'. Situated at an impressive altitude of 4300m, this crescent-shaped lake holds great cultural and religious significance, drawing visitors with its...
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Things to do in Spiti

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Explore the Mummy Village in Gue, Spiti Valley

Discover the intriguing village of Gue in the Spiti Valley, known for its ancient mummy of a monk that dates back 500 to 600 years. The mummy, dressed in silk robes, is placed inside a tomb in a squatting position and was unearthed in 1975. This unique historical site offers a fascinating glimpse in...
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Explore Lhalung Monastery

Nestled in the heart of the charming Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, the Lhalung Monastery, also known as the Sarkhang or Golden Temple, is an ode to the deep-rooted Buddhist tradition and culture. Built during the 10th century CE by Lotsava Rinchen Zangpo, this monastery is located at an altitude...
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Trek to Ghepan Lake

Embark on the popular 34 km trek to Ghepan lake from Sissu, Himachal Pradesh. The moderately tough trek takes about 12 hours to complete and passes through picturesque villages such as Labrang and Retil. At the end of the trek, you'll be rewarded with the sight of the fluorescent-blue glacial lake, ...
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Explore Tashigang Village

Embark on a journey to Tashigang, the highest point in the Spiti Valley, nestled in the Sutlej river valley near the India-Tibet border. This quaint village, perched at an altitude of 4650 m, offers stunning mountain views, winding roads, and a tranquil atmosphere with just over four homes and a pop...
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Visit Suraj Tal Lake

Located at an elevation of 4950 m above sea level in Spiti Valley, Suraj Tal Lake is the 3rd largest lake in India. The name 'Suraj Tal' translates to 'The Lake of Sun God.' Situated just below the Baralacha pass, this stunning lake is a must-visit, especially for photography enthusiasts. Believed t...
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Best Time to Visit Spiti

The best time to visit Spiti Valley is from March to June, during the summer season. This is the peak season, offering clear skies, the best views of nature, and pleasant weather. You'll love the cool breeze, bubbling rivers, and adventure activities like camping, trekking, river rafting, sight-seeing, and more. Additionally, you can experience the Dechhang Festival in December-January, the Losar ... Read More

FAQs on Spiti

What are the popular things to explore in Spiti?
The most loved tourist places to explore in Spiti are Tabo Monastery, Dhankar Lake and Chandra Taal. These attractions offer a memorable experience for visitors to cherish.
What are the best places to visit in Spiti?
The most loved attractions in Spiti are Tabo Monastery, Dhankar Lake and Chandra Taal. These places offer stunning natural beauty and cultural significance.
How is the weather of Spiti in peak season?
The weather of Spiti in peak season offers clear skies, breathtaking views of nature, and pleasant weather. It provides an ideal setting for a memorable trip.
What are the places near Spiti?
The top places near Spiti include Manali, Kaza, Kasol, Ladakh, and Shimla. These destinations offer diverse experiences and are easily accessible from Spiti.
What are the things to do in Spiti?
The top things to do in Spiti include visiting Chandratal Lake, Key Monastery, Kunzum Pass, Pin Valley National Park, Suraj Tal, and Dhankar Monastery. These activities provide an enriching and adventurous experience for travelers.
How much does a package cost for Spiti?
The packages for Spiti start at INR 8000 and can be customized based on the number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type, and additional customizations. The cost varies depending on the chosen amenities and duration of the trip.
What is the best way to reach Spiti?
Spiti valley is accessible throughout the year, with routes via Kinnaur through Hindustan-Tibet Highway and via Manali through Rohtang Pass and Kunzum Pass. Travelers can reach Spiti from Shimla via Kinnaur or from Manali, with options including buses, shared taxis, private vehicles, or self-driving.
What is the local food in Spiti?
Spiti's cuisine offers a delightful mix of Tibetan, North-Indian, and Israeli delicacies. Local specialties include Momos, Thukpa, Butter tea, Chang (locally made beer), Arkah (locally made whiskey), and various flavored teas. The region's culinary offerings reflect its unique cultural and geographical influences.
What is the best time to visit Spiti?
The best time to visit Spiti is from March to June, offering pleasant temperatures and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. Winters in Spiti are recommended for adventurous activities, while the monsoon season should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and road disruptions.
Who should visit Spiti?
Spiti is ideal for adventurers, trekkers, campers, hikers, and backpackers seeking unique experiences in a rugged and captivating landscape. It is also suitable for travelers from nearby destinations such as New Delhi, Shimla, and Manali.
What is not so good about Spiti?
Spiti's challenging highways and the region's harsh conditions during late monsoons and winters can pose risks for travelers. Additionally, the area becomes deserted during the winter months, impacting accessibility and amenities.
What is famous about Spiti?
Spiti is renowned for being a paradise for adventurers, offering mesmerizing views of the mountains, clean air, and a rugged terrain that appeals to nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.

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