10 Beautiful Places to Visit in Spiti Valley

India is a land of saints, magnificent temples, vast stretches of desert, and beautiful hill stations, and what-not! Yes, my incredible India! The world’s most unique nation is blessed with its unity in diversity with 28 states and nine union territories, having 14 official languages.

Every state has its distinct cuisine, dance form, and folk tales to boast of. India showcases its history dating back to Panini’s grammar, Patanjali’s Yoga, the invention of zero, and masters of Surgery Charaka and Sushrut. Yoga/meditation is India’s largest in the world to lead a stress-free life.

What makes Spiti Valley so special?

Let’s take a journey with me to Spiti valley. Spiti is a small village, a cold desert area in the upper region of Himachal Pradesh. Height above sea level is 3800 m, known for its beautiful and serene monasteries, pollution-free with clear sky having worlds’ highest polling station.

Despite being a remote place, Spiti is well connected. There are petrol pumps, medical shops, ATM’s all along the way, but sometimes these ATM’s are not functional.

Finding Hotels and Restaurants is not a problem in Spiti. One can stay as a paying guest also with the locals. Camping along the river is another adventurous idea. It takes one or two days to acclimatize to the high altitudes of Spiti. The best way to rejuvenate is to take long walks and rest as much as possible to avoid falling sick.

A visit to Spiti is incomplete without being tasted the Tibetan food. Momos, Thukpa, and Lauphing are amongst the most popular dishes.

You should plan at least 5 to 10 days long days trip, as it needs five days in total to reach Spiti via Kinnaur and come back from Manali. During the rest of the three days, one can explore the tourist attractions. Here dwell the colorful monasteries, and the flavor of Tibetan culture can be experienced by sipping the salty buttery tea.

These are the 10 Best Places to Visit in Spiti:

1. Key Monastery

A key Monastery is a must-visit place in Himachal Pradesh known as Kye Gompa or ki or kee Monastery. It is at an altitude of 4166 above sea level. Devotees and tourists from all over the world come here to seek inner peace. The architecture of this monastery comes from Chinese culture. It is 14 km from Kaza that is the nearest bus station to the monastery.

Best Time to Visit: June to September, when the roads are accessible and the weather is mild.

Activities:

• Explore the Monastery: Wander through the monastery’s ancient halls filled with murals, manuscripts, and thangkas.
• Meditation: Engage in peaceful meditation sessions in the serene environment.
• Photography: Capture panoramic views of the Spiti River and surrounding landscapes.

Read also: Best October Escapes Around Manali

2. Chandra Taal Lake

This lake is in the range of 4200 m above sea level in the Himalayas. It is one of the popular among adventurous minds. The lake is crescent-shaped, and that is how it got its name.

Best Time to Visit: June to September, when the lake is accessible and the weather is favorable for camping.

Activities:

• Camping: Set up camp by the lake and enjoy a night under the stars.
• Trekking: Trek through scenic landscapes to reach the lake.
• Photography: Capture the stunning reflections of the mountains in the lake.

3. Pin Valley National Park

India’s highest cold valley National Park, constructed to preserve the flora, and fauna of Himachal Pradesh, got its name from the gorgeous Pin River. It is home to the snow leopard.

Best Time to Visit: July to October, when the park is accessible and the weather is suitable for wildlife spotting and trekking.

Activities:

• Wildlife Safari: Spot rare species like the snow leopard, ibex, and Himalayan marmot.
• Trekking: Explore the rugged terrain on foot, with trails leading through the park.
• Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Read also:

• Discover India’s Snowfall Hotspots in December
  
• Why Visit Himachal in September: Best Attractions
  

4. Suraj Tal

It is also known as Surya Tal, the third highest lake in India and 21st highest in the world amid the mountains is a divine lake. Thousands of visitors visit this site and explore the natural beauty. This lake has also adventurous activities such as boating. It is must visit place if you are in Spiti.

Best Time to Visit: June to September, when the roads are clear and the lake is accessible.

Activities:

• Trekking: Suraj Tal is a popular destination for trekkers on the Baralacha La pass.
• Photography: Capture the breathtaking beauty of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
• Biking: Stop by Suraj Tal on a biking expedition through the rugged terrain of Spiti.

5. Tabo Monastery

It is also known as Ajanta of the Himalayas, 3280 m above sea level, and is situated at the bottom of the valley, in the rocky desert of Tabo valley. You can discover the priceless paintings, statues, and murals on the walls of the Monastery. The Archaeological Survey of India declared it the ‘National Historic Treasure’ of India.

Best Time to Visit: May to October, when the monastery is accessible and the weather is conducive to exploration.

Activities:

• Explore the Monastery: Visit the ancient temples within the monastery complex.
• Meditation: Spend time in quiet reflection and meditation in the serene environment.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about the history and culture of Tibetan Buddhism through the monastery’s artwork and relics.

6. Kunzum Pass

Another beautiful mountain passes in the Kunzum Range of the Himalayas. Situated at an altitude of 15,060 feet above sea level, it provides a breathtaking sight; it entices adventurous drivers and bikers to experience the thrills of the turns.

Best Time to Visit: June to September, when the pass is open and the roads are clear.

Activities:

• Scenic Drive: Enjoy a thrilling drive through the pass with breathtaking views.
• Trekking: Start your trek to Chandra Taal from Kunzum Pass.
• Visit Kunzum Devi Temple: Pay homage at the temple dedicated to Goddess Kunzum.

7. Kaza

Kaza is also known for its serene environs magnificent mountains, picturesque beauty, truly a paradise on Earth. The Winter season forces the locals to stay indoors to exhibit their talent that takes the form of beautiful handicraft items. Kaza is a perfect blend of ancient culture and modernity.

Best Time to Visit: May to October, when the roads are accessible and the weather is pleasant.

Activities:

• Explore the Market: Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs in the town’s markets.
• Visit Sakya Tangyud Monastery: Explore this ancient monastery located near Kaza.
• Adventure Activities: Engage in activities like trekking, mountain biking, and river rafting.

Check more about the Things to do in Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

8. Dhankar Lake

Want to rejuvenate your soul and mind? – this is the place where you can sit for hours to soak yourself in the natural beauty. During snowfall mountains covered with white ice, one can see cattle grazing in the valley.

The myth says that Lord Shiva had visited and stayed at this lake during his quest for Lord Vishnu. While Lord Shiva was busy, his favorite Nandi bull drank some water from the lake. As a reward for quenching the thirst of Nandi, Lord Shiva blessed the lake that it will always be full of water.

Best Time to Visit: June to September, when the weather is suitable for trekking to the lake.

Activities:

• Trekking: The trek to Dhankar Lake offers stunning views and a chance to explore the unique landscape.
• Photography: Capture the serene beauty of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
• Picnic: Enjoy a peaceful picnic by the lake with breathtaking views.

9. Kibber

It is at a range of 4270 m above sea level, houses approximately 366 residents. A favorite place for trekkers and mountaineers is also a preferred camping destination during summers. Amazing!

The barter system still prevails here. All the houses in this village are made of stones and look identical. Kibber is blessed with all those facilities which a town enjoys like, a hospital, school, post office, telegraph office, etc.

Best Time to Visit: May to October, when the roads are open and the weather is favorable.

Activities:

• Explore the Village: Walk through the village and experience the local culture and architecture.
• Visit Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary: Spot rare wildlife species like the snow leopard and Himalayan ibex.
• Trekking: Kibber is the starting point for treks to various destinations in Spiti.

10. Tabo

Tabo is at a range of 10,760 feet on the banks of the Spiti River, Tabo is a tiny town in Spiti, known for its serene and tranquil beauty. The most famous attraction in Tabo is a 100 years old Monastery that is considered one of the holiest by the Dalai Lama himself. The town is famous for its tasty and yummy apples.

Best Time to Visit: May to October, when the town is accessible and the weather is pleasant.

Activities:

• Visit Tabo Monastery: Explore the ancient monastery and its priceless murals and artifacts.
• Cultural Immersion: Interact with the local monks and learn about the rich history of the region.
• Explore the Town: Walk around the town and soak in the serene and spiritual atmosphere.

Best itinerary from Delhi to Spiti Valley:

Spiti Valley Itinerary via Manali:

• Day 1 :Delhi to Manali
• Day 2 :Manali Sightseeing
• Day 3 :Manali – Kaza
• Day 4 :Key Monastery – Pin Valley
• Day 5 :Komic – Langza – Hikkim
• Day 6 :Kaza – Chicham Bridge – Chandrataal
• Day 7 :Rohtang Pass – Manali – Delhi

For a detailed itinerary click here 7 days itinerary via Manali from Delhi

Spiti Valley Itinerary via Shimla:

• Day 1 – Shimla to Sangla – Overnight at Sangla
• Day 2 – Sanlga to Chitkul to Kalpa – Overnight at Kalpa
• Day 3 – Kalpa to Nako to Gue to Tabo – Overnight at Tabo
• Day 4 – Tabo to Dhankar to Lhalung – Overnight at Lhalung
• Day 5 – Lhalung to Mudh to Kaza – Overnight at Kaza
• Day 6 – Kaza to Hikkim, Komic to Langza – Overnight at Langza
• Day 7 – Langza to Chandratal – Overnight at Chandratal
• Day 8 – Chandratal to Delhi

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When is the best time to visit Spiti Valley?

The best time to visit Spiti valley is from March to October. The following is the Spiti Valley temperature information for each month:

• March to June (14°c to 20°c)
• July to September (13°c to 27°c)
• October to February (-4°c to 20°c)

In between June and September, you can go to Spiti Valley without having to worry about heavy snow and avalanches.

How to Reach Spiti Valley?

By Road: It’s better to go to Spiti through Shimla as the height increases steadily and gradually. Moreover, tourist places are more on this road. One can hire private taxes from Shimla to Spiti.

Note: An important point to be kept in mind while visiting Spiti is that no ATM facility exists there. It is only available in Kazaso; one should carry enough cash to avoid any inconvenience.

By Rail: If one plans to go by train then, the closest railway station is Shimla, and the distance between Shimla and Spiti is 450 km.

By Air: The nearest airport is at Kullu is 250 km from Spiti.

Routemap to Reach Spiti:

Via Shimla:  From Shimla, the Spiti Valley is about 235 km away.

Route Map: Delhi – Shimla  or Narkanda – Reckong Peo or Kalpa or Sangla – Nako – Tabo (Spiti) 

Via Manali:  From Manali, the Spiti Valley is about 196 km away.

Route Map: Delhi –Solang Valley or Manali – Rohtang Pass – Gramphu – Kunzum Pass – Kaza/Tabo (Spiti Valley)

Travel Permit:

If you’re an Indian citizen, you don’t need a permit to travel from Shimla to Spiti. The foreigners will, however, need a permit called the Inner Line Permit before traveling beyond Reckong Peo.

Read Also: How to Reach Dharamshala from Delhi by Bus