Spiti Valley

Spiti Valley is a large, wide valley in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India. Spiti is a very popular tourist destination for multi-day trekking, the views of which are unique and breathtaking. It is a wild desert in the Himalayas, located at a high altitude above sea level, and therefore it is possible to see extraordinary phenomena such as snow-capped peaks, clear streams and sparkling lakes in the middle of the arid desert. 

Spiti is located near Tibet (which is now part of China), has very few inhabitants and is considered one of the least populated areas in the world, which certainly makes the landscapes even more wild and pristine. The existing population is Tibetan Buddhist, so the villages in Spiti are ancient and characterized by unique Tibetan architecture, special monasteries and a Tibetan Buddhist atmosphere.

The valley is named after the Spiti River, which flows through its center and drains the snowmelt water from the mountains. 

On the way to Spiti (if you leave from Manali) you will pass one of the highest points in the area, the Konzom Pass, which is located at an altitude of 4551 m above sea level. The valley has many lakes, ancient monasteries with impressive paintings that have survived thanks to the cold and dry weather (and also thanks to the fact that no one has tried to conquer this remote area, the roads there are relatively new). Spiti provides peace and tranquility to the residents and tourists who visit it.

Capital: Casa is a small town that is considered its capital and is the first place you arrive when you go on trips in the valley. Casa has ATMs and reception, which is not so common in the rest of the valley.

Religion: The vast majority are Tibetan Buddhists. Tibetans are known for being extremely nice and hospitable people.

Recommended season in Spiti: Spiti is a very high desert, so most of the year the roads to it are snow-covered and blocked. They open in the summer sometime in May-June and usually remain open until sometime in September.

How to get there and from where: Most travelers arrive for a trip to Spiti from Manali or the Kinnaur Valley by organized jeep or local buses.

Getting around in Spiti Valley: Most travelers go on a tour of Spiti on an organized tour through local agencies, this way you have a driver and a jeep attached to take you wherever you want. Another common option is to travel by local buses, local buses and hitchhikes. You first arrive at the Kaza and from there there are buses to the villages in the area and you can easily take hitchhikes to the common attractions. Domestic tourism in Spiti is very high and many Indians travel there with vehicles and will happily take hitchhikers. This is a common and familiar phenomenon. Many travelers choose to combine a trip to Spiti with a trip to the Kinnaur Valley.

Important to know:

– The altitudes in the valley are higher than the altitudes we are used to, and there are places that are particularly high. Being at altitude can be accompanied by illnesses, especially for someone who is doing it for the first time. It is important to pay attention to how you feel all the time, make sure to drink plenty of water, consider taking altitude pills in advance or when needed, and think about what activities and attractions you will do and when. 
– There is no reception or internet in most of the valley

– There are no ATMs in most of the valley, it is recommended to bring enough cash in advance

What to see in Spiti:

-The city of Kaza – This is a small city with a local market and things that are difficult to find in the rest of the valley, such as ATMs and modern cafes. In addition, Kaza has a large and colorful temple with weekly ceremonies, it is recommended to visit. Be considerate and keep quiet, wear modest clothing and respect the locals.

– The village of Dhankar and the Dhankar Gompa – a special and beautiful village! Built on a mountainside in the shape of a half-threshing floor. Ancient buildings and green fields on a cliff in the middle of the desert. At the edge of the village there is a gompa, a kind of old and special monastery because it is built on the edge of a particularly high cliff and is considered one of the highest monasteries in the world. In addition, there is a lake within walking distance that can be reached in about an hour’s walk. It is recommended to do this if you feel well, the village and the lake are at a high altitude. 

– The village of Nako – a beautiful small village with hiking trails all around.

– Tabo and Tabo Monastery – a lower village in altitude and therefore also has a selection of cafes, restaurants and guesthouses. The village has a large ancient monastery – a large complex with 9 small temples with ancient paintings that are 1000 years old. The place is considered the oldest active monastery in India.

– Ki Monastery – The largest monastery in Spiti and considered the most important, the Dalai Lama is expected to retire to it at the end of his tenure. It is a beautiful monastery built on a hill in the middle of the wide desert valley. It is a short drive from Kaza.

– Hikimi and Komik – tiny villages with a very small number of local families, located at an extremely high altitude amidst the amazing landscape. There are no restaurants or guesthouses, you can come and meet the locals, admire the scenery and enjoy the special roads that feel like you are from another planet. 

– Langza Stupa – A large stupa (a statue of religious importance, usually of Buddha), near the Yams. The statue is beautiful and colorful and is also in front of a breathtaking 360-degree view

– The highest post office in the world – also located near Hickam and Comic

– Chandra Tal Lake – One of the most popular attractions in Spiti, this is a beautiful and high lake located about 4300 m above sea level, with fresh water. Its shape resembles the moon and hence its name (Chandra = moon). The lake is truly amazing in its beauty, turquoise water and surrounded by green lawns, wildlife and colorful mountains. Not worth missing.

Wondering where to continue? How to get there? Integrate with Kinnaur and what does that mean? We are here to help. You are welcome to contact us in any way.