Spiti Valley is a beautiful and remote region in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, nestled between the Himalayan mountain ranges of Ladakh and Kinnaur. It is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers, with its rugged terrain, snow-capped peaks, and sparkling streams.
If you’re planning a trip to Spiti Valley, here is everything you need to know:
How to reach Spiti Valley
The easiest way to reach Spiti Valley is by road from Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. The journey takes about 10-12 hours and passes through picturesque towns and villages, including Rampur, Kinnaur, and Kalpa. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Shimla to reach Spiti Valley.
Alternatively, you can reach Spiti Valley by flying to Bhuntar Airport in Kullu and then taking a taxi or bus to Kaza, the main town in Spiti Valley. The airport is well-connected to major cities such as Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla.
Places to see
There are plenty of places to visit in Spiti Valley, including the following:
Key Monastery: Located at an altitude of 4,166 meters, Key Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery that is home to around 250 monks. It is a popular tourist destination in Spiti Valley, known for its ancient murals, scriptures, and beautiful views.
Dhankar Monastery: Another beautiful Tibetan Buddhist monastery, Dhankar Monastery is located in the village of Dhankar in Spiti Valley. It is known for its stunning location, perched on a rocky hilltop overlooking the valley below.
Chandratal Lake: Chandratal Lake is a beautiful high-altitude lake in Spiti Valley, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush greenery. It is a popular spot for camping and trekking, and the views from here are simply breathtaking.
Kunzum Pass: Kunzum Pass is a high mountain pass in the Himalayas that connects Spiti Valley to Lahaul and Leh. It is a popular spot for photography and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Tabo Monastery: Tabo Monastery is an ancient Tibetan Buddhist monastery that is known for its beautiful frescoes and murals. It is located in the village of Tabo, about 40 kilometers from Kaza.
Stays
There are several options for accommodation in Spiti Valley, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Some popular options include:
Spiti Eco Camp: Located in Kaza, Spiti Eco Camp is a budget-friendly option that offers tents, cottages, and guestrooms. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and has a restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine.
The Spiti Valley Resort: Located in Kaza, The Spiti Valley Resort is a luxury resort that offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a spa. It is located in a peaceful setting, surrounded by stunning views of the Himalayas.
The Himalayan Village: Located in Kaza, The Himalayan Village is a budget-friendly option that offers tents, cottages, and guestrooms. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and has a restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine.
Estimated budget
The cost of a trip to Spiti Valley depends on your travel style and the duration of your stay. However, a rough estimate of the budget for a 5-day trip can be as follows:
- Transportation: INR 5,000-10,000 (depending on the mode of transportation)
- Accommodation: INR 1,500-5,000 per night (depending on the type of accommodation)
- Food: INR 500-1,000 per day
- Activities: INR 500-2,000 per activity (depending on the activity)
Keep in mind that these are just rough estimates and the actual cost may vary depending on your specific needs and preferences. It is always a good idea to budget a little extra for any unexpected expenses that may come up.
Conclusion
Spiti Valley is a beautiful and remote destination in Himachal Pradesh that is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers. With its stunning landscape, rich culture, and plenty of activities to choose from, it is a place that should not be missed. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, Spiti Valley has something for everyone.
