Overview
Spiti Valley tours creates many images in the minds of those who haven’t been there. While for some it is a cold desert very similar to Ladakh, barren wasteland, others think of it as waterfalls, lush green hills, and mountain rivers. In spite of the diverse images in their minds, it attracts thousands of tourists every year. You are going to cherish the experience of the journey to Spiti for a long time, probably all of your life. “Spiti” in the local language means “The Middle Land” which it really is. It is actually the land between India and Tibet. It has a unique combination of both Indian and Tibetan cultures because of this very reason. A unique way of life is composed mainly out of Buddhist and Hindu beliefs, combined so well that it’s hard to distinguish them apart. You will remember this journey for all of your life. This trip will give you a taste of vistas and culture and many other things. From lush green hills of Kinnaur to barren brown soil of Spiti, there is a slow change in the landscape. Again you will be mesmerized to see the spread of greenery around Manali. The blue lakes and the whiteness of snow-covered mountains here are like you wouldn’t find in any other place. You will get to explore a totally different part of the country and meet people of a very different culture than yours.
When to visit Spiti Valley
Thinking of planning a trip this is the first question that comes to mind most definitely. Both in terms of convenience and sightseeing, it’s very important to choose the right time to visit.
For the entire year, Spiti valley is open by road. The majority of the tourism in Spiti valley happens in the months from June till September. The best time to go to Spiti valley will depend on what your preference is. Both the routes from Shimla and Manali remain open during this time from June till September. Find out here which is the most suitable or best time for you and plan your trip accordingly. Spiti valley is accessible for the entire year from the Shimla side. From Manali, only for 5 months it is accessible from June till September. You can complete the circuit by leaving from Manali. So if you are planning through Shimla, from June till September,. You can only drive to Kaza from Shimla from late October till early May. You will have to return through the same way. You will cross two high altitude passes passing through Manali, Rohtang and Kunzum Pass on the route through Manali. Both these passes remain closed from October till May which depends upon the weather. A journey from Manali to Spiti valley can be done only from June till September.
Things To Do
1. Visit the beautiful monasteries
Some of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the world are in Spiti. The main monasteries are Dongyu Gompa, Tabo Monastery, and Key Gompa. Make sure you visit at least one of these on your journey.
2. Explore the nearby villages
Exploring the different villages dotted around the valley is one of the best ways to experience life in Spiti Valley.. Each village has sights worth seeing and its own unique character. Some of the most known villages to visit are Langza, Kaza and Hikkim.
3.Go on a safari
Some of the most unique wildlife in the world is found in Spiti Valley. You can see animals such as the snow leopard, ibex and blue sheep when you go on safaris.
4.Go camping
Going camping under the stars is one of the best ways to experience Spiti Valley. There are a number of campsites around the valley. Some of the best ones are in the Pin Valley National Park.
Things to carry
Preparing for Spiti valley requires solid planning ahead of time. One needs to carry the right kind of woolen clothing and accessories for high altitude treks covered with snow-capped mountains. You may have to put on light layers of woolen and cotton clothes during the day, and wear thermals or heavy jackets at night. Depending on the season you visit Spiti, thick trousers regular jeans,caps, scarfs, trekking shoes, a pair of socks, gloves, mufflers, fleece jackets sunglasses, full-sleeved shirts, sweatshirts, etc .Other necessary items you should carry are torch, sunscreen lotion, lip balm, medicines, camera gear, chargers, sanitizers, toiletries, and power banks. Mobile connectivity will be weak as you proceed to higher altitudes.
