Spiti Valley Circuit Trip

Overview

About Spiti Valley Circuit Trip

Spiti Valley Circuit Trip can be referred to as one of the most adventurous and thrilling road trips. It's like stepping into a dreamland where mountains kiss the sky and the air is full of pure magic. Spiti Valley is known as the cold desert of India after Ladakh due to its height, it is also considered as the high altitude geological location nestled upon Himachal Pradesh. Spiti Valley is surrounded by high mountain ranges with the himalayas to the south and Kunzum range to the north. It is a countryside region distinguished by barren landscapes, rugged mountains and deep gorges. The Spiti River originating from Kunzum range flows through the valley. The name Spiti means ‘the middle land’ which specifies its location between Tibet and India. The weather in Spiti is harsh with cold winters and short cool summers, because of its high altitude and cold desert environment, temperature can drop below freezing point even during summer, heavy snowfall occurs in winter making many more areas inaccessible. Spiti Valley is famous for its monasteries, some of which are old for over thousand years. The iconic key monastery is set on a hilltop, while the Tabo Monastery, also known as the Ajanta of the Himalayas is another gem of the valley.

Places to visit in Spiti Valley

Here are some of the most famous places to visit in Spiti Valley: 

Kaza- The administrative capital of The Spiti Valley, Kaza works as a central hub for travelers. Explore its bustling market, chill at quaint cafes in Kaza, visit the Sakya Tangyud Monastery and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Key Monastery- Key Monastery is one of the most famous monasteries in Spiti Valley. It is perched atop a hill and offers stunning views of the Spiti River. Explore its ancient halls, prayer rooms and a remarkable collection of the Buddhist Scriptures.

Dhankar Monastery- Elevated on a hill cliff and overlooking the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers, Dhankar Monastery is known for its picturesque location and ancient murals. Take in the breathtaking vistas and delve into the monastery's rich history.

Langza- Langza is a small village in Spiti, it is also known as the ‘Fossil Village’. Langza is famous for its huge Medicine Buddha statue at 14,300 feet. Enjoy the snow-capped mountain peaks and serene beauty of Langza.

Hikkim- Visit the world's highest post office in Hikkim and send a postcard from this remote Himalayan village. Explore the peasant charm of Hikkim and enjoy the beautiful views of the rugged mountains and rustic Spitian village homes.

Chandratal Lake- Located at an altitude of about 4,300 meters, Chandratal Lake is a mesmerizing high altitude lake with crystal clear waters. Camp by the lakeside, witness the stunning sunsets and marvel at the reflection of the surrounding peaks in the lake's tranquil waters.

Kibber- Kibber is one of the highest inhabited villages in the world, it offers breathtaking vistas of the Spiti Valley. Explore its traditional mud-brick houses, interact with friendly locals and embark on scenic hikes in the surrounding areas.

Best cafes to visit in Spiti Valley

In Spiti Valley, the cafe culture may not be as widespread as in urban areas, there are still a few cozy spots where travelers can relax and enjoy some refreshments, amidst the stunning landscapes, here are some of the best cafes to visit in Spiti Valley

Cafe Zomsa, Kaza- Located in the heart of Kaza, Cafe Zomsa is a popular hangout spot for travelers, it offers a cozy ambiance, friendly staff and a menu featuring both local and traditional dishes. Don't Miss trying their delicious momos and homemade cakes.

Sol Cafe, Kaza- Another great option in Kaza is Sol Cafe. Known for its warm hospitality and cozy atmosphere. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee or sample their detectable Thukpa while soaking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Himalayan Cafe, Tabo- Situated near the historic Tabo Monastery, Himalayan cafe is a charming spot to unwind after exploring ancient temples and caves. Treat yourself to their home-made pastries, sandwiches and herbal teas while admiring the tranquil surroundings.

Cafe Kunzum Top, Losar- Perched at an altitude of around 4,500 meters near the Kunzum pass, Cafe Kunzum Top offers a unique dining experience amidst the rugged Himalayan Terrain. Enjoy hot beverages and light snacks while taking a break from your journey through the high mountain passes.

Cafe Nyingmapa, Kibber- Concealed away in a picturesque Village of Kibber, Cafe Nyingmapa is a cozy retreat for travelers seeking authentic Tibetan Cuisine.

Tara Guest House and Cafe, Langza- Situated in the charming village of Langza, Tara Guest House and Cafe offers homely accommodation as well as tasty meals. The atmosphere is very peaceful, visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

Best time to Visit Spiti Valley

Every season offers a different experience according to the changing weather conditions. Here’s the best time to visit Spiti Valley:

Summer- From March to June, Summer is the excellent time to visit Spiti Valley. During summer the weather is generally pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15 C to 25 C during the day, making it comfortable for exploration and outdoor activities. The skies are usually clear permitting for panoramic views of the rugged landscapes , besides the roads are open, facilitating easier access to the valley.

Nonetheless, it's important to note that Spiti Valley has extreme weather conditions due to its high altitude, so even during the summer months, temperature can drop significantly at night. It's advisable to pack warm clothing and be prepared for the sudden weather changes.

Winter- Winter (December to February) transforms the valley into a winter wonderland, albeit with harsh weather conditions and limited accessibility due to heavy snowfall.

Things to do in Spiti Valley Circuit Trip

Attend a local festival: If your visit coincides with one of the vibrant festivals such as Losar (Tibetan New Year) or Fagli (Celebrated in Kinnaur), don't miss the opportunity to witness traditional dances, music and rituals performed by local communities.

Visit Dhankar Lake: Embark on a hike to Dhankar Lake, a fantastic high altitude lake near Dhankar Village. Enjoy the scenic trek through rocky terrain and pristine landscapes and marvel at the serene beauty of the lake surrounded by the towering mountains.

Rafting on Spiti River: If you’re seeking adventure, consider going rafting on the Spiti River. Experience the thrill of navigating through rapids while enjoying the views of the ruggeds landscapes and towering cliffs.

Motorbiking: Embark on an adventurous motorbike journey through the rugged terrain of Spiti Valley, traverse through high mountain passes, picturesque village and remote landscapes and enjoy the thrill of exploring the region on two wheels.

Yak Safari: Experience the unique thrill of Yak Safari in Spiti Valley. Ride on these majestic creatures through scenic pastures and valleys and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

FAQs For Spiti Valley Circuit Trip

1. Where is Spiti Valley located?

Spiti is a high-altitude region of the Himalayas, located in the north eastern part of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.

2. What are the best places to visit in Spiti Valley?

10 best places to visit in Spiti Valley:-

Chandratal lake, Tabo Monastery, Kunzum Pass, Key Monastery, Dhankar Lake, Suraj Tal, Pin Valley National Park, Kibber, Kaza,Langza.

3. How many days do you need for the Spiti circuit?

You need approximately 7 days to explore Spiti Valley

5. What is the best time to visit Spiti Valley?

Best time to visit Spiti Valley is during the summer season from Mid June to September.

6. What is the Spiti Valley Circuit?

The Spiti Valley Circuit is a breathtaking high altitude journey through rugged terrain, dotted with ancient monasteries and offering stunning vistas of the himalayas.

7. What is the ideal time to visit Spiti Valley?

The most perfect time to visit Spiti Valley is during summer months, from May to September, the weather is generally good with clear skies making it easier for travelers to explore Spiti Valley without any hindrance.

8. What are some must-visit attractions in Spiti Valley?

Some must visit attractions in Spiti Valley are- Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, Komic Village, Kaza, Chandratal Lake, Langza village, Dhankar Monastery, Kunzum Pass, Hikkim Village, Lhalung Monastery.

9. What are some must-visit attractions in Spiti Valley?

Some must visit attractions in Spiti Valley are- Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, Komic Village, Kaza, Chandratal Lake, Langza village, Dhankar Monastery, Kunzum Pass, Hikkim Village, Lhalung Monastery.

10. How do I reach Spiti Valley?

The most common way to reach Spiti Valley is via road from either Shimla or Manali in Himachal Pradesh, India. Both routes offer stunning landscapes but involve long and often treacherous journeys due to the mountainous terrain. Alternatively, you can fly to Bhuntar Airport near Kullu and then travel by road to reach Spiti Valley.

11. What should I pack for the Spiti Valley Full Circuit Trip?

Pack warm clothing, especially for the evenings and nights when temperatures drop significantly. Essential items include sturdy trekking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a first aid kit, and plenty of water. It's also wise to carry snacks, as amenities may be limited in some areas.

Other Popular Spiti Valley Packages- Spiti Tour Package from Delhi, Spiti Tour Package from Chandigarh, Spiti Tour Package from manali, Spiti tour package from Shimla, Spiti tour package from Manali

Things To Pack

Know Before You Go

• The major locations you’ll be visiting in your trip mainly lie in trans-Himalayan region and higher Himalayas. Due to offbeat locations, some regions do not have star category accommodations. Therefore we expect you to prepare your mindset accordingly and don’t expect luxurious amenities and at times, even basic amenities like 24x7 electricity supply, running hot water & wifi services at these properties. Don’t worry we ensure basic hygiene and heart warming hospitality.
• In case of large groups, all rooms may or may not be available in the same property for all the travelers. To accommodate such large groups, we select two or more hotels on the same trip batch. Please note identical facilities and services may not be available between different rooms or accommodations. However, we try our best to maintain similarities in quality services but still we expect you to adjust to these rare conditions.
• In the triple sharing room occupancy, an extra mattress is provided. This is not to be confused with an extra bed. For any kind of room upgradation request, please directly get in touch with the property reception or staff.
• The camp accommodations at various places especially like Jispa, Sarchu, Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, Chitkul, Chandratal etc. are very basic even though they are distinguished into various categories. Reason being, their offbeat locations with minimal amenities. However, we give our best while selecting the best quality properties for your comfortable stay experience on our trips.
• In hilly areas and high-altitude locations, shortage of water and electricity supply is a natural phenomenon. To overcome the water crisis, certain hotels have fixed schedules for supplying hot and cold water. We strongly regret the inconvenience but do look forward to your cooperation.
• Special facilities such as room with view, early check-in, smoking or non-smoking rooms, same floor, adjacent or interconnected rooms, etc. are truly subject to availability upon arrival at the accommodation, never pre-allotted or cannot be guaranteed prior. Any expenses arising out of this is to be borne by the traveler themselves.
• On our trips, we follow MAP meal plan in which the menu will be on a buffet basis and not on A-la-Carte basis. This fixed menu plan does not include evening snacks and cold drinks/liquor, soups or desserts. If the traveler wants to order beyond a fixed meal plan i.e. on A-la-Carte basis, they are requested to make direct payment for additional items.
• Consumption and serving of alcohol in some properties/rooms is subject to accommodation's rules and regulations. We respect their decisions and request our travelers also to adhere to such rules.
• In hilly regions, no AC will be operational in vehicles like Tempo Traveler / Innova / Ertiga / Xylo / Scorpio or any similar category.
• The vehicle used for your trip will be exclusively used as per the itinerary only (on point-to-point basis) and will not go beyond the specified itinerary to Trip Captain & drivers.
• The nature of group trip departures is very dynamic and varies from month to month or weekend to weekend. Thus, trip prices are also subject to change as per the occupancy on that particular trip batch.
• The Volvo buses from Delhi to Manali/Shimla & back to Delhi are a third party mode of transportation provided by our regular and verified vendors. Kindly note that these are regular running buses on the above mentioned routes and we cannot keep a proper check on them. However, in case of a technical breakdown a new vehicle or alternate option is arranged but at times it takes a little while for the on-ground operations to do so. Therefore, your cooperation and patience is required in such adverse situations.
• The Volvo bus takes pitstop for lunch/dinner/tea wherever required are predefined by the vendor and cannot be modified by us or any traveler as per our convenience.
• Due to unforeseen situations (force majeure/ traffic jams / traffic halts/ diversions/ curfew, Union strike, VVIP movement, etc.) the vehicle reporting may get delayed and in such case, we request you to bear with us and show your cooperation.