Spiti Valley is a very beautiful valley located in Himachal Pradesh and also one of the highest valleys in India, Spiti Valley is also known as a cold desert.
The name “Spiti” means “middle land”, that is, the land between Tibet and India. Spiti Valley is situated at an altitude of about 12,500 feet (3,800 m) above sea level.
People living here will mostly see you following Buddhism. The area around Spiti Valley is one of the least populated areas in India. Spiti Valley is one of the most beautiful and wonderful valleys in India.
The view of this valley is incredible. Spiti Valley is also a very popular place among bikers; every year, thousands of bikers come to Spiti Valley to enjoy bike riding and real adventure.
At every turn of this valley, you will feel a different world, in English, this place is also called worlds in the world.
Means another new world inside the world. You get to see a different view at each new turn in this valley.
Spiti Valley is open to tourists only 250 days a year. In the remaining 100 days, there will be heavy snowfall here. Because of this snowfall, it is impossible for an ordinary car to come here.
But if one really wants to do something stormy and enjoy a different level of adventure, then you can come here to Spiti Valley by taking a 4-by-4 car.
You can enjoy this wonderful adventure, and the view that you will get to see in Spiti Valley in winter, you will not get to see anywhere else in India.
Snow starts falling in Spiti Valley from October onward, and this snowfall continues throughout the winter. Now let’s talk about how Spiti Valley makes you feel.
Spiti Valley provides the best of nature’s beauty, a clean environment, and a real adventure experience. Like I told you. The Spiti Valley is a cold desert. And it is known as Spiti Valley Cold Desert in English.
That’s why you experience freezing temperatures here in all seasons. But in summer, the temperature is definitely a bit more pleasant as compared to other seasons.
The temperature of the Spiti Valley during the summer ranges from 0 to 15 degrees Celsius. The winters in Spiti are extremely cold.
Spiti is bordered by Ladakh in the north, Tibet in the east, Kinnaur in the south-east, and the Kullu Valley in the north.
Spiti Valley is one of the coldest and most beautiful places in the country. About 6 months of the year, i.e., the summer season, are when Spiti is directly accessible via motorway.
Table of Contents
Spiti Valley is famous for
- Spiti Valley WildLife
- Spiti Valley is famous for its natural beauty.
- Famous for the coldest desert in India.
- Tabo is famous for its Monastery, and it is one of the most prominent attractions in Spiti.
- Spiti Valley is famous for magnificent murals, ancient temples, and many stupas.
- Famous for photography.
- Spiti Valley is famous for its Snow Leopard.
- Spiti Valley is famous for being the highest post office in the world. (And this post office is located at an altitude of 14,567 feet above sea level.)
- It is also famous for bike riding and adventure.
Here you can see a variety of birds in the small village of Langza. Here you can just sit on the different slopes of the village and catch a glimpse of birds like eagles, hawks, and vultures in the sky. Apart from this, there are many places in Spiti where you can catch a glimpse of these elusive birds.
The Spiti Valley is also known for being home to the oldest monasteries in India, such as the Kai Monastery, which is a fortress-like structure and resembles traditional Chinese architecture, with the magnificent Buddha Shrine. You can also include Tabu Monastery, Lahlang Monastery, and Gandhola Math in your visit to the monasteries here.
Lakes also have their share of attractions in Spiti. The most famous lakes here are Chandratal Lake and Suraj Tal Lake. Chandratal Lake derives its name from its crescent-like appearance and is a photographer’s paradise. Suraj Tal Lake is another famous lake in Spiti, and it is the third highest lake in the whole of India. This lake is an ideal place for camping.
How to Reach Spiti Valley?
- By Air
The nearest airport to Spiti Valley is Kullu Airport in Bhuntar. This airport is well connected to the important cities of the country, from here you can hire a taxi to reach Spiti.
- By Train
The closest railway stations to Spiti Valley are Joginder Nagar Railway Station. And this railway station is located in Shimla. You can hire a taxi from the railway station to reach the valley.
- By Road: If you want to enjoy the adventure of Spiti Valley to the fullest, then going by road will be the best option for you.
If you are fond of bike riding like me. So you can come here by bike and if you do not want to go by bike then you can also go by your car, both the options are great.
What is the best time to visit Spiti Valley?
The best time to visit Spiti is during the summer season. Those who want to spend their holidays in comfort should visit Spiti during this season.
The temperature of Spiti ranges from 0 to 15 degrees Celsius when it is hot all over India. It is best to avoid traveling to Spiti during the monsoon months as incessant heavy rainfall, landslides and slippery roads can spoil your trip completely. Winters are very hot in Spiti. So there is no better time to travel than the summer season.
Famous Tourist Places of Spiti Valley
Tourist Places Of Spiti Valley Chandratal Lake
Chandratal Lake is a tourist and trekker’s paradise. This lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the mighty Himalayas situated at an altitude of about 4300 meters.
The name “Chandra Tal” (Lake of the Moon) is derived from its crescent shape. The lake is one of the two high-altitude wetlands in India that have been designated as Ramsar sites. The lake serves as a temporary abode for Tibetan traders during their visit to Spiti and Kullu Valley.
This lake attracts people who love adventures from all over the world. The color of the water of this holy lake varies from red to orange and blue to green as the day progresses.
Kai Monastery at Spiti Valley
The Key Monastery is a famous Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the Lahaul and Spiti district of India. Kai Monastery is located at an altitude of 4,166 meters above sea level and is very close to the Spiti River in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh.
Also known as Kai Monastery and Ki Monastery, it is believed to have been founded by Dromtan, who was a student of the famous teacher Atisha in the 11th century.
Kunzum Pass is a must-see place in Spiti Valley
Kunzum Pass is also called Kunzum La by the local people. It is one of the highest motorable mountain passes in India, situated at an altitude of 4,551 meters above sea level.
This beautiful pass serves as the gateway to Spiti valley from Kullu and Lahaul and is at a distance of about 122 km from Manali. From Kunzum Pass there is a 15 km trek to the famous Chandratal Lake (Moon Lake).
It is believed that tourists have to stop near the temple of Goddess Kunzum Devi on the way as a mark of respect to her to seek her blessings to travel safely through the rugged terrain. The belief here is that travelers have to make a complete round of the temple in their vehicle.
Attractive places in Spiti Valley Pin Valley National Park
Pin Valley National Park is located in the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of the state of Himachal Pradesh. The height of this national park ranges from about 3,500 meters to more than 6,000 meters at its summit.
Pin Valley National Park is home to the famous Himalayan snow leopard and the rare species of their prey, Ibex. Pin Valley National Park is most famous for its incredible trek which is the main attraction of all its tourists. This trek is covered with snow for most of the year.
The core zone of Pin Valley Park is spread over a vast area of ​​675 sq km and its buffer zone is spread over an area of ​​about 1150 sq km. Today it is home to over 20 species of flora and fauna including the endangered snow leopard.
Suraj Tal is a place to visit in Spiti Valley.
Suraj Tal is the third largest lake in India situated at an altitude of 4950 meters above sea level. Situated in the Spiti Valley, Suraj Tal literally means ‘Lake of the Sun God.
The stunning lake just below the Baralacha pass is a must-visit while visiting this area. Suraj Tal Lake is one of the dream-like and photogenic lakes.
Dhankar Lake in Spiti Valley
Dhankar Lake is situated on the other side of the mountain near the dangerous rocks at a distance of 5 km from Dhankar Math. It takes about an hour to reach the lake from Dhankar Math. You can spend a peaceful time on the banks of this lake and watch the changing colors of the sky.
Trilokinath Temple, a religious place in Spiti Valley
Trilokinath Temple also known as Shri Trilokinathji Temple is located in Trilokinath village in Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh state, India. Located here is situated about 9 km away from Udaipur village. This temple is the only temple in the world where both Hindus and Buddhists worship.
‘Lord Shiva‘ is worshiped in this temple by Hindus and Buddhists see it as Arya Avalokiteshvara. However, it is believed that the Trilokinath temple was originally a Buddhist monastery.
Shashur Math, the famous monastery of Spiti Valley
Shashur Math is a Buddhist monastery of the Drugpa sect located in the Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. This monastery is a three-storeyed structure that is situated at a distance of 35-40 km from Manali. The literal meaning of “Shashur” in the local language is blue pine, as blue pine trees can be found all around the Shashur Monastery.
Shashi Monastery is situated at an altitude of 600 meters from the valley, from where one can get a panoramic view of the mountains and the city of Keylong. Shashur Math was built in the 7th century. Anyone who comes to see this monastery definitely appreciates its interiors and architecture. The best time to visit here is in July when it is during the annual Chham dance festival.
Kibber places to see in Spiti Valley
Kibber also known as Kibber is a small village situated in the Spiti Valley at an altitude of 4270 m in Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and barren landscapes, Kibber claims to be the highest village with a motorable road. Kibber is known for its local monastery and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. Its height and pollution-free environment make it a perfect place for photographers.
Barlacha La Tourist Place in Spiti Valley
Barlacha La Pass, also known as Barlacha Pass, is a high mountain pass located in the Zanskar Range at an altitude of 16,040 feet above sea level. This 8-km-long pass connects Lahaul district in Himachal Pradesh with Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir and is located along the Leh-Mangarh highway.
A few kilometers away from this pass you will not find Bhaga which is not a tributary of Chenab Nahi and originates from Surya Tal Lake. Baralacha Pass is surrounded by many beautiful places, which attract people immensely.
Attractions in Spiti Valley Tabo Monastery
Standing at an altitude of 10,000 feet in the Himalayan region, Tebo Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Tebo village of Spiti Valley. It is the oldest monastery in India and the Himalayas and has been functioning continuously since its inception.
This charming monastery is famous as the ‘Ajanta of the Himalayas’. It is said that the walls of this monastery have attractive murals and ancient paintings like the Ajanta caves.
Being one of the most historically important sites in Buddhist culture, the Archaeological Survey of India has taken over the responsibility for its maintenance and conservation. This monastery is spread over an area of ​​6300 square kilometers and is a priceless treasure for the Buddhist community.
Mountain biking in spiti
Being in the Trans-Himalayan region, the Spiti region is best suited for mountain biking and is the first choice of any mountain biker. Here you can travel by bike on high roads. The best time to enjoy mountain biking in Spiti is during the months of June to September.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Spiti Valley stands as an embodiment of nature’s awe-inspiring beauty, cultural richness, and untamed serenity. Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, this remote haven offers a unique blend of stark landscapes, ancient monasteries, and warm local communities. As we bid farewell to this enchanting destination, the memories of its rugged terrain, pristine rivers, and clear blue skies remain etched in our hearts. Spiti Valley’s untouched charm serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human existence and the raw power of the natural world. By exploring Spiti Valley, we not only embark on a physical journey but also immerse ourselves in a spiritual and transformative experience that leaves a lasting imprint of its unparalleled magnificence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Spiti Valley
1. Where is Spiti Valley located?
Spiti Valley is located in the northeastern part of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, nestled within the Trans-Himalayan region.
2. How do I reach Spiti Valley?
You can reach Spiti Valley by road through either the Manali route or the Shimla route. The nearest airport is in Kullu-Manali, and the closest railway station is in Shimla.
3. What is the best time to visit Spiti Valley?
The best time to visit Spiti Valley is during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is relatively mild and roads are accessible. However, some prefer to experience its winter beauty between November and February.
4. Are permits required to visit Spiti Valley?
Yes, Indian nationals and foreign tourists require permits to visit certain areas within Spiti Valley due to its proximity to the border. These permits can be obtained in major towns like Shimla and Kaza.
5. What is the altitude of Spiti Valley?
Spiti Valley has an average altitude of around 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) above sea level, making it a high-altitude destination.
6. Are there any treks in Spiti Valley?
Yes, Spiti Valley offers several trekking opportunities, including the famous Spiti to Parvati Valley trek, the Pin Parvati Pass trek, and the Chandratal trek.
7. What is the weather like in Spiti Valley?
The weather in Spiti Valley can be quite cold, even during summers. Daytime temperatures in summer can range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), while winter temperatures can plummet to well below freezing.
8. Are there accommodations available in Spiti Valley?
Yes, there are various accommodation options available, including guesthouses, homestays, and even campsites. Accommodations can range from basic to comfortable.
9. What are some must-visit places in Spiti Valley?
Some must-visit places in Spiti Valley include Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, Kibber Village, Chandratal Lake, and Dhankar Monastery.
10. Is Spiti Valley safe for travelers?
Spiti Valley is generally safe for travelers. However, due to its remote location and high-altitude conditions, it's important to be prepared, acclimatize properly, and drive cautiously on its challenging roads.
11. Can I travel to Spiti Valley in winter?
Yes, but traveling to Spiti Valley in winter requires thorough preparation due to extreme cold and limited facilities. Some areas may become inaccessible due to heavy snowfall and road closures.
12. Is Spiti Valley a suitable destination for solo travelers?
Spiti Valley can be an incredible experience for solo travelers. However, due to its remote nature, it's advisable to plan well, inform others of your travel plans, and have a reliable mode of communication.
13. What type of clothing should I pack for a trip to Spiti Valley?
Pack warm clothing, including thermals, jackets, gloves, and sturdy footwear. The weather can be quite cold, especially in the evenings and at higher altitudes.
14. Can I find ATMs and mobile network connectivity in Spiti Valley?
While some towns have limited ATMs and mobile network coverage, it's best to carry sufficient cash and inform your contacts about potential communication gaps.
15. Is Spiti Valley suitable for people with health issues?
The high altitude and challenging terrain can pose difficulties for individuals with certain health issues. Consult a doctor before planning a trip to Spiti Valley and take necessary precautions.
Exploring Spiti Valley is an adventure that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Before embarking on your journey, ensure that you’re well-prepared and have gathered all the information you need to make the most of this extraordinary destination.
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