Spiti Valley
( Himachal Pradesh )
Introduction
Spiti Valley — the cold desert mountain paradise of Himachal Pradesh — is one of India’s most dramatic, untouched, and breathtaking high-altitude destinations.
Surrounded by the mighty Himalayas, crystal-blue rivers, ancient monasteries, rugged landscapes, starry skies, and remote villages, Spiti feels like a land suspended between earth and heaven.
Famous for Key Monastery, high-altitude lakes like Chandratal, iconic villages like Komic, Hikkim, and Langza, thrilling road trips, and Tibetan-style culture — Spiti is an adventure for the soul.
Spiti is not just a journey; it’s an emotion shaped by silence, mountains, spirituality & raw beauty.
Quick Info Box
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Himachal Pradesh, North India |
| Best Time to Visit | June–September (summer) |
| Winter Season | October–April (roadblocks likely) |
| Ideal Duration | 6–10 Days |
| Famous For | Monasteries, mountains, villages, lakes |
| Nearest Airport | Kullu (Bhuntar) / Chandigarh |
| Nearest Railway Station | Shimla / Chandigarh |
| Routes | Shimla–Kaza (open year-round), Manali–Kaza (summer only) |
| Language | Hindi, Tibetan, Spitian |
| Altitude | 3300 – 4500 meters |
City Overview
Spiti Valley is divided into:
Lower Spiti
Nako, Tabo & Dhankar — ancient monasteries and riverside villages.
Upper Spiti
Kaza, Key Monastery, Langza, Hikkim, Komic — high-altitude wonders.
Beyond Spiti
Chandratal Lake, Kunzum Pass, Losar — adventure and landscapes.
Ideal for trekkers, road trippers, photographers & culture explorers.
Top 11 Attractions in Spiti Valley
1. Key Monastery
Famous For: Iconic hilltop monastery
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
A 1000-year-old monastery overlooking Spiti River — home to monks, prayer wheels & scenic views.
Tips:
• Drink tea served by monks
2. Chandratal Lake
Famous For: Moon Lake
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM (May–Oct)
Expanded Description:
A stunning high-altitude lake with crystal-blue water surrounded by mountains.
Tips:
• Camping allowed 2 km before lake
3. Kaza Town
Famous For: Spiti’s main town
Timings: 24 hrs
Expanded Description:
Cafés, markets, monasteries & homestays with views of barren mountains.
Tips:
• Best spot for acclimatization
4. Langza Village (Fossil Village)
Famous For: Giant Buddha statue
Timings: 24 hrs
Expanded Description:
A picturesque village known for fossils, snow peaks & the iconic Buddha overlooking the valley.
Tips:
• Great stargazing spot
5. Hikkim (World’s Highest Post Office)
Famous For: Height + postcard experience
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
Send a postcard from one of the highest post offices in the world.
Tips:
• Carry cash for stamps
6. Komic Village
Famous For: World’s highest motorable village
Timings: 24 hrs
Expanded Description:
Known for the Tangyud Monastery, snow views & peaceful local life.
Tips:
• Respect monastery rules
7. Tabo Monastery
Famous For: 1000-year-old heritage
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
Often called “Ajanta of the Himalayas,” famous for ancient murals & manuscripts.
Tips:
• Photography restricted inside
8. Dhankar Monastery & Lake
Famous For: Cliffside monastery
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
A stunning monastery perched on a high cliff with a short trek to Dhankar Lake.
Tips:
• Trek only if acclimatized
9. Nako Village & Lake
Famous For: Peaceful Himalayan lake
Timings: 24 hrs
Expanded Description:
Beautiful lake, willow trees & monastery — perfect for a peaceful stopover.
Tips:
• Ideal during Shimla–Spiti route
10. Pin Valley National Park
Famous For: Snow leopards
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
A high-altitude national park with rare wildlife, villages & scenic drives.
Tips:
• Best for winter wildlife photography
11. Kunzum Pass
Famous For: Gateway to Spiti
Timings: May–Oct (road open)
Expanded Description:
A stunning 15,000 ft pass offering panoramic glacier views & prayers at Kunzum Mata Temple.
Tips:
• Roads are rough — drive slowly
Best Cafés & Local Eateries
1. Kaza Cafés
Tsampa
Yak Cheese Dishes
2. Cafés
The Himalayan Café
Sol Café
3. Local Food
Thukpa
Momos
How to Reach
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Tabo to Kaza
Dhankar Monastery
Dhankar Lake Trek
Kaza Market
Day 2: Kaza Local
Key Monastery
Langza Village
Hikkim Post Office
Komic Village
Day 3: Pin Valley
Sangam Point
Mudh Village
Trek options
Budget Breakdown (Approx.)
| Category | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 600–2000/night |
| Food | 200–500/day |
| Local Travel | 600–1200/day |
| Fuel | Depends on route |
| Permits | Mostly free |
| Camping | 800–1500/night |
Hidden Gems of Spiti Valley
1. Chicham Bridge
Asia’s highest suspension bridge.
2. Lhalung Monastery
Ancient, peaceful, hidden treasure.
3. Mudh Village
Base point for Pin–Parvati trek.