Spiti Valley, known as ‘Little Tibet’ to some and the ‘cold desert mountain valley’ to others, is undeniably a heavenly place on earth. Whether it’s the numerous attractions or the plethora of activities to do in Spiti Valley, this enchanting gem in Himachal Pradesh has something special for every type of traveler.
However, if you’re embarking on your first visit, make sure to include these 18 experiences on your itinerary to make your trip to the valley an unforgettable affair like no other.
18 Must-Do Activities in Spiti Valley:
Here is a compilation of the finest activities to do in Spiti Valley that will rejuvenate your soul and make you want to stay forever. Take a closer look!
– River Rafting: Thrill-seekers, this is your calling!
– Pin Valley National Park: Marvel at the abundant flora and fauna.
– Buddhist Monasteries: Immerse yourself in spirituality.
– Camping: Indulge in the mesmerizing lake views.
– Trek to Dhan Kar Lake: Embrace the adrenaline rush.
– Village of Giu: Witness the amazing ancient mummy.
– Baralacha Pass: Feel the exhilaration of the high pass.
– Stay at Zostel: Connect with fellow travelers.
– Kaza’s Main Market: Shop to your heart’s content.
– Star Gazing: Lose yourself in the captivating night sky.
– Fossil Hunting: Bring back unique souvenirs.
– Eat: Delight your taste buds with local cuisine.
– Yak Safari: Experience the distinct adventure.
– World’s Highest Post Office: Make a visit to this unique landmark.
– Interact with the Locals: Immerse yourself in the local culture.
– Nako Village Walk: Live the mountain life.
– Stay at a Homestay: Get a glimpse of the authentic culture.
– Chill by the Spiti River: Admire the breathtaking beauty.
1. River Rafting: Calling for Adventure
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Perfect for adrenaline junkies, river rafting stands out as one of the finest activities to indulge in when exploring Spiti Valley. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, hilltop monasteries, and picturesque landscapes, the Spiti and Pin rivers offer an experience that will stay with you forever. You can simultaneously feel the thrill and tranquility amidst the mountains as you navigate through the waters.
Best spot for river rafting in Spiti Valley: Spiti and Pin rivers
Difficulty level: Moderate
Distance covered: Extending 36 km from Nadang to Sumdo
Cost: INR 500 – 1500
Tip: For the ultimate rafting adventure, plan your trip between July and August.
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2. Pin Valley National Park: Embrace the Beauty of Flora & Fauna
Nestled in the majestic Himalayas, this sanctuary shelters endangered plant and animal species, including the magnificent snow leopards, Siberian ibex, Himalayan snow cocks, Tibetan gazelle, snow partridges, and many more. Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature and embark on wildlife encounters that will transport you far away from the constraints of time.
Where: Kaza, Spiti Valley, Himachal PradeshEntrance Fees: NoneTips: Make sure to reserve enough time for your visit to the Pin Valley National Park as it is an impressive attraction.
3. Buddhist Monasteries: Embark on a Spiritual Journey
Spiti Valley holds great religious and cultural significance for Buddhists, making it a coveted destination for spiritual seekers. With numerous Buddhist monasteries spanning the valley, you have the opportunity to visit each one and bask in the tranquility they offer. From the intricate architectural marvels to the ancient murals adorning their interiors, every glimpse will leave you in awe.
Opening Hours: Most monasteries open early in the morning and close around 5 or 6 in the evening.Famous Monasteries in Spiti: Key Monastery, Kungri Monastery, Kardang Monastery, and more.Tips: Plan your visit to coincide with the annual three-day Chaam festival in late July to witness captivating masked dances, the spinning of prayer wheels, and age-old rituals.
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4. Experience Lake-Views through Camping at Chandratal
Nestled at an elevation of 4,300 meters in the Himalayan embrace, Chandratal Lake stands as one of the most sought-after attractions in Spiti Valley. Enhance your experience by camping near the lake and immerse yourself in the breathtaking views that surround you. This is the perfect spot for a memorable overnight stay in Spiti.
Admission Fees: Starting from INR 1,500 per person, varying based on your chosen camp retreatLocation: Middle Himalaya, Spiti Valley, Himachal PradeshTips: To secure your campsite, it is advisable to make reservations in advance. Additionally, set aside a day to witness the mesmerizing color transformations of the lake.
5. Journey to Dhankar Lake: Embrace the Adventure
If you desire a combination of serenity and excitement, embarking on a trek to Dhankar Lake should be at the top of your list when exploring Spiti Valley. Perched on a cliff at an elevation of 4,270 meters above the Dhankar Monastery, this lake is a stunning spectacle. Although the trek poses a moderate challenge, the breathtaking vistas that await you upon reaching the lake will undoubtedly be well worth the effort.
Location: Spiti Valley, Himachal PradeshPrice: INR 1,500Tip: It is advisable to wear sturdy footwear and carry a walking stick to make the uphill trek easier.
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6. Giu Village: Explore the Mysterious Mummy
Giu, a petite village located between Sumdo and Tabo, can be reached by ascending a steep 8-kilometer road branching from NH-22. The village is home to a shrine that houses a mummified corpse, believed to be over 500 years old, and visiting this enigmatic mummy is one of the renowned activities to undertake in Spiti. According to a popular legend, the mummy is that of a meditating Lama, adding to the mystical allure of the experience.
Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PMEntry Fees: There is no admission fee for visiting this site.Location: Giu village, Spiti, Himachal PradeshTip: To avoid crowds, it is advisable to visit the Giu Mummy during the morning hours.
7. Baralacha Pass: Rendezvous with Adventure
Aside from the Kunzum Pass, one of the most renowned yet perilous routes is trekking or biking across the Baralacha Pass. Regarded as one of the world’s treacherous passes, traversing this terrain is an exhilarating experience for the fearless at heart who seek adventure in Spiti Valley. Witnessing the convergence of Pir Panjal, The Great Himalayan, and the Zanskar Ranges is an encounter that will certainly find its place in your travel memoirs.
Geographical Location: Situated on the Manali-Leh Highway, in Keylong, IndiaAdmission Fees: Not applicableSuggestion: Ensure to wear durable footwear and carry essential items like medicines, energy bars and drinks, among others.
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8. Embrace Zostel for an Immersive Connection
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While an array of hotels in Spiti are available, none can rival the allure of Zostel. Whether it’s a family excursion, an escapade with friends, or a solo journey, Zostel provides ideal accommodation choices and experiences that seamlessly fit within the budget of every kind of traveler. Hence, staying at Zostel is an unmissable opportunity.
Admission Fees: INR 599 per person for a dormitory stay, INR 999 for two individuals in an outdoor tent, and INR 1,499 for two individuals in a private roomGeographical Location: Leo Village Rd, Kaza, Himachal PradeshSuggestion: If you plan to stay at Zostel, make sure to book well in advance as accommodations tend to be in high demand.
9. Kaza’s Main Market: Indulge in Retail Therapy
Visiting the valley without engaging in shopping is tantamount to committing a sin. With the market area of Kaza being one of the prominent attractions in Spiti Valley during March, shopping should feature prominently on your itinerary. From Tibetan and Buddhist handicrafts to silver-painted human bone and skull sculptures, the variety of souvenirs available is countless, providing you with unforgettable mementos to take home.
Location: Situated in the Market Area of Kaza, Himachal PradeshEntry Fees: No entrance feesTip: Consider selecting various handicrafts as mementos and engage in polite bargaining only after confirming the final price.
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10. Stargazing: Immerse Yourself in the Enchanting Celestial Display
Given the villages’ elevated positioning, ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 feet above sea level, indulging in stargazing is undoubtedly one of the finest experiences Spiti has to offer. Simply sit back, gaze up at the sky, and witness an infinite canopy of stars above. If luck is on your side, you might even catch sight of a shooting star.
Noteworthy stargazing spots in Spiti include Tabo, Dhankar, Losar, Komik, and KibberTip: Lay or recline on a cliff at nightfall to fully relish the awe-inspiring spectacle of a twinkling, star-studded sky.
11. Fossil Hunting: Acquire Unique Memorabilia
While not a popular activity, fossil hunting is unquestionably one of the distinct endeavors to pursue during a visit to Spiti Valley in December. The villages of Langza and Hikkim are teeming with fossils, making it practically impossible not to stumble upon one. Should you have difficulty finding any, fear not, as local children may offer them as souvenirs for sale.
Top spots for fossil hunting in Spiti include Langza and Hikkim villageTip: Exercise patience while searching for fossils in the village, as it may take longer than five minutes to discover one.
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12. Delight Your Taste Buds: Relish the Culinary Delights
Whether savoring a meal in a monastery or enjoying local delicacies at a charming café, Spiti promises to delight gastronomy enthusiasts with its array of surprises. Spitian bread, lentils, rice, and vegetables form the backbone of the region’s cuisine, offering a delectable taste that celebrates the essence of local culture.
Notable dining establishments in Spiti include Key Monastery, The Himalayan Cafe, and Sol CafeTip: Opt for a monastery for your lunch experience if faced with the choice between that and a café, as the former provides a more spiritually enriching ambiance.
13. Experience the Uniqueness of Yak Safaris
Immerse yourself in the local culture of Spiti by embarking on a yak safari. This extraordinary adventure allows you to live and travel like the locals. In Spiti, nearly every village family owns a yak, making yak safaris easily accessible and providing a truly unforgettable experience in the valley.
Price: INR 500Tips: Don’t forget to capture the moments of your yak safari through photographs, as these memories will bring you joy in the future.
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14. Visit the World’s Highest Post Office
Wondering what to do in Spiti? Look no further than the world’s highest post office, located between the villages of Komik and Langza in Hikkim at an altitude of 4,389 meters. Easily reachable within an hour or two by car or a challenging uphill trek from Kaza, this post office is a must-visit destination in Spiti.
Admission Fee: There is no entry fee to visit this location.Location: Hikkim, Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal PradeshTips: Before planning your journey to Hikkim, check with the locals for the post office’s visiting hours.
15. Discover the Local Culture Through Interactions
As a charming town in Himachal Pradesh, Spiti is home to warm and hospitable locals. Interacting with them will give you a glimpse into the delightful culture of Spiti and provide insights into the unique lifestyle of the region. Engaging with the locals is a must-do activity that will enhance your trip to Spiti.
Tips: When engaging with the locals, always be courteous and avoid asking personal questions, even if they appear comfortable with you.
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16. Experience the Serenity of Nako Village
Nestled near Spiti in the Kinnaur district, Nako Village offers a tranquil escape into the mountains. With its serene landscapes, sprawling meadows, and a picturesque lake, this small village mirrors the environmental beauty of Spiti. Wander through its maze-like lanes and by-lanes to fully appreciate the soulful essence of Nako. This is one of the top activities to engage in while exploring the wonders of Spiti Valley.
What Makes it Unique: The allure of an alternative realmLocation: Nako, Himachal Pradesh 172112Recommendation: Prepare yourself to cover long distances as you’ll be enticed to explore further with each step
17. Embrace a Homestay: Discover the Genuine Culture
One of the uncomplicated activities in Spiti Valley is to stay at a homestay. This is the ultimate way to comprehend and encounter the authentic culture of Spiti. Spend a modest night in the villages of Kibber and Langza.
Cost: INR 500-1000What Makes it Unique: The genuine experience of the housesRecommendation: Don’t be too particular. Homestays provide affordable accommodation, so it’s advisable to manage your expectations.
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18. Relax by the Spiti River: Admire the Magnificence
During your journey to Spiti, pause at a location where the road meets the river and simply be. Unwind, relax, and immerse yourself in the splendor of Mother Nature that envelopes you. The riverbanks also offer an abundance of rocks and pebbles which you can toss into the river. It’s a captivating experience, making it one of the top activities to do in Spiti Valley.
Location: Spiti River, Himachal Pradesh Recommendation: Please refrain from littering in the river
By now, you must have realized that the list of things to do in Spiti Valley is limitless. However, in order to have an exhilarating holiday experience, it is crucial to partake in the right experiences by booking a customized Himachal package that aligns with your interests and budget.
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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Activities in Spiti Valley
What is the ideal duration for Spiti valley?
A minimum of 8 days is required to visit Spiti Valley. There are two routes to reach Spiti Valley, one via Shimla and the other via Manali. To cover the entire circuit, you would need approximately 8-9 days. The roads can be a bit rough, so traveling from one place to another may take some extra time. Therefore, if you wish to explore all the places in Spiti Valley, it is recommended to allocate more days for your visit.
Is Spiti valley a safe travel destination?
Yes, Spiti Valley is completely safe to travel to, as long as you visit during the appropriate months, which are May to September. The roads can be challenging and are considered to be among the most adventurous routes. There are sections of the road with loose gravel, making driving difficult. It is advisable to have an experienced driver with you. However, the place itself is very safe, and the locals are welcoming and friendly towards tourists.
Is it safe to travel to Spiti valley during the Covid-19 pandemic?
If you adhere to the precautionary measures for Covid-19 provided by the government, maintain social distancing, and monitor what you consume, your trip will be much safer. However, it is important to remember that your safety is ultimately in your own hands.
What is Spiti valley famous for?
Spiti Valley is renowned for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The Tabo monastery is one of the most prominent attractions in Spiti, known for its magnificent murals, ancient temples, and numerous stupas.
Is Spiti valley open for visitors?
Spiti Valley opens up in April and May as the snow melts rapidly, and the connecting roads start to become accessible. However, the route from Manali to Kaza via Kunzum Pass opens up in June.
Can we drive to Spiti valley by car?
You can drive to Spiti Valley either from Shimla or from Manali. It takes approximately 8-9 hours to reach Kaza from Manali, and around 2 days to reach Kaza from Shimla.
What is the best time to visit Spiti valley?
The best time to visit Spiti Valley is between May and June, and from October to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, so plan your travel accordingly.
