Perfect Itinerary For Spiti Valley Road Trip

Why Spiti Valley Road Trip is a Must-Visit to Everyone

Spiti Valley road trip is one of the top road trip in India. Everyone must visit Spiti Valley simply because of its glorious natural beauty and experiences unlike any other. It’s like stepping into another world, completely natural in itself-from tall mountains, deep valleys, to alluring monasteries. The valley is very peaceful and quiet, hence a great place where people can get away from all the city’s hustle and bustle. One could stare clearly into the stars at night because of little light pollution everywhere. Roads are adventurous, and driving through them feels exciting. You get to see villages that seem from another century, frozen in their own way.

The people are friendly and welcoming. If you love nature, Spiti offers some of the best landscapes with clear lakes like Chandratal and green fields surrounded by snow-capped mountains. You can learn the local tradition and history better while visiting ancient monasteries such as Key Monastery and Tabo Monastery. It’s a great place for photography enthusiasts too, as it has some really amazing scenes to capture. In the least, Spiti valley is an extremely peaceful, beautiful place, and one cannot forget this experience easily. It is a journey everyone should experience at least once. People also love to cover Shimla to Spiti valley road trip for a memorable experience.

Best Time to complete Spiti Valley Road Trip

Visiting Spiti Valley road trip is most convenient during May to October. The climate remains warm during these months, and the roads open, making traveling relatively easy. May-June is quite good in order to have a pleasant trip with quite clear skies and great views. The valley turns green in July-September. This time is perfect for lovers of nature. The best time to go, if you want to enjoy the weather and autumn colors, is during the month of October. Winter falls between November to March and is very icy; lots of roads are closed, so avoid it if you can.

How to Reach Spiti Valley: Routes and Transportation

To reach Spiti Valley, you can travel by road, bus, or taxi.

1. By Road: The most popular route is from Manali. You can drive from Manali to Kaza and it is the main town in Spiti. The journey takes about 8-10 hours and is full of beautiful views. Another route is from Shimla to Kaza, which takes around 12-14 hours.
2. By Bus: Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) runs buses from Manali to Kaza. The buses are a budget friendly option but may not be very comfortable.
3. By Taxi: Hiring a taxi is another option. It’s more comfortable but a bit expensive. You can hire a taxi from Manali, Shimla, or Delhi.

Note: There are no direct flights to Spiti. The nearest airport is in Bhuntar (near Manali). From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Spiti.

8 Days Itinerary For Spiti Valley Road Trip

Day 1: Arrival in Manali

• Morning: Arrive in Manali. Settle into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Rest and explore the town at leisure. Visit Mall Road for shopping.
• Evening: Visit Hadimba Temple or Solang Valley for a relaxing evening.
• Stay overnight in Manali.

Day 2: Manali to Chhatru (Approx. 7 hours drive)

• Morning: Start your journey from Manali to Chhatru via the Rohtang Pass.
• Afternoon: Enjoy scenic views of high-altitude mountains and valleys along the route.
• Evening: Arrive at Chhatru, a small village known for its peaceful atmosphere.
• Stay overnight in a campsite or guesthouse.

Day 3: Chhatru to Kibber (Approx. 6 hours drive)

• Morning: Depart for Kibber, one of the highest motorable villages in the world.
• Afternoon: Drive through barren landscapes and remote villages like Kunzum Pass.
• Evening: Explore Kibber Village and visit the local monastery.
• Stay overnight in Kibber.

Day 4: Kibber to Tabo (Approx. 4 hours drive)

• Morning: Leave Kibber and head to Tabo, famous for its 1,000-year-old monastery.
• Afternoon: Visit Tabo Monastery, a UNESCO heritage site known for its murals and ancient scriptures.
• Evening: Enjoy the quiet charm of Tabo village.
• Stay overnight in Tabo.

Day 5: Tabo to Dhankar and Pin Valley (Approx. 5-6 hours drive)

• Morning: After breakfast, head to Dhankar Fort and monastery.
• Afternoon: Explore the fort, offering panoramic views of the Spiti Valley. Then continue to Pin Valley, known for its rich biodiversity.
• Evening: Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Pin Valley.
• Stay overnight in Pin Valley or a nearby village.

Day 6: Pin Valley to Chandratal Lake (Approx. 6 hours drive)

• Morning: Leave Pin Valley for Chandratal Lake, also called the “Moon Lake.”
• Afternoon: Reach the lake and set up camp. Enjoy the stunning views of the lake surrounded by mountains.
• Evening: Relax by the lakeside and witness the beautiful sunset.
• Stay overnight in tents near the lake.

Day 7: Chandratal to Manali (Approx. 7-8 hours drive)

• Morning: Pack up and start the journey back to Manali.
• Afternoon: Drive via the Kunzum Pass and Rohtang Pass, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way.
• Evening: Arrive back in Manali. Relax and unwind after your journey.
• Stay overnight in Manali.

Day 8: Departure from Manali

• Morning: After breakfast, explore any remaining sights in Manali or shop for souvenirs.
• Afternoon: Head to the bus station or airport for your return journey.

Tips for the Trip:

• Permits: Ensure you have necessary permits for traveling to remote areas like Kibber and Chandratal.
• Altitude: Spend time normalizing in Manali and Kibber to avoid altitude sickness.
• Packing: Carry warm clothes especially for camping at Chandratal, and a good vehicle for rough roads.
• Safety: Always carry enough water, food, and fuel, as supplies of these things can be limited in remote area.

Where to Stay during your Spiti Valley road trip: Best Accommodations

Kaza (Main Town)

• Location: Kaza, the central town of Spiti Valley.
• Distance: Kaza is well-connected by road from Manali (approx. 8-10 hours) and Shimla (approx. 12-14 hours).
• Tariff: ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 per night (budget to mid range)
• Facilities: Hotels and guesthouses with basic facilities like Wi-Fi, hot water, and meals. Some guesthouses also offer local tours.

Chandratal Lake Camps

• Location: Near Chandratal Lake is about 14 km from the Kaza-Manali road.
• Distance: Around 6 hours from Kaza.
• Tariff: ₹1,500 – ₹4,000 per night (for tents)
• Facilities: Camping under the stars with tents, sleeping bags, and meals. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Tabo

• Location: Tabo village is known for the famous Tabo Monastery.
• Distance: About 2 hours from Kaza.
• Tariff: ₹800 – ₹2,500 per night
• Facilities: Guesthouses offering simple rooms with basic facilities. Tabo also has homestays for a more local experience.

Nako

• Location: Nako village, close to the Tibetan border.
• Distance: Around 3 hours from Kaza.
• Tariff: ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 per night
• Facilities: Small hotels and guesthouses with basic services like meals, heating, and cozy rooms.

Key Monastery Guesthouse

• Location: Near Key Monastery is one of the highest monasteries in Spiti.
• Distance: 10-15 minutes drive from Kaza.
• Tariff: ₹500 – ₹1,500 per night
• Facilities: Basic rooms and meals. Staying near the monastery gives you a unique spiritual experience.

These accommodations offers a wide range of options from budget stays to more comfortable experiences.

What to Pack for a Spiti Valley Road Trip

For a Spiti Valley road trip it is crucial to pack the right items because the weather can change quickly and the roads can be rough. Here’s a simple packing list:

For a Spiti Valley road trip, packing the right items is important because the weather can change quickly and the roads can be rough. Here’s a simple packing list:

1. Clothing:
   • Warm clothes (even in summer the place gets cold)
   • Waterproof jacket
   • Thermal wear for chilly nights
   • Comfortable shoes for walking and trekking
   • Woolen socks and gloves
   • Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
2. Toiletries:
   • Toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap
   • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
   • Sunscreen and lip balm
   • Personal medications
3. Travel Essentials:
   • Valid ID proof (for permits and hotels)
   • Cash (ATMs are rare in Spiti)
   • Power bank and charging cables
   • Camera to capture stunning views
4. Food & Water:
   • Reusable water bottle
   • Snacks like energy bars, nuts, and chocolates
5. Other Items:
   • A flashlight or headlamp
   • First aid kit with basic medicines
   • A good quality backpack to carry your stuff

Packing smart helps you stay comfortable and ready for any adventure on your Spiti Valley road trip!

Top Things to Do in Spiti Valley

Visit Key Monastery

Key Monastery is one of the oldest places in Spiti Valley. It is more than 1,000 years old and situated at an excellent place on top of a hill with the most scenic view over the valley. This Buddhist monastery is peaceful with beautiful prayer rooms, some brilliant ancient murals, and rare scriptures.

It is the biggest monastery of Spiti, along with being a place for the learning of monks. Here one can explore its very unique architecture with calm vibes. Best time to visit it would be during early morning or late afternoon because of good light and lesser crowds. For beauty and spiritual vibes, it must be seen. Definitely, visiting the monastery is amongst the best things to do in Spiti Valley.

Trek to Chandratal Lake

Trek to Chandratal Lake is a great adventure in Spiti Valley. It is a crescent moon-shaped lake, set against the grandeur of towering mountains and accompanied by balmy clear skies. The trek usually commences from Batal or Kunzum Pass. One can enjoy deep rugged landscapes, wildflowers, and streams while trekking. It is an average trekkers’ trek and even first-time trekkers can have it provided they prepare themselves well. The best time to visit Chandratal Lake is between June and September when the weather is good. You can sit here and relax by the lake, soaking in the serenity around you, and take some gorgeous photographs. Chandratal Lake is definitely one magical location for nature lovers and trekkers.

Explore Tabo Monastery

Tabo Monastery is among the oldest and holiest monasteries in Spiti Valley, and it dates back more than 1,000 years. It is often called the “Ajanta of the Himalayas” due to ancient murals and wall paintings; the monastery has several small temples and caves used for meditation. Its peaceful vibe makes it perfect for those looking for a spiritual experience. The inside of the artwork narrates stories and history of the teachings of Buddhism. It is located beautifully surrounded by mountains. Hence, its location itself is stunning. History and culture lovers, in addition to peace lovers, have to visit Tabo Monastery.

Drive to Kibber Village

The drive to Kibber Village in Spiti Valley is quite exhilarating. At 14,200 feet, it is one of the highest motorable villages in the world. It offers great vista views of rocky mountains and deep valleys below with skies that seem to have no end. The village is also famous for its traditional houses, warm locals, and more importantly, its unique wildlife like the snow leopard and ibex. Narrow roads make the drives exciting. The Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary can be visited or enjoyed with the serene vibes. This drive is memorable for adventure and nature lovers as the place offers extremely peaceful surroundings, coupled with stunning landscapes.

Visit Dhankar Fort

The Dhankar Fort is one of the major historical places in Spiti Valley, standing upon a hilltop at an altitude of 12,774 feet. It served earlier as a royal palace and as a defense fort but gives panoramic views today of the rivers Spiti and Pin. The fort’s structure of mud brick has beautifully merged with the rugged mountains.

You can explore its ancient rooms and learn about the region’s history. Dhankar Monastery is another much-visited place by people for its beautiful murals and tranquil surroundings. The climb to the fort is short but steep, leaving one with spectacular scenery. This is a perfect place for history lovers and photographers. Definitely, visiting the fort is amongst the top things to do in Spiti valley.

Camping at Chandratal Lake

This experience of camping at Chandratal Lake in Spiti Valley can never be forgotten. Under a star-filled sky and gorgeous mountain surroundings, this place is apt for nature lovers. And the campsite is just a walk from the lake, for the sake of preserving its virgin beauty. The basic facilities of food and sleeping bags are provided in cozy tents. The best time to visit here for camping is from June to September when the weather is pleasant.

Wake up to the stunning views of the crescent-shaped lake reflected by the blue sky. There are peaceful moments with unbelievable photography and a connection with nature. Truly magical and peaceful camping near Chandratal. No doubts in stating, camping at the lake is amongst the best things to do in Spiti valley.

Suggested read : Most amazing 11 things to do in Jispa , Himachal Pradesh

Explore Nako Village

Nako Village is an enchanting location in the Kinnaur district very close to Spiti Valley. It is located at an altitude of 12,014 feet and is surrounded by stunning mountain peaks and lush greenery. The village is well-known for its tranquil Nako Lake, where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy peaceful views and reflections of the landscape around it. You will find ancient monasteries in Nako with fabulous murals and Buddhist scriptures. Explore the traditional houses and mingle with the locals, learning about their simple living. The village is a quiet place that is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and peace seekers.

Photograph Spiti’s Unique Landscapes

Uniqueness in photography can be experienced in Spiti Valley. The mountains are vast, the valleys are deep, and the blue of the sky is crystal clear. Snap at sunrise when the sun gives golden light, or captures those dramatic sunset moments. Take wide-angle shots to include the vastness of the scene. Special emphasis should be on features like rocky terrains, a zig-zagging road, and small villages cradled among the mountains. Don’t miss Chandratal Lake’s reflections or the snow atop the peaks. Add monasteries to the image, like Key and Tabo. Starry night skies make for excellent astrophotography subjects. Spiti is a place where raw and untouched beauty makes every snap special.

Go to Chitkul

Chitkul is the last village on the Indian side of the Indo-Tibetan border, set in the beautiful Kinnaur district. As one enjoys the sight of the snow-capped peaks and lush green fields, it offers a clean escape. Known for their simple wooden houses, villagers often live a traditional life, even to this day. You can take a walk along the Baspa River and enjoy the stillness of nature. Experience a local culture and visit a little ancient temple of Rakchham. Chitkul is an ideal place for trekking and photography because of the outstanding views of the mountains. No doubts in stating, visiting here is amonsgt the best things to do in Spiti valley.

Visit Komik Village

Komik Village is one of the highest villages in the world at 15,027 feet. Situated at Spiti Valley, it presents a breathtaking view of snow-capped mountains and green fields. Houses are made of mud and stones in the village with quietness all around. You can see ancient scriptures and murals at the local monastery. Komik is also famous for its unique wildlife. There are rare birds and animals. It is a fabulous trekking and photography destination. The village takes one to an aerial height, providing different setups for life, which are just beautiful and quiet.

Suggested read : 10 Unique facts about Spiti Valley you wish to know!

Safety Tips for Spiti Valley Road Trip

Here are some simple safety tips for a Spiti Valley road trip:

1. Carry Warm Clothes: Even in summer it can be cold. Pack layers and a good jacket.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
3. Travel Slowly: The roads are rough. Take your time to avoid health issues and enjoy the journey.
4. Be Ready for Power Cuts: Power outages happen. Carry a flashlight or headlamp.
5. Keep Extra Fuel: Gas stations are few. Keep extra fuel in case of emergencies.
6. Check the Weather: Weather can change quickly. Always check the forecast before leaving.
7. Carry First-Aid Supplies: Have a basic first-aid kit for headaches or altitude sickness.
8. Stay Connected: Mobile network is limited. Inform someone about your plans and return time.
9. Respect Local Customs: Always be polite and respect local traditions.
10. Follow Road Safety: Be careful on mountain roads, especially around sharp turns.

These tips will help you stay safe and enjoy your Spiti Valley road trip!

Local Cuisine You Must Try in Spiti

Here are some must-try local dishes during your Spiti Valley road trip:

1. Thukpa: A tasty noodle soup with vegetables and meat. It’s warm and comforting which is perfect for the cold weather.
2. Chha Gosht: A traditional meat dish made with lamb and cooked in a spicy and flavorful gravy.
3. Sidu: A type of bread stuffed with fat and flour. It’s steamed and served with butter or meat.
4. Tibetan Momos: Dumplings filled with vegetables or meat and served with spicy chutney. They are soft and delicious.
5. Yak Cheese: Spiti is known for yak farming. Try yak cheese, which has a unique flavor.
6. Chang: A local alcoholic drink made from barley and it is served cold. It’s a popular drink in high altitude areas.
7. Churpi: A hard cheese made from yak milk and often eaten as a snack or used in cooking.
8. Khamer: A type of deep-fried bread and often served with tea or curd.

Photography Tips for Capturing Spiti’s Beauty

Here are the 6 best photography tips for capturing Spiti’s beauty during your Spiti valley road trip:

1. Use Natural Light: Early morning or late afternoon light gives soft and warm tones. You can avoid harsh midday sun.
2. Capture the Landscapes: Spiti’s mountains and valleys look great from high spots or wide and open areas.
3. Focus on Details: Look for unique textures, local people, and traditional buildings to add depth to your photos.
4. Take Pictures of People: Locals add life to your shots. Always ask for permission before taking photos.
5. Embrace the Golden Hour: Sunrise and sunset provide the best light for dramatic and beautiful shots.
6. Pack Extra Gear: Carry extra batteries and memory cards, as power sources can be limited in remote areas.

Conclusion: Why Spiti Valley Road Trip Like No Other

The Spiti Valley road trip is a journey that is like no other, as its sceneries are majestic and it has a peaceful atmosphere. The roads wind up through mountains with snow-capped peaks, green deep valleys, and clear lakes. The valley houses ancient monasteries and people who are warm-hearted. The place in general offers serenity and beauty as a means of escaping the worldly activity. You will enjoy high-altitude adventures, beautiful treks, and local food while exploring remote areas. From being a nature or adventure lover to someone having reverence for history, Spiti Valley has something for everyone in it. The adventures of the journey would be memorable for a lifetime, which makes this road trip all worthwhile.

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