“At last they entered a world within a world — a valley of leagues where the high hills were fashioned of the mere rubble and refuse from off the knees of the mountains… surely the Gods live here”. – Rudyard Kipling
Imagine traversing through serpentine mountain roads each turn revealing landscapes that seem pulled from another world. Spiti Valley is known for its rich history and culture and geographical grandeur. The place is untouched by time and awaits for your exploration by giving a lot of adventure and fun with lil bit challenges but it’s all worth taking risk. We have curated the detailed guide for you on how to reach winter Spiti valley, and you will be amazed by spectacular views of the valley in snow-covered terrain and the village.
You might have wondered where is Spiti valley? It is a high altitudinal cold desert valley, located in the north-eastern part of Himachal Pradesh, India. The place has Tibetan influence. The valley is known as middle land because it is the land between India and Tibet. Spiti valley has rough terrains, emerald lakes, ancient monasteries, fossil village and frozen glaciers. Moreover, the ethereal Milky way galaxy will be an add on to your adventurous Spiti trip.
How To Reach Spiti Valley?
Spiti valley in India is a true paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers when it comes to the beauty of the region. It transforms into the winter wonderland, casting its charm on the visitors. Embark on your journey to the enchanting winter wonderland and create the magical fairytale which you will remember for a lifetime. Whether it is visiting monasteries, breathtaking views of turquoise blue frozen lake, dreamy frozen waterfall, posting from the world’s highest post office or viewing the snow-capped mountain peaks, Stargazing from the high altitude region, winter Spiti is a complete package to satiate your wanderlust.
Spiti valley in winter changes into winter wonderland and you have ample of options. The monasteries, turquoise lakes, frozen waterfalls like Lingti falls, places embedded in rich history like Langza known for the presence of large numbers of marine animal’s fossils. Yak safari, snow adventures and local shopping at Kaza are the things you can do in Spiti valley. There are festivals that you can enjoy while in Spiti valley. You can savor the local food such as butter tea, Quo; made with potato; yak cheese and barley floor, Thukpa and many more dishes. Winter in Spiti valley are a bit harsh and the terrains get rough, so 4*4 gypsy is required for those rough snow terrains. Bus or Cab can also be a means of transport which could be used.
You can spot the snow leopard in Kibber, which is known for its wildlife sanctuary. You will get to see the world’s highest bridge, Chicham bridge and stroll to the ancient monasteries. If you are lucky enough then there is a possibility that you get a glimpse of the Milky way galaxy in Kaza. Feel the rush and take the thrill and dive into the world of adventure.
How to Reach Spiti Valley by Road
You can reach Spiti valley through the Shimla route because this route is the most reliable route during winters. The route via Manali which goes over Rohtang and Kunzum passes is closed in winter due to heavy snowfall. Road is the best way to reach Spiti valley in winter.
Distance from Shimla to Kaza is around 420 kms. Kaza serves as the base village to Kibber, Langza, Hikkim, Komic village and the Key monastery. Spiti valley is a world within the world where God resides, known for its tranquility.
You can follow the route: Shimla – Chitkul/Sangla – Reckong Peo – Nako – Kaza
Best Transportation options to reach Spiti Valley
Hiring local driver: You can hire local drivers which will facilitate your journey as it will be safer than driving yourself in such chilly weather.
4*4 vehicle: You can hire a cab or taxi to visit every location in winter Spiti. 4*4 vehicles are best for tough terrains. You can hire 4*4 vehicles with a local driver to ease your journey.
By Bus: You can even go by bus, HRTC operates regular buses from Shimla to Reackong peo/Kaza. But keep this in mind that the bus timings can be unpredictable in winter.
During this route you will get to see ancient monasteries, the small town of Kapla, the commercial center of Kinnaur district, and the beautiful villages of Nako and Tabo.
Tip: While taking buses make sure the buses are in good condition and well maintained so that they can run efficiently in difficult terrains.
How to Reach Spiti valley from Delhi
You can reach Spiti valley from Delhi by taking a bus or hiring a taxi to reach Shimla then take the bus from Shimla to reach Kaza or Reckong Peo.
How to Reach Spiti Valley by Train
The nearest railway station is Shimla railway station, which is around 400 kms away. You can reach Shimla then take a cab or hire a taxi to reach Spiti valley.
How to Reach Spiti Valley by Flight
As there are no direct flights to reach Spiti valley. The nearest airport to Spiti valley is Kullu-Manali airport or Bhuntar airport near Kullu which is around 400 kms away from Spiti valley. The distance between Bhuntar airport and Shimla is 250 kms. After reaching the airport you can hire a cab or take a bus to reach Shimla, followed by a bus to Reckong Peo/Kaza and Voilaa! You will find yourself in Spiti valley.
Another alternative option is you can reach the nearest international airport, Chandigarh airport which is 522 kms away. You can take a cab from Chandigarh to Shimla(120 kms.). It will take 3.5 hours and cost you around INR 2500.
Itinerary of Winter Spiti through Shimla route (9 Days)
Our itinerary comprises the best picked winter locations that you must visit in Spiti valley. It will guide you through the best routes and locations that you can visit in winter Spiti Valley. We will begin our trip from Delhi to Spiti valley via Shimla.so, let’s dive into the journey to the heaven on earth which is a bit challenging but the adrenaline rush will get you going and conquer.
Day-1
- On this day we will begin our trip by taking an overnight journey to Shimla.
Day-2
- After reaching Shimla early in the morning we will change our transportation from bus to tempo traveler. Then we will move ahead with via Hindustan-Tibet highway. Due to harsh weather conditions, we might choose to stay in Sangla instead of Chitkul. Then we will stay overnight in Sangla/ Chitkul.
Day-3
- After having breakfast we will head to Kalpa, we will explore the markets of Reckong Peo and buy essentials. We will catch a glimpse of Kinner Kailash Peak, if time permits enroute we will visit the ancient wooden fort, Kamru fort. Upon reaching Kalpa we will visit 3000 years old Kalpa monastery, followed by an overnight stay in Kalpa.
Day -4
- After having breakfast we will continue our journey towards Nako, the small hamlet situated in the trans-himalayas. We will see the breathtaking views of the confluence of Sutlej and Spiti rivers at Khab. We will visit the serene Nako lake and the beautiful Nako monastery. Afterwards we will stay overnight at our designated stays at Nako.
Day-5
- On this day post-breakfast we will head towards Kaza, the headquarters of Spiti valley. Kaza serves as the connecting link between various districts and enroute Kaza, you will get to visit the 1000 years old monastery;Tabo monastery. Moreover, we will visit Dhankar monastery and Dhankar Fort. We will reach Kaza followed by an overnight stay.
Day-6 (sightseeing day)
- On this day we will head out to visit the iconic Key monastery, Asia’s highest bridge- Chicham bridge and highest post office in the world afterwards we will move towards Komic village which is the highest village in the world connected by motorable road. Then we will visit Langza, the land of fossils, and the Buddha statue on the top of the hill. After visiting the exquisite sites we will head back to Kaza and have dinner followed by an overnight stay. Stargazing in Kaza is something you cannot afford to miss!
Day-7
- We will start our return journey to Kalpa. We will also visit Lingti falls, the frozen waterfalls that will take your breath away with its beauty. Then we will reach Kalpa by evening and stay there overnight.
Day-8
- On this day we will resume our journey and travel back to Shimla. Way back to Shimla we will visit the iconic photo stop, Rock tunnel also known as gateway of Kinnaur. Then after reaching Shimla we will board on an overnight bus and reach Delhi.
Day-9
- Early morning we will end our trip filled with a lot of adventure and thrill. This trip gives you the experience that you will never forget for a lifetime. Spiti valley is a tapestry of rich culture and heritage. It will take you through the journey of exploration where you will get to see the exquisite beauty of Spiti and learn fascinating things associated with it. During this journey you will take along a lot of memories, bonds and will be able to write your own winter magical fairytale.
Tips
- It is recommended to spend some hours in low altitude before moving to high altitude because some time is needed to acclimatize to the high altitude.
- Always bring enough cash because the ATMs are not operational at high altitude regions.
- Pack your winter warm clothes, and winter essentials.
- Keep in mind as the trip to Spiti valley is a long journey in itself and due to unpredictable weather conditions the days may extend, So, keep two days in buffer.
FAQs:
Why visit Spiti valley in December?
A trip to Spiti valley, especially in winter months, is a bit challenging. The temperature in Spiti valley in December can range from -5°C to 5°C during daytime and at high it drops dramatically and goes up to uptill -15° C.
Why visit Spiti valley in January?
In January Spiti valley experiences heavy snowfall, due to extreme winter conditions it is extremely risky. It is one of the coldest months. The Temperature can drop to -20°C. But with proper knowledge and precautions all the risks can be minimized and you can conquer the rough terrains and enjoy the breathtaking views that are worth taking the risk of reaching Spiti valley.
Is Kaza open in winter?
Yes, Kaza remains open throughout the year, it may sometimes get closed for a few hours during heavy snowfall but it gets open after that. Only on a temporary basis it gets closed. Therefore, you can travel to Kaza in winter.
Which airport is closest to Spiti Valley?
The closest airport to Shimla is Bhuntar airport which is around 200 kms away from Shimla. You can even opt for another nearest International airport in Chandigarh. These two airports are closest to Spiti valley.
Can we go to Spiti Valley in winter?
Yes, you can go to Spiti valley in winter and witness the frozen landscapes and waterfalls. The ancient monasteries, frozen waterfalls, gazing milky way galaxy with naked eyes, Spiti valley has abundant things to offer and make your experience memorable.
Buckle up and plan your winter Spiti trip with JustWravel now!
