Spiti Valley!
india-guide.in
india-guide.in
Population
15,000
Best Time
June to September
Time Needed
7-10 days minimum
Currency
Rupee (₹)
Trip Planning pages built for fast decisions and deeper discovery.
Showcase Your Photography Skills • Help Thousands of Travelers • Get Featured with Credit
Spiti Valley is a high-altitude cold desert mountain valley located in the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, India. Known for its stark landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and remote villages, it offers a unique blend of adventure and cultural experiences. The valley is characterized by its rugged terrain, high mountain passes, and sparse vegetation.
Spiti offers stunning natural beauty and a chance to experience a unique culture. However, the high altitude can cause altitude sickness, and the remoteness means limited access to amenities. Travel can be challenging due to rough roads and unpredictable weather, so prepare for a demanding but rewarding journey.
Reaching Spiti requires careful planning due to its remote location. A minimum of 7-10 days is recommended to explore the valley properly. Travel involves long drives on mountain roads, so acclimatization to the altitude is crucial.
June to September
15-25 degrees C
Pleasant and sunny weather with clear skies. This is when most roads are open and accessible.
Why Visit:
The weather is ideal for trekking, sightseeing, and exploring the monasteries. The days are warm, and the nights are cool, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. This is also the time when most festivals take place.
Tip: This is peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Book accommodations and transportation in advance.
May & October
5-15 degrees C
Cooler temperatures with a chance of snowfall, especially in October. Some roads may be partially open.
Why Visit:
Fewer crowds and potentially lower prices compared to the peak season. The landscapes are still beautiful, but be prepared for colder conditions.
Tip: Roads may be unpredictable, and some accommodations might be closed. Check road conditions before traveling.
November to April
-10 to 5 degrees C
Extremely cold with heavy snowfall. Most roads are closed, making it inaccessible.
Why Avoid:
Avoid visiting during these months due to the harsh weather conditions. The valley is largely cut off from the rest of the world.
Note: Travel is generally not possible during this period, except by air (if flights are operating).
Key Monastery, also known as Kye Gompa, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery perched on top of a hill at an altitude of 4,166 meters. It's one of the oldes...
Read more arrow_forwardTabo Monastery is one of the oldest continuously operating Buddhist enclaves in India and the Himalayas. Founded in 996 AD, it's renowned for its anci...
Read more arrow_forwardDhankar Monastery is perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the confluence of the Spiti and Pin rivers. It was once a fort and served as a prison...
Read more arrow_forwardChandratal Lake, also known as the Moon Lake, is a high-altitude lake known for its stunning beauty. The lake's water reflects the surrounding snow-ca...
Read more arrow_forwardKomic is one of the highest villages in the world connected by a motorable road. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys....
Read more arrow_forwardHikkim is known for having the highest post office in the world. Send a postcard to your loved ones from this unique location....
Read more arrow_forwardLangza is known for its fossils and the iconic Buddha statue overlooking the valley. It offers stunning views of the snow-capped mountains....
Read more arrow_forwardSpiti Valley offers numerous trekking routes, ranging from easy to challenging. Popular treks include the Pin-Bhaba Pass...
Read more arrow_forwardExplore Spiti Valley on a mountain bike. Several routes offer challenging terrain and stunning views....
Read more arrow_forwardExperience the thrill of river rafting in the Spiti River. Navigate the rapids and enjoy the stunning scenery....
Read more arrow_forwardSpiti Valley offers some of the clearest night skies in the world due to minimal light pollution. Observe the stars, pla...
Read more arrow_forward1-2 hours | Free
Witness the chanting and rituals performed by Buddhist monks. Prayer ceremonies offer a glimpse into...
Read more arrow_forward1-2 hours | ₹100-200 (as a token of appreciation)
Experience the traditional Spitian way of life by visiting a local home. Interact with the family an...
Read more arrow_forward1-2 hours | ₹200-500
Savor the unique flavors of Spitian cuisine. Sample dishes like Thukpa (noodle soup), Momos (dumplin...
Read more arrow_forward1-3 days | Free
Experience the vibrant culture of Spiti by attending a local festival. Witness traditional dances, m...
Read more arrow_forwardHalf-day to Full-day | Free
Deepen your understanding of Tibetan Buddhism by visiting monasteries and interacting with monks. Le...
Read more arrow_forward30 minutes | Cost of Petrol
Visit the highest petrol pump in the world located in Kaza. A unique experience to refuel your vehic...
Read more arrow_forward
Multi-cuisine
📍 Kaza
A popular cafe with a cozy atmosphere and good food. Offers a variety of dishes to cater to different tastes. Located in Kaza.
₹500-800 for two
Indian, Tibetan
📍 Kaza
A simple cafe serving delicious and affordable food. A great place to try local dishes. Located in Kaza.
₹300-500 for two
💰 Budget: ₹50-150 per person
⚠️ Tips: Be cautious about hygiene, especially during the rainy season. Try the local snacks from the street vendors.
More restaurants & dishes from Spiti Valley
The main town in Spiti Valley, offering a range of accommodation options and amenities. A good base for exploring the region, but can be crowded.
Best For: First-time visitors, those seeking convenience
A peaceful village known for its ancient monastery. A good option for those seeking a quiet and spiritual experience, though amenities are limited.
Best For: History buffs, spiritual seekers
A remote village near Chandratal Lake. Ideal for those seeking solitude and natural beauty, but be prepared for basic accommodations and limited facilities.
Best For: Adventure travelers, nature lovers
₹800-1500/night
📍 Kaza
Simple and clean rooms with basic amenities. Offers a comfortable stay at an affordable price.
₹800-1500/night
📍 Kaza
A popular hostel with dorm rooms and private rooms. A great place to meet fellow travelers.
₹500-1000/night (dorm)
₹2500-4000/night
📍 Kaza
Comfortable rooms with modern amenities and good service. Offers a restaurant and stunning views.
₹2500-4000/night
📍 Kaza
Cottage-style accommodation with comfortable rooms and a peaceful atmosphere. Offers a restaurant and garden.
₹2000-3500/night
₹5000+/night
📍 Kaza
Well-appointed rooms with modern amenities and excellent service. This hotel provides a relaxing stay with spectacular views.
₹5000+/night
📍 Kaza
Spacious rooms with modern amenities and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine. Offers a comfortable and luxurious stay.
₹4500+/night
Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport (KUU), 245km from Kaza
Shimla (SML)
Toy train from Kalka, connects to major cities.
Chandigarh (CDG)
Major railway station with frequent trains.
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
Note: Buses can be uncomfortable and prone to delays.
💰 ₹2500-4000 per day
Best for: Comfortable travel between destinations, especially with a group
Negotiate the price beforehand. Book through a reputable agency or hotel.
💰 ₹300-500 per person per trip
Best for: Budget travelers, solo travelers
Check the departure times and availability. Be prepared for a bumpy ride.
💰 ₹1000-1500 per day
Best for: Experienced riders, adventure seekers
Wear appropriate safety gear. Carry essential spares and tools. Ensure you have the necessary permits.
Dress in layers to adapt to the changing weather conditions. Carry warm clothes, including a jacket, gloves, and a hat. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and trekking.
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: ATMs are available in Kaza, but it's recommended to carry sufficient cash.
Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for most transactions. Cards are accepted at some hotels and restaurants in Kaza.
Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and with taxi drivers.
Water: Drink bottled water or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases. Avoid drinking tap water.
Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic vendors. Be cautious about food poisoning.
Common Issues: Altitude sickness, sunburn, and dehydration. Carry necessary medications and sunscreen.
SIM Cards: BSNL and Airtel offer good coverage in some parts of Spiti. Buy a local SIM card for better connectivity.
WiFi: Wi-Fi is available at some hotels and cafes in Kaza, but the connectivity can be unreliable.
Language: English proficiency is limited. Learn a few basic Hindi phrases to communicate with locals.
Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Help fellow travelers by sharing your authentic travel photos. Get credited with your name and social links!
Help us improve! Report incorrect information or suggest updates.
Know a hidden gem we're missing? Help us add it to the guide!
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Essential cookies are always enabled.
