Spiti Valley is a high-altitude desert mountain valley located in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.
It is situated at an elevation of 4,270 meters above sea level and is surrounded by the majestic Himalayan peaks. It is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning views of the snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and colorful meadows of wildflowers. The Spiti Valley is home to a variety of rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, including the snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, and Himalayan marmot. It is also a great place for trekking, camping, and bird watching.
The Spiti Valley is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The valley is home to several ancient monasteries, including the Tabo Monastery, which is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist monasteries in the region. The valley is also home to the Spiti River, which is a tributary of the Sutlej River. The valley is known for its unique culture and traditions, which are still practiced by the local people.
Spiti Valley in Winters is truly paradise personified. The whole valley is covered in a thick tapestry of snow, seemingly spreading to a vast expanse until one can’t tell where land ends and the sky full of ivory clouds begins.
For snow fanatics and people who’d rather be taking a stroll under the winter sun than being huddled in blankets, Spiti is nothing less than a dream. A dream that feels more than real when the chilly breeze fills your heart with warmth from within. What makes the Winter Spiti tour perfect is that you get to experience Spiti the way it’s meant to be experienced, with snow under your boot and mountains overlooking you in all their glory.
Although the temperature drops below - 30 degrees and heavy snow makes it almost impossible for people to transport freely, the locals are happy because the more it snows, the higher the chance for them to get more water when the cropping season begins. There is a reason why a Spiti trip in winters is on every travelers bucket list and it’s not just because of its mesmerizing natural beauty but also because of the serenity the valley provides, the monasteries that have been there for thousands of years and of course the wonderful people who make you feel at home with their amazing hospitality.
It’s no secret that the best route for Spiti valley in winter is via Shimla because the route stays open throughout the year and only closes if there is heavy snowfall. Apart from that, you get to glimpse at the beautiful valleys and meadows en-route while driving on the Hindustan-Tibet highway which is an amazing experience on its own. Not to mention that the gradual ascend towards the higher altitude through this road makes your body adapt to the conditions easily and with comfort.
Places to visit in Spiti Valley
- Key Monastery: Located in the Spiti Valley, the Key Monastery is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the region.
- Dhankar Monastery: Located in the Dhankar village, this monastery is perched atop a hill and offers stunning views of the valley.
- Kunzum Pass: This high-altitude mountain pass is a popular destination for trekkers and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
- Chandratal Lake: This beautiful lake is located in the Spiti Valley and is a popular destination for camping and trekking.
- Pin Valley National Park: This national park is home to a variety of wildlife and is a great place to explore the natural beauty of the region.