Overview
Spiti Valley is a remote and breathtaking high-altitude cold desert located in the northeastern part of Himachal Pradesh, nestled deep within the mighty Himalayas. Often referred to as “Little Tibet,” Spiti is known for its stark, rugged landscapes, ancient Buddhist culture, and serene isolation, offering a completely different experience from the lush green hill stations typically associated with Himachal.
Sitting at an average altitude of around 12,500 feet, the valley features dramatic barren mountains, winding rivers, and clear blue skies, making it a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike. The region is dotted with centuries-old monasteries such as Key Monastery, which stands majestically on a hilltop, Tabo Monastery, one of the oldest functioning monasteries in the world, and Dhankar Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the valley. The main town, Kaza, serves as the central hub for travelers, providing basic amenities and access to nearby villages like Hikkim, home to one of the highest post offices in the world, Langza, famous for fossils and a giant Buddha statue, and Kibber, among the highest inhabited villages globally. Spiti is accessible mainly by road via Manali during summer months or through Shimla, which remains open for most of the year, although the journey can be long and challenging due to rough terrain and high mountain passes.
The best time to visit is between May and October when the weather is relatively mild and roads are open, while winters bring extreme cold and heavy snowfall, turning the region into a secluded, snow-covered wilderness suitable only for experienced travelers. Activities in Spiti include exploring monasteries, trekking, camping, stargazing under some of the clearest skies in India, and visiting stunning spots like Chandratal Lake, known for its crescent shape and crystal-clear waters. Despite its harsh environment, Spiti offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and spiritual calm, making it a truly unforgettable destination for those seeking solitude and raw Himalayan charm.
Itinerary
- Departure from ISBT Kashmiri Gate, Delhi | 08:00 PM
- Travelling overnight to Shimla in a semi-sleeper AC Bus
- Post overnight journey from Delhi, arrive at Shimla in the morning.
Begin your journey from Shimla, and enjoy breakfast on the way.
Drive past Kufri and Narkanda along the Indo-Tibetan Highway.
Cross the iconic Kinnaur Gate – gateway to Kinnaur Valley.
Enjoy scenic views of the Kinnaur Kailash Range and Sangla Valley en route to Chitkul.
Arrive at Chitkul and settle in for the night.
Overnight stay at Chitkul or Sangla.
Begin your journey towards Nako after breakfast.
Drive along the road passing near the India–Tibet border.
Visit Khab Sangam – the confluence of the Spiti and Sutlej Rivers (the Sutlej originates from Mansarovar Lake in Tibet).
Arrive at Nako and visit the frozen Nako Lake.
Officially step into the Spiti Valley today and arrive at Tabo by evening.
Overnight stay in a homestay at Tabo.
Explore Tabo Monastery – over 1,000 years old, with ancient wall paintings, mud statues and 360° sky views.
After exploring Tabo Village, head to Dhankar Village.
Visit Dhankar Monastery – perched on a cliff with stunning views of the Spiti–Pin river confluence.
Later, visit the Frozen Lingti Waterfall – a spectacular natural wonder.
Evening drive to Kaza – the headquarters of Spiti Valley.
Overnight stay in a homestay at Kaza.
Key Monastery – the largest Buddhist monastery in Spiti and a religious training centre for lamas.
It is also known for its murals, thankas, rare manuscripts, stucco images, and unique wind instruments.
Chicham Bridge – Asia’s highest suspension bridge at 13,596 feet.
Around the Kibber region, one can spot wildlife such as ibex, snow leopard, Himalayan fox, and blue sheep.
Evening time for shopping in the local market or a visit to Kaza Monastery.
Overnight stay in a homestay at Kaza.
Visit Komic Gompa at the world’s highest motorable village (15,050 ft).
Langza is famous for its huge Buddha Statue (14,300 ft) facing the mountains and overlooking the valley.
Langza village is also rich in fossils of marine animals and plants.
Hikkim is known for housing the World’s Highest Post Office (14,400 ft). Travellers can send postcards to their loved ones from here.
Return to Kaza by evening and explore the town at your own pace.
Overnight stay in a homestay at Kaza.
Passing through the villages via the same route, and reach Kalpa by evening.
Kalpa is famous for the heavenly views of the Kinnaur Kailash Mountain.
Overnight stay in a hotel at Kalpa.
Reach Shimla by evening and enjoy free time exploring Shimla Mall Road.
Begin the overnight journey towards Delhi.
Arrive in Delhi the next morning, concluding your incredible journey through the stunning landscapes of Spiti Valley.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
Travelling in a Tempo Traveller from Shimla to Shimla | Any other services not specified in the inclusions. |
AC Semi-Sleeper Bus Tickets (Delhi to Shimla & Return) | Food during travel (Lunch) |
Stay in Homestay/Hotel/Cottage on a sharing basis | Peak Season Surcharge (20th Dec to 10th Jan). |
7 Breakfast + 6 Dinner (Veg Food) | Additional travel/stay/food costs incurred due to any. |
All sightseeing mentioned in the itinerary | Additional costs due to flight cancellations, landslides, heavy snowfall/roadblocks, and other natural calamities. |
All permits, Trip Leader, 24×7 Support throughout the journey | Visiting the place subjected to weather, snow and road conditions. In case of road block conditions, this schedule can be modified for safety purposes |
First Aid Support with Oximeter & Oxygen Cylinder |
Policy
- Neelam Holidays Journeys shall not be responsible for any delays or alterations in the program or indirectly incurred expenses in cases such as natural hazards, accidents, breakdown of machinery, weather conditions, landslides, political closure, or any untoward incidents.
- We do not provide any insurance policy to cover the expenditure on sickness or accidents or losses incurred due to theft or other reasons.
- Numerous factors such as weather and road conditions the physical ability of participants etc. may bring alteration in the itinerary. We reserve the right to make necessary changes in the schedule in the interest of safety, comfort, and general well-being!