Located amidst the rugged mountains of the Himalayas at altitudes above 12,000 feet, far away from the din of urban life, and home to people belonging to one of the world’s oldest Buddhist sects, the Spiti Valley forms a surreal travel destination. ‘Spiti’, which translates to ‘The Middle Land’ in local languages, is a sub-division in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, headquartered in Kaza, which formed an important crossroads in the old trade routes encompassing India, Tibet, and Central Asia.

Although still relatively unknown in travel circuits, the stark beauty of the Spiti Valley, with its spine-chilling gorges and ravines, has fed the fantasies of countless backpackers and trekking enthusiasts. One of the least populated regions in India owing to its daunting terrain and harsh climate, the Spiti Valley combines isolation with unspoiled natural attractions. Ancient monasteries, quaint villages, majestic snow-covered mountains, pristine mountainous lakes, and the vast barren expanses of desert-like land comprise some of Spiti’s offerings.  Rudyard Kipling, perhaps, aptly referred to it as ‘a world within a world.’

The Spiti Valley is most conveniently accessible by road transport from Kullu, Manali, Kalka, Shimla, and Chandigarh. The picturesque Rohtang Pass, traversing at altitudes of 13,000 feet, connects Kullu and Manali, with Lahaul and Spiti. Lahaul is then separated from Spiti by the even higher Kunzum Pass at altitudes of 15,000 feet. However, heavy snowfall during winter, and in spring, frequently renders the Kunzum Pass unusable. A lengthy 412- kilometre road from Shimla provides the last resort to reach the Spiti Valley in winter. The most comfortable time to witness the Spiti Valley is between the months of June and September. Check now, the reasonably priced tour packages to Spiti Valley from Travelsetu.

1. The Key Monastery: An amazing Chinese-themed spectacle, with its mesmerizing shrine of the Buddha, and a huge collection of manuscripts and intricate murals, this monastery resembles a fort. Perched atop a height of 4,112 metres in Kaza, it also offers enticing views of the Spiti River.

2. The Tabo Monastery: Amongst the foremost Buddhist spiritual sites in Spiti, its walls are home to countless stupas, 9 temples dedicated to Buddha Maitreya and Tara, stunning Bodhisattva stucco sculptures, and a resplendent collection of paintings which depict the life and works of the Buddha.

3. The Lhalung Monastery: Founded by Rinchen Zangpo, this primeval monastery in Spiti is regarded as one of the earliest Buddhist learning centres. The numerous deities enshrined here, are adorned with gold leaf.

4. The Chandratal Lake: This pristine lake, with its crystal clear waters, offers an idyllic setting for nature lovers, is located amidst lush green expanses and staggering snow-clad mountains, in the vicinity to the daunting Kunzum Pass.

5. The Suraj Tal: Lying in the proximity of the Baralacha Pass, this lake is the third highest in India, and is almost a fantasy in itself. The captivating waters of the lake, surrounded by rugged blankets of Himalayan snow, provide a paradise for trekkers, campers, and photographers.

6. The Dhankar Lake: Bringing unbound tranquil to one’s soul, this fascinating lake is nestled on a cliff edge at an altitude of 4,270 metres. A scenic trek leads to this beauty. 

7. The Baralacha Pass: Connecting the hamlets interspersed between Lahaul and Ladakh, the daunting, not-to-be-missed Baralacha Pass offers unforgettable views of the Zanskar, Pir Panjal, and the Great Himalayan mountain ranges, with the Rivers Yunam and Bhaga gushing alongside.

8. The Pin Valley National Park: The sanctified confines of the Pin Valley National Park are home to the Siberian Ibex, snow leopards, rare species of partridges, snowcocks, a host of medicinal plants, and a wide range of Alpine trees. Set against a backdrop of the sprawling Himalayas, with infinite near-frozen streams threading through, it packs an immense thrilling location for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

9. Experiencing Rustic Village Life at Kibber and Losar: The picturesque hamlets in the Spiti Valley such as Kibber with its serene locales and own monastery, and Losar next to the Indo-Chinese Border, offer unspoiled locations to indulge in nature’s beauty.

10. The Komik Village: Noted for being the world’s highest village to possess a road, this amazing hamlet lies at an altitude of 18,000 feet. Although remotely located, it offers jaw-dropping views of the mountains surrounding it.

For more information to aid your escapades to the enthralling Spiti Valley, check Travelsetu.com now.