Spiti valley is a cold desert mountain located high in the Himalayas in the Indian State of Himachal Pradesh. It is the middle land between Tibet and India. It is one of the least populated regions in India. The best months to visit Spiti is late May to July when the temperature rises above 0 degrees making it possible for tourists to travel. This beautiful gem in Himachal Pradesh is undoubtedly a paradise on earth. With Beautiful mountains covered in snow, fallacious landscapes, abundant trekking trails, ancient monasteries, and scenic lakes, this cold desert valley is worthy of all attention. Here’s a list of things to do and places to go in Spiti valley.
RIVER RAFTING: River rafting is one of the most thrilling and adventurous things to do in Spiti Valley. Riding tides with a view of lush greenery and emerald hills is an experience of a lifetime. This is a must-try activity in the Pin and Spiti rivers. It covers a distance of 36kms on average.
FOSSIL HUNTING: Not a popular thing to do, but a unique experience to have. The best place for hunting fossils in Spiti valley is Langza and Hikkim village. There is a huge possibility that one will find fossils easily in these areas as it is studded with fossils. Local children are also found selling these fossils as souvenirs.
STARGAZING: Spiti valley is one such place where you can have a unique and beautiful experience of stargazing. There are various spots where it can be enjoyed like Lonar Crater, Katao, and Spiti valley. These villages are situated at an altitude of 10,000 to 15,000ft above sea level, stargazing at such an altitude is literally the best thing to do in Spiti.
BARALACHA PASS: It’s among one of the most thrilling, adventurous, and dangerous passes in the world. It is situated at an altitude that is beyond 16,000 feet. It is popular for trekking and biking. During the passage, you’ll witness Pir Panjal, the great Himalayan, and the Zanskar ranges. The best time to visit this pass is April to October. The pass is closed during winters due to heavy snowfall.
YAK SAFARI: Yak and horse safaris are one of the most loved and popular ways of exploring the region of Spiti Valley. Yak safari is a perfect alternative for the ones who’re not up for trekking. Every villager has at least one yak with them as it is considered a pet animal in this region. It costs around INR 500.
BUDDHIST MONASTERIES: This place is a famous religious and cultural center for Buddhists, making it a famous tourist attraction. Everything including the architecture and the ancient murals, every sight is worth admiring. The most famous monasteries of Spiti valley are Kungri Monastery, Key Monastery, and Kardang Monastery.
CAMPING AT CHANDRATAL: It is a crescent-shaped lake, situated at 4,300 meters in the lap of the Himalayas. the entry fee of this lake is 1,500 INR and above depending on the camps and services. The incredible view makes it more worthy, at least for a night or two in Spiti.
VILLAGE OF GIU: it is a remote village deep in the valleys of Spiti which is famous for its naturally preserved dead bodies. This place is popular worldwide for its weird mystery which has not been solved yet. The best time to visit this mysterious place is in the morning to avoid any crowd.
PIN VALLEY NATIONAL PARK: it is located in the cold desert area of Lahul and Spiti and is home to more than 20 species of animals and birds. It is home to endangered flora and fauna including Snow leopard, Siberian Ibex, Tibetan gazelle, snowcocks, etc. It is a huge tourist attraction which will take a good amount of time if you visit there. Visitors have to pay no entry fee to visit Pin valley national park.
KAZA’S MAIN MARKET: Visiting Spiti and not shopping is a big NO. Kaza market is the most famous location for shopping for tourists. There are uncountable things you can buy from this market such as handicrafts and human bones and skulls painted in Silver. This is something that should top your list if you’re planning to go to Spiti valley.
Apart from the above activities and places, there are endless things to do and explore in Spiti. It is essential to pre-plan your trip and book everything in advance and customize it as per your preference.
