Spiti Valley Road Trip (2023) Highlights
What to expect when you hit the road to Spiti valley?
Imagine a picturesque paradise nestled in the heart of the mighty Himalayas, where rugged mountains, barren landscapes, and ancient monasteries converge in perfect harmony.
Welcome to Spiti Valley, an enchanting destination that beckons adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. If you're looking for an unforgettable road trip experience, Spiti Valley should be at the top of your bucket list.
In this blog post, I’ll delve into the highlights of our road trip to Spiti Valley.
A Scenic Escape
Spiti Valley, located in Himachal Pradesh, India, offers a rare escape from the bustling city life. As you embark on your road trip, you'll witness breathtaking vistas at every turn. The journey itself becomes a part of the adventure, with winding roads that offer panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and crystal-clear rivers.
A major part of this road journey involves covering large stretches of National Highway 5 aka NH5 (from Chandigarh to Khab) and NH 505 (from Khab to Gramphoo)
Magical Buddhist Monasteries
Spiti Valley is home to several ancient monasteries that exude a sense of tranquility and spirituality. The Dhankar Monastery, perched precariously on a cliff, offers a surreal experience with its stunning views.
Key Monastery, one of the largest in Spiti, is a repository of Buddhist art and scriptures. The Tabo Monastery, often referred to as the "Ajanta of the Himalayas," is famous for its well-preserved frescoes and ancient scriptures.
Village Life in Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley is dotted with charming villages where time seems to stand still. Each village has its own unique character and offers a glimpse into the traditional and simple way of life.
Kibber, one of the highest inhabited villages in the world, provides a chance to interact with friendly locals and witness their agricultural practices.
Due to long winters (from October to April), agricultural activities are carried out in April to September period. These six months are the busiest months for Spiti folks.
People get up early (5AM) and go straight to their fields and return to their homes late in the evening. Imagine working 11-12 hours working in the fields in such a high-altitude valley.
Due to climate change, weather in Spiti valley is getting erratic and it is affecting agriculture, farming and livestock rearing in the valley.
Despite such harships, the hospitality of the people of Spiti will leave an indelible mark on your journey.
The Barren & Rugged Beauty
Spiti Valley's landscapes are characterized by barren mountains, vast stretches of rugged terrain, and stark beauty. The Pin Valley National Park, a natural haven, is home to rare and endangered species like the snow leopard and the Siberian ibex.
The stunning Chandratal Lake, nestled amidst high mountains, is a sight to behold. As you traverse the valley, you'll witness the ever-changing colors of the landscape, from fiery red to serene green, creating a canvas that will leave you spellbound.
Adventure Thrills
For adventure enthusiasts, Spiti Valley offers a plethora of opportunities. From challenging treks to thrilling mountain biking trails, there's something for everyone.
Camping under the starlit sky and indulging in bonfires will add a touch of magic to your journey.
Our Itinerary
- Day 1: Chandigarh to Shimla
- Day 2: Shimla to Rampur Bushahr
- Day 3: Rampur Bushahr to Sangla (Kinnaur)
- Day 4: Sangla to Kalpa village
- Day 5: Kalpa to Nako village
- Day 6: Nako to Mud village (Pin valley, Spiti)
- Day 7: Mud to Kaza town (the district headquarters of Lahual and Spiti)
- Day 8: Kaza to Chandratal Lake
- Day 9: Chandratal to Manali via Gramphoo and Atal tunnel.
80-word summary
A road trip to Spiti Valley is not merely a physical journey; it's a soul-stirring experience. The untouched beauty, ancient monasteries, warm hospitality of Spiti and Kinnaura tribe folks, and adventurous thrills make it a destination like no other.
This blog post only scratches the surface of what Spiti Valley has to offer. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing charm of Spiti Valley. Discover the essence of the Western Himalayas and create memories that will last a lifetime.
About the Creator
Raacho Trekkers
We run trek, wildlife photography tours and road trip expeditions in least explored terrains of Kinnaur, Kullu, Spiti valley, and Garhwal Himalayas.
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