The Perfect Guide For An 8 Days Spiti Valley Trip

 In Spiti, Travel

‘In the summertime, when the weather is hot, you can stretch right up and touch the sky’, well the summertime is here, and it is time to stretch and reach for greater heights, and when we talk about greater heights, we mean it with an 8 Days Spiti Valley Trip, and we are the ones who will be taking you there with our Spiti Valley trip packages.

All you have to do is pack your bags, hop onboard, and get ready for an unparalleled adventure with us with a Spiti Valley Trip. Explore the best of what the ‘middle land’ has to offer. Visit some of the colossal and ancient monasteries in the world, travel on some of the country’s highest roads and passes, and witness some of the best experiences that will surely etch their place in your heart. 

An 8 Days Spiti Valley Trip will take you through some of the best sites and allow you to take in some of the most jaw-dropping views you won’t be able to witness anywhere else. So with adventure in your heart, thrill in your mind and an exciting and enthralling future, scroll down and check out our 8 Days Spiti Valley trip, an unforgettable adventure for happiness galore. 

About Spiti Valley

spiti-valley-tour
Image Source : defineplaces

‘Looking at beauty in the world is the first step of purifying the mind’ and this is actually true. The moment you start appreciating nature’s beauty, you do start feeling rejuvenated and your happiness goes a notch above. Well, there’s no place better and more beautiful than the one located in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, nestled in the lap of the mighty and majestic Himalayas and the one that is renowned for the matchless adventures and experiences it offers. That nature’s marvel is the Spiti Valley.

Located in Himachal Pradesh, at an altitude of over 12,000 feet and home to some of the most stunning and breathtaking landscapes, the Spiti Valley is perfect for those looking for some time away from the daily hustle and bustle. Known as the ‘middle land’ because of its central location between India and Tibet, the paradiscal land breaks the ideal stereotypes of what a hillstation should look like. What makes this hill station a bit different from its counterparts is that it is a desert land with snow-capped mountains surrounding it, but that doesn’t fade away the fact that you will be having the same fun and experience the same thrill that you would witness in any other hill station.

The Spiti Valley is home to a plethora of ancient monasteries, quaint villages and vibrant cultures. The valley also holds a significance in the Buddhist culture as it is believed that Spiti is the place where the inception of Buddhism in India took place, hence the reason why Spiti Valley has so many monasteries. Spiti Valley is probably one of the only destinations where you will be able to couple adventure and thrill with a dash of peace, serenity and tranquillity.

Looking for some adventure? Well hop on your ride and drive on some of the most rugged and curvy roads with numerous hairpin bends. If that’s not enough, then drive on the world’s highest motorable bridge, the Chicham bridge. Take adventure to greater heights quite literally with a drive to world’s highest motorable point at the Kunzum Pass.

Want a peaceful and rejuvenating experience? Well, then dive deep into Buddhism and the lives of the monks in one of the many monasteries present in the region. Glance at the manuscripts, idols of Buddha and inculcate the teachings of the almighty. These are not the only things that Spiti Valley has to offer, the tranquil Chandrataal Lake, the 1000 years old Key or Ki Monastery, the world’s highest post office in Hikkim, the highest motorable point at Kunzum Pass and much more are waiting to be explored by you on this 8 Days Spiti Valley trip.

With so much being said, Spiti Valley is definitely on the cards for you and an 8 Days Spiti Valley Trip is the perfect way to explore and appreciate nature’s beauty, so hop on board and scroll down to check out our guide that takes you through everything, you need to know before heading out for a Spiti Valley Trip.

Best Time To Visit Spiti Valley-

best-time-for-spiti-valley

Spiti Valley is located in the northernmost part of Himachal Pradesh, which does make it a remote place, therefore the place experiences harsh climatic conditions at certain times of the year, but that doesn’t stop travellers from visiting this place. Even when the place experiences harsh conditions, it is filled with travellers from all over the world, the perfect example is Spiti in winter. With that being said, Spiti can be visited at any time of the year as it offers something new at all times. It just depends on what you want to witness and what suits you.

Summer ( June to September) 

spiti-valley-in-summer

Considered to be the best months for a Spiti Valley trip by travellers from all over the world, the weather during summer is absolutely pleasant and charming since the temperatures range from 10 to 25 degrees celsius. The snow melts during this time, which results in all the roads opening up making travel around the valley easy. Another sight to behold is the blooming of the flora in the valley during this time, making camping and trekking the most favourite things to do in Spiti Valley in summers. 

Monsoon (July to August)

spiti-valley-in-monsoon

Usually not a preferable time to visit the Spiti Valley; monsoons are not as harsh in the valley as compared to other hill stations. But landslides and roadblocks become a widespread occurrence during this time, which usually become a hindrance to those travelling. 

Winter ( November to February)

spiti-valley-in-winter

Winter is coming and winter is one of the best times to visit Spiti Valley. The landscape is covered under sheets of snow, making this desert a winter wonderland. Winter sports like skiing and snowboarding become quite popular during this time, and not to forget about the elusive wildlife one can find during this time, since one might be able to spot a snow leopard easily during the winter season. Winters are also an amazing time to experience the local culture as festivals like Losar and Halda are celebrated during this time. 

Spiti is probably one of the only destinations which offers something new every season, it’s totally upto you what you want to witness in the valley, which influences your decision of when to visit Spiti Valley. 

Why Should You Visit Spiti Valley?

spiti-valley-tour

Why should you visit this breathtaking place, you ask? Well if only there was just one reason, Spiti Valley won’t be this famous as it is today. Besides the breathtaking scenery which is made up of stunning landscapes with snow-capped mountains, rugged terrain, and picturesque villages. The Spiti Valley is also famous for its unique culture that has been shaped by its geographical location and ancient ties with Tibet. Renowned as the place where the inception of Buddhism in India took place, the Spiti Valley in the modern day is famous for its colossal and ancient monasteries and has everything you need, to get an insight into Buddhism and the Buddhist way of life. Monastery exploration is one of the most famous things to do in a Spiti trip; well, it surely is worth it.

Next up on what separates Spiti from other destinations is the adventure that it offers. Yes, you read that right, Spiti offers unparalleled adventure which makes it a blissful experience for all adventure enthusiasts looking for an adrenaline rush. One can take part in trekking to some of the highest villages in the valley like Hikkim and Komic, mountain biking, camping, mountaineering and much more for an enthralling experience.

Not much of an adventure person? Well, worry not, Spiti Valley has got you covered. If adventure is not your thing, then you can sit back and delve into a spiritual experience. Spiti Valley is known for offering inner peace and spirituality. One can attend meditation sessions in one of the many meditation and spirituality retreats established in the Lahaul and Spiti Valley. Besides the retreats, you can also head to the Buddhist monasteries in the region for the same and also learn about the local culture and traditions.

Well, this is probably the best thing that separates Spiti from others. Spiti is an offbeat destination, which means that it is not as crowded as its counterparts, therefore; you can experience the raw beauty of nature and explore the region at your own pace without getting disturbed by the throng.

Wildlife enthusiasts, ASSEMBLE! Spiti Valley is calling to you, because it is a abode to a plethora of national parks that possess a diverse range of wildlife such as the snow leopard, Himalayan Ibex, blue sheep, the Tibetan Wolf and much more, that’s waiting for you in the magical valley.

This is not just it, Spiti Valley has much more to offer. So what are you waiting for? Scroll through and check out the perfect itinerary for your 8 Days Spiti Valley Trip.

The Perfect 8 Days Spiti Valley Route

Day 0: Delhi to Tirthan Valley

Day 1: Aut- Gushaini  

Day 2: Chitkul via Kinnaur  

Day 3:Chitkul to Kalpa  

Day 4: Kalpa to Kaza via Nako  

Day 5: Key Monastery- Hikkim- Komic- Langza

Day 6: Traverse to Chandrataal

Day 7: Depart For Manali

Day 8: Manali Exploration- Depart to Delhi

Day 1: Aut-Gushaini

aut-gushaini
Image Source : mytraveloguesblog

Start your 8 Days Spiti Valley Trip with the picturesque drive from Aut to Gushaini. Set 31 Kilometres apart from each other; you will be able to reach Gushaini within 30-45 minutes. Post the picturesque drive, check-in at your hotel, and take some quintessential rest. After the rest, head to the Chhoie Waterfall for an unparalleled trek.

The Chhoie waterfall is a 45-minute trek, which takes you to the waterfall, which is around 100 metres long. Post the trek, head back to your hotel and sleep through the night as a new day awaits you.

About Gushaini

Located in the lush green and the majestic Tirthan Valley, Gushaini, a small village still unknown to travellers, is a tranquil and serene village located on the banks of the Tirthan river, Gushaini is situated at an altitude of 1,600 metres and is the perfect way to rejuvenate yourself and connect with nature.

Gushaini is filled with plantations of apricots, peaches, and pears. It is perfect for those who are looking for a break from the daily hustle and bustle. Besides the environment, the locals in Gushaini too are warm and kind hearted who will surely give you a homely feeling.

Day 2: Chitkul via Kinnaur

chitkul
Image Source : himachalwatcher

Wake upto the mesmerising views of Chitkul and start your journey towards Aut, which is about 28 kilometres away from Chitkul. From Aut, take the NH5 towards Rampur, which is about 83 Kms away. Upon reaching Rampur, take NH5 towards Kinnaur, which is about 99 kms away. From Kinnaur, take the Sangla- Chitkul road and then continue your journey for about 56 kms to reach Chitkul. 

The entire journey of 6-7 hours is absolutely amazing and offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges , valleys, rivers and much more. During the drive, you must pause to click some Insta-worthy pictures,which for sure will add some charm to your Insta feed. 

About Chitkul

A small village in the Kinnaur district is Chitkul, the last village in the Indian side before the border with China. The village is located at an altitude of 3,450 metres above sea level and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, beautiful valleys and the Bispa river. 

It is a popular tourist destination for its natural beauty and tranquil environment and the unique lifestyle of the locals. The village is also famous for its wooden work and sells the best wooden handicrafts. Besides the wooden handicrafts, it is also famous for its apple orchards, and trekking trails. 

Day 3: Chitkul to Kalpa

kalpa
Image Source : wikipedia.org

After breakfast, start your journey to Kalpa from Chitkul. From Chitkul head towards Sangla, a small town located at a distance of 20 kilometres and it takes about an hour to reach it. From Sangla, drive towards Reckong Peo, a small village located 60 kilometres away from Sangla. While driving towards Reckong Peo, you will pass through a plethora of small villages and settlements like Karcham, Powari and Jangi. 

Upon reaching Reckong Peo, you can take a break and explore the village where you can buy a plethora of souvenirs and relish the local delicacies in one of the many restaurants. From Reckong Peo, continue your drive towards Kalpa, which is just 7 kilometres away. 

Upon reaching Kalpa, you can explore the town and its surroundings, which is known for their natural beauty. Some of the most popular attractions and landmarks in Kalpa include the Kinnaur Kailash peak, Narayan-Nagini temple and the Kalpa monastery. 

About Kalpa

A small town located at an altitude of 2,960 metres above sea level, Kalpa is known for its scenic beauty, apple orchards and cultural significance. The town is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush green forests which make it a popular destination among those who are looking for some peace and tranquillity. 

Day 4: Kalpa to Kaza via Nako

kaza
Image Source : wikipedia.org

On day 4 continue your Spiti Valley trip with a scenic journey through the desert land of Spiti Valley. 

From Kalpa, start your journey towards Reckong Peo, the district headquarters of Kinnaur. When in Reckong Peo, start your onward journey towards Pooh, located at a distance of 60 kilometres. During the journey, pass through a plethora of small villages that offer immaculate views of the Kinnaur Kailash range.

Once you reach Pooh, you can take a small break to cherish the breathtaking views of the region before continuing your journey towards Nako, located 65 kilometres away from the region. The journey will take you through some of the best hairpin bends. From Nako, continue driving towards Tabo, which is located around 65 kilometers away. The road passes through several small villages and offers stunning views of the Spiti Valley.

Upon reaching Tabo, you can head to the Tabo monastery, a UNESCO world heritage site, which is also one of the oldest monasteries in the world. After seeking the divine blessings of the almighty in Tabo, continue your journey towards your destination; Kaza. 

About Kaza

Kaza, a  town located in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. The town is located at an altitude of 3,800 metres and is known for its natural beauty, colossal monasteries, and cultural significance.

Kaza is prominently known for its cultural significance, owing to the presence of the myriad monasteries, especially Key Monastery which is established 12 kilometers away from the main city of Kaza. Besides Key monastery, the region also includes other monasteries like the Tabo monastery, the Dhankar monastery, and last but definitely not the least, the Tangyud Monastery. 

Day 5: Key Monastery- Hikkim- Komic- Langza

Hikkim- Komic- Langza
Image Source : devilonwheels

Wake up to the mesmerising sunrise of Kaza and visit the world famous Key monastery, located at an altitude of 4,600 metres above sea level. The monastery is centuries old and is known for its ancient murals, rare thangkas and ancient weapons. 

After getting an insight into Buddhist culture, drive towards Asia’s highest suspension bridge- the Chicham Bridge. After visiting Chicham Bridge, drive towards some of the world’s highest inhabited villages. 

Visit the highest village of Asia, Komic- established at an altitude of 4,513 metres. The surprising fact about this village is that it has a population of just 84 people. 

After exploring the village, traverse to Hikkim, which is home to the world’s highest post office. From the post office, you can send yourself or your loved ones postcards as a souvenir. Later, head to Langza. What seperates this village from others is that you can find marine fossils in high quantities. The reason for that is that, it is believed that Spiti Valley was submerged under the Tethys Sea, 50 million years ago. 

Day 6: Traverse to Chandrataal

chandratal
Image Source : wikipedia.org

A new day calls for a new adventure and day 6 of your 8 days Spiti Valley trip will ensure just that. Bid adieu to Kaza and start your journey towards Losar, located at a distance of 57 kilometers from Kaza. The drive takes you through a plethora of small villages and gives you the opportunity to cherish jaw dropping views. Losar village is located at an altitude of over 4,000 metres and is adjacent to the Indo-China border. 

Upon reaching Losar, continue your journey towards Kunzum Pass, which also is abode to the world’s highest motorable point and for sure will give you views that you’ll cherish forever. Located at a distance of 14 kilometres away from the pass is the Chandrataal lake. Upon reaching the Chandrataal lake, be prepared to be mesmerised by the unparalleled views of the surroundings. 

Set up a camp near the lake and spend the night while cherishing the amazing views of the lake. 

About Chandrataal Lake

Chandrataal lake, known as the moon lake is a high altitude lake located at a high altitude of over 4,300 metres is renowned for its jaw dropping beauty, serenity and unparalleled tranquillity. The lake is known as the moon lake because of the crystal clear reflection of the moon during nights. 

Besides the unparalleled beauty it possesses, the lake is also one of the most popular camping spots in the country, which allows travellers to take part in expeditions near the lake. The lake also holds a historical significance, as it is said that the lake is the place where the Pandavas dropped their elder brother for his journey to heaven. 

Day 7: Depart For Manali 

manali
Image Source : wikipedia.org

After spending 6 of the best days of your 8 Days Spiti Valley trip, start your return journey to another Himachali paradise, Manali. 

Start your drive towards Gramphu. Drive through Batal and the majestic Kunzum Pass to reach Gramphu, which is located at a distance of 32 kilometres from the Kunzum pass. Upon reaching Gramphu, an even better drive awaits you as now you will be driving uphill towards the world-renowned Rohtang Pass. One of the highest roads and passes in the country. 

What makes the Rohtang Pass special are the snow walls on both sides of the road. The pass has also made its cameo in the Bollywood blockbuster; Jab We Met. 

Start your descent from the Rohtang Pass towards Manali. The drive to Manali will take you through some of the famous villages of Himachal, where you can stop to relish some Pahari delicacies to treat your taste buds. 

After the picturesque journey, arrive in Manali and take part in a cafe hopping session to take your adventure a notch above. 

Day 8:  Manali Exploration- Depart to Delhi

manali-explore
Image Source : Unsplash

Wake up to the majestic sunrise of Manali and head out for an exploration session of this wonderland. 

You can visit the famous local attractions of Manali like the Vashishth Temple, where you can take a dip in the hot springs which are said to have medicinal properties. Then visit the Hadimba temple, located in the middle of a forest, the temple is said to be the only temple dedicated to Hadimba Devi, the wife of Bheema. To continue your divine journey, you can also visit the Manikaran Gurudwara. 

Besides these, there are a plethora of local landmarks and attractions, which you can explore before heading back to Delhi in the evening. 

Marking the sweet end of your 8 Days Spiti Valley Trip

Frequently Asked Questions  8 Days Spiti Valley Trip

1. When should I go to Spiti?

Spiti Valley is one of those destinations that offer something new and unique in every season. Summer is usually considered to be the best time for a Spiti Valley trip as the snow starts to melt and the roads open up, making travel easier in this highland. The flora also blooms during this time of the year, making it a sight to behold. The next best time to visit Spiti Valley is the winter season. During winters, the desert land turns into a white wonderland, which for sure is a treat to the eyes. Spiti in winter also becomes an adventurer’s paradise as one can take part in winter sports like skiing, snowboarding and much more. 

One can visit Spiti at any time of the year, it just depends on what suits you the best and what you want to experience in this wonderland. 

2. Can we do Spiti Valley in 5 days?

Yes, one can travel to Spiti Valley for 5 days. During those 5 days, you can cover the major destinations and landmarks. During a 5 day Spiti Valley trip, you can visit major landmarks such as Hikkim, Kaza, Komic, Langza and more. A 5 day Spiti Valley trip will also fall light on the pocket. But if you’re someone who wants to take adventure up a notch, then an 8 Days Spiti Valley Trip is the perfect choice for you.

3. How many days are enough for Spiti Valley?

It usually depends on what you want to witness and experience in the valley. If you’re someone who wants to explore the highlights of Spiti Valley then a 5 to 6 days tour is perfect for you. If you’re someone who wants to do trekking in Spiti Valley, then you should plan a longer trip for 7-8 days, and finally if you want to visit just the major landmarks, then you should head to Spiti Valley for 3-4 days. 

We highly recommend that you spend atleast 5-6 days in this highland so that you can experience the magic that it offers. 

4. How much money do you need for Spiti Valley?

The cost of a Spiti Valley trip depends on numerous factors like the number of days you’re spending in the valley, number of people travelling, the type of accommodation you’re opting for, the places you’re travelling to, the permits, and other miscellaneous expenses too. To sum it up, an average Spiti Valley trip for 5-6 days can cost you anywhere between INR 15,000 to INR 20,000. 

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