Often referred to as the Middle land, Spiti Valley introduces you to a unique blend of Indian and Tibetan cultures, unlike any other place in India. If you dream of going on a thrilling vacation to the mountains, grabbing a piping hot plate of momos as your soak in the beauty and solitude that Himachal Pradesh boasts of, then you must travel to Spiti Valley, located at an altitude of 3800 meters.
Thus, even beginners can go on this trek but since it is a little secluded, you might want to read up a little about it prior to booking your tickets.
How to Reach?
Due to its geographical location, the Spiti Valley is only minimally accessible. The closest domestic airport is in Kullu, which is 260 kilometers away, while the closest international airport is in Chandigarh.
You will need to travel for another eight hours or so by road to get to Spiti Valley since the nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar Railway Station.
Trekkers can travel to Manali first and then depart for Spiti Valley via Rohtang Pass or through the Shimla-Kinnaur Highway, also known as the Hindustan-Tibet Highway. In addition to these choices, one can travel overnight from Chandigarh and Delhi.
Ideal Months for Traveling
The fall season, which lasts from late September to mid-November, is the best time to travel. Traveling to Spiti Valley does require extensive preparation and some ideas about the terrain and its weather.
There is no way to get from Manali in the winter because the Rohtang and Kunzum Passes are blocked to travelers due to excessive rainfall. Although Spiti Valley is still accessible by NH05, the bitterly cold weather is intolerable.
In certain places, the snow begins to melt throughout the summer, but access is still not guaranteed until June.
Journey Overview
First Leg of the Journey: You will be traveling to the picturesque settlement of Kalpa from the scenic town of Shimla. You will pass through lush hills and crimson apple orchards along the road, especially in places like Narkanda, where the Hatu Peak can be seen.
You will reach Jeori, which is renowned for its naturally occurring hot springs with therapeutic powers, as you ride along the banks of the shimmering Sutlej River.
Upon entering the gorgeous Kinnaur area, which is home to the Chilgoza Forests, you will be blessed with breathtaking views of the Kinner Kailash range, and a vibrant Tibetan culture, as you cross the stately Kinnaur gate and the majestic rock tunnel.
Second Leg of the Journey:
On the third day, you will go to Tabo, which is well-known for the historic monasteries that surround it. Visit the Tabo Monastery, also known as the Ajanta of the Himalayas, the Nako Monastery next to a tranquil alpine lake, and the Dhankar Monastery for a view of the confluence of the Spiti and Pin rivers while you're here.
You might also make a diversion and go to Gue Village, which is where you can see a mummified relic of a spiritual Buddhist monk, an antique artifact. On day 4, you will travel through the Pin Valley, a frigid desert-like region, to reach Kaza.
These areas are ideal for hiking, and you may also visit Gete, which is Asia's highest village and is reachable by road. Although it is uncommon, this area is rich in flora and animals and you may even see snow leopards and Siberian ibex while traveling through it.
Third Leg of the Journey:
The following day, go to the high-altitude region of Hikkim, use the renowned post office to mail a letter to your loved ones, then travel to Langza and Komic for breathtaking views of Chau Chau Kang Nilda Peak.
On day six, go towards the Kibber village while passing the Chicham Bridge, which is one of Asia's tallest bridges at 4100 meters. You'll also stop at the renowned Key Monastery along the journey for an amazing spiritual encounter.
Set up camp next to Chandratal Lake in Kaza on the previous day. This location is a photographer's muse because of its emerald color, beautiful meadows, and distant, majestic mountain ranges. During the night, drift off to sleep while listening to the mountain air whispering into your ears.
Spiti Valley: Amidst Nature's Beauty
You can easily go for a river rafting at the Pin river or a mountain biking experience near Kunzum Pass, provided the weather is in your favor. Other than these, there are also options to go for Yak Safari, something that is not possible anywhere else, or go for fossil hunting in Hikkim and Langza. At the Kaza Market, shop for local souvenirs and take back a box full of memories.
Conclusion
Have the best time spending your days amidst nature, relishing the local delicacies and basking in the warmth of the morning sun and of the people around you. As you bid farewell to the region, make a promise of coming back again.
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