Best Places to Visit in Spiti Valley
20 Best Places to Visit in Spiti Valley
Are you having difficulty planning your Spiti trip? Don’t worry! To help you make the most out of your journey to Spiti Valley, we have carefully curated a comprehensive list of the best places to visit in Spiti Valley that you simply can’t afford to miss.
Spiti Valley is like a heavenly paradise that every adventurous traveler dreams of experiencing. This stunning valley is adorned with mesmerizing monasteries, crystal-clear lakes, and captivating landscapes. With so much to offer, it can be overwhelming to figure out which places are the absolute best to explore in Spiti Valley.
The array of places to visit in and around Spiti Valley is truly astonishing. Adventure enthusiasts, assemble now for your dream journey!
Our Spiti Valley tour packages take you through rugged mountains, ancient monasteries, and charming villages that seem frozen in time.
Kaza - The Heart of Spiti Valley
Kaza is a stunning town located at an elevation of about 12,500 feet in the beautiful Lahaul and Spiti Valley. Steep ridges tower over this magnificent village, offering majestic snow-covered mountains, splashing rivers, scenic landscapes, and bustling markets.
The entire town of Kaza is divided into two main sections: old Kaza (Kaza Khas) and new Kaza (Kaza Soma). Old Kaza encompasses the King’s palace, monasteries, and ancient structures, while new Kaza incorporates government offices, hotel chains, and food outlets. To truly experience the essence of Spiti, a visit to the Kaza local market is essential. This vibrant hub showcases an exquisite collection of traditional Tibetan clothing and jewelry.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Kaza Local Market
- Distance from Manali: 200 km (approximately 8-9 hours)
- Accommodation: Wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays available
- Shimla holiday packages ensure a memorable experience filled with comfort and excitement.
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Komic Village - World's Highest Motorable Village
Rising 15,027 feet above sea level, Komic is the world’s highest village connected by a motorable road. This village perfectly captures the essence of Spiti’s elegance and allure, offering visitors the cleanest air and a glimpse into a simple yet empowering way of life.
According to local folklore, when monks attempted to relocate the monastery to Hikkim Village, the statue of Mahakaal mysteriously refused to move. After an earthquake in 1975 destroyed the new monastery, but left the Mahakaal Statue intact, the monks decided to return the monastery to Komic, where it belonged.
Komic showcases untouched natural surroundings and offers travelers a glimpse into the raw beauty of the Himalayas and the resilience of communities living at such high altitudes.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Sightseeing in the village and Tangyud Monastery
- Altitude: 15,027 feet
- Ideal Duration: 3-4 hours
- Whether you want to enjoy a romantic getaway, an exciting adventure trip, or a peaceful family vacation, our Manali holiday packages cater to every kind of traveler.
Dhankar - The Fort on the Cliff
Nestled in the remote areas of the Himalayas, Dhankar Village is a tiny settlement of nearly 70 houses. The name “Dhankar” comes from ‘Dhang’ (cliff) and ‘Kar’ (fort), meaning “a fort on the cliff.” This unusual destination remains known only to a few travelers.
Dhankar Lake, with its sparkling crystal-clear waters, sits atop a small hill at an astounding altitude of 4,100 meters. The 5-kilometer hike from the village to the lake is challenging due to low oxygen levels and steep terrain, but the view is absolutely worth the effort.
The Dhankar Monastery, situated at a peak of about 3,870 meters, is among the five important Buddhist centers in the region. Perched on the edge of a cliff at an unusual angle, it provides a stunning wide-angle view of the entire valley.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Dhankar Village, Monastery, and Lake
- Trek Duration to Lake: 2-3 hours one way
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult
- With well-planned routes, reliable transport, and professional assistance, our Himachal tour packages ensure a smooth and safe journey.
Pin Valley - The Mud Village
Pin Valley is a cluster of 17 villages in the Spiti district with a population of merely 2,000 people. Despite increasing tourism, numerous areas in Pin Valley continue to stay remote and underexplored. This valley has more greenery and vegetation than other villages in Spiti Valley, earning it the nickname “Mud Village” due to the prevalence of mud-based construction.
Pin Valley National Park, established in 1987, is Himachal Pradesh’s only National Park located in a cold desert area. It’s renowned as the prevalent habitat of the elusive snow leopard and is home to diverse fauna including the Himalayan Raven, Snowcock, Snowfinch, and Pika.
This Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve boasts diverse flora, including numerous medicinal plants, alpine vegetation, and majestic cedar and deodar trees. Set against the breathtaking Himalayan backdrop, it offers an idyllic haven for adventure enthusiasts, photographers, nature lovers, and avid bird watchers.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Mud Village architecture and Pin Valley National Park
- Entry Fee: INR 50 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners
- Wildlife Spotting: Best during early mornings and late evenings
Tabo Monastery - The Ajanta of the Himalayas
This monastery in Tabo Valley is home to 9 temples dedicated to Tara and Buddha Maitreya, featuring enchanting works of art, stucco sculptures of Bodhisattvas, and stupas. Built by the renowned Buddhist king Yeshe-O, it’s widely recognized as the Ajanta of the Himalayas due to its captivating murals and primitive artwork.
The Archaeological Survey of India designated it a “National Historic Treasure.” Situated at an elevation of 10,000 feet, the monastery underwent complete restoration after suffering damage during the 1975 Kinnaur earthquake. In 1983, the 14th Dalai Lama initiated the Kalachakra Festival here, and the monastery has since commemorated its thousand-year existence.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Ancient murals and stucco sculptures
- Age: Over 1,000 years old
- Photography: Allowed outside, restricted inside main temples
Chandrataal Lake - The Moon Lake
Located at an elevation of 4,300 meters near Kunzum Pass, Chandrataal offers the most magical view in the region. This dazzling scenic miracle is a photographer’s and trekker’s paradise, serving as the origin of the Chandra River.
The name “Chandra Taal” or Lake of the Moon is derived from its distinctive crescent shape. The lake is adorned with luscious vegetation and snow-capped mountain ranges, while crystal-blue waters reflect the surrounding peaks. The road to this pristine lake winds through Batal trails that will get your heart racing.
The camping experience at Chandrataal remains etched in travelers’ hearts as a wholesome memory forever. As you approach, you’ll navigate challenging roads and glaciers, but the awe-inspiring views make every ounce of effort worthwhile.
- Best Time to Visit: June to end of September
- Highlight: Mesmerizing camping experience
- Camping Cost: INR 500-1,500 per person
- Important Note: No camping allowed on lake banks; designated areas only
Langza - The Fossil Village of India
Langza Village is a delightful tourist attraction at an elevation of 4,400 meters, known as the Fossil Village of India. Antiquated monasteries and pre-historic structures adorn this majestic village, while green meadows, snow-clad mountains, and deserted landscapes add more charm to its beauty.
This is one of India’s most remote villages, split into two sections: Langza Yongma (lower) and Langza Gongma (upper), with a population of around 137 people. The tallest structure here is a tremendous statue of Lord Buddha safeguarding the village. The Chau Chau Kang Nilda peak dominates the scenery.
The villages of Langza and Hikkim are so abundantly filled with fossils that it’s nearly impossible to glance around without stumbling upon one. Local children often offer them as souvenirs for sale. The local name for these fossils is ‘chaudua’.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer, Spring, and Autumn
- Highlight: Fossil collection and Buddha statue
- Population: Approximately 137 residents
- Local Crafts: Handmade shawls, carpets, and vessels
Kunzum Pass - Gateway to Paradise
Kunzum La is one of India’s highest motorable passes, rising 15,060 feet above sea level. This iconic pass serves as a gateway to paradise in Spiti Valley via Kullu and Lahaul, providing an astounding sight of the grand Chandra Bhaga ranges.
Tourists frequently visit the temple here to seek blessings of Goddess Durga before continuing to Chandratal Lake, which is only 7 kilometers away. This route is so magnificent that people stop to snap photographs and view the splendid Bara-Sigri Glacier, the world’s second-largest glacier outside polar regions.
For lodging or dining options, you can visit the nearby village ‘Losar’, which is only 16 kilometers from Kunzum Pass.
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Highlight: Breathtaking views and Kunzum Devi Temple
- Road Condition: Rough and unpaved; suitable for experienced drivers
- Nearby Attraction: Chandratal Lake (7 km)
Key Monastery - The Largest Monastery in Spiti
Kye Monastery is said to have been established by Dromton, a disciple of the renowned teacher Atisha, during the 11th century. This ancient Buddhist monastery is perched on a hilltop at an altitude of 4,166 meters (13,668 feet) and serves as the largest monastery in Spiti Valley.
The monastery houses Buddha statues in the serene Dhyana posture and boasts an impressive collection of ancient books and murals. Serving as a grand religious training hub for the Lamas, it educates approximately 300 lamas. This remarkable example of Tibetan architecture serves as a training center for monks who follow the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism.
Visitors can embark on hikes or treks to nearby villages such as Kibber and Langza to experience local culture. The monastery also serves as a base for adventurous souls looking to explore high-altitude lakes and mountain passes.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Spiritual revitalization and Tibetan architecture
- Number of Lamas: Over 100
- Prayer Timings: Morning prayers at 6:00 AM, evening at 6:00 PM
Nako - The Hidden Gem
Nako is a hidden gem located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, nestled at an altitude of 3,625 meters. The valley boasts breathtaking natural beauty, including Nako Lake, Nako Monastery, and the charming Nako Village.
The peaceful waters of Nako Lake are flanked by clusters of poplar and willow trees, which cast their enchanting shadows on the mirror-like surface. Due to Nako’s proximity to the Tibetan border, visitors need to obtain an Inner Line permit to explore the region.
If you visit Nako, make sure to check out the Lipa-Asrang sanctuary and the Sangla Buddhist monastery, two more stunning natural wonders located nearby.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Nako Lake, Nako Monastery, and village exploration
- Permit Required: Inner Line Permit (available at Shimla, Rekong Peo, or Kaza)
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Kibber - The High-Altitude Village
Kibber, a charming and picturesque village nestled in Spiti Valley, is situated at an impressive altitude of approximately 14,010 feet. Despite its harsh weather conditions that make it inaccessible for a major part of the year, Kibber is equipped with essential amenities like a hospital, school, post office, and telegraph office.
Visitors can experience the wild beauty of Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, where fascinating creatures such as the Tibetan Wolle Hare, Tibetan Wild Ass, Blue Sheep, Red Fox, Himalayan Wolf, Pika, and Lynx can be spotted. The village itself is incredibly tiny, with only 366 residents residing in seventy-seven houses.
Kibber is a village that practices the Barter system, considered the oldest form of trade where goods are exchanged for goods.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October (Summer Season)
- Highlight: Uniform houses against Himalayan backdrop
- Altitude: 14,010 feet
- Unique Feature: One of the few villages still practicing barter system
Gandhola Monastery - The Ancient Confluence
Perched atop a humble hill at the sacred confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers (forming the mighty Chenab), Gandhola Monastery boasts a rich history of nearly eight centuries. With its origins traced back to the revered Padma Sambhava, this monastery attracts visitors with its intricate wooden paintings and murals dating back to the 2nd Century BC.
If you’re a history buff or cultural enthusiast, this temple is a must-visit among the best places to visit in Spiti Valley.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Buddhist paintings and murals from 2nd Century BC
- Age: Nearly 800 years old
- Location: At the confluence of Chandra and Bhaga rivers
Kungri Monastery - The Second Oldest
Kungri Monastery, constructed during the 14th century, stands as one of the most vibrant and ancient monasteries in the Spiti region. Located in Pin Valley and established in 1330, this monastery holds immense appeal for Buddhist scholars, pilgrims, and international visitors.
It proudly holds the title of being the second oldest monastery in Spiti Valley and remains unique in its adherence to Nyingmapa Buddhism. The monastery attracts tourists eager to explore its rich collection of primitive Tibetan Buddhist art, culture, and rituals. One standout feature is the captivating ‘Devil Dance,’ a traditional performance that adds to the allure of this historic sanctuary.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Second oldest monastery in Spiti and Devil Dance performance
- Established: 1330 AD
- Buddhist School: Nyingmapa tradition
Gue Monastery - Home to the Ancient Mummy
Spiti Valley is hiding a lot more surprises for you! Gue Monastery is one among them. Situated close to a small village approximately 35 kilometers away from Tabo Monastery, Gue is renowned for housing the 500-year-old mummy of Sangha Tenzin.
Positioned in close proximity to the Indo-Tibetan border, this monastery is encircled by majestic mountains on all sides. It stands as a remarkable testament to natural preservation of human remains. Discovered in 1975, the mummy was preserved through a unique technique involving gradual self-imposed starvation while in a seated position, followed by three years in an underground chamber.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: 500-year-old naturally preserved mummy
- Discovery Year: 1975
- Distance from Tabo: 35 kilometers
Hikkim - World's Highest Post Office
The Hikkim post office stands proudly at an impressive altitude of 14,400 feet, nestled in the Lahaul region of Spiti. Despite frequent snowfall that often hampers operations, Postmaster Rinchen Chhering serves as a beacon of determination, occasionally embarking on foot to deliver mail in this quaint village.
Every day, dedicated postmen undertake a challenging 46-kilometer expedition across mountain passes and lush meadows to ensure that letters reach their recipients in Kaza. Sending postcards from here to your loved ones makes for a memorable experience.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Sending postcards from the world’s highest post office
- Altitude: 14,400 feet
- Postcard Cost: INR 5-10 plus postage
Suraj Tal - Lake of the Sun God
Suraj Tal Lake, situated at an astonishing altitude of over 16,043 feet, stands as one of India’s most magnificent and elevated lakes. Often referred to as “the Lake of Sun God,” it captivates with its awe-inspiring location in the enchanting Spiti Valley.
Drawing numerous pilgrims from all corners of the nation, this sacred lake holds a special place in their hearts. Suraj Tal proudly claims the title of the third-highest lake in India and ranks 21st globally. Along its path lies the renowned Baralacha-La Pass, serving as the starting point for thrilling treks.
According to local belief, a deep dip in these mystical waters will help cleanse your sins.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Third-highest lake in India and spiritual significance
- Altitude: 16,043 feet
- Ranking: 21st highest lake globally
Sakya Tangyud Monastery - The Fortified Monastery
Located in Komic village at an impressive altitude of 4,520 meters, Sakya Tangyud Monastery offers breathtaking views of the valley from its outskirts near the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. This monastery stands out as a must-visit destination in Spiti Valley, showcasing fortified features adorned with vibrant red ochre and mud walls.
Notably, it’s one of the rare two monasteries affiliated with the Sakya sect that can be found in this enchanting valley. Visitors can participate in daily prayer rituals of the monastery.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Participation in daily prayer rituals
- Altitude: 4,520 meters
- Sect: Sakya tradition
Chicham Bridge - Asia's Highest Bridge
Asia’s highest bridge, Chicham Bridge, was inaugurated in September 2017. Situated at an elevation of 13,780 feet, the bridge’s purpose was to connect Spiti Valley’s two remote villages: Kibber and Chicham. Earlier, residents and tourists had to travel an extra 40 kilometers.
Indian tourists who are adventurous and don’t mind enduring the challenges of rough dirt roads are drawn to the Kibber region and the magnificent Spiti River valley. This area is renowned for its exceptionally high one-lane road bridge, which is a sight worth traveling several days for.
The region boasts a variety of accommodations including hotels, monasteries, cottages, and camps, ensuring visitors can enjoy overnight stays.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Instagram-worthy pictures and thrilling crossing experience
- Elevation: 13,780 feet
- Length: 150 meters connecting two villages
Lahaul Valley - The Buddhist Hub
The Lahaul Valley is a picturesque region that offers breathtaking views of glaciers, rivers, monasteries, deep valleys, and towering peaks. It’s worth noting that Lahaul is only one part of the larger Lahaul-Spiti district, separated from Spiti by the immense Kunzum Pass.
Lahaul is a vibrant hub of Buddhism and houses numerous monasteries that serve as repositories for ancient murals, thangkas, wood carvings, and colossal statues of Guru Padmasambhava. This revered missionary played a pivotal role in introducing Buddhism to Lahaul, Spiti, and Tibet.
- Best Time to Visit: Both winters and summers
- Highlight: Breathtaking valley views and ancient monasteries
- Key Towns: Keylong, Udaipur, Jispa
- Unique Feature: Accessible year-round unlike many Spiti locations
Chitkul - India's Last Village
Chitkul village, famously known as the final village of India, can be found at an impressive altitude of 11,318 feet. Nestled right on the border of the Indo-Tibetan road, this charming village offers tourists the unique opportunity to visit the border gate.
Not only is Chitkul a captivating destination in Himachal Pradesh, but it also holds a special place among the most enchanting spots in all of India. With majestic snow-capped mountains, the mesmerizing sapphire blue Baspa River, abundant lush forests, and warm-hearted locals, Chitkul undoubtedly earns its reputation as one of the happiest places on earth.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Highlight: Last village point in India where you can travel without permit
- Altitude: 11,318 feet
- River: Baspa River
Conclusion
Spiti Valley is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular destinations in the Indian Himalayas, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, spiritual experiences, and adventure. From the world’s highest post office in Hikkim to the ancient mummy at Gue Monastery, from the fossil-rich Langza to the serene Chandrataal Lake, every corner of Spiti has a unique story to tell.
Planning your trip between May and October ensures the best weather conditions and accessibility to most locations. However, remember that Spiti demands respect, its high altitude, challenging roads, and remote location require proper preparation, acclimatization, and a spirit of adventure. The journey to these best places to visit in Spiti Valley may be demanding, but the rewards are truly priceless.
Read here about: What is the Best time to visit Spiti valley.
FAQ's
The best time to visit Spiti Valley is from May to October when the roads are clear and most areas are accessible. June to September is ideal for first-time visitors as the weather is relatively mild and all tourist facilities are operational. Winter visits (November to April) are possible but extremely challenging due to heavy snowfall and road closures.
Ideally, you should plan for 7-10 days to explore the major attractions in Spiti Valley comfortably. This allows time for acclimatization, visiting key monasteries, lakes, and villages, and accounting for travel time on challenging mountain roads. If you want to explore more remote areas like Pin Valley or do trekking, plan for 12-15 days.
No permit is required for Indian nationals to visit most areas of Spiti Valley. However, an Inner Line Permit is required for certain areas near the Indo-Tibetan border, such as Nako, Gue, and some parts of Kinnaur. Foreign nationals require a Protected Area Permit, which can be obtained from the District Magistrate’s office in Kaza or Shimla.
Spiti Valley offers various accommodation options ranging from budget homestays (INR 500-1,500 per night) to comfortable guesthouses and hotels (INR 2,000-5,000 per night). In main towns like Kaza, you’ll find better facilities, while remote villages offer basic but authentic homestay experiences. Camping is also popular near Chandrataal Lake and other scenic locations.
Yes, Spiti Valley is generally very safe for solo travelers and families. The local population is extremely friendly and helpful. However, the challenging terrain, high altitude, and remote location require proper preparation. Solo travelers should inform someone about their itinerary, and families with young children or elderly members should consult doctors about altitude sickness before traveling.
Essential items include warm clothing (layers), sturdy trekking shoes, sunscreen (high SPF), sunglasses, a hat, basic medicines (including for altitude sickness), a torch/flashlight, power bank, dry snacks, water bottles, and personal toiletries. Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly at night, so warm jackets and thermals are necessary.
Spiti Valley can be reached via two main routes:
- Manali Route: Manali → Rohtang Pass → Kunzum Pass → Kaza (200 km, 8-9 hours). Open from May/June to October.
- Shimla Route: Shimla → Kinnaur → Nako → Tabo → Kaza (420 km, 12-14 hours). Open almost year-round.
You can travel by bus (HRTC operates services), taxi, or self-drive. The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali Airport), approximately 250 km from Kaza.
