“A world within a world”.
Spiti has defined as above by novelist Rudyard Kipling in his celebrated novel Kim. It is magical, the land filled with peace and joy. Cold deserted, ice-capped mountains, picturesque river, beautiful lakes, green lush fields, peaceful monasteries, and the infinite panoramic beauty of serene valleys surely inspire the wanderlust in you. It is located in Lahaul and Spiti district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The word Spiti translates as middle land. It is geographically a land between the countries Tibet and India. Due to the Tibetan culture, the Buddhist mantra ‘om mani padme hun’ can see and listen everywhere here which soothes your mind and soul.
Spiti is not just a place, but it constitutes of several small beautiful villages with happy people around. It has a population around 32000 and Kaza is the administrative area with an altitude of 11980 feet. Because of high altitude, you can witness the world’s highest post office, petrol bunk, hotel, and monasteries, etc here.Yeah.you read it right. Kibber is the world’s highest village with a motorable road. Komic considered Asia’s highest village having an altitude of 15027 feet. Langza village located at an altitude of 14500ft which having a huge statue of Lord Budha looking over the valley. Hikkim got the world’s highest post office. Tabo, Dhankar, Lhalung, Demul, and Giu are the other charming and beautiful villages to explore and wander here.
Spiti is famous for its monasteries, occupied by Buddhist monks living under religious vows and offering prayers. Each monastery makes you feel spiritual and offer you a divine vibe when you get there. You have the option to stay with them for two-three days without getting connected with the outer busy world(They won’t let you use your phone.Inner peace 🙂 ). The key monastery is known as little Tibet, Tabo the oldest one, Komic is in highest altitude, Dhankar Kibber, etc are the famous monasteries you can go for a visit and stay in Spiti.
The place wouldn’t be beautiful without the Spiti river which nurtures the beautiful valley of Spiti and Lahaul. Lakes here are the other major attractions apart from the villages. Chandra Tal, Dahnkar, and Suraj thal lakes here, surrounded with ice-capped mountains, filled with crystal clear water literally makes you wow and pitch a tent there.
When to visit?
Spiti is not like other destinations to plan casually. Reaching here is a bit task and adventurous. It is more accessible on summers. June to September is the best time. From October it may close at any time due to heavy snowfall. Landfall or heavy river flows on the route make you stuck in the middle of the way sometimes. You may need to take shelter in nearby villages. Don’t worry, People here are helpful and most welcoming. Always enquire about your path before you head the valley from Manali or Shimla to reach safely.
How to get there?
Kullu airport at Bhuntar is the nearest airport from Spiti. It takes around 5 to 6 hours to reach the valley from there. You can rent a taxi or cab to reach the destination. Due to limited operation at Kullu, Chandigarh is the other nearest Airport from there which is around 510 km. From Chandigarh, you can head to Shimla or Manali then Spiti.
Joginder Nagar Station and Shimla station are the nearby railway station which both located around 400 to 500 km from Spiti. Chandigarh station also a good option if you are not getting direct trains to Shimla or Joginder Nagar. You can rent a cab or board a bus from there to Manali or Shimla then to Spiti.
There are two routes to reach the valley by road. One from Manali to Kaza through Rohtang pass and Kunzum pass. This route mostly closed during winter. The other route is from Shimla to Kaza via Kinnaur. You can rent a taxi, shared cabs, or board Himachal transportation bus which runs a daily basis. Renting bikes also available from Shimla and Manali. Route from Shimla is lengthy but safe than Manali during winters. There are many trails that are happening from Parvati valley and Manali to Spiti if you are fond of trekking. You can connect to travel agencies for those who conduct this. It takes around 3-5 days to reach Spiti from these destinations according to your Itenary.
Spiti is cold even in summer days. Feeling altitude sickness is somewhat common for people who visit these places. Keep proper and thorough itinerary before you head to this awesome adventure.
Happy Exploring !!