Summer Spiti

Places to Visit in Spiti Valley Circuit Trip with Manali

Embarking on a Spiti Valley Circuit Trip is a fantastic way to experience the breathtaking landscapes and unique culture of the Indian Himalayas. Here are some must visit places, We recommend you to explore:-

• Shimla- The capital city of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is known for its colonial architecture, including the Viceregal Lodge and Christ Church. The bustling Mall Road and the Ridge are popular spots for shopping, dining and enjoying the Hill station’s vibrant atmosphere.
• Chitkul- The last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border, Chitkul offers pristine landscapes, wooden houses, fields of peas and potatoes. This village is a perfect spot for trekking, picnicking and experiencing the tranquility of nature.
• Sangla Valley- Also known as Baspa Valley, Sangla is famous for its scenic beauty, apple orchards and the Baspa River that flows through it. Kamru Fort, an ancient fort with a temple dedicated to Kamakhya Devi, adds historical significance.
• Khab Sangam- The picturesque spot marks the significance of the Spiti and Sutlej rivers, set against a backdrop of towering mountains. Located near the village of Khab, it offers a dramatic and scenic view making it a popular spot for travelers exploring the Spiti Valley. The merging of the two rivers symbolizes the unity of the barren, rugged terrain of Spiti with the lush, green landscapes of Kinnaur.
• Gue Monastery- Famous for housing the well-preserved 500-year-old mummy of Sangha Tenzin, a monk, this monastery offers a unique and slightly eerie experience. The mummy is a testament to the region’s rich spiritual history and practices.
• Nako Village and Lake- Nako is a picturesque village at an altitude of 3,662 meters, known for its serene lake surrounded by willow and poplar trees. The village offers ancient monasteries and rock-cut caves, adding to its spiritual and historic charm.
• Tabo Monastery- Established in 996 AD, Tabo Monastery is renowned for its ancient murals, statues, and intricate stucco images. Often called the ‘Ajanta of the Himalayas,’ it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate and a center of Buddhist learning.
• Dhankar Monastery and Lake- Perched on a cliff overlooking the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers, Dhankar Monastery is an architectural wonder. A short trek from the monastery leads to Dhankar Lake, offering tranquility and stunning views.
• Kaza- As the administrative center of Spiti Valley, Kaza offers various accommodations, eateries, and serves as a base for exploring the surrounding region. The town, set against a backdrop of barren mountains, provides essential services and a taste of local Spitian culture.
• Kibber Village- Situated at 4,270 meters, Kibber is one of the highest inhabited villages in the world. It is known for its unique architecture, wildlife sanctuary, and serves as a starting point for several treks.
• Chicham Bridge- The highest bridge in Asia, Chicham Bridge connects the villages of Kibber and Chicham over a deep gorge. The bridge offers breathtaking views and is an engineering marvel in this remote region.
• Langza Village- Nestled at an altitude of around 4,400 meters, Langza is known for its giant Buddha statue overlooking the valley. It offers spectacular views of the snow-capped Chau Chau Kang Nilda peak and is famous for its rich fossil reserves, making it a paradise for fossil hunters.
• Komic Village- One of the highest motorable villages in the world at approximately 4,587 meters, Komic is home to the ancient Tangyud Monastery. The village offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Spitian people.
• Hikkim Village- Situated at around 4,400 meters, Hikkim is famous for having the world’s highest post office. This tiny, remote village allows visitors to send postcards from an extraordinary altitude, offering a unique travel experience and a connection to the outside world from one of the highest inhabited places on Earth.
• Chandratal- Known as the “Moon Lake,” Chandratal is a crescent-shaped high-altitude lake situated at 4,300 meters in the Spiti Valley. Its crystal-clear blue waters and stunning surroundings make it a popular trekking destination and a perfect spot for camping under the stars.
• Manali- A bustling hill station in Himachal Pradesh, Manali is famous for its scenic beauty, adventure sports, and vibrant culture. Nestled in the Kullu Valley, it offers attractions like the Solang Valley, Hadimba Temple, and hot springs at Vashisht, making it a favorite destination for tourists year-round.
• Atal Tunnel- Atal Tunnel is the world’s longest highway tunnel, named after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. This tunnel reduces the distance between Manali and Leh by 46 km.
• Kunzum Pass- Kunzum Pass is one of the highest motorable passes in India. Situated at a height of around 4600 meters above sea level, It serves as the gateway of the mesmerizing Spiti Valley. On your way to the pass, you will get a chance to navigate through the winding roads amidst breathtaking himalayan peaks, A destination every traveler should visit.
• Solang Valley- Solang Valley is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh, this valley offers numerous adventure sports such as Paragliding, zorbing, horse riding, photography and Skiing in winters.

Things to do in Spiti Valley Circuit Trip with Manali

• Stargazing in Spiti Valley- The high altitude and minimal light pollution make Spiti Valley ideal for observing the Milky Way and shooting stars. Top spots include Chandratal Lake, Kibber, and Langza, offering clear, dark skies perfect for night sky enthusiasts. Visit from May to October for the best conditions, avoiding full moon nights for the darkest skies.
• Learn About the Ancient Monasteries- Ancient monasteries like Key Monastery in Spiti Valley, Tabo Monastery, and Dhankar Monastery date back over a thousand years, housing exquisite murals, scriptures, and statues. They serve as spiritual sanctuaries and cultural landmarks, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan landscape and preserving the rich heritage of Tibetan Buddhism in the region.
• Visit the World’s Highest Motorable Village- Visit Komic village in Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, known as one of the world’s highest inhabited villages, situated at an altitude of around 4,587 meters. Experience the unique lifestyle of the local people, explore the ancient Tangyud Monastery, and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains.
• Adventure Activities in Spiti Valley- In Spiti Valley, adventurers can embark on thrilling treks like the Pin Parvati Trek or Kanamo Peak Trek, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and high-altitude lakes. Camping near Chandratal Lake or Langza Village allows for serene nights under the stars amidst pristine landscapes. Rock climbing and rappelling adventures near monasteries like Key and Dhankar provide challenges amidst stunning vistas. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot rare species like the snow leopard and Himalayan Ibex in Pin Valley National Park and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Send a postcard to your loved ones from Hikkim- In Hikkim, visitors can utilize the world’s highest post office to send postcards, nestled amid the Himalayan peaks. This unique experience allows travelers to share the beauty and adventure of Spiti Valley with loved ones, capturing moments of serenity and awe. Each postcard becomes a tangible connection, bridging distances and sharing the essence of the journey with recipients afar.
• Collect Fossils From Langza Village- Ascend on a unique adventure to Langza Village, nestled in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh where you can uncover ancient marine fossils dating back millions of years.
• Eat at Hindustan ka Akhri Dhaba- Experience, authentic local cuisine at Hindustan ka Akhri Dhaba, India’s last eatery set against the breathtaking backdrop of Spiti Valley near the India-Tibet border. Enjoy delicious dishes and stunning himalayan views in this remote and iconic spot.
• Cafe Hopping in Old Manali- Indulge in a delightful cafe-hopping experience in Old Manali, where charming cafes line the streets, offering everything from aromatic coffee to delectable international cuisine. Enjoy the cozy, bohemian atmosphere, live music, and stunning mountain views as you explore the eclectic array of cafes in this vibrant Himalayan village.
• Shopping at Kaza Market- Explore the vibrant Kaza Market in Spiti Valley, where you can shop for unique handicrafts, traditional jewelry, and local souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and discover the rich culture and craftsmanship of this Himalayan region.
• Try Tibetan Delicacies in Spiti Valley- Savor authentic Tibetan delicacies in Spiti Valley, where local eateries offer traditional dishes like momos, thukpa, and butter tea. Enjoy the rich flavors and cultural experience of Tibetan cuisine amidst the stunning Himalayan landscape.

Best Time to Visit Spiti Valley Circuit Trip with Manali

• Spring- In spring, from March to May, Spiti Valley blooms with the promise of a new season, offering pleasant weather and clear skies. This period is perfect for witnessing the valley come to life, with flowers blooming and wildlife emerging from hibernation. The roads from Manali to Spiti gradually open up during this time, allowing travelers to embark on their circuit trip with ease and enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings.
• Summer- Summer, from June to September, is the peak tourist season in Spiti Valley, attracting travelers from around the world. The weather is warm and conducive to outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and exploring ancient monasteries. During these months, all roads to Spiti Valley, including the infamous Rohtang Pass, are open, providing unrestricted access to the region’s wonders.
• Autumn- Autumn, from September to November, brings a unique charm to Spiti Valley as the landscape transforms into a canvas of golden hues. The weather starts to cool down, offering relief from the summer heat, while the changing colors of the foliage add a dramatic flair to the scenery. This is an excellent time for photography enthusiasts to capture the valley’s beauty in its entirety.
• Winter- Winter, from December to February, envelops Spiti Valley in a blanket of snow, transforming it into a winter wonderland and disrupts the route from Kaza to Manali. While the valley receives fewer visitors during this time due to harsh weather conditions and road closures, it offers a serene and surreal experience for adventurous souls. Travelers can witness the valley’s raw beauty in solitude, with opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding adding an extra thrill to their Spiti Valley circuit trip.

FAQs About Spiti Valley Circuit Trip with Manali

1. How to plan a Spiti Valley trip With Manali?

Plan your trip during summer, choose transportation, obtain permits, plan itinerary, and pack essentials.

2. Which pass connects Manali to Spiti Valley?

Atal Tunnel connects Manali to Spiti Valley.

3. How to reach Spiti valley from Delhi?

Take a bus or drive from Delhi to Manali, then proceed to Spiti Valley via Atal Tunnel.

4. What should I pack for the Spiti Valley trip?

Pack warm layers, rain gear, sturdy footwear, and sun protection for Spiti Valley’s varied weather and high altitude conditions. Also, carry medications, reusable water bottles, snacks, camera gear, maps, personal items, cash, documents, and entertainment for a comfortable and prepared journey.

5. What type of vehicle is suitable for this trip?

Choose a sturdy SUV or 4×4 vehicle capable of handling rugged mountain roads and high-altitude passes like Rohtang and Kunzum for the Spiti Valley trip.