Spiti Winter Saga
Himachal Pradesh
Spiti Valley is a cold desert mountain valley located high in the Himalayas in the north-easternpart of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The name "Spiti" means "The middle land",i.e. the land between Tibet and India. Spiti valley is famous for its natural beauty and culturalheritage. Tabo monastery is one of the most prominent att ractions in Spiti. The monasteries inSpiti are renowned for spectacular murals, ancient temples, and several stupas.
Natural Wonders
1. Snow-covered landscapes
2. Frozen lakes and rivers
3. Majestic Himalayan peaks
4. Stunning sunrises and sunsets
5. Star-studded night skies
Cultural Experiences
1. Explore ancient monasteries (Key, Dhankar, Tabo)
2. Visit traditional villages (Komic, Hikkim, Langza)
3. Interact with locals and learn about their lifestyle
4. Attend prayer ceremonies at monasteries
5. Taste local cuisine (momos, thukpa, tsampa)
Adventure Activities
1. Trekking (snow trekking, village treks)
2. Snowmobiling
3. Ice skating
4. Skiing (optional)
5. Camping in the snow
Scenic Drives
1. Kunzum Pass (15,060 ft)
2. Chicham Bridge (Asia's highest suspension bridge)
3. Kaza-Langza-Komik-Hikkim circuit
4. Drive through the Spiti River valley
5. Scenic views of the Himalayas
Unique Experiences
1. Visit the world's highest post office (Hikkim)
2. See the 1,000-year-old Buddha statue (Langza)
3. Explore the ancient cave temples (Tabo)
4. Attend a traditional Buddhist festival (if scheduled)
5. Relax in natural hot springs
Challenge and Fun
1. Drive on icy roads
2. Trek in snowshoes
3. Camp in sub-zero temperatures
4. Enjoy bonfires under starry skies
5. Make new friends and create lifelong memories
Best Time to Visit
December to February (winter season)
The Winter Spiti Valley expedition is ideal for:
Adventure Seekers
1. Trekking enthusiasts
2. Landscape photographers
3. Nature lovers
4. Thrill-seekers (e.g., snowmobiling, ice skating)
Travel Enthusiasts
1. Backpackers
2. Solo travelers
3. Couples seeking romantic getaways
4. Friends looking for group adventures
Culture Enthusiasts
1. Those interested in Buddhist culture
2. History buffs (monasteries, ancient villages)
3. Foodies (local cuisine, traditional cooking)
Fitness Levels
1. Moderate to high fitness level (trekking, walking)
2. Ability to adapt to high altitudes (up to 15,000 ft)
3. Comfortable with cold temperatures (-20°C to 0°C)
Age Groups
1. 18-45 years (ideal)
2. 45+ years (with good physical health)
Professionals
1. Photographers (landscape, portrait, wildlife)
2. Writers (travel, adventure, cultural)
3. Filmmakers (documentary, travel)
Others
1. Those seeking solitude and tranquility
2. Nature therapy enthusiasts
3. Spiritual seekers (meditation, yoga)
Pre-Requisites
1. Physical fitness
2. Mental preparedness for remote, rugged terrain
3. Flexibility with changing weather conditions
4. Respect for local culture and environment
Not Recommended For
1. Children below 12 years
2. People with severe medical conditions
3. Pregnant women
4. Those with altitude sickness concerns
- Assemble at the boarding point at around 9:00 PM.
- Meet you team captain and co-travelers.
- After group induction and briefing session, start an overnight journey from Delhi to Shimla.
Morning
- 7:00 AM: Depart from Shimla
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast break at Narkanda
Drive to Chitkul/Sangla
- 10:00 AM: Drive through scenic routes via Kufri, Theog, and Jeori
- 1:00 PM: Lunch break at Jeori or Tapri
- 3:00 PM: Cross the Baspa River and enter the Sangla Valley
Evening
- 5:00 PM: Arrive in Chitkul/Sangla
- Check-in to hotel
- Freshen up
- 7:00 PM: Explore the scenic valley, visit the Baspa River
- 8:00 PM: Dinner
- Overnight stay in Chitkul/Sangla
Activities
- Scenic drive through Kufri, Theog, and Jeori
- Visit the Baspa River
- Explore the Sangla Valley
- Trek to Chitkul village (optional)
Morning
- 7:00 AM: Depart from Chitkul/Sangla
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast break at Sangla
Drive to Nako
- 10:00 AM: Drive through scenic routes via Powari, Spello, and Kalpa
- 1:00 PM: Lunch break at Kalpa
- 3:00 PM: Cross the Sutlej River and enter the Kinnaur Valley
Evening
- 5:00 PM: Arrive in Nako
- Check-in to hotel
- Freshen up
- 6:30 PM: Explore Nako village, visit Nako Lake
- 8:00 PM: Dinner
- Overnight stay in Nako
Activities
- Scenic drive through Powari, Spello, and Kalpa
- Visit Nako Lake
- Explore Nako village
- Trek to nearby villages (optional)
Tips
- Carry warm clothing for chilly evenings
- Enjoy local cuisine and drinks
- Respect local culture and traditions
- Get enough rest for the next day's journey
Points of Interest:
- Nako Lake
- Nako Village
- Kinnaur Valley
- Sutlej River
Morning
- 7:00 AM: Depart from Nako
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast break at Nako
Drive to Kaza
- 10:00 AM: Drive through scenic routes via Hangrang Valley and Attargo Bridge
- 1:00 PM: Lunch break at Lossar or Yangthang
- 3:00 PM: Cross the Spiti River and enter Kaza town
Evening
- 5:00 PM: Arrive in Kaza
- Check-in to hotel
- Freshen up
- 6:30 PM: Explore Kaza market, visit Key Monastery (optional)
- 8:00 PM: Dinner
- Overnight stay in Kaza
Activities
- Scenic drive through Hangrang Valley
- Visit Key Monastery (optional)
- Explore Kaza market
- Trek to nearby villages (optional)
Altitude
- Nako: 3,600 meters (11,800 ft)
- Kaza: 3,800 meters (12,467 ft)
Points of Interest:
- Key Monastery
- Kaza market
- Spiti River
- Hangrang Valley
Morning
- 8:00 AM: Depart from Kaza
- 9:00 AM: Visit Langza Village (16 km, 30-40 minutes)
Langza Village
- 10:000 AM: Explore Langza Village
- Visit the 1,000-year-old Buddha statue
- Enjoy scenic views of the valley
Komik Village
- 12:00 PM: Drive to Komik Village (6 km, 15-20 minutes)
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at Komik Village
- Visit Komik Monastery
Hikkim Village
- 3:00 PM: Drive to Hikkim Village (4 km, 10-15 minutes)
- Visit the world's highest post office (4,400 meters/14,436 ft)
- Send postcards from the highest post office
Evening
- 6:00 PM: Return to Kaza
- 7:30 PM: Dinner
- Overnight stay in Kaza
Activities
- Visit Langza Village and Buddha statue
- Explore Komik Village and Monastery
- Visit Hikkim Village and highest post office
- Send postcards from the highest post office
Altitude
- Kaza: 3,800 meters (12,467 ft)
- Langza: 4,200 meters (13,780 ft)
- Komik: 4,250 meters (13,940 ft)
- Hikkim: 4,400 meters (14,436 ft)
Points of Interest:
- Langza Village
- Komik Village
- Hikkim Village
- World's highest post office
Morning
- 8:00 AM: Depart from Kaza
- 9:00 AM: Visit Key Monastery (7 km, 15-20 minutes)
Key Monastery
- 10:00 AM: Explore Key Monastery
- One of the oldest and largest monasteries in Spiti
- Stunning views of the Spiti Valley
Kibber Village
- 12:00 PM: Drive to Kibber Village (18 km, 30-40 minutes)
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at Kibber Village
- Explore Kibber Village, wildlife sanctuary
Chicham Village
- 3:00 PM: Drive to Chicham Village (10 km, 20-30 minutes)
- 4:00 PM: Explore Chicham Village
- Visit the Chicham Bridge, highest bridge in Asia
Evening
- 6:30 PM: Return to Kaza
- 7:30 PM: Dinner
- Overnight stay in Kaza
Activities
- Visit Key Monastery
- Explore Kibber Village and wildlife sanctuary
- Visit Chicham Village and highest bridge in Asia
Altitude
- Kaza: 3,800 meters (12,467 ft)
- Key: 4,100 meters (13,450 ft)
- Kibber: 4,200 meters (13,780 ft)
- Chicham: 4,000 meters (13,124 ft)
Points of Interest:
- Key Monastery
- Kibber Village
- Chicham Village
- Chicham Bridge (Highest Bridge in Asia)
Morning
- 7:00 AM: Depart from Kaza.
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast break at Losar.
Drive to Kalpa
- 10:00 AM: Drive through scenic routes via Sumdo, Spello, and Powari.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch break at Powari.
- 3:00 PM: Cross the Sutlej River and enter the Kinnaur Valley.
Evening
- 5:00 PM: Arrive in Kalpa.
- Check-in to hotel.
- Freshen up.
- 6:30 PM: Explore Kalpa village, visit the Kalpa Monastery.
- 8:00 PM: Dinner.
- Overnight stay in Kalpa.
Activities
- Scenic drive through Sumdo, Spello, and Powari.
- Visit Kalpa Monastery.
- Explore Kalpa village.
- Trek to nearby villages (optional).
Altitude
- Kaza: 3,800 meters (12,467 ft).
- Kalpa: 2,770 meters (9,088 ft).
Points of Interest:
- Kalpa Monastery.
- Kalpa Village.
- Sutlej River.
- Kinnaur Valley.
Morning
- 7:00 AM: Depart from Kalpa
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast break at Powari
Drive to Shimla
- 10:00 AM: Drive through scenic routes via Kinnaur Valley and NH22
- 1:00 PM: Lunch break at Rampur Bushahr
- 4:00 PM: Arrive in Shimla
Evening
- 5:00 PM: Explore Shimla's Mall Road, Ridge, and Christ Church
- 7:30 PM: Dinner
- 9:00 PM: Depart for Delhi
Overnight Journey
- Travel Distance: 340 km (211 miles)
- Travel Time: 7-8 hours (overnight)
- Mode of Transport: AC Volvo/Tempo Traveller
Arrival in Delhi next Morning
Morning
- 5:00 AM: Arrive in Delhi
- Tour concludes
Activities
- Explore Shimla's Mall Road, Ridge, and Christ Church
- Scenic drive through Kinnaur Valley and NH22.
1. Transportation:
- Delhi to Shimla and back: Volvo Bus
- Rest of the journey: Tempo Traveller/SUV
2. Accommodation:
- Twin/Triple sharing basis in Camps / Hotels
- 1 night at Chitkul
- 1 night at Kalpa
- 1 night at Tabo
- 2 nights at Kaza
- 1 night at Sarahan
3. Meals:
- 12 meals (Dinner on Day 1 to Breakfast on Day 7)
4. Services:
- Experienced and friendly trip leader.
- 24/7 onboard assistance.
- Reliable and experienced local drivers.
- Local support in case of emergency.
- Oxygen Cylinder and Medical kit.
5. Inclusions:
- Driver allowances.
- Toll taxes.
- Parking.
- State taxes.
6. Local Support:
- Local team available in Kinnaur and Kaza.
1. Lunch and snacks (except for 12 included meals)
2. Personal expenses:
- Shopping
- Laundry
- Tips
3. Additional activities:
- Rafting
- Trekking
4. Travel insurance
5. Entry fees:
- Monasteries
- Museums
6. Camera Fees
7. Optional Tours
8. Expenses due to:
- Natural calamities
- Roadblocks
9. Medical expenses (except for oxygen cylinder and medical kit)
Important Notes:
1. Package price does not include additional nights or meals due to unforeseen circumstances.
2. Package price is based on current taxes and rates; changes will be applicable.
3. Disputes or claims subject to local court jurisdiction.
Clothing
- Trousers/Trek Pants: 2-3 pairs for comfort and breathability.
- Warm Layers: Thermal inners, fleece, hoodies, light sweaters, and a good winter jacket.
- Footwear: Flip-flops, sandals, normal shoes, sports shoes, and waterproof hiking shoes.
- Accessories: Woolen socks, gloves, and cap.
Toiletries
- Personal Care: Sanitizer, soap, body wash, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, sunscreen, and moisturizer.
- Menstrual Hygiene Products: For women.
Essentials
- Government ID: Original and photocopies.
- Travel Documents: Travel itinerary, air tickets, and credit/debit card copies.
- Cash: Due to limited online payment options.
- Power Bank: For uninterrupted device usage.
- Water Bottle: Refillable and eco-friendly.
- Day Pack: 10-liter capacity for exploration.
- Sunglasses: For sun protection.
Medicines
- First Aid Kit: Basic supplies for minor injuries.
- Personal Medications: Consult your doctor before traveling.
- AMS Medications: For altitude sickness prevention.
Miscellaneous
- Raincoat: In case of unexpected rain.
- Gumboots: For water crossings.
- Gloves: For winter protection.
Remember to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Enjoy your Spiti adventure!
By Train
- Nearest railway station: New Delhi Station.
- From New Delhi Station, hire a cab to Majnu Ka Tila.
- Trip to Manali begins from Majnu Ka Tila.
By Road
- Hire a cab or drive to Majnu Ka Tila.
- Our team will pick you up from Majnu Ka Tila for the journey ahead.
By Air
- From Indira Gandhi Delhi International Airport, hire a cab to Majnu Ka Tila.
- Trip to Manali begins from Majnu Ka Tila.
Important Notes:
- Report at Majnu Ka Tila at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
- Verify pickup point and timings with our team.
- Plan your travel to Majnu Ka Tila accordingly.
Hotel Policies
Identity Proof
- Required for all guests (single/double/triple occupancy)
- Foreign nationals: Valid passport and visa
- Indian nationals: Government-issued photo ID (driving license, passport, Aadhar card, voter's ID card)
- PAN Card not accepted
- Corporate booking: Proof of corporate affiliation required
Smoking Policy
- No smoking allowed in campsites except designated areas (as per Government regulations)
Payment Policy
- 30% payment at confirmation
- Balance payment upon boarding
- Room/rate confirmation subject to availability and advance deposit
Check-in/Check-out Policy
- Check-in: 2 PM
- Check-out: 11 AM
- Early/late Check-In/Check-out: Subject to availability, nominal additional charge
Mandatory Documents
- WAIVER OF LIABILITY, RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT form must be signed by each guest before trip commencement.
Behavioural Policy
- TravelMite reserves the right to terminate tour if guest behaviour causes distress/harm
- No refund in such cases
- Guests responsible for belongings; TravelMite/third party not liable for loss/damage
General Terms
1. Booking amount is non-refundable.
2. No cancellations will be accepted over phone or WhatsApp; only through email reply to the confirmation email.
Cancellation Scenarios
1. No-show: Complete booking amount will be non-refundable.
2. Early check-out: No refund will be provided.
Force Majeure Clauses
1. Government orders
2. Harsh weather conditions
3. Protests
4. Landslides
5. Unforeseen circumstances
In such cases:
- No refund will be provided.
- Backup plans will be implemented whenever possible.
- Some activities may be cancelled due to circumstances beyond control.
Trek-Specific Cancellation Policy
1. Last-minute cancellation due to natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances:
- Travel voucher for the same amount, redeemable within 365 days (subject to availability).
2. Mid-trek cancellation due to natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances:
- No refund will be provided.
Liability
Travelmite will not bear expenses due to:
- Natural calamities
- Unforeseen circumstances
- Events beyond control
Note: Please review and understand this policy before making a booking.
Spiti Valley is a cold desert mountain valley nestled in the midst of Himalayas. Surrounded by majestic mountains, it is located in the north-eastern region of Himachal Pradesh.
1) Chitkul: The final Indian village in the nation with the purest air. Literally, this little hamlet is a breath of fresh air.
2) Kalpa: One of the locations you just can't miss when on a journey to the Spiti valley is Kalpa, which has a spectacular view of the Kinner Kailash peaks, apple orchards, tranquillity, and the suicide point that makes your heart beat faster.
3) Khab: The Reo Purgyil forms the backdrop of this panorama that resembles a dream as the Spiti and Sutlej rivers merge to form a commune in the middle of Khab.
4) Nako: A charming village, Nako is the epitome of calm with the tranquil Nako Lake and Nako monastery.
5) Pin Valley: A haven for environment lovers, Pin Valley is renowned for its wildlife reserve, varied flora and fauna, and beautiful green woods.
6) Kaza: The commercial hub of Spiti, Kaza is the bridge that connects Spiti to its surrounding valleys and provides a view of the region's unique blend of ancient and modern traditions.
7) Langza: Known as the town of the Gods, Langza is well-known for its profusion of fossils. The 1000-year-old Buddha statue that watches over the community as its vigilant protector is the major draw.
8) Komic: The Spiti Valley is home to the highest settlement in the world. It is a small, isolated hamlet with lots of peace and a sparse population.
9) Kibber: A little settlement that is home to humans yet where you can still see the endangered snow leopard. It serves as a lovely lookout that provides a breathtaking view of the valley.
10) The Monasteries: Spiti is home to many charming villages, but what makes it stand out are the ancient monasteries that house thangka paintings, murals, and Buddha relics. In the Spiti Valley, some of the most well-known monasteries are:
Monastery Tabo, Kungri Monastery, Gue Monastery, Nako Monastery, Sakya Tangyud Monastery, Dhankar Monastery.
Depending on the kind of landscapes you like. The best time to visit Spiti Valley would be between the months of December to April if you love snow and want to take in all the beauty of this winter wonderland.The best season to visit Spiti Valley is from June to November if you don't mind the cold and just want to relax in the sun.The Spiti valley experiences little change from the monsoon's arrival, and the climate is very pleasant. The pristine Chandratal lake, which is inaccessible in the winter because it is frozen, is also accessible during these months.
if you want to enjoy the beauty of the place, you will need a minimum of 7 days. Anything less would be an injustice to Spiti Valley’s beauty. You can spend more time in Spiti Valley if you have extra days.
Yes, Spiti valley is completely safe to travel, just make sure you visit in the right months i.e during the months of May to September. The roads are a bit dangerous and are one of the toughest adventure roads to drive on. There are a lot of sections of the road where there’s gravel, making it difficult to drive, but it is always recommended to take an experienced driver with you. Rest, the place is very safe and the locals are very warm and welcoming to tourists.
The Spiti Valley is renowned for its scenic landscapes and rich cultural history. One of Spiti's most well-known sights is Tabo Monastery. Spiti's monasteries are well-known for their magnificent murals, historic temples, and numerous stupas.
Spiti valley preparation involves thoughtful planning ahead of time rather than simply packing a bag and going. The northeastern region of India is covered in snow-capped mountains, thus carrying the appropriate wool gear is necessary for high-altitude climbs. You might need to wear lightweight layers (woollen and cotton clothing) during the day and add thermals or thick coats at night. Depending on the season you choose to visit Spiti, you may need to bring regular jeans, thick pants, a pair of socks, a cap, a scarf, hiking boots, sunglasses, full-sleeved shirts, sweatshirts, gloves, mufflers, and fleece jackets.Torch, medications, sunscreen, lip balm, sanitizers, hygiene, camera equipment, chargers, and power banks are additional essentials. As you go, mobile connectivity will probably be poor.
Weather in Spiti is very pleasant from April-October, with the May-June temperatures around 15-20 degrees amke it a good time to visit Spiti. In winters the temperature falls as low as minus 20 degrees celcius.
The Trans Himalayas surround the whole Spiti region, making it challenging to install ATMs. Even though there are ATMs, getting cash and replenishing the ATMs with cash might be difficult, especially during the winter when roads from the Manali side are closed. Having said that, it should be noted that the State Bank of India has an ATM in Kaza, the district centre for the Spiti region.
Located at well over 3,000 m altitude high up in the mountains, Spiti welcomes travellers to its postcard-perfect hamlets, surreal landscapes, plentiful trekking trails, ancient monasteries and scenic lakes.
The oxygen is indeed very thin in Spiti Valley but if you remember to keep yourself hydrated with small sips of water, it should not bother you.
Kaza, also spelled Kaze, Karze, Karzey, is a town and the subdivisional headquarters of the remote Spiti Valley in the western Himalayas in the Lahaul and Spiti district of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.
15000ft high, Kunzum Pass is the highest motorable point on the Manali to Spiti to Shimla or reverse route.
Spiti valley trekking is 55 km long, and it will take you at least 5 days to cover the entirety of it. As far as difficulty level is concerned, the trail is easy to moderate and can be done easily with a little bit of training.
An altitude as high as the Spiti Valley ensures almost zero light and sound pollution for an unreal viewing experience. Apart from simply stargazing one can also spot the Milky Way and if you're lucky, a couple of shooting stars too.
Our rooms are on double, triple, and quad sharing basis. (Offers are subject to availability.)
Yes, If you want us to design a customized itinerary for you and your family/friends, reach out to us at info@travelmite.com or Call us at 8010000205.
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