Introduction
Situated in the heart of the Himachal Pradesh. Spiti valley is a mountainous paradise, located in the area of the stunning cold desert of Ladakh. The hair-pin roads that are decorated on the hillside provide breathtaking. Views of snow capped mountains and a largely untouched place. Spiti valley is surrounded on both sides by the Himalayan mountains. Spiti shares borders with Ladakh in the North-West and Tibet in the East.
The word ‘Spiti’ means The Middle Land, as Spiti was the place that previously separated India. From the former country of Tibet.
Location
This spectacular cold desert is located in Himachal Pradesh. And is beautifully decorated with lush green pine forests and flowery green meadows. Rudyard Kipling, in his novels, has described Spiti as “a place where gods live”, which is true to this day. Spiti is a true paradise.
In the last decade, tourism of this place has boomed thanks to the stunning scapes. Scenic lakes and the harsh cold desert environment that makes this place a heavenly getaway.
Also known as ‘Little Tibet’ due to the influence of Buddhist culture. Spiti has many monasteries that decorate its scenery as well as its culture. Religion has always played a major role in shaping this area. Evidence of Buddhist faith can be seen here, with Tibetian prayer flags fluttering in the cool breeze all year round.
River Rafting in the rivers of Spiti and Pin is one of the very thrilling things that is offered by. Spiti Tourism and guests can do in this place. It costs the low fee of Rs. 500 – 1500, and covers scenic rivers and snow draped mountains.
Other best spots for visit
Pin Valley National Park is located near the Spiti and provides a typical. And natural habitat to a lot of endangered animal species. The fauna include the unspottable snow leopard, the rare Siberian Ibex, Tibetan gazelle and many more. This national park is also home to some of the endangered plant species in the world. Due to its exquisite biosphere. Other rare fauna include the red fox, bearded vulture and the Himalayan Chough Weasel.
The entry here is free, and the National Park is a massive attraction. That is decorated with the most beautiful and scenic landscapes in the world.
Trekking in the Pin valley is also a major attraction for all tourists. And a must visit for all trek lovers. From the Pin Valley, several trekking routes lead to Pin Parbati Pass. trails even lead to the Kullu Valley and Kinnaur.
Being a major hub for Buddhism, this place boasts some of the most gorgeous monasteries. Buddhist monasteries are also some of the most peaceful places in the world. Monks can be seen with their rosary beads, praying and meditating round the clock.
There are a lot of beautiful monasteries in Spiti. They include, but are not limited to Key Monastery, Kungri Monastery and Kardang Monastery.
Most monasteries are open from early in the morning and stay open till five in the evening.
Best time to visit
In late July, Spiti also hosts the annual Chaam festival which lasts three days. Guests can experience ancient rituals being performed, rare dances and spinning wheel prayers can also be seen during this time.
The Key Monastery is specially famous and is one of the most known. And recognisable places in the state of Himachal Pradesh.
Location of nearby places
Chandratal lake is situated at a height of 4300 meters above sea level. And is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Spiti Valley, and Northern India in general. Due to its shape, it is also called ‘Lake of the Moon’. Shaped in the form of a crescent, this place boasts blue waters that shine brightly in the sun. And is decorated with scenic mountains. This place also offers camping experiences. During which guests can experience the scenic beauty of this lake in all its shades of glory. Costs may vary depending upon the camping site.
Kunzum Pass, also known as Kunzum La pass is one of the highest motorable passes in India. Located at an altitude of 4,511 kilometers above sea level. Kunzum La offers incredible three hundred and sixty degree views of the Bara-Shigri glacier.
The pass provides a stunning gateway to the Spiti Valley through Kullu and Lahaul. It is situated on the Kunzum Rage of the Himalayas, and is at a distance of 122 km from Manali.
Things to carry for Spiti valley
If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful Spiti Valley. It’s important to make sure you bring the right things with you. The most important items to pack are warm clothes. A reliable torch, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a good pair of hiking boots or shoes. A strong backpack and a reliable tent are also essential for any trekking expeditions. Additionally, it’s important to bring a sufficient supply of food, water, and other snacks for your journey. Lastly, it’s also important to bring a camera, as the striking landscapes of the Spiti Valley are worth capturing for posterity. So make sure to pack all these items before you depart for this incredible journey to the Spiti Valley.
History behind Spiti valley
Spiti Valley, an ancient trade route and a valley located in the Himalayas, is steeped in history. The valley has been home to various civilizations since the 2nd century. BC and was a part of the powerful kingdom of Zhangzhung. It formed the ‘Silk Route’ to India and China. And has been a hub of trade and commerce since the 4th century. Buddhism arrived in the valley in the 7th century and flourished till the 11th century. The valley was later incorporated into the kingdom of Ladakh but remained under their control for only a short period of time. In the 17th century, it was annexed by the Tibetans, who eventually ceded it to the British. After India’s independence, the valley became part of Himachal Pradesh and has remained so ever since. Spiti Valley has since been known for its unique culture, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and stunning landscape.
Conclusion
Summer is a pleasant time to visit this place, as the temperatures are much cooler and soothing than the rest of the country. Avoid visiting in the monsoon season, as this place is prone to landslides and has a flooding risk. Winters in the Spiti valley bring in bone chilling cold. During the winters and later months of the year, Spiti is cut off from the rest of the world due to heavy rain and snow. Spiti gets just two hundred and fifty days of sunshine in a year due to its altitude and climate.
