Top 10 Places To Visit in Spiti Valley

Overview

Travelers are drawn to Spiti, a cold desert mountain with a rich cultural heritage hidden in the heart of the Himalayas. It is important to know the top 10 places to visit in Spiti Valley as you travel to this secluded paradise. With the help of this book, you can make the most of your trip through this beautiful region and discover the top places to visit in Spiti Valley.

1. Key-i Monastery

One of the most famous tourist places in Spiti Valley is the Key-I Monastery, which is situated on a hill 4,166 meters above sea level. This 1,000-year-old Buddhist monastery is a piece of art in architecture and a place of spirituality.

Highlights:

• Stunning expansive views of Spiti Valley
• Tibetan Buddhist scrolls and paintings from ancient times
• Unique architectural design suggesting a palace wall

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2. Chandratal Lake

Chandratal, also known as “Moon Lake”, is a crescent-shaped alpine lake that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Spiti Valley.

Highlights:

• Beautiful blue sea that reflects the sky
• Ideal place for camping and stargazing
• Trekking possibilities in the surrounding meadows

3. Kunzum Pass

Kunzum Pass, at 4,590 m above sea level, is the entry point into Spiti Valley from Lahaul. With amazing views of the Chandra Bhaga mountain range, it is one of the highest motorable passes in India.

Highlights:

• Views of snow-capped peaks in all directions
• A small temple of Goddess Kunzum Devi
• A challenging but rewarding drive for those who love adventure

4. Dhankar Monastery

Dhankar Monastery, built precariously on a cliff, is an example of the innovation of ancient Tibetan Buddhists in architecture. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Spiti Valley.

Highlights:

• Exceptional setting with expansive views of the confluence of the Pin and Spiti rivers
• Buddhist antiques and old artifacts
• The Dhankar Lake, located nearby, is ideal for a quick walk

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5. Tabo Monastery

Founded in 996 AD, Tabo Monastery is often called the “Ajanta of the Himalayas” because of its spectacular marble carvings and paintings. It is one of the earliest Buddhist communities in India that is still active.

What to see:

• Nine temples containing artwork and old Buddhist texts
• Monastic meditation tunnels
• A museum displaying artifacts from Tibet and Buddhism

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6. Pin Valley National Park

Home to the elusive snow leopard and other rare Himalayan wildlife, Pin Valley National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers exploring Spiti Valley tourist places.

Highlights:

• Spotting many bird species, bharal (blue sheep) and Himalayan ibex
• Beautiful views of alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks
• Trekking possibilities in good forest

7. Kibber Village

Kibber provides an insight into traditional Spitian life and was formerly recognized as the world’s highest motorable hamlet. It’s among the Spiti Valley’s most culturally diverse tourist destinations.

Highlights:

• Classical Spanish design and way of life
• Rare Himalayan fauna can be found at Kibber Fauna Sanctuary.
• Incredible views of the neighboring mountains

8. Langza Village

Langza is referred to as the Fossil Village of Spiti and is famous for its massive Buddha statue that towers over the community. It’s among the most unique tourist destinations in Spiti Valley.

Why visit:

• The next-door areas fossil hunting
• Magnificent views of Chau Chau Kang Nilda summit
• Local artists creating traditional pottery

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9. Komic Village

Komic is one of the world’s highest populated communities, rising to a height of 4,587 meters. For those looking for unusual spots to explore in Spiti Valley, it’s a must-see.

Highlights:

• The highest monastery in the world, Tangyud Monastery
• Gorgeous views of the nearby Himalayan peaks
• Interaction with friendly residents and their unique way of life

10. Hikkim Village

Hikkim is a small village in Spiti Valley that provides visitors visiting its tourist attractions with an unforgettable experience. It is home to the highest post office in the world.

Highlights:

• Postcard-sending from the tallest post office in the world
• Beautiful views of the valley of Spiti
• Taking in the modest way of life in high-altitude towns

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Best Time to Visit Spiti Valley

The best time to visit Spiti Valley largely depends on your preferences and the activities you wish to pursue. Here’s a seasonal breakdown:

• Summer (June to September): Since most of the roads are open and the weather is pleasant, this is the most popular time of the year for tourists. It is perfect for hiking, camping and visiting all the sights of Spiti Valley.
• Winter (October to February): The winter season in Spiti offers a different perspective for those who are looking for real adventure. There is a lot of snow in the valley and it is possible for the temperature to drop to -30 degrees Celsius. You can see the gloomy beauty of the snow-covered landscape and possibly even spot snow leopards, even though some routes are closed.
• Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to mid-October): There are fewer tourists during these off-seasons and the weather is good. However, snow may still make some high-altitude locations impossible to access.

Things to Do in Spiti Valley

In addition to seeing the top ten sights in Spiti Valley, there are lots of other things you may do to make the most of your trip:

1. Trekking: Take a look at a variety of roads, from short day walks to difficult multi-day trips.
2. Spotting wildlife: During the winter months, try to locate the elusive snow leopard.
3. Stargazing: For those who enjoy the sky, Spiti’s clear night skies give fantastic chances.
4. Photography: Take in Spiti’s amazing landscape, historic monasteries, and unique culture.
5. Volunteering: A lot of organizations provide chances to assist with community development initiatives or to teach English.
6. Yoga and meditation: For individuals looking for spiritual growth,  monasteries offer meditation classes.
7. Local cuisine: Try traditional Spitian dishes like Thukpa, Thenthuk, and Khambir.

Conclusion

With its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Spiti Valley offers a unique holiday experience. The top 10 places to visit in Spiti Valley highlight the diverse charm of this Himalayan beauty, from historic monasteries perched on cliffs to high-altitude towns and beautiful lakes. Everyone can find something to enjoy in Spiti Valley, whether they are nature lovers, adventure seekers, or culture lovers.

Plan your trip to see these top 10 places to visit in Spiti Valley, but don’t forget to travel safely and be considerate of the environment and local culture. Spiti’s rugged stunning terrain is fragile, and it’s up to us to preserve it for the future.

So pack your bags, prepare for an adventure of a lifetime, and get ready to be mesmerized by the magic of Spiti Valley. Don’t forget to share your experiences and inspire others to discover this hidden gem in the Himalayas!

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