While planning your adventurous vacation in Spiti Valley, make sure you have added this magical place to your itinerary, Demul Village! It is a small village with over fifty houses and is big enough by Spitian standards.
If you’re looking for a place where time slows down and adventure comes in the form of breathtaking landscapes and rich culture, Demul is your destination. It’s the perfect escape for those who want to disconnect, recharge, and experience a slice of life that few get to see.
Your Spiti Trip Packages should include Demul as part of your itinerary along with many other spectacular villages in Spiti, like Kaza-Hikkim-Komic-Langza.
There is a story behind the discovery of this village. It is believed that nearly 200 years ago, this part of Spiti was accidentally ‘discovered’ by a shepherd who was looking for his lost yak named ‘Demo’ who found this grazing haven in the midst of an otherwise cold barren rugged landscape. The shepherd was so delighted to have discovered this green pasture that he decided to build his home here and gradually also invited his friends and family to come and live here. And thus the existence of Demul Village in Spiti Valley came into being!
Activities to do in Demul Village, Spiti Valley
When it comes to activities in Demul Village, you will be surprised that there is actually nothing to do more than explore the village and meet the locals and talk and share their life moments with them. If you are looking for some real ‘me’ time then this village is just perfect for you to turn the clock and just chill and unwind here. Like many remote villages in Spiti Valley, Demul Village will bring in a sense of calm and peace and you will be refreshed in the mountains.
1. Balari Top
The hike to Balari Top will take you about 3 hours and although the ascent is gradual, it is a long and arduous trek, at the end of which you will be compensated with the picturesque landscape of the valley with myriad colours of brown, sprinkled with some green oasis of pastures and vegetations and pea fields grown in the various villages. Trekking to this viewpoint will certainly be the highlight of the trip and definitely one of the best things to do in Demul Village.
2. Yak Safari
If you are keen on going on a Yak Ride, you can talk to any of the locals in the village and they will be more than happy to take you on a Yak Safari in Spiti Valley around the village or maybe even to the nearby villages of Komic, Langza, etc.
3. Local Temple
Most residents of the village belong to the Bodh tribe, also known as Bodh Rajputs which are a hardworking and hospitable community. They keep their ancient tribal beliefs and traditions alive through the medium of food, way of life, festivals, songs, rituals, birth, marriage, worship, farming and cattle rearing. This is what makes Demul Village special and unique.
4. Mingle with the villagers and explore the village
5. Star Gazing
Best Time to Visit Demul Village
The summer months are generally the peak tourist season because it is a hassle-free trip to travel during June, July and September.
Spiti Valley in winter looks enchanting and straight out of a winter wonderland, but poses many challenges. The road from Manali to Kaza is closed during winter and you can only travel to Spiti via Kinnaur during these months. The Manali to Kaza route is only open from mid-June to October. Hence, it is the only window of time to visit Demul from the Manali side if you plan to do so. In winter months, even if you reach Spiti Valley via Kinnaur, the access roads to Demul village remain closed for the entire winter.
How To Reach Demul Village, Spiti Valley
Another way to drive down to Demul is from Komic Village, but the road is just a dirt track
for most of the way. There is a local bus from Kaza to Demul which leaves at 5:00 pm, and the same bus returns the next morning at 7:30 am from Demul to Kaza.
Demul is connected to all villages of Spiti Valley. Some travellers choose to trek to Demul from Komic or Hikkim Village as well as part of their Spiti Valley Trek .
Where to stay in Demul Village
Every year, half of the houses in the village participate in hosting travellers and the other half get their turn the subsequent year. This ensures an equitable distribution of income to every house in the village and a unique experience for travellers. The food at Demul is a blend of Himachali and Tibetan and you will also find local Spitian dishes. This system was mainly introduced by an NGO that also helped the village arrange for 2 hours of solar electricity daily some 20 years ago in the early 2000s.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cultural experiences can visitors expect in Demul Village?
In Demul Village, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich Tibetan Buddhist culture. They can explore ancient monasteries, witness traditional rituals, and interact with the local community, known for their warm hospitality. Visitors also have the opportunity to experience the unique agricultural practices, including the village’s self-sustained lifestyle, and enjoy local delicacies. The simplicity and authenticity of life here provide a truly enriching cultural experience.
Are there any trekking routes around Demul Village?
Yes, Demul Village is surrounded by several scenic trekking routes. One popular trek is the Demul to Langza, which offers stunning views of the Spiti Valley, including towering mountains and traditional villages. The treks around Demul are relatively off-the-beaten-path, providing a peaceful and immersive experience in the rugged landscapes of the region. These routes are perfect for adventurers looking for both physical challenge and breathtaking natural beauty.
Is Demul Village accessible year-round?
Demul Village is not accessible year-round. The village experiences harsh winters, with heavy snowfall cutting off road access from November to April. The best time to visit is between May and October when the weather is more favorable, and the roads are clear.