A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Spiti Valley- Everything You Need to Know

As India’s coolest travel community, we at Wander On, take pride in the fact that Spiti is a part of our daily routine. From one end to another, we have explored it all! Spiti is our favourite destination and for all the right reasons! Being a cold desert, harbouring nature’s gems with a rich cultural history- Spiti valley will not disappoint you in any way. Continue reading this blog to get all important information you need to know about Spiti valley road trips.

Clothes

One of the main things that one needs to take care of while travelling in Spiti valley is the extreme weather. Temperatures can drop to the negatives and hence layering is an important part of the trip. Here is a packing list that you can use to check your list!

• Down jacket
• Fleece
• Thermals
• Wooden socks
• Waterproof shoes
• A beanie or any cap

Extra Accessories

• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Moisturising lotion
• Personal medicines
• Toilet Paper
• Reusable water bottles
• Day pack

Electronics

Even the network availability is poor throughout the trip, we recommend carrying the following items

• Power banks
• Necessary cords
• Your camera and tripod

Biking Accessories

• Riding Jackets
• Helmets
• Riding Gloves
• Knee and Elbow Guards

There are two routes through which you can reach the valley.

1. From Manali: Enter the valley after crossing the Rohtang Pass and Kunzum La. This route is however closed during the months of winter. The route includes 80 km of well maintained road and 150km of gravely road.
2. From Shimla/Kinnaur: You can also enter Spiti via Nako and Tabo from the Shimla side. This route is well maintained throughout the year.

Unlike Ladakh, Indian nationals do not require a permit to visit Spiti. As a foreign national, you require a permit to visit the area near the Shipki La Pass (between Pooh and Nako).

Acute mountain sickness (commonly known as AMS) is the shortness of breathe in high altitude regions due to lack of oxygen. Travelling across in Spiti valley can be a bit tricky for some people. To avoid it, acclimatize well, keep your self-hydrated, avoid smoking and take proper meals.

Suggested Read: Acute mountain sickness in Spiti Valley – Everything you want to know

7 to 10 days is a good amount of time to explore Spiti valley. You can complete and entire circuit within a week.

Why should I consider Spiti over Ladakh?

One of the reasons you can choose Spiti if you’re confused between the two destinations is because of the fact that Spiti valley is still more raw. Although both of these beautiful destinations offer grand views, Spiti is less commercialised than Ladakh.

What are the conditions of the roads in Spiti valley?

The conditions of the roads vary according to the seasons. In summers, roads are well maintained from both the sides (Manali and Kinnaur). However during the winters, the Manali route is completely cut off due to heavy snowfall and use of chains is quite common. Biking during the winters is not possible on such roads.

Are we going to camp at Chandrataal Lake?

Camping by the lake is prohibited by the government. During the summers, we set camp 2-3 km away from the lake. Access to lake is cut off during the winters.

Where are we going to stay during the trip?

We are associated with different properties (hotels in Spiti valley) throughout the route. In Kaza, we have our own private camps.

What are the amenities available at the camps?

We provide proper Swiss like camps with bedding and attached washrooms inside the tents. You will get warm running water available through the solar geysers in the camps. We also offer meals (besides lunch) – both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available in the buffet.

What is the best time to visit Spiti valley?

You can visit Spiti both during the winters and summers. During the summers (May-September), all destinations are accessible unlike during the winter months (February to May). In the winters, you will see a completely different side of Spiti valley. The famous white landscape of Spiti is something you cannot find anywhere else!

Which route is better – Manali or Kinnaur?

There is no better route. Depending on the road conditions and the places you want to visit on the way, both the routes have their own charm. From Manali side, you will cross Rohtang Pass, Kunzum La and Chandrataal. From Kinnar side, you’ll cross Kapla, Chitkul, Nako and Dhankar before finally reaching Kaza. The best way is to start from one end to another to fully enjoy the gems of both the routes!

So, join us on our magnificent Spiti valley road trips as we provide you the best experience of India’s raw and unexplored region.