Summers are approaching, and travellers must have already begun to research the destinations they want to visit this summer. Some must be seeking an adventurous destination, some for serene and peaceful locations, others want to capture typical surroundings through their lenses, some choose a location near glistening water, and some wish to explore wildlife. What if we tell you that we have the best destination for you that would meet all types of travellers’ needs?
Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is embellished with ancient monasteries, brilliantly blue lakes, magnificent waterfalls, Challenging hiking trails, sparsely populated villages, the Himalayan Valley, and a population of endangered species. You get to have many things to do in Spiti Valley where you can have the best time!
For both solo travellers and community groups, Spiti Valley tour packages offer a unique and wonderful destination, transporting you away from the hustle and bustle of city life and into the solitude of the mountains. So here are some of the reasons to visit Spiti Valley.
12 Top Reasons to Visit Spiti Valley
- Monasteries: Portraying Region Culture and Spirituality
Spiti Valley is well-renowned for its ancient monasteries, called Gompas. These monasteries are not only religiously significant to the Buddhist community but also architectural marvels from Tibet. Some of these monasteries are 1000 years old and are important religious pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. The architecture of these monasteries reflects the rich cultural legacy via paintings, door carvings, and sculptures of Buddhist deities.
The Spiti Valley is home to several prominent monasteries, each with its own unique significance. Among them are Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, Dhankar Monastery, Tangyud Monastery, Kungri Monastery, Kardang Monastery, and Shashur Monastery. Key Monastery stands out as the largest religious training center for lamas in the region. Tabo Monastery, often referred to as the "Ajanta of the Himalayas," is the oldest continuously functioning monastery in India. Nearby, the ancient Tabo Caves—still used by monks for meditation—add to the spiritual heritage of the area, making it one of the best reasons to visit Spiti Valley!
- Lakes: High Altitude Lakes
Despite Spiti Valley’s harsh weather conditions, Spiti is home to many stunning and vast lakes that hold significant religious importance. Each lake in the Spiti Valley has its own charm and importance, and exploring them provides tourists with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural splendour of the Himalayas.
Chandratal Lake is a well-known lake in Spiti Valley that is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and provide a wonderful setting for camping and relaxation.
- National Park: Home to Endangered Species
Pin Valley National Park is a quiet and beautiful place hidden deep in the Himalayas. Surrounded by high mountains, wide open spaces, and peaceful valleys, it feels like a world untouched. The air is fresh, the skies are clear, and the silence is calming, making it a perfect place for anyone looking to escape the noise and rush of daily life.
The park is home to some truly amazing and rare animals. If you're lucky, you might spot a snow leopard gracefully moving along the cliffs, or watch herds of Siberian ibex skillfully climbing the steep slopes. You could see Himalayan marmots peeking out of their burrows, or Tibetan gazelles quietly grazing in the wide meadows. If you look up to the skies, there's a good chance you'll spot a golden eagle soaring above, or hear the unique call of a snowcock echoing from the rocky slopes. It’s a place where nature feels alive at every turn.
Suggested read: Offbeat places in Spiti Valley
- Villages : Sparsely Populated Villages
The villages of the remote valley have the lowest population, where you can just count the number of houses. Take a leisurely stroll around these communities to gain a deeper understanding of the region. This allows you to gain insight into the lives of individuals in distant areas, as well as learn about their culture and customs.
Hikkim village is well-known for having the world’s highest post office. This post office is run by a single guy who has worked there since its establishment. Tabo village is well-known for its tranquil beauty and the Tabo Monastery. This is the oldest Buddhist monastery and an architectural wonder. Komic village is one of Asia’s highest settlements, and travellers from all over the world come to take photos in front of the billboard proclaiming it to be the highest village.
- Trekking trails: A hike to Challenging terrain in Spiti Valley
Trekking in Spiti Valley is an adventure you won’t forget. The rugged landscape can be tough, but the stunning views of the towering Himalayas make it all worth it. One of the most challenging treks is the Parvati Valley trek. It takes you through the remote Pin Parvati Valley, reaching heights of 5,000 meters, where the journey through the rocky terrain is both tough and rewarding.
If you're a beginner, the Chandratal Trek is a great choice. It’s easier, but still offers a thrilling experience and gives you a chance to see the beautiful crescent-shaped Chandratal Lake in all its glory. Whether you're experienced or just starting, there’s a trek for everyone in Spiti Valley!
- Passes : Gateway to Heaven
Spiti Valley has numerous high mountain passes that serve as an entrance to the valley. These passes are challenging but provide a spectacular view of the majestic Himalayas and neighbouring mountains. These passes are not only useful for transportation, but they also give easy access to remote villages and regions of the Spiti Valley. Many of these passes are shut throughout the winter. Due to the extreme cold weather and plentiful snowfall, these passes are completely closed, preventing access to the villages and areas of Spiti Valley.
Rohtang Pass connects Kullu, Lahaul, and Spiti Valley. It is a popular tourist spot that closes down for the winter. The Baralacha Pass connects Lahaul and Spiti to Ladakh. This pass provides stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and gorgeous lakes.
- Hot water spring : Gem of Himachal
Himachal Pradesh is home to several natural hot springs, famous for their healing properties. These springs are located in some of the most beautiful spots, making them a peaceful escape. People visit these hot springs to take advantage of their medicinal benefits, especially for treating skin problems, thanks to the minerals in the water.
One such spring is the Jeori Hot Water Spring, located along the Hindustan Tibet Road on the way to Spiti Valley. This spring holds religious importance as well. It’s believed that pilgrims heading to Manimahesh should start their journey with a dip in the Jeori spring to cleanse themselves before their pilgrimage which makes it one of the top reasons to visit Spiti Valley!
- Waterfall: Frozen Waterfall
Lingti waterfall, in Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts due to its serene surroundings. The waterfall’s most notable feature is that it is snowy during the winter months.The waterfall freezes when the winter weather in Spiti Valley drops to below zero degrees. Even in the warmer months, the high altitude makes the area quite cold, thus tourists may require woollen clothes.
- Fossil Discover: Expedition to search for fossils
Langza Village, or fossil village, is the premier site for fossil enthusiasts. The Langza village is said to have been submerged in the Thetsya sea some 200 million years ago. While strolling around Langza village, you’ll be surrounded by some amazing, unique, and millions of years old marine fossils that have been well-buried behind massive stones. Local guides and specialists can lead you to the exact area where many fossils can be discovered. Be mindful when walking and avoid engaging in selling or purchasing activities of these fossils.
- Tough Terrain: Rugged, barren landscapes
Spiti Valley is located high in the mountains, which gives it a unique climate and incredible views. The valley is surrounded by dry, barren mountains that make it look rough and untamed. As you go higher, the landscape changes with snow-covered peaks and glaciers in the distance, creating a breathtaking sight. Some parts of Spiti even feel like a desert because of the dry air and high altitude. It’s a place where nature feels pure and untouched, offering a truly special experience.
Suggested read: Hotels and resorts in Spiti Valley
- Stargazing : A dreamy destination for astronomers
If you are still thinking about why visit Spiti Valley? Then you should know that it is a perfect place for stargazing, thanks to its unique geography and clear skies. The air is so clean and free from pollution that the sky remains beautifully blue, giving you an incredible view of the stars. On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way, planets, and other amazing celestial objects with stunning clarity. For the best stargazing experience, plan your trip between September and February, when the conditions are ideal.
- Cuisine: Tingle your taste buds with authentic cuisine
Spiti Valley has its own special food, influenced by its isolation and Tibetan culture. The local dishes are full of flavor and give you a real taste of the region.
Some foods you should try are Thupka (a delicious soup), Momos (steamed dumplings), Chaang (a local drink), butter tea, Tingmo (a soft bread), Thenthuk (noodle soup), and Churpe (a hard cheese made from yak milk). Each dish is unique and gives you a taste of Spiti’s way of life
