Explore the breathtaking beauty of Spiti Valley with our guide to the places to visit in Spiti Valley. Discover the charm of Spiti’s hidden gems, from the ancient Ki Monastery to the surreal landscapes of Chandratal Lake.
As the summer approaches, the sweltering temperatures call for a cold retreat. What better way to beat the heat than to find yourself in the “middle land” of ice and snow? Spiti Valley is located northeast of Himachal Pradesh, between India and Tibet which is a destination for Family Vacation.
This town is formed around the valleys of the Spiti River that cut through the frozen landscape. Agriculture used to be one of the major economic activities of this place. In the past few decades, however, it has become a highly coveted vacation spot for homestay tourism. With Ladakh to its north, Kullu to the west, Tibet to the east, and Bushashr to the south, it’s no wonder that a visit to Spiti Valley has become so highly sought after.
So, if you need help figuring out where to start your explorations, this article covers places to visit in Spiti Valley that deserve a spot in your itinerary.
1. Nako Village
If you enjoy quiet retreats into tranquil hills, this village nestled in the Himalayan ranges will answer your calling. One of the best ways to familiarise yourself with any new place is to explore its residential areas. This gives travelers a close view of the lifestyle, culture, and ways of the place. This way, you can truly immerse yourself into the life of the destination. That’s why Nako village is unskippable among the places to visit in Spiti Valley.
2. Shashur Monastery
If hill stations are synonymous with snow, then Spiti is synonymous with monasteries. This is a Buddhist establishment of great historical and cultural value. It is located between Lahaul and Spiti and is included in the most bespoke Himachal tour package.
The name “Shashur” means blue pines, which is derived from the fact that the surroundings of this monastery are lush with these trees. If you plan to drop by here, it’s worth remembering that May and October are considered the best months to visit Spiti Valley.
3. Chandratal lake
There is perhaps no better addition to honeymoon packages in India than this lake. The name of the lake, “Chandra Taal,” means the “moon lake” and is attributed to its crescent shape. A thoroughly romantic nomenclature lends itself to some of the most imageries around this lake. At 4300 meters high, it is located right next to the Samudra Tapu Plateau. As one of the best places to see in Spiti Valley, it attracts numerous enthusiastic photographers, couples, and adventure sports enthusiasts.
4. Kunzum Pass
This is one of the highest passes that cuts across the Kunzum range. At an altitude of 4551 meters, it joins Spiti Valley to Lahaul. This is one of the best places to visit in Spiti if you want to catch the fresh snow of the Himalayas in the early morning light. You can see the second longest strip of glacier in the world- the Bara Shigri glacier from this pass. Any Spiti Valley travel is incomplete without Kunzum La.
5. Key Monastery
One of the oldest standing Buddhist monasteries in the country, this is a testament to Tibetan culture and architecture. It was founded in the 11th century by disciple Dromton of the revered teacher Atisha. At an altitude of 4166 meters, this monastery stands by the Spiti River. If you enjoy intricate architecture, Indo-Tibetan history, and the embodiment of both cultures, the Key Monastery would be a part of your Spiti Valley tourism.
Among the numerous monasteries populating this town, this is the largest one, housing over 300 lamas for their education. Its rich monastic life makes it a place of great interest country-wide. This is one of the Best Tourist Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh.
6. Keylong Market
No visit to the hills is ever complete without a shopping trip, looking through the fine yarn, handicrafts, and local crafts. Spiti is no different. You can find some of the best woolen shawls, mufflers, caps, mittens, etc., of the finest weave in this market.
With wools like Pashmina and Angora, remember to bring some back home for your friends and family! You’ll also find intricate marble and stone jewelry that boast of both Indian and Tibetan aesthetic influences. This makes this market one of the best places in Spiti Valley.
7. Sarchu
If you’re traveling along the Leh-Manali highway, you might want to stop somewhere to recuperate and rejuvenate yourself. Also known as Sir Bhum Chun, this is one of the places to visit Spiti Valley if you’re looking for a quick overnight place to stop.
This is one of the best Spiti Valley places to visit, especially if you want to try camping. It has numerous camping facilities throughout summer when the temperature is just warm enough to let you enjoy the ambiance.
8. Suraj Tal
The third largest lake in India, this is also known as the “sun god lake.” If the beautiful name doesn’t intrigue you, its myths and lore certainly will! Apart from being a crystal clear lake that reflects its green and white surroundings in its mirror-like surface, a dip in the lake is supposed to cleanse you of sins.
As a result, this lake attracts enthusiastic photographers and pilgrims from all over the country. This is undoubtedly one of the top Spiti places to visit if you’re paying a visit around winter.
9. Pin Valley National Park
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, include this spot in your trip to Spiti Valley. The Pin National Park is home to the Himalayan snow leopards and the Ibex, its natural prey. However, this is not the only thrilling aspect of this park. It is also one of the best trekking landscapes included in all the best Spiti Valley tour packages. Remember to get a permit before you trek inside the park.
10. Tangyud Monastery
If your itinerary consists of the monasteries of this town, rest assured that you’ve found some of the best Spiti holiday tour packages. Located in Kaza, this is a highly visited destination by tourists and spiritual pilgrims. This gompa is one of the highest in the country at 4520 meters above sea level. Perched along the edge of the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, there is no better place to learn about Buddhist history, culture, and doctrines. Naturally, the Tangyud monastery will be a must-visit place in your itinerary.
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