Julley all ❤
It’s been a while, hasn’t it?
How’s everybody doing? Let us know in the comments!
As soon as it’s November, there’s an urge for every millennial to plan a holiday trip to some exotic location. Isn’t it? For us, that place will always be the Himalayas, which we see as the ultimate adventure.
A lot of you may have already explored the Himalayas. Perhaps you’ve visited popular places in Himachal like Dharamshala, Manali, or Shimla. Or might have tried hidden locations as well like Shangarh, Sethan, or Janjheli. These places are known for their beautiful green landscapes, lush forests, and charming villages. And no doubt they’re beautiful.
However, the Spiti Valley Winter Expedition, not so hidden, but still manages to be one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in winter. It’s different with Spiti.
It’s barren.
It’s isolated.
It’s remote.
It’s high.
And it’s otherworldly!
The beautiful Spiti Valley is covered in a blanket of snow, with temperatures dipping to a chilly -20°C. It is a cold and tough time in the valley, making it difficult yet extremely rewarding simultaneously! The famous Manali-Kunzum La-Kaza road is closed due to heavy snowfall, so we’ll be taking the Hindustan-Tibet Highway (Shimla-Kalpa-Kaza) instead.
And you know what, the stunning views will leave you speechless many times during your journey, so we thought to be a bit verbose here in the blog.
But let’s be honest, we all have this love/hate relationship with Winter. On the one hand, we love the gorgeous winter scenes and the cozy feeling of sitting by a crackling fire with a glass of wine. On the other hand, we dislike the biting cold wind that chills you to the bone, slippery sidewalks, and muddy slush.
Having said that, there is no water supply in the toilets in Spiti in winter as the pipes are entirely frozen. Traditional Spitian dry compost toilets are the only choice in most places. So get ready for an 8-day adventure, exploring the most stunning snow-covered landscapes in Spiti Valley.
So here’s the million-dollar question: How should I plan, what should I buy, and how do I pack to make sure I’m able to survive extreme winters and snow? Well, we’ve curated this winter’s Spiti itinerary for you. Read and know it all.
Winter Spiti Itinerary 8Day7 Night
Day 1 -Chandigarh To Narkanda (7 hrs)
Day 2 – Narkanda to Kalpa ( 6 hrs)
Day 3 – Kalpa to Tabo via Nako
Day 4 – Tabo to Kaza via Dhankar and Pin Valley (whole Day sightseeing).
Day 5 – Kaza Local Sightseeing (Full Day)
Day 6 – Kaza to Sangla/ Rakcham (7- 8hrs)
Day 7 – Sangla/ Rakcham/Chitkul Local Sightseeing
Day 8 – Sangla to Chandigarh (9-10hrs)
Day 1 -Chandigarh To Narkanda (7 hrs)
We’ll begin our journey by meeting at the designated boarding point in Chandigarh. From there, we’ll embark on a beautiful journey to Narkanda via Shimla. It’s gonna be an amazing ride through the mountains. We’ll reach by afternoon. Post that, we’ll check into our stay and you must be hungry of course, will have a delicious lunch and then you can take some time to rest and recharge. And as the day winds down, we’ll enjoy a leisurely evening walk and light exercises to prepare our bodies for the upcoming journey. A hearty dinner will wrap up our day, fueling us for the upcoming adventure.
Things to do in Narkanda: Visit Hatu Peak which is a 30-minute drive from Narkanda. The temple is dedicated to Mata Mandodari, wife of the king Raavana.
Highlight of the Day: Shimla, Kufri, Narkanda and Hatu Peak.
Day 2 – Narkanda to Kalpa ( 6 hrs)
After a delicious breakfast, we’ll hop in the car and continue our journey to Kalpa. Kalpa is located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh at 9711 feet above sea level. This charming hill station, nestled amidst the breathtaking Kinner Kailash range, is known for its apple orchards, ancient temples, and stunning views of the Himalayas. The Kinner Kailash range, including the Shivling peak, can be seen from almost all parts of Kalpa.
From Narkanda it’ll take 5-6 hours to reach Kalpa. We’ll probably reach in the evening. Passing through the Hindustan Tibet Highway (NH 505), we’ll take a halt at Rampur-Bushahr for lunch before entering the spectacular Kinnaur Valley. And to your surprise, it is that time of the year when you’ll find the mountain ranges covered with a fresh, thick blanket of snow. It’s going to be spectacular!
Okay so, once we reach there, we’ll check into our homestay, where you can relax, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, and soak in the panoramic vistas.
Things to do in Kalpa: Explore the quaint village, try delectable local cuisine, and perhaps even stargaze under the clear night sky.
Highlight of the Day: Rampur-Bushahr Reckong Peo, Kamru Fort, 3000-year-old Kalpa Monastery.
Also, one of the best things to do at Kalpa is watch the sunrise. So if you’re an early riser, you’re in for a delight. The first golden rays of the sun fall on the mountains coloring the sky in various hues of yellow and orange. You have to see it with your own eyes.. Nope! You have to experience it to understand what we just said.
Day 3- Kalpa to Tabo via Nako
We’ll be heading to Tabo today. From here, you’ll notice a big change in the landscape – the trees will start to disappear as we get closer to Khab Bridge, where the Spiti and Satluj rivers meet. As we move, the frozen or sometimes half-frozen Spiti River will accompany us.
Our next stop is Nako, a village located at the border of Spiti and Kinnaur. Nako village is geographically and culturally more similar to Spiti than Kinnaur. Here you’ll see more mud houses instead of the wooden houses we found in Kalpa. And the warm “Julley” greetings from the locals will give you a taste of the unique Spiti culture.
Things to do in Nako: Visit Nako Lake and Monastery
We’ll have our lunch here and move forward. After exploring Nako, we’ll continue our journey to Tabo.
Things to do in Tabo: Visit the Tabo monastery which was founded by the Buddhist king “Yashe-O” in 996 CE and visit the Tabo Caves.
We’ll spend the night in Tabo, enjoying the quiet of this remote Himalayan village.
Highlight of the Day: Khab, Nako Lake, Nako Monastery, Tabo Monastery.
Day 4- Tabo to Kaza via Dhankar and Pin Valley (Whole Day Sightseeing).
Today is going to be great because we’ll be doing more sightseeing and less traveling! After a good breakfast, we’ll head to Dankhar Monastery, a beautiful ancient monastery situated on a hilltop. Inside the monastery, you’ll find intricate artwork of the Buddha, devils, and geometric lotuses sitting all set beneath a stuffed goat. You’ll also see a room given to the Dalai Lama on his visits and a simple meditation cave. Plus, the views from the monastery, they’re to die for. The snow-covered rugged valleys look amazing!
Note: In 2006, the World Monuments Fund named Dhankar Gompa as one of the 100 most endangered sites in the world.
However, it’s worth noting that the Dhankar monastery is getting ruined by the age of the cliff on which it lies. Action initiatives are going on towards saving this monastery at present.
Moving forward we’ll head towards the Pin Valley for which the roads are almost covered with snow and is a bit risky when you pass from those routes where on both sides you will find a minimum of 1ft of snow, and when you pass those you get an adrenaline rush. Pin Valley is an abode to the flora and fauna of the Himalayas (National Park) but in winter you can only find one thing and that is snow. To get there, we’ll take a detour at the Attargoo Bridge.
Pin Valley, located at elevations between 11,000 and 20,000 feet, is a sanctuary for the endangered snow leopard, with at least 12 residing there. This region also hosts a variety of other wildlife, including the Siberian ibex, bharal, weasel, red fox, and marten. Moreover, the area is alive with birds like the pika, griffon, golden eagle, bearded vulture, chukor, and raven, making the skies above Pin Valley a lively and picturesque scene.
Note: Sometimes this route is closed. We’ll check with the locals for their advice, and if they say it’s safe, we’ll go ahead.
Once we’ve explored all this we drive back to the Attargoo Bridge and from there Kaza is 16 km.
By the time we reach Kaza (12500 ft), it will be dark, so we’ll directly check into our stay in Kaza. As for food options, you’ll mostly find Tibetan food here, which is super tasty, but everyone has their own taste, don’t worry they also serve dal and rice for those who prefer something familiar. Here you’ll experience the local culture and warm hospitality of the people. And trust us, that’s the last thing you’ll need here.
Things to do in Tabo: Explore the quaint villages and Food, Pin Valley National Park, Visit Attargoo Bridge. Kungri Monastery and then the beautiful hamlet of Mudh – the last motorable village of the Pin Valley.
Highlight of the Day: Dhankar Monastery, Dhankar Fort, Pin Valley, Attargoo Bridge, Dhankar Gompa, Mudh.
Day 5 – Kaza Local Sightseeing (Full Day)
Day 5 is a journey through some of the most enchanting high-altitude villages around Kaza, each with its own story and charm. From discovering fossils that whisper tales of ancient seas to soaking in breathtaking landscapes and visiting cultural treasures, this day has it all. It’s not just about the places you’ll see, but the experiences that will leave you amazed and connected to Spiti’s rich history. Get ready for a day of wonder, beauty, and memories that will stay with you long after the trip ends.
Kaza to Langza (15 km)
Today we’ll set off to Langza, located at 14,500 feet and just 15 km from Kaza. Known as the Fossil Village of Spiti, this area has a fascinating history. Millions of years ago, long before the Himalayas even existed, this region was part of the Tethys Sea. And when that sea submerged, the Himalayas were formed, creating a truly unique landscape.
One of the most striking features here is a massive golden statue of Lord Buddha, standing 35 feet tall. It watches over the village, giving Langza a special sense of peace and protection.
Langza – Komic (10 km)
Komic (15050 ft) is the Highest Village in the World connected with the Motorable Road. Even if it’s not, it’s among the top! Also, this is a tiny village, you will find mostly 10 to 15 houses here. One of the remarkable examples of large architecture in Komic is the Tangyud Gompa. This centuries-old Buddhist monastery was damaged in an earthquake but has since been reconstructed. Please note that only men are allowed to offer the prayers inside.
Komic – Hikkim (3 km)
Next, we’ll head to Hikkim which is 3 km from Komic. If you haven’t posted a letter yet, this is the perfect place to do it! Hikkim (14567 ft) is famous for being the World’s highest Post office at a height of 4440 meters. You can send postcards to your near and dear ones from here and click pictures outside the post office just for a memorable experience.
Hikkim – Key Monastery (25km)
Welcome to one of the highlights of our trip: Key Monastery, which stands at an impressive 13,688 feet! This monastery was founded in the 11th century by Dromton, a student of Atisha. Despite facing numerous attacks and destruction over the years, it remains one of the most captivating sites in India.
Key Monastery is one of the largest monasteries in the entire Spiti Valley and showcases the unique ‘Pasada’ style of architecture. As we explore, you’ll notice its three floors adorned with beautiful paintings and murals. Today, it accommodates nearly 350 monks. Isn’t that amazing?
It’s worth spending a big part of the day exploring the many rooms and halls of these monasteries. And you know what you can talk to the monks and ask them questions if you have any!
Key Monastery – Chicham (9Km)
After a good and fresh meal, we’ll head to Chicham Bridge (13596 ft), Asia’s highest bridge. This bridge connects the villages of Chicham and Kibber. As we look down, you’ll be amazed by the breathtaking view of a 1,000-foot-deep gorge below, known as Samba Lamba Nallah.
Highlight of the Day: Hikkim, Komic Village, Langza, the World’s highest Post Office, Key Monastery, Chicham.
Day 6- Kaza to Sangla – Rakcham (7- 8hrs)
This is going to be the longest journey of our trip. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off towards the picturesque town of Sangla, nestled in the Baspa Valley of Kinnaur District. It’s a beautiful hamlet surrounded by apple orchards, with the majestic baspa river flowing next to it. The journey is going to be nonstop because we’ve to reach on time. By evening, we’ll reach Sangla, check into our cozy homestay, and relax. Since it will be cold and dark outside, there’s no point in going out. We’ll just order some food and enjoy a good night’s rest!
Highlight of the Day: Baspa River, Nako, Tabo, Sangla.
Day 8- Sangla/Rakcham/Chitkul Local Sightseeing
Photo By: Sukant Sharma
After breakfast, we’ll leave for Chitkul, a beautiful village in the Kinnaur Valley. On the way from Sangla to Chitkul, we’ll pass by a small village called Rakcham on the left side of the road. We’ll stop here for a bit to take in the beauty. Rakcham is split by the Baspa River and is surrounded by tall mountains and green meadows, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking peace. All you need to do is nothing, just sit and feel it all. And yes, you can feel those ‘Pahadon Se Ishq’ vibes here!
We’ll continue our journey to Chitkul, where the famous “Hindustan ka Aakhri Dhaba” awaits us for lunch. Afterward, you can walk around the village, enjoy the calm atmosphere, and snap photos. Later, we’ll return to Sangla for the night, where you can relax and enjoy a peaceful evening.
Highlight of the Day: Hindustan ka Aakhri Dhaba, Rakcham, Chitkul, Apple Orchards.
Day 9- Sangla to Chandigarh
As the last morning of our Spiti winter adventure dawns in Sangla, we’ll take it slow and soak in the tranquil vibes of this beautiful Himalayan hamlet. After a warm, hearty breakfast, we’ll make a quick visit to Kamru Fort, an ancient marvel that now serves as a temple dedicated to Kamakhya Devi. Perched high above the valley, it offers stunning panoramic views of the Baspa River winding its way through the snow-covered landscape—a picture-perfect farewell to the mountains.
With hearts full of memories and bags packed with souvenirs, we’ll begin our journey back to Chandigarh. The drive will take us along winding mountain roads, offering one last chance to marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Himachal Pradesh. We’ll stop along the way to stretch our legs, take in the crisp mountain air, and maybe snap a few more photos to capture the magic of this trip.
Lunch will be a cozy affair at a roadside dhaba, where we’ll savor the simple yet delicious flavors of local Himachali food. As the journey continues, you’ll notice the changing scenery—from the snow-clad peaks of Sangla to lush green hills, and finally, the bustling plains as we descend. It’s a visual reminder of the diversity and beauty we’ve been lucky to experience.
By the time we reach Chandigarh in the evening, we’ll be filled with stories to tell, hearts full of gratitude, and a treasure trove of memories to cherish for years to come. It’s the perfect end to an adventure that’s been nothing short of magical. Until next time, Julley! ❤
Why Travel With Us?
At Insta Himachal and Himalayan Boy, we’re not just about organizing tours; we’re about sharing our love for Spiti and creating experiences you’ll never forget. With over 15 years of experience, we know this valley like it’s our home—because it truly is. From the winding roads to the warm locals, we’ve spent years building connections here, ensuring your trip is as authentic and meaningful as it is adventurous.
We believe in traveling responsibly. That’s why we prioritize working with locals—choosing locally-owned stays, supporting local businesses, and giving back to the community that makes Spiti so special. Eco-travel is at the heart of what we do, ensuring that your adventure leaves a positive impact on the region.
Safety is our top priority, especially in Spiti’s challenging winter conditions. Whether it’s experienced drivers, well-planned itineraries, or our knowledgeable guides, we make sure you’re in good hands every step of the way. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy the snow-covered landscapes, ancient monasteries, and the magic of Spiti.
When you travel with us, you’re not just booking a trip—you’re joining a family that loves the Himalayas as much as you do. So, let us take care of all the details while you focus on making memories that will stay with you forever. Travel safe, travel local, and travel with heart—because that’s what we’re all about.
Read More: Confused About How to Travel to Spiti in Winter? with this Itinerary in Hand, You’re Ready to Go!
What Should You Pack?
Clothing:
- 1 pair of gloves
- 2–3 pairs of inner thermals
- 1–2 fleece jackets or warm hoodies
- 1 heavy/thick coat or down jacket
- 4 sets of undergarments
- 3–4 pairs of socks
- A woolen cap
- A Rain Jacket
- Small towel
Footwear:
- Above-the-ankle waterproof hiking boots with good grip
- Flip flops
Medications:
- Glucose powder and ORS
- Medicines for headaches, diarrhea, motion sickness, cold & cough
- Any personal medications advised by your doctor
- Painkillers
- Dettol, bandages, cotton, sprain relief spray, crepe bandage
Personal Accessories:
- Toothpaste and toothbrush
- Paper soap/sanitizer
- Sunscreen
- LED torch
- Power bank
- A Jio SIM card
- Thin blanket for travel
For Female Travelers:
- Sanitary napkins/tampons, tissues, wet wipes, disposable bags, energy bars
We hope this checklist helps you prepare for your Spiti adventure! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you’ll be amazed by its beauty. Just remember to leave behind nothing but your footprints!
Conclusion
Winter Spiti is like a tiny paradise in a high-altitude world. It’s not just something to wish for; it’s a dream you must experience. Come with open hearts, and let the beauty of this frozen land lift your spirits. You’ll find a quiet countryside, dusty roads, ancient monasteries, and a peaceful silence everywhere. The friendly locals, the excitement of adventure, snow-covered mountains, a slower way of life, rich culture, and a sense of being away from it all are just some of the wonderful things Spiti has to offer. It’s a place that attracts travelers like me from all over the world.
Thank you for reading!
Cover Photo By – Naveen
