Things to Do in Spiti Valley

1. Biking: It is true that wanderlust takes you to unbelievable places. Adventure lovers find the winding roads of Spiti Valley a paradise. Hence, those who love to travel on wheels prefer biking even despite the challenging terrain of the valley. Some travel in groups while some go on solo biking expeditions to explore each hamlet hidden in this magical valley of Spiti. While the roads are well-constructed, many places experience landslides during heavy rainfalls. Nonetheless, biking here is not for the faint-hearted and requires skilled balancing. Kunzum Pass and Baralacha Pass provide angelic vistas but are only visited by professional bikers due to its difficult terrain.

2. Camping at Chandratal Lake: Thousands of meters above the sea level cuddled peacefully amidst the foothills of Himalayas is the sparkling lake of Chandratal. The towering mountains overlooking the turquoise waters of the lake forms a perfect postcard scene. Fresh breezes brush against your cheeks as you sit near the shore of this placid lake. The lake gets its name from its amusing natural shape of a crescent moon. The serene environment encompassing the landscape makes it an ideal location for camping. People enjoy group hiking over here from base camp to the vicinity of the lake where they set up cosy camps. 

3. Trek to Dhankar Lake: From the valley of Dhankar village, as you start trekking up the sloppy hills, you will finally reach the ethereal setting of Dhankar Lake. Trekking to Dhankar Lake is one of the favourite things to do in Spiti Valley for adventure lovers. It takes almost an hour to reach the lake. A small stupa, with sacred threads of prayer tied around it, is erected near the green waters of the lake. Due to the steep mountainous terrain, this trek falls in the moderate to difficult range. 

4. Rafting: For the brave-hearted adventurers, who like to feel their adrenaline rush, rafting is a perfect sport to engage in. Two tremendous rivers coursing through this valley are ideal for rafting. They are the Spiti River and Pin River. The rapid currents and exquisite mountainous backdrop make river rafting a hit adventure sport amongst travellers over here. However, one should avoid planning this sport in their itinerary if they are visiting Spiti Valley in the monsoon season.

5. Visit 500-Year-Old Mummy in Giu Village: Lovers of historical relics take delight in visiting Giu Village for one sole purpose- to see the preserved mummy. Army personnel stepped upon the remains of this mummy while excavating in the village area. It was then they preserved it inside a glass container at a site near Gompa. The lotus posture derived the theory of it being a lama, a revered monk, who was mummified while he was meditating. Carbon dating by archaeologists revealed it to be almost half a century old. The rusted appearance of this mummy intrigues all history lovers, and visiting this spot is definitely one of the best things to do in Spiti.

6. Shopping in Kaza Market: The ultimate destination for shopaholics in Spiti is the traditional Kaza market. Always bustling with tourists collecting handcrafted memoirs, Kaza market is the largest and most popular market in the entire valley. Authentic handicrafts depicting Buddhist and Tibetan culture are put for sale here. From bowls and utensils to small statues of Lord Buddha and multicoloured prayer flags, a myriad of intricate artefacts are available here. You can also try out the savoury sweets prepared at the local shops or buy personalised t-shirts as gifts. Uniquely designed artwork made from silver and golden coated human bones are also sold at some shops.

7. Fossil Hunting: If you want to get the vibes of being an archaeologist like Indiana Jones, then the hamlets of Hikkim and Langza form the perfect setting for your wish. These remote villages have been noted for being abundant in fossils belonging to all eras. It is believed that the tourists come across at least one intriguing fossil within ten minutes over here. 

8. Eat at World's Highest Restaurant: Spiti's Organic Kitchen: Lying in the middle of the glorious monasteries of Komick village is the world's highest restaurant called Spiti's Organic Kitchen. With a view of snow-capped mountains sparkling with the shining sun, and cold breezes swaying gently in the air, this restaurant offers delicious local cuisine. Despite a limited menu, you will find all delectable Tibetan dishes and refreshing beverages served in a homely environment.

9. Send a Postcard from World's Highest Post Office: In the rural area of Hikkim lies the highest post office in the world. Said to be situated at an altitude of 4400 meters, this hamlet lies somewhere between the villages of Komik and Langza. Locals give travellers a walk through history by proudly narrating the origin of this post office. Tourists of the valley make sure to travel to this small post office and send a postcard or a letter to their loved ones as a special memento. It is one of the most sought after things to do in Lahaul Spiti.  

10. Night Stay at Tabo Monastery: The picturesque valley of Spiti is equally renowned for its charming vistas and religious influence. It is the abode of many eminent monasteries. Thousands of lamas and Buddhist monks meditate in the prayer halls and study ancient preaching in the schools of these hilltop monasteries. Dating back to its formation in 99 AD, Tabo monastery is the second oldest Tibetan monastery. Its interiors are constructed purely of stone and mud. The mild fragrance of sandalwood fills the air inside the rooms. Tourists can have a night stay in the lodgings inside the monastery complex to experience the pristine way of living like the monks.

11. Indulge in Stargazing: Snuggling in a blanket outside your little tent, you can sip your hot coffee and quietly enjoy the view of the starlight night sky. Scattered in the valleys of the Himalayas, the high altitude villages of Losar, Kibber, Tabo, Dhankar and Komik provide clear skies during the night, making stargazing one of the most enchanting things to do in Spiti. Amidst the tranquility of your surroundings, you can look up to the sky and spot countless stars glowing in the sky. You can try finding the famous amusing constellations. You can even spot some shooting stars and wish upon them.

12. Refuel at the Highest Fuel Station at Kaza: A sign proclaiming 'World's Highest Retail Outlet' welcomes passengers on the fuel station at Kaza. Situated at an altitude of 3740 meters, this Indian Oil fuel station is not only the highest commercial fuel station in the world but also the only station to refuel your vehicles in the entire valley. Hence, anyone travelling to Lahaul and Spiti Valley has to make a mandatory stopover here. Hence, refuelling in the rural hamlet of Kaza is always a check on the list of things to do in Lahaul Spiti.

13. Visit Asia's Highest Bridge: Chicham Bridge : One of the recent things to do in Spiti is getting on top of the world's highest bridge and capturing the bird's eye view of the entire valley. Inaugurated in 2017, the Chicham Bridge took about 15 years for its construction and has strategic importance as the world's highest bridge at 13596 meters above sea level. It connects the village of Chicham to Kibber. The sturdy construction of this bridge overlooks the deep gorge of Samba Lamba Nallah. The bridge is a popular site amongst tourists to click panoramas of the valley.

14. Wildlife Spotting at Pin Valley National Park: While the entire valley of Spiti is encompassed by a cold desert, the Pin Valley has scattered greenery thriving with a variety of flora and fauna in its terrain. With the Himalayas fringing the plains, this valley can be reached by travelling towards south from Dhankar village. The gushing sound of Pin River can be heard as you travel through the valley in search of the fascinating creatures resting in it. You can spot the Siberian ibex, Tibetan gazelle, and Himalayan snow cocks. Lucky ones can also sight and capture photographs of the endangered species of snow leopards hunting their prey.

15. Try Local Food: Authentic luscious dishes from Tibetan gourmet are served in popular cafes to those who wish to satiate their taste buds by trying the local cuisine. Be it the tea, or the Spitian bread, or a simple dal and rice, each flavour is piquant and unique. You can stop and eat at the luxurious cafes or sit at the local food joints to get a cultural touch. However, the most memorable experience one can get is by having divine meals with the lamas at their monastery. At the monasteries of Komik, Kungri and Key, one can taste the delectable Tibetan dishes by having lunch inside the monastery.

1. Key Monastery: This is a famous Buddhist monastery in Spiti valley located at 4166 meters above the sea level. The monastery holds the title of being the biggest and the oldest training centre for the lamas in Lahaul Spiti of Himachal Pradesh. Around 300 lamas receive their education here, and the entire monastery looks like a defensive fort rather than a religious spot. This monastery is a splendid example of monastic architecture which came into prominence in the 14th century due to Chinese influence. The walls of this monastery have been adorned with beautiful paintings, stucco images and valuable manuscripts. 

2. Chandratal lake: This moon-shaped lake is surrounded by the mighty Himalayas from all four sides and is a paradise for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts. Earlier this lake served as a resting point for the voyagers and traders who came to Ladakh or Tibet but now it has become a popular tourist spot. The best thing about this lake is that its colour keeps on changing gradually with the colour of the sky. It serves as the starting point of Lake-Baralacha Pass trek which takes you to undiscovered monasteries and lush green forests. 

3. Pin Valley National Park: This is only the wildlife national park situated in the cold desert of Lahaul and Spiti. Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of icy mountains it is known for its sub-frozen rivers and sub-zero temperature. It was set up to preserve and protect the unique and rarest species of flora and fauna. This national park serves as the home to grey ghost of the Himalayas, snow leopard and ibex. Some of the famous gompas and Buddhist monasteries are also located over here.

4. Suraj Tal: It is the third-highest lake across India and twenty-first highest across the world known for its enthralling beauty and splendid grandeur. It is surrounded by gigantic mountain ranges from all the sides that get completely covered in snow during winters. This is also known as the lake of the sun god and a holy dip in this river can absolve you from all your sins. 

5. Tabo Monastery: This is one of the most beautiful monasteries in Spiti valley that stands on the rocky and cold desert of Tabo valley. Spread across an area of 6300sq m it comprises of nine gompas and temples. The monastery has several statues, murals and thangkas that depict the history and culture of the Himalayan region. The main temple at this monastery has a huge entrance hall called Go Khang, and towards the western side of this hall, you can find a recess area with an ambulatory passage. 

6. Kunzum Pass: This is a high mountain pass located on the eastern Kunzum Range of Himalayas. It connects the Lahaul valley and Kullu valley with Spiti valley. A huge number of bikers visit this pass to have the most exciting ride through the treacherous entryway of Kunjum Pass. The entire mountain pass is so beautiful that the visitors stop over here to have the view of the Bara-Sigri glacier, which is the second biggest glacier in the entire world. 

7. Kaza: This is a small town in Spiti valley surrounded by gigantic mountain peaks, crystal clear streams, green meadows and landscapes. It houses beautiful palaces, gompas, monasteries and other marvellous spots. Tourists from across the globe visit Kaza to have a glimpse of the breathtaking mountain terrains and scenic trails. The popular trails from Kaza connect the local villages plunged in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Spiti valley.

8. Kibber: This is the highest village in Spiti valley located at an altitude of 4270 meters above the sea level. It houses a wildlife sanctuary and a monastery. It is surrounded from all sides by limestone rock mountains that offer a panoramic view. The houses in Kibbar are unique as they’re made of mud instead of stones. You can find here the dominance of Tibetan Buddhism as Serkong Rinponche who was the teacher of the current Dalai Lama died here.

9. Dhankar Monastery: This is a famous Buddhist monastery located at around 24 km from Kaza. The monastery is so beautifully perched amongst the rocks that it seems as if it is just a few seconds away from falling down. Around one fifty lamas reside over here and it is an important pilgrimage site for the Buddhists. On the southern side of this monastery, you can spot a national park that is home to faunal species like snow leopard.

10. Nako Village: This beautiful lakeside village is a treat for nature lovers as it is fringed with willows and oak trees. Located on the bank of Nako Lake this village offers several sightseeing options to the visitors like Rakham and Buddhist temples. It also has a rock that is said to have the footprints of saint Padmasambhava.

If you are wondering what to do in Spiti Valley, there are many great activities that await you.

• River Rafting
• Camping
• Trekking
• Biking
• Shopping
• Stargazing

If you are looking for some of the best options on stays in Spiti, here are some options you must definitely consider for the wide variety of facilities and amenities available:

• Hotel Sakya Abode
• Hotel Spiti Heritage
• Grand Dewachen
• Spiti Valley Hotel
• Hotel Deyzor
• Hotel Kunphen
• Hotel Snow Lion

Food is what powers a traveler, and one of the best things to do in Spiti Valley is to get the chance to taste their local cuisine. Here are a few restaurants that you must hit up in Spiti for the Hunger Pangs:

• Sol Cafe
• Hotel Deyzor
• The Himalayan Cafe
• Taste of Spiti
• Cafe Zomsa
• Tara Travellers Cafe in Pin valley
• Mahaboudha

With the locals’ intervention, support, and maintenance, Spiti Valley, though remote, is perfectly a safe place to travel to.

Although it is advised that you halt at the Solang Valley instead of Manali for better acclimatization, the way to Spiti from here will take you through Rohtang Pass, Gramphu, Khoksar, and Kunzum Pass before bringing you into Kaza in Spiti Valley. Since the two places are connected only via road, you can either take your own vehicle (car or bike), hire a taxi or rent a bike. There are also buses by HRTC that start from Manali and take the Manali – Rohtang Pass – Kunzum Pass – Kaza route.

The chances of finding snow in Spiti in June are highly rare. However, there are chances that it can snow anytime in the after mid-September which makes traveling to Spiti in these months a little tricky. So plan your trip wisely,

Yes, Spiti valley is open in December. However, it can be reached only through the Shimla - Kaza route during the winters.