Spiti Valley in Winter: Adventure in a frozen paradise

Famous for its awe inspiring landscapes, Spiti Valley is as good in winter as in summer. Its snow clad mountains, snowy rivers and snow-sprinkled villages appeal to the heart. In winter, Spiti Valley becomes a frozen paradise for adventure seekers. The entire landscape becomes white like heaps of fresh cotton flowers as far as the eyes can see!

However, often the visuals can be misleading. A drive/ ride to Spiti Valley can be risky and dangerous too. So, one must be careful while planning the trip- from the vehicle, to the accommodation and the weather conditions. Hence, here’s a guide to help you out. Or, you may just take one of those great winter Spiti packages. It’s a convenient way of exploring the the frozen wonderland without worrying for planning and arranging for logistics. {For more such destinations, read: North Sikkim Tour}

There’s something about snow-white landscapes that attracts nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike. Its gorgeousness, serenity and peaceful vibes are unmatched by any other natural sights. North of India is blessed to have plentiful of such landscapes. From Kashmir to Leh- Ladakh, Arunachal and Sikkim, snow white mountains are a big hit among travellers. Even though they are typically difficult places to reach, travellers take all the pain to reach there, and are seldom let down.

What's so special about Spiti

I can never forget the visuals and experiences of Spiti Valley. It is really special in many ways a traveller would love to explore. From spectacular landscapes to a rich architectural heritage and culture, Spiti Valley offers so much to a discerning traveller! Before visiting Spiti Valley, I had been to Leh- Ladakh twice. When I visited Spiti Valley, I found it much similar to Ladakh, but also had a lot of things quite unique about it. It has a vibe all its own; it’s quite difficult to spell out, but you need to be there to feel and experience it. For those planning their trip, exploring various Spiti Valley Packages can be a great way to experience the region’s best attractions comfortably and conveniently.

The landscape:

One cannot talk about Spiti Valley without talking about its landscapes. Though Spiti Valley is not a typical hill station, many consider it as one of the best mountain destinations for adventure. Much like Leh- Ladakh, the massive upper Himalayan mountains spread across north-eastern Himachal Pradesh are as much overwhelming to the senses, as appealing to the soul. Standing in front of these awe inspiring landscapes, I often had spiritual experiences rather than any other feeling. And then the seasons. Spiti Valley in winter is almost unrecognizable from Spiti Valley in the summer. The brown and grey landscapes turn completely white without break.

{For more such landscapes, do check out: Nathu La Pass (Sikkim) ||| Tawang Valley (Arunachal)}

The culture:

However much I’m overwhelmed by the stunning mountains, Spiti Valley’s spiritual essence equally appeals to my soul. Tibetan Buddhism that came here in the 8th and 9th century AD has been continuously the leading source of spiritualism and wisdom in Spiti Valley. I love the way the locals go about their religious practices in a peaceful and non-imposing way. Besides, the Tibetan architecture, both of the monasteries and the houses in the villages across the valley is a treat to the eyes. Not to forget, the numerous interesting festivals of Spiti Valley through out the year, but especially during the winters.

Spiti Valley in Winter Vs. Summer

Undoubtedly, Spiti Valley is among the best winter destinations in India. However, Spiti Valley offers completely different experiences in different seasons. Spiti Valley in winter and summer is like chalk and cheese!

{If you want to plan for the summer, here’s your reference: Spiti Valley Tour in June}

Major differences:

Landscape: Of course, the most obvious difference is the landscapes. While the summer landscapes are more colourful, from brown and grey to black, white and yellow, winter landscapes are mostly white. However, both have their own charm, and are enjoyable nonetheless.
Weather: While summer weather is very much enjoyable, winters are freezing (sub-zero temperatures) cold. One has to remain within the confines of the comfortable vehicles except for the time one is exploring the monasteries.

Road condition: New roads are being laid to Spiti Valley, especially from Shimla side. So, the road conditions are generally good now. However, in late summers, Spiti Valley receives a little rain. And that is enough to bring the big boulders down onto the roads! During the winter, all roads get choc-a-bloc with snow and it’s difficult to drive.
Culture: The spirit and vibes of Tibetan Buddhism reverberates across the Spiti Valley. From beautiful monasteries sitting atop hills to enchanting festivals, Spiti Valley offers an amazing cultural panorama. If you love festivals, winter and summer bring different kinds of festivals in Spiti Valley. Winter festivals in Spiti Valley: Losar/ Halda (Jan- Feb) || Gothsi/ Gochi (Feb). Summer festivals: Ladarcha (Aug) || Tsheshu (June) festival.

Best things to do in Spiti Valley in winter

Now, perhaps the main question for this article. Which are the experiences and places one must not miss in Spiti Valley, especially during the winter season. Though the iconic places would obviously remain the same for both seasons, there are certain experiences most suitable for winter. Here’s a list.

The best time and place for star gazing:

If you love star gazing, winter is the best time, and Spiti Valley is among the best places in India for you. During winters, the cold climate ensures minimal air pollution suitable for star gazing. Situated over elevated hills, places like Komic, Hikkim, Kibber and Dhankar are the best places for observing the night sky, especially the Milky Way.

For best experiences, one should choose the new moon phase when the sky is darker. Besides, one should go as far as possible for a village/ town to avoid light pollution. It’s a good idea to have an organizing agency to help with.

Look out for that ever elusive snow leopard:

Another top thing to do in Spiti Valley is looking for that ever elusive snow leopard. If you are a wildlife enthusiast or a wildlife photographer, chasing that snow leopard would be much fun. However, one has to be very lucky to actually spot one. Among the best places for wildlife sightings in Spiti are Kibber village and Pin Valley National Park. Again, this is a specialist’s job and one should have a good agency to help out.

Winter adventure/ sports, if at all:

The first thing that comes to mind for a winter trip to Spiti Valley is engaging in some winter/ snow sports. Unfortunately, there aren’t many developed resorts for winter sports around Spiti Valley. However, one can look for some snow adventures like snow-trekking, skiing, ice skating and ice hockey in Kaza and Kibber. Snow trekking to Dhankar Lake is getting popular by the day.

BUT I would caution everyone to ask yourself if you are fit enough to do any of these. Since Spiti Valley is a high altitude destination, oxygen levels are low which causes AMS in some people. Add to that the low temperatures (below zero) and slippery trails. It’s a real challenge even for the fittest of the lot!

Cultural activities in the winter:

As I mentioned above, there are a number of interesting festivals to experience in Spiti Valley in the winter.

Perhaps the most popular festival in Spiti Valley in winter is Losar (or, Halda). Basically, it’s the Tibetan New Year celebrated across Ladakh, Lahaul, Himachal, Arunachal and Sikkim. People celebrate it with traditional rituals, good food, dance, street celebrations and bon fires.
Fagli is another important festival in Spiti to mark the end of winter and beginning of the spring season.

Places not to miss:

Along with the best winter experiences in Spiti Valley, one must not forget to visit the most iconic places in the valley. Some of these places are here for your bucket list.

Khab Sangam: The confluence of Spiti and Sutlej rivers is a fascinating place to be at.
Nako Village: With one of the oldest monasteries in Spiti Valley and a lovely lake, Nako is among the best destinations in the valley.
Gue Monastery: Famous for the ancient mummy preserved at the monastery.

Tabo Monastery: Among the oldest monasteries in the world, Tabo monastery is a must visit. In fact, it’s among my favorite places in Spiti Valley.
Dhankar Monastery: One of the most iconic monasteries, and perhaps the most photographed monastery.
Chicham Bridge: One of the highest bridges in Asia, constructed over a 1000-feet gorge.
Key Monastery: Sitting majestically over a hill, Key Monastery is among the oldest and most important monasteries in the Ladakh- Spiti region.
Langza Buddha Statue: The famous Buddha statue facing a beautiful valley in Langza.
Komic (Tangyud) Monastery: One of the most important monasteries in Spiti Valley. Besides, the experience of visiting the highest motorable villages in the world (~15,000 feet) is special.

Hikkim Village: Famous for the highest post office in the world.

Spiti Valley in Winter: Travel Tips

A suggested itinerary:

Day-0: Reach Shimla by bus/ whatever means (check below)
Day-1: Starting early-morning from Shimla, reach Sangla by evening. On the way, the little stop-overs are enjoyable.
Day-2: (Chitkul is optional). Else, reach Tabo directly while taking stopovers. Major places of interest: Khab Sangam || Nako Monastery and Lake || Gue Monastery.
Day-3: From Tabo to Kaza. Major places of interest: Tabo Monastery || Dhankar Monastery
Day-4: Drive around local Kaza. Major places of interest: Chicham Bridge || Langza Buddha || Komic Village || Hikkim Village || Kaza Market.
Day-5: Drive from Kaza to Kalpa. Stay there overnight.
Day-6: Explore Kalpa area in Kinnaur and proceed to Shimla in the afternoon.
Day-7: After exploring a bit of Shimla, leave from Shimla for your home destination.
But please keep 1-2 days extra on hand for road closures due to snowfall.
Plus, if you want to engage in wildlife spotting, keep 1-2 days more.

Things to take care:

Acclimatization is absolutely important. So, be careful of how you feel. If you experience headache or nausea, consult a doctor and take rest.
In order to keep in good health, be sure you wear good quality warm clothes, gloves and snow boots
Packing suggestions: Thermals, Snow boots, power bank, hot water bottle, sunglasses, oxymeter
Since power is not always certain, carry additional power sources
Keeping hydrated is important. So, carry enough water even during the cold season.
Since it’s easy to get lost and lose time, regularly consult guides/ locals whose offerings can be relied upon.
Last but not the least, always keep additional days for road blockages due to snowfall.

How to reach:

In summer times, one can reach Spiti Valley either from Shimla side, or Manali side. But during the winters, it’s not possible to reach Spiti from the Manali side. So, one has to take the Shimla- Kaza route.
This route has good roads mostly, except for a patch between Tabo and Kaza. During days of snow fall, the authorities swing into action and clear the roads promptly. But one may have to wait till the roads are cleared, depending on the volume of snowfall.
There are a few local buses from Shimla to reach Kaza. But it’s good to hire a vehicle for a better experience. Because these buses are small and uncomfortable, especially where the roads are not so great.

Where to stay:

There are a large number of homestays/ guesthouses in all the villages across Spiti Valley, though some of them may not be operating in the winter. Since there’s uncertainty around itinerary due to road conditions, one may not book rooms in advance. Generally, it’s easy to find a room on reaching the destinations leading up to Spiti Valley. There’s a Zostel in Kaza, which gets sold out quite fast though.

How to get around:

It’s good to get around by personal/ hired vehicles, either bikes or cars. But one should be sure that they know how to drive on slippery snow roads in Spiti Valley during winter. Otherwise, go for a local driver who has the required experience. For budget travellers, though local buses are available, they are few and far between.

What/ where to eat:

There are small eateries at villages throughout the Spiti Valley. However, one shouldn’t expect any high-end restaurants/ cafes. The hotels/ homestays do offer good food, mostly Tibetan and Himachali food.

Final Words

Whether it’s winter or summer, Spiti Valley is a wonderland for travellers. The kind of experiences I had in Spiti Valley will always remain etched deep in my memory. If one visits Spiti Valley during Losar, it would be absolutely magical. Imagine observing Buddhist monks and locals in their colourful traditional dresses with a snow white backdrop. Whether you are a photographer or a discerning traveller, Spiti Valley in winter offers you life changing experiences.

For all its alluring travel experiences, Spiti Valley is fraught with dangers as well. In winters, we have seen vehicles slipping away in snowy conditions. And in summers, we have seen how roads vanished in flash floods in minutes. We have also seen a half-hour rain causing stone shooting on the vehicles. So, it’s imperative for one to be absolutely careful while driving.

For more tips, please don’t hesitate to reach out. If you have already visited Spiti Valley in the winter or in summer, do share your experience with us.