Spiti Valley Bucket List: Top Things to do for an Unforgettable Trip
Hello, fellow adventurers and mountain lovers! Ever heard of a place where ancient monasteries hang on the face of cliffs, night skies burst with stars, and landscapes that look like outer space scenery? Welcome to Spiti Valley, the Middle Land between India and Tibet. Get ready for this place to blow your mind!
Tucked away in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, Spiti is a cold desert mountain valley ensconced at an average elevation of 4,270 meters above mean sea level. It is a land of extreme temperatures in effect, thinking about just the barren mountains, deep gorges, and a climate that swings from scorching sun to freezing winds. But do not let that scare you off! It’s a place of raw beauty, rich Buddhist culture, and warm-hearted locals, making it the dream destination for those in quest of something really off the beaten track.
Now, before you pack your bags and run off to majestic Spiti Valley for an untamed experience, let us delve into the experiences that will make your Spiti trip memorable. Be it the culture, the nature, or simply some deep introspection, souls shall satiate a little from Spiti. So, buckle up as we discover all the cool things to do in this Himalayan wonderland!
Here are Top Things to do in Spiti Valley Road Trip:
Marvel at the Key Monastery: First off, we have the poster boy of Spiti—the Key Monastery. Sitting at 4,116 meters on top of a hill, this monastery, built 1,000 years ago, could have easily been taken from any fantasy novel. The whitewashed buildings stacked upon each other against the backdrop of barren mountains create a surreal sight. Don’t just admire it from afar, though. Inside, it contains ancient murals and thangkas (Buddhist paintings). You can even have a chat with some friendly monks.
Wildlife in Pin Valley National Park: This one is for all the wildlife enthusiasts. The elusive snow leopard has made a home of the Pin Valley National Park. One of the most difficult species to see in its natural habitat, sighting one causes excitement like no other. So even if snow leopards play hide and seek, you are sure to spot blue sheep, Tibetan wolves, ibex, and a host of other high-altitude wildlife.
Camp Under the Milky Way at Chandratal Lake: Imagine falling asleep under a canopy of stars reflected in a crystal-clear lake. That’s what camping at Chandratal (Moon Lake) offers. This crescent-shaped lake, sitting pretty at 4,300 meters, is a paradise for stargazers and photographers alike. Pro tip: Don’t forget to carry warm clothes – it gets chilly up there!
Visit the World’s Highest Post Office in Hikkim: It’s time to send the most unique postcard of your life. Situated at 4,440 meters, Hikkim village is home to the world’s highest post office. Just imagine what your postcard will go through from that tiny Himalayan village to your families and loved ones all around the world.
Experience Local Life in Kibber Village: Want to get a taste of authentic Spitian life? Head to Kibber, one of the highest inhabited villages in the world at 4,270 meters. Stroll through its narrow lanes, interact with the friendly locals, and maybe even try your hand at some traditional Spitian cooking. The slow pace of life here is a refreshing change from our usual hustle and bustle.
Fossil Hunting in Langza: Believe it or not, millions of years ago, Spiti was under the Tethys Sea. The proof? Langza village, also known as the Fossil Village. Here, you can find marine fossils dating back 550 million years! It’s like a natural museum where you’re the explorer. Just remember, while it’s fun to hunt for fossils, it’s illegal to take them home.
Witness the Ancient Gue Mummy: Witness a naturally preserved 500-year-old mummy of a Buddhist Monk at Gue village. This is a very rare spectacle, housed in a very small shrine, but it gives deep insights into the ancient practices of Buddhism and the uniquely different climatic conditions of Spiti.
Café Hopping in Kaza: In the burgeoning cafe scene around, experience traditional Spitian flavors synthesized with modern brew techniques. Little places present the aroma of coffees, freshly baked pastries, and company, with fellow travelers, in their comfortable mountain-inspired interiors.
Marvel at Tabo Monastery: Step inside the 1,000-year old Tabo Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walled by ancient mud walls with fine murals and statues, it lends the overland traveler a passage through time and Tibetan artistic expression in the very heart of the Spiti Valley.
Mountain Biking: Challenge yourself with mountain biking in the rugged terrains of Spiti. Pedal down the high mountain passes, ride down the winding roads, and explore the remote villages; the physical exertion with the tantalizing scenery gives an experience one can never forget.
Leopard Sighting in Winter: Join the winter wildlife tour and have a chance to watch the elusive snow leopard. Expert guides navigate you through the tough terrain of Spiti, and with a little bit of patience and sharp eyes, one might just unravel these magnificent cats in their largest sanctuaries.
Kunzum Pass ride: Get on the curvy roads until you reach Kunzum Pass for the fascinating views of the Himalayas. The high, windy pass connects Spiti and Lahaul to give the high riders an incredible sensation, the view that bestows a feeling of having conquered mighty mountains.
There you go, people – your bucket list for an epic Spiti Valley adventure! Remember, Spiti is not a place; it’s an emotion that stays long after one has left behind its towering mountains and warm-hearted people. So pack up, acclimatize well, and get ready for the journey of a lifetime in this Himalayan wonderland!
