Winter Spiti Self Drive

Duration

6N/7D

Location

Spiti Valley Tour Packages - Get upto 20% off

Overview & Highlights

Spiti Valley is a cold desert mountain valley located high in the Himalayas in the north-eastern part of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The name "Spiti" means "The middle land", i.e. the land between Tibet and India. The local population follows Vajrayana Buddhism similar to that found in the nearby Tibet and Ladakh regions. The valley and surrounding region is one of the least populated regions in India and serves as the gateway to the northernmost reaches of the nation.

Along the northern route from Manali, Himachal Pradesh or Keylong via the Rohtang Pass or Kunzum Pass respectively, the valley lies in the north-eastern section of Himachal Pradesh and forms part of the Lahaul and Spiti district. Due to its rugged terrain, steep mountain passes, and unpaved roads, exploring Spiti Valley is best done using a 4x4 self-drive vehicle. These vehicles provide better traction and control on rocky, icy, and uneven surfaces, allowing travelers to experience the adventure and freedom of navigating the dramatic Himalayan landscape at their own pace.

 

The sub-divisional headquarters (capital) is Kaza, Himachal Pradesh, which is situated along the Spiti River at an elevation of about 12,500 feet (3,800 m) above mean sea level.

Itinerary

Day 0
Delhi To Shimla

Get ready to be departed from Delhi by Evening  Reach Shimla next morning by an overnight Volvo

Day 1
Shimla To Sangla

·         We will reach Shimla in morning around 7:30 AM.

·         The Spiti Expedition journey starts from here.

·         Long drive through the scenic beauty of Kinnaur via Narkanda and Rampur.

·         Stop at the iconic Kinnaur Gate for group photography and continue the journey via the impressive Karcham Dam.

·         Arrive in Sangla and check in to your accommodation.

·         Overnight Stay and Dinner in Sangla.

Day 2
Sangla - chitkul - Tabo

·         After breakfast, relax for a while and check out.

·         Drive to Chitkul, the last Indian village near the China border.

·         Explore the village and enjoy the scenic views.

·         Then head to Tabo via Khab Sangam, the beautiful confluence of the Spiti and Sutlej Rivers.

·         On the way, visit Nako Lake, a peaceful high-altitude lake surrounded by mountains.

·         Reach Tabo by evening.

·         Check in, have dinner, and stay overnight.

Day 3
Tabo to Kaza

·         After breakfast, spend some peaceful time at the beautiful Tabo Monastery and listen to stories shared by the monks.

·         Then, begin your journey towards the administrative hub of Spiti Valley – Kaza.

·         En route, explore the ancient Dhankar Monastery, one of the oldest in the valley, offering breathtaking views.

·         Reach Kaza and spend the evening exploring the local market and visiting some cozy cafés.

·         Overnight stay in Kaza.

Day 4
Kaza - Langza - Hikkim - Komic - Kaza

·         After breakfast, get ready for a day of local sightseeing around Kaza.

·         Start by visiting Langza, a picturesque village known for its giant Buddha statue and fossil-rich landscapes.

·         Next, head to Hikkim, home to one of the world’s highest post offices—don’t forget to send a postcard!

·         Continue to Komic, the highest motorable village in the world, offering incredible views and a peaceful vibe.

·         Return to Kaza by evening.

·         Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Kaza.

Day 5
Kaza - Chicham Bridge - Key Monastery - Kaza

·         After breakfast, head out for a day of sightseeing around Kaza.

·         Start with a visit to the iconic Key Monastery, the largest and most famous monastery in Spiti, known for its stunning hilltop location and peaceful atmosphere.

·         Then, drive to the spectacular Chicham Bridge, one of Asia’s highest suspension bridges, offering thrilling views of the deep gorge below.

·         Return to Kaza by evening. Dinner and overnight stay in Kaza.

Day 6
Kaza - Gui Monastery - Kalpa

·         After breakfast, depart from Kaza and head towards Kalpa, traveling via Tabo.

·         En route, visit the peaceful Gui Monastery, famous for its ancient murals, serene location, and the 500-550-year-old mummy of a Buddhist monk, which has been remarkably preserved due to the dry, cold climate.

·         Continue your scenic journey through the Spiti Valley and reach Kalpa by evening.

·         Check in, enjoy dinner, and have an overnight stay.

Day 7
Kalpa to Shimla to Delhi

·         Wake up to the Kinner Kailash view. 

·         Visit the popular Suicide point and start your excursion back to Shimla.

·         Reach Shimla by evening.

·         Depart for Delhi.

·         Arrive in Delhi next morning i.e., 8th Day.

Inclusions

  • Volvo/ Bus Transfers from Delhi to Shimla and Shimla to Delhi.
  • Sightseeing by 4x4 Vehicle /Thar/Fortuner/Jimny/Gurkha.
  • Accommodation: 6 Nights (Hotels/Camps/Homestays)
  • Meals (6 Breakfasts and 6 Dinner) only in Stays.
  • Availability of oxygen 24x7 in case of any emergency.
  • All applicable toll, parking, and driver charges.
  • All inner line permits.
  • 5% GST if applicable

Exclusions

  • The package doesn't include the cost of any form of insurance, rescue, evacuation, hospitalization, and entry ticket.
  • Other expenses such as drinks and tips are not included.
  • Any additional expenses such as of personal nature. Additional accommodation/food costs incurred due to any delayed travel.
  • Parking and monument entry fees during sightseeing.
  • Additional Costs due to Flight Cancellations, Landslides, Roadblocks, and other natural calamities.
  • Any other services not specified above in inclusions.

FAQs

How is weather in Spiti?
-4 to 0 degrees
What are the best places to visit in spiti Valley?
Chitkul Tabo Monastery Key Monastery Kungri Monastery Gue Monastery Nako Monastery Sakya Tangyud Monastery Dhankar Monastery Kalpa
What is the best time to visit Spiti?
Understanding the location in relation to weather and seasons is crucial to choosing the optimum time to visit Spiti, or "Little Tibet," as it is infamously known. Not just because of the lovely weather, but also because there are less tourists, the summer months of March to June are thought to be the finest for visiting Spiti. The best time to visit Spiti is from October to February if you're looking for that ideal winter getaway. The environment is covered in a white frost at this time, and one can observe the secretive fauna as well as the stunning frozen waterfalls and lakes.
What is a 4x4 vehicle?
A 4x4 vehicle (also called four-wheel drive or 4WD) is a vehicle where power is supplied to all four wheels simultaneously. This system provides better traction and control, especially on rough, slippery, or off-road terrain.
When should I use a 4x4 vehicle?
You should engage 4x4 mode when driving: On steep mountain roads In muddy, snowy, or sandy conditions During off-road adventures In areas with poor or unpaved roads (like Spiti Valley or Ladakh)
Can I drive a 4x4 vehicle on normal roads?
Yes, you can drive a 4x4 on regular roads, but it’s best to keep it in 2WD mode when possible to save fuel and reduce wear on the drivetrain. Many modern 4x4s have selectable modes, allowing drivers to switch between 2WD and 4WD.
Are 4x4 vehicles necessary for visiting Spiti Valley or similar regions?
Yes, a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for Spiti Valley and other high-altitude or off-road regions. The terrain includes steep ascents, rocky patches, and occasional river crossings where a standard car may struggle.
What are some popular 4x4 vehicles in India?
Some popular 4x4 models include: Mahindra Thar Toyota Fortuner Force Gurkha Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Jeep Wrangler
What are the potential heath hazards related to high Altitude?
Individuals who are not accustomed to higher elevations may experience altitude sickness. AMS symptoms include: 1. Symptoms of Light: Appetite loss Sleep deprivation Urine passage is difficult. 2. Mild Symptoms: This is a bad headache. Breathing irregularities Nausea Mild sluggishness 3. Severe Symptoms: Hand and face swelling Dizzinness Standing is difficult. The heart gurgles There is no energy. It can be alleviated or avoided by slowing the rate of ascent - for this reason, we usually recommend at least 7 days for a tour of the valley, allowing plenty of time to gradually ascend. If anyone in the group continues to feel ill, there is enough time in the itinerary for them to have a relaxing morning until they feel better! Pain relievers and extra fluids can usually help.
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