.webp)
Overview
Spiti Valley is also commonly termed as the “Middle Land,” as it is positioned between India and Tibe, amongst the most challenging, highest, and spiritually diverse places in the world. This 8 nights 9 days tour would take you through the popular Spiti Circuit, which would begin in the lush greenery of Kinnaur Valley and end in the alpine landscape of Manali.
The best way to travel from Shimla to Manali is preferably to the direct path from Manali to the pass because the circuit allows for a gradual climb, important for mountainous regions that normally surpass 4,000 meters in altitude. The tour is an endurance trip, a visual retreat, and a spiritual journey all combined into one activity.
Itinerary Details:
Day 1: Delhi – Shimla
The tour begins from Delhi, where you leave early in the morning from the hot plains. Head towards the Shivalik hills, where the climate turns cooler. The 8 hours trip will take you to the Himalayan Expressway, via Chandigarh, to reach Shimla.
Shimla or “Queen of hills,” marks the entry to the higher Himalayas. Spend evening in either the Mall Road or The Ridge to try the first breath of mountain air. It’s basically a warm-up day before even tougher paths to come.
Day 2: Shimla – Chitkul
The day is when the real adventure begins. Move from the commercial hustle and bustle in Shimla and proceed towards Kinnaur. The path takes you through the Hindustan-Tibet Highway, which is cut through massive granite rocks with the Satluj River churning furiously down below. After passing through Narkanda and Rampur, enter the Sangla Valley. The destination is Chitkul, last populated village on the Indo Tibet Border. Chitkul is around 3,450 meters above, known for its “last Indian School,” wooden temples and the clear Baspa River.
Day 3: Chitkul – Kalpa
Kalpa is reached after a short yet picturesque journey of 3 hours. Kalpa is located far up in the hills of the village. Reckong peo gives the most breathtaking views of the Kinner Kailash Range, stands 6,050 meters tall and is believed to change its colors as the sun moves across the sky. Visit the medieval village of Roghi and then visit the Suicide point where the road dives steeply into a deep gorge. Apple orchards enclosed Kalpa, and your time here will be marked by the scent of pine and the sight of snow-capped mountains peeking out from behind your window.
Day 4: Kalpa to Tabo
This day marks the beginning of Spiti Valley. Drive pass by Khab, with the confluence point of the Satluj River and the Spiti River, a complete transition from trees to a brown, moon-like landscape.
Stop at Nako is a high-altitude town established on the shores of the sacred lake. Embark on a brief excursion to Gue Village where you get to examine the 500-year-old natural mummy of the Buddhist Monk, Sangha Tenzin, is conserved without the addition of any chemicals. Arrive in Tabo, known as the Ajanta of the Himalayas, boasts the 996 CE, “Ajanta of the Himalayas Monastery, which contains ancient murals and stucco statues.
Day 5: Kaza Transfer
Today, you will proceed to Kaza and the route is replete with some historical halts. Visit the Dhankar Monastery, located on a rugged cliff side overlooking the juncture of the rivers Pin and Spiti. It looks as if this mud-built monastery hangs on the edge of the world. If you have time, consider visiting Pin Valley, known for its rich flora and fauna, such as the rare snow leopard. In the evening, you will be arriving at Kaza, the administrative headquarters and the most developed town of spiti.
Day 6: Kaza Sightseeing
The day is all about exploring the tourist points of Kaza –
Key Monastery is the largest and most famous monastery of Spiti, resembling a fort.
Kibber is formerly the world’s highest village, recognized as a place with wildlife sighting opportunities.
Chicham Bridge is the highest in Asia and hangs over a valley of 1,000 feet.
Hikkim has the world’s highest post office. Don’t forget to mail a postcard to your loved ones from here.
Komic is 4587 meters above sea level, among the world’s highest habitation and is accessible by a motorable road.
Langza is renowned for its massive gold Buddha and prehistoric sea treasures.
Day 7: Chandratal Transfer
Emerging from Kaza, you will proceed to the magnificent Chandratal Lake, known as the “Moon Lake.” Your trail will lead you through the Kunzum Pass, stands at 4,590 meters. It is highly revered place where one can seek the blessing of the Kunzum Mata Shrine. The path is a miniature dirt road, and the last 2 kms must be done on foot. Chandratal is a crescent-shaped light blue lake ringed around by towering peaks. Enjoy a camp stay in the nearby high-altitude camps, where the sky is at its clearest in the entire nation.
Day 8: Manali Transfer
The most difficult part of the trip this day. Batal and Gramphu are joined via a glacial riverbed, bascically a river of boulders and glacial streams. After you get out of the tunnel, the Spiti desert just disappears, and you find yourself right back into the alpine meadows of the Kullu Valley. Reach Manali by evening and have some delicious food with comfortable sleep overnight.
Day 9: Delhi Departure
This day takes you on a long drive to Delhi and is approximately 12-14 hours. While the mountains recede into the background in the rear view mirror, memories of a land that seems to be another planet and peacefulness of the Himalayan linger.