Discover Spiti

Today we head to Spiti valley which will take around 9 hours (approx. 190 kms), if everything goes as planned. We leave in the morning as we have a long way to go and cross the Atal Tunnel. The tunnel is the longest tunnel in the world at 9km above 10000 ft. Spend some time after you cross the tunnel as you head towards Gramphoo. Once you cross Gramphoo, the stunning beauty of Spiti valley will leave you speechless. High snow capped mountains, dry and rugged terrain, many waterfalls crossing the non-existent roads, the rough Chandra river –these are some of the things that will be waiting for you. Meet Chacha and Chachi at Chandra Dhaba and head to Kaza. Relax in Kaza.

Take the morning easy and walk through Kaza village if you are feeling up to it. After breakfast we shall head to Kye Monastery and Khibber Village. Kye monastery is on top of a mountain overlooking the Spiti valley and a huge river bed. It is also the main learning centre for Lamas following the Geluk sect of Buddhism. Kye houses approximately 100 odd monks. We shall climb a little further and visit Khibber Village- which was once the world’s highest village. A short hike or car ride from Khibber is Chicham bridge which is known to be the highest bridge above sea level in Asia.
Next stop for the day is Langza, Langza at 4300 meters is famous for its fossils and the statue of Buddha overlooking the mountain ranges. Have lunch in Langza before heading to your next stop, Hikkim. Hikkim has the highest post office in the world. Visit the post office and revive the art of writing again by sending out some postcards to your loved ones. Your last stop for the day is Komic village, one of the highest motorable villages in the world. The village is also home to the Sakya Tangyud monastery. If you are visiting Komic, this monastery is worth the visit. Head back to Kaza for an evening coffee at one of the many cafes.

Take the morning easy and head out to visit the “Ajanta of the Himalayas' '- The Tabo Monastery which is currently close to 1000 years old. The murals, thangkas and paintings are believed to have been made in a single night by the Gods themselves. You can also hike to the meditation caves, if time permits. Visit Dhankar Monastery – Seat of the King in ancient times – the most beautiful setting of a monument which hangs on a cliff and overlooks the confluence of Spiti and Pin River. The monastery is one of 100 most endangered sites in the world by the World Monument Fund. You can hike to Dhankar lake, if your lungs permit it is a steep hike and not for everyone, but the views from the top are worth it. Final stop for the day is Pin Valley- home to Snow Leopards, Siberian Ibex and a stronghold of Buchen Lamas. We shall visit Khungri Monastery on the way to Mudh (last village in Pin Valley). Spend some time around Mudh before heading back to Kaza.

This is the last day of your trip in the secluded beauty of Spiti before you see civilization again. Early morning, we drive to Chandra Tal or 'moon lake’. On our way will cross Lohsar village and Kunzum Pass. The hike to Chandra Tal lake is 20 mins or 500 mtrs from the barricade. This lake is not as big as the ones in Ladakh, but it is sure to leave you speechless. It is one of the best parts of your Spiti Visit. Stop in Chatru for lunch. Gaze at the vast landscape as we approach the hustle and bustle around Atal Tunnel and Manali. You can spend some time at Koksar if your schedule permits. Stay in Manali or take the late evening bus back.