Backpackers guide to Spiti Valley : Himachal’s Far Away Land

Spiti Valley is home to enchanting monasteries, snow-capped mountains, the pristine Spiti River, clear skies that boast of countless stars and the crescent-shaped Chandratal Lake. Also, this region has the world’s highest and old-fashioned petrol pump at Kaza, the world’s highest motorable village Komik and the world’s highest post office at Hikkim.

Spiti Valley budget trip is a dream come true for every backpacker. This part of the world is one of the most surreal places that you’ll ever visit in your lifetime.

In addition to the natural beauty of the place, your Spiti Valley budget trip will turn out to be memorable because of the heart-warming people of the region. They will welcome you with open arms and make you feel at peace.

Places to visit in Spiti Valley?

Reckong Peo

Reckong Peo finds itself at about 2290 meters above sea level, in Kinnaur district of Himachal. It is a bustling town as per Himachal standards, but nevertheless pretty with its breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas.

Kaza

Kaza, sitting huddled in the corner of Himachal Pradesh is a tranquil getaway on the plains of the Spiti River. Lapped by majestic mountains covered in snow, meandering and bubbling rivers and streams and picturesque barren landscape with scattered patches of green, Kaza is a dream destination.

Key Monastery

The Key Monastery is a famous Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the Lahaul and Spiti District of India. Also known as the Kye Monastery and Ki Monastery, it is believed to have been founded by Dromton, who was a student of the famous teacher Atisha in the 11th century. The stunning Key Monastery is over a thousand years old and is also the largest monastery to be found in the entire Spiti Valley. The magnificent monastery doubles up as a religious training centre for the Lamas, and about 300 lamas receive their education from here.

Hikkim

A 40 minute uphill drive from from the town of Kaza in Spiti valley for 14km and one will reach the village of Hikkim. This place houses the highest post office in the world. Hikkim also has the highest polling booth in India.

Chandratal Lake

A camper and trekker’s paradise, Chandratal Lake is often referred to as one of the most beautiful lakes located at an altitude of about 4300 m in the mighty Himalayas. The stunning lake is situated on the Samudra Tapu plateau which overlooks the Chandra River. The name “Chandra Taal” (Lake of the Moon) comes from its crescent shape.

Kunzum Pass

Kunzum Pass or Kunzum La, as it is called by locals, is one of the highest motorable mountain passes of India, located at an altitude of 4,551m above mean sea level. It serves as a gateway to the beautiful Spiti valley Via Kullu and Lahaul. It lies on the eastern Kunzum Range of the Himalayas and is at a distance of 122 km from Manali. Kunzum La offers an incredible 360-degree view of Bara- Shigri Glacier (the second longest glacier in the world), a jaw-dropping vista of Chandrabhaga Range and a spectacular view of the Spiti valley. This enthralling view makes Kunzum Pass a photographer’s dream.

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