SPITI VALLEY- LAND OF LAMAS
10 Night /9 Days
Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Spiti and Kinnaur Valleys beckon travelers with their untouched beauty and serene landscapes. These remote regions in Himachal Pradesh, India, boast of breathtaking vistas that leave visitors in awe.
Spellbinding Landscapes: Spiti Valley is renowned for its stark, barren terrain, while Kinnaur Valley captivates with lush greenery and orchards, offering a striking contrast.
High-altitude Marvels: Situated at altitudes ranging from 2,320 to 6,100 meters, these valleys are home to some of the highest inhabited villages on Earth, offering a glimpse into unique Himalayan cultures.
Spiritual Sanctuaries: Both valleys are dotted with ancient monasteries, such as Key Monastery in Spiti and Tabo Monastery in Kinnaur, serving as spiritual havens amidst the rugged landscapes.
Rich Cultural Heritage: The people of Spiti and Kinnaur are warm and hospitable, with rich traditions deeply rooted in Buddhism and Hinduism, creating a vibrant tapestry of customs and festivals.
Thrilling Adventure: Adventure enthusiasts are drawn to Spiti and Kinnaur for trekking, mountaineering, and river rafting opportunities, with challenging terrain and pristine rivers offering adrenaline-pumping experiences.
Chandratal Lake: Known as the “Moon Lake,” Chandratal in Spiti Valley mesmerizes with its turquoise waters surrounded by towering peaks, offering a tranquil retreat for nature lovers.
Sangla Valley: In Kinnaur, Sangla Valley enchants visitors with its picturesque villages, apple orchards, and the crystal-clear Baspa River, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Road Less Traveled: Accessible via treacherous roads and high mountain passes, including the famous Kunzum Pass and Rohtang Pass, the journey to these valleys is as thrilling as the destinations themselves.
Stunning Flora and Fauna: Despite the harsh climate, Spiti and Kinnaur are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the elusive snow leopard, ibex, blue sheep, and a variety of Himalayan birds.
Photographer’s Paradise: Every corner of Spiti and Kinnaur offers postcard-perfect scenery, with dramatic landscapes, quaint villages, and colorful prayer flags providing endless opportunities for photography.
Transcendent Sunsets and Sunrises: As the sun dips behind the towering peaks, the valleys come alive with hues of orange, pink, and purple, casting a spellbinding aura over the landscape.
Narkanda,Sangla
Narkanda is a beautiful hill station located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated at an elevation of 2,708 meters, amidst the scenic beauty of the Himalayas. The Sutlej River flows through the valley below Narkanda, adding to the charm of the place.
urists flock to Narkanda for its breathtaking views, pleasant weather, and adventure activities. In the winter, Narkanda transforms into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered slopes perfect for skiing and snowboarding. During the summer, the weather is pleasant, making it an ideal escape from the heat of the plains.The Sutlej River is one of the major rivers of northern India. It originates in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh and flows through Punjab and Pakistan before emptying into the Indus River in Sindh. The Sutlej River plays a significant role in the economy of the region, providing water for irrigation and hydropower generation.If you are looking for a picturesque hill station to relax and rejuvenate, Narkanda is a perfect choice. And if you are looking for an adventure, the Sutlej River offers plenty of opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and fishing
Sutlej River,Sangla
the Sutlej River is one of the major rivers of northern India. It originates in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh and flows through Punjab and Pakistan before emptying into the Indus River in Sindh. The Sutlej River plays a significant role in the economy of the region, providing water for irrigation and hydropower generation.
Karcham Dam,Sangla
The Karcham Dam is not directly on the Sutlej River itself, but it is part of a hydroelectric project that utilizes the water of the Sutlej. The dam is a concrete gravity dam located on the Sutlej River in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India.
Here are some details about the Karcham Dam:
- It is 98 meters tall.
- The dam diverts a substantial portion of the Sutlej into a 10.48 meters diameter and 17.2 kilometers long headrace tunnel to the underground power station downstream at Wangtoo.
- The project comprises of 44.6 kilometers of tunneling in the Himalayan geology.
- The power plant has a generating capacity of 1,091 megawatts.
Valley of Baspa,Sangla
The Baspa Valley, also known as Sangla Valley or Tukpa Valley, is a scenic river valley located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is named after the Baspa River, a tributary of the Sutlej River that flows through the valley.The Baspa Valley is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush green meadows, snow-capped mountains, and dense forests. The valley is home to several picturesque villages, including Sangla, Rakchham, Batseri, Kamru (the old capital of Bushahr State), and Chitkul, which is known as the last inhabited village on the Old Hindustan-Tibet Road.
Kamru Fort,Sangla
The Kamru Fort is a historic structure perched atop a hill in the charming village of Sangla, within the Baspa Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. The fort, dating back around 1400 years, served as the capital of the erstwhile Bushahr princely state.The fort offers stunning panoramic views of the Sangla Valley, including the meandering Baspa River, lush green meadows, and snow-capped mountains.
Chhitkul Village,Sangla
Chhitkul Village is a picturesque hamlet nestled in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Often referred to as the “last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibetan border”, Chhitkul boasts an elevation of around 3,450 meters (11,319 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest settlements in the country.The village is embraced by the stunning natural beauty of the Himalayas, with the majestic Kinnaur Kailash peak standing guard in the backdrop. The Baspa River, a tributary of the Sutlej River, snakes its way through the valley, adding to the charm of the landscape. Chhitkul is known for its serene environment, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking vistas.
Kalpa Village
Kalpa is a scenic village nestled in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Located at an elevation of 2,960 meters (9,711 ft) above sea level, it offers breathtaking views of the majestic Kinnaur Kailash mountain range, which is often mistaken for Mount Kailash.Kalpa is known for its apple orchards, which are a major cash crop for the region. The village is also a center of Kinnauri culture, with traditional houses made of stone and wood, and a rich heritage of temples and monasteries.
Geu Monastery
The village itself resides at an elevation of 10,000 feet and is known for housing a naturally preserved mummy believed to be around 550 years old. The mummy was discovered in one of the eight stupas located in the village, which were severely damaged by a 1975 earthquake.
Tabo Monastery,
The Tabo Monastery, also referred to as the Ajanta of the Himalayas, is the oldest continuously operating Buddhist enclave in both India and the Himalayas . It was founded in 996 CE in the Tibetan year of the Fire Ape by the Tibetan Buddhist lotsawa (translator) Rinchen Zangpo (Mahauru Ramabhadra), on behalf of the king of western Himalayan Kingdom of Guge, Yeshe-Ö.
Rich History: Founded over 1,000 years ago, Tabo Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in India. It played a crucial role in the revival of Buddhism in Tibet and served as a center for learning and pilgrimage. Exquisite Artwork: The monastery complex houses a unique collection of Buddhist paintings and mud statues, some dating back to the 10th century. These frescoes depict tales from the Buddhist pantheon and showcase a blend of Tibetan and Indian artistic influences. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed inside the monastery to preserve the artwork. Architectural Marvel: The monastery complex itself is a architectural marvel, built using mud brick and wood. The nine temples within the complex have different architectural styles, reflecting the evolution of Buddhist architecture over the centuries. UNESCO World Heritage Site: In recognition of its cultural and historical significance, Tabo Monastery was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
Tabo Caves
The Tabo Caves are a network of ancient caves located high up on the cliffs overlooking the Tabo Monastery in the Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India. These caves are believed to have been carved out by monks over a thousand years ago and served as meditation retreats and living quarters during the harsh winters of the Himalayas.
Dhankar Monastery
Dhankar Monastery, also known as Dankhar Gompa, Drangkhar Gompa, or Dhangkar Gompa, is a village and Buddhist temple complex located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India ,Perched at an elevation of 3,894 meters (12,774 feet) in the Spiti Valley, above Dhankar Village, the complex offers a dramatic and picturesque setting. Situated between the towns of Kaza and Tabo, Dhankar Monastery is built on a 1,000-foot (300-meter) high spur overlooking the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers.
History: Dhankar Monastery is believed to have been founded around 996 CE, making it over 1,000 years old.Fort Monastery: Dhankar Monastery follows the architectural style of a fort monastery, similar to Key Monastery and Tangyud Monastery in Spiti, and Thiksey, Likir and Rangdum monasteries in Ladakh. These monasteries were strategically built on hilltops to serve not only as religious centers but also as defensive structures.Endangered Site: Sadly, Dhankar Monastery is listed as one of the most endangered heritage sites in the world. The harsh weather conditions and strong winds pose a constant threat to the structural integrity of the monastery.Features: The Dhankar Monastery complex comprises several multi-storey buildings clustered together. It houses five different halls, including the Kanjur, Lhakhang, and Dukhang. The monastery is also known for a large life-size silver image of Vajradhara, kept in a glass altar adorned with scarves and flowers
Kibber Village
Kibber is a village located high in the Spiti Valley in the Himalayas, at an elevation of 4,270 meters (14,010 ft) in Himachal Pradesh, northern India. It is the highest motorable village in the world, a title it shares with nearby Komic village.
Hikkim Village
Hikkim is a small village located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated at an elevation of 4,400 meters (14,400 ft) above sea level, making it one of the highest inhabited villages in the world.Hikkim is most famous for being home to the highest post office in the world, established in 1983. The post office is run by a single postmaster, Rinchen Chhering, who has been serving there since its inception. Hikkim also has entered the Limca Book of World Records as the World’s highest polling station, but later Tashigang took over that title.
Langza village
Langza village is a small and picturesque village located in the Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India. It is nestled amidst the stunning Himalayas, at an elevation of around 4,400 meters (14,400 feet),Langza is known as the “fossil village” of Spiti Valley due to the abundance of marine fossils that can be found in the surrounding mountains. These fossils are estimated to be around 200 million years old, dating back to the Jurassic era.
Kye Monastery,
Kye Monastery, also known as Kye Gompa, is a majestic Tibetan Buddhist monastery perched atop a hill in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India.A visit to Kye Monastery is a captivating experience, offering a glimpse into the rich Buddhist culture, stunning Himalayan landscapes, and the serene way of life practiced by the monks.
Kunzum Pass
Kunzum Pass is a high mountain pass located in the eastern Kunzum Range of the Himalayas. It connects Lahaul Valley and Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, India.
Kunzum Pass, Himachal Pradesh
- Gateway to Spiti Valley: Kunzum Pass serves as the gateway between Lahaul and Spiti Valleys. If you’re traveling from Manali to Kaza, the headquarters of Spiti Valley, you’ll have to cross Kunzum Pass.
- High Altitude Pass: Situated at an elevation of 4,551 meters (14,931 ft), Kunzum Pass is one of the highest motorable mountain passes in India. The high altitude and challenging terrain make the journey an adventure in itself.
- Scenic Beauty: The journey over Kunzum Pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, lush green meadows in summer, and snow-capped peaks throughout the year. Keep your camera ready to capture stunning panoramic vistas.
- Bara-Shigri Glacier: While crossing Kunzum Pass, you can witness the majestic Bara-Shigri Glacier, one of the longest glaciers in the Himalayas.
- Religious Significance: A small temple dedicated to Goddess Kunzum, believed to be an incarnation of Durga, stands at the top of the pass. Many drivers stop here to pay homage before continuing their journey.
Things to Do at Kunzum Pass
- Enjoy the Views: Soak in the panoramic vistas of the Spiti Valley and the majestic Himalayas. Take a break to appreciate the beauty of the landscape.
- Photography: Kunzum Pass offers some incredible photo opportunities. Capture the panoramic views, snow-capped peaks, and the Bara-Shigri Glacier.
- Visit the Kunzum Devi Temple: Pay your respects at the temple dedicated to Goddess Kunzum.
Chanderatal lake
Chandra Taal, also referred to as “The Moon Lake”, is a beautiful crescent shaped lake located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India. The lake is situated near the source of the Chandra River, a tributary of the Sutlej River. Despite the rugged and inhospitable surroundings, it is a protected area with some flowers and wildlife in summer. The lake is a popular spot for tourists and high-altitude trekkers.Chandra Tal Lake is located on the Samudra Tapu plateau, which overlooks the Chandra River. It is geographically located in the Lahaul Valley, but usually associated with Spiti Valley as tourists typically access it from there. The Kunzum Pass separates the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys.
Hadimba Devi Temple
Hadimba Devi is a Hindu goddess who is worshipped primarily in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. She is believed to be the wife of Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers from the epic Mahabharata. According to the legend, Hadimba was a Rakshasi (demoness) who fell in love with Bhima and they had a son named Ghatotkacha.The most famous shrine dedicated to Hadimba Devi is the Hadimba Devi Temple located in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. This fascinating temple is surrounded by cedar forests called Dhungiri Van Vihar and is one of the most visited places in Manali.The Hadimba Devi Temple is a unique four-storey pagoda-style wooden structure with a pyramidal roof. The temple is unlike most typical Hindu temples constructed from stone
Vashist Kund
Vashisht Kund, also referred to as Vashisht Bath or Vashisht Hot Springs, is a natural hot water spring complex located in the village of Vashisht, Himachal Pradesh, India,The Kund (pool) is named after the sage Vashistha, one of the seven sages revered in Hinduism. Legend says that Sage Vashistha created the hot springs to revive himself after his grief over the death of his children.A visit to Vashisht Kund offers a unique experience of bathing in natural hot springs amidst stunning Himalayan beauty. It’s a great way to relax and unwind after exploring the mountains.