Hello fellow travelers!
Are you also planning a trip to Spiti anytime soon? If yes, then I’m here to help you with some useful tips to plan the perfect trip down this tribal belt of Himachal Pradesh.

But before getting further, let’s get some insights into Spiti’s digging about its weather, local culture, and what all you can enjoy during your stay here.

An Overview of Spiti

Spiti Valley, located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is a place of rugged beauty and ancient culture. Situated at an average altitude of around 3,800 meters above sea level, Spiti is known for its challenging terrain, harsh winters, and stunning landscapes. Here are some insights into Spiti’s weather, local culture, and things to enjoy during your stay:

Weather

The overall weather in Spiti is quite pleasant. The summer months are relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C during the day. And just to let you know, this is considered the best time to visit Spiti, as everything is easily accessible and the weather is also at its best. And in case you don’t mind occasional showers, monsoon season is the best to witness widespread landscapes turn lush green, adding to the beauty of the valley.

 

However, avoid Spiti in winter unless you are well-prepared for extreme cold weather conditions) as the weather gets quite harsh, with temperatures dropping below freezing and heavy snowfall blocking many roads.

Local Culture

Spiti Valley is home to a predominantly Buddhist population, and you’ll find many ancient monasteries scattered across the region. And let me tell you, these are not just religious centers but also hubs of art, culture, and education.

 

But what most caught my attention was the architecture here, with houses built using mud bricks and wood. The flat roofs of these houses serve as additional living space during the summer months and are generally used for drying crops and fodder.

And while we talk of the local culture, how can we miss out on the food? Here you will find simple yet delicious and nutritious foods mainly made using barley, wheat, and rice. And while you’re here, don’t forget to try on the local dishes like thukpa (noodle soup), momos (dumplings), siddu, and butter tea. I’m more than sure that you’ll love them all. 

Things to Enjoy

• Monasteries: The ancient monasteries are something Spiti is most known for. So, make sure to visit the Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, and Dhankar Monastery to experience the spiritual and true cultural essence of Spiti.

• Chandratal Lake: Chandratal Lake, also known as the Moon Lake is my personal favorite. Here you can experience one of the finest views with the lake’s pristine beauty falling against the backdrop of the tall, majestic mountains. It’s truly a treat to the eyes!

• Keylong: Keylong is all known for its scenic beauty, traditional houses, and vibrant local culture. It is a place that welcomes you with open arms and allows you to cherish the best of Spiti.

• Pin Valley National Park: If you don’t want to spend your entire stay admiring the mountains, then give Pin Valley National Park a visit. Here you can find a whole lot of variety of wildlife species, including the endangered snow leopard.

6 Essential Tips for Your Next Trip to Spiti

1. Plan Your Trip During the Shoulder Season

If you want to cut down on costs while enjoying the best of Spiti, consider traveling during the shoulder season.  The shoulder season is the time between summer and winter when it’s not too hot and not too cold. During these times, things are changing in Spiti Valley. Some places are just opening up for tourists, and others are getting ready to close. Since there aren’t as many tourists around, you have more options for where to stay. You can even decide where to stay on the spot instead of booking in advance. Plus, because there aren’t as many people, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of Spiti Valley without too much noise and crowds.

However, there is one downside to it. In May the routes from Kaza to Manali are generally closed due to heavy snow. Hence, you might not be able to complete the full Spiti Valley circuit But if you’re okay with that and just want to explore part of the valley, it can still be a great time to visit.

2. Make on-the-spot bookings for stay and transport

Sometimes, it’s more exciting to decide where to stay and how to get there when you’re already on your trip. Hence, instead of booking everything in advance, you can find good deals and change your plans easily if something unexpected happens. This way, you can stay longer at places you love or explore new ones without feeling tied down by reservations.

But you also need to be ready for unexpected things like roadblocks or getting sick. Spiti Valley is a high-altitude place, so make sure to take proper care of yourself and be flexible with your plans.

3. If Possible, Try Traveling in Groups 

This is something I’d recommend to every travel enthusiast. Travel with your friends, family, or just anyone you know.

The reason? 

When you travel with a small group of people, you can save money by sharing things like rooms and taxis. So, even though you’re spending less individually, you can still do more fun stuff together.

For example, if you’re three people, you can get a room with a discount and even get an extra bed for free. And besides this, when you need to travel around Spiti Valley, you can share the cost of taxis, which can be expensive if you’re traveling alone.

4. Be Mindful of What & Where to Eat

Eating at small local places is not only fun but also saves money compared to fancy restaurants. In Spiti, you can find many small cafes and eateries that serve some amazing authentic Spitian cuisine.

One good idea is to mix it up and try different kinds of food during your trip. Like, you can splurge on a nice meal at a fancy restaurant one night and then eat at a local eatery the next. This way, you’ll get to enjoy a variety of flavors while still sticking to your budget.

5. Pick Your Accommodation Wisely

Instead of big hotels, consider staying in homestays or guest houses as they are a great way to experience local culture and save money. These places are often more affordable and offer a more personal touch, which helps make your trip to Spiti Valley even more memorable.

Now, another important thing is choosing where to stay. 

Well, this mainly depends on what you’ll be doing during the day. If you’re to spend most of your time exploring and strolling through the place, it’s better to stay somewhere central so you can easily reach all the places you want to visit.

6. Pay for Your Own Meals

Well, this may come off for some individuals but it’s actually helpful at times.

Paying for your own meals instead of splitting the bill helps you keep track of your spending and make sure you’re staying within your budget. I know it might feel a bit strange at first, especially if you’re not used to it, but paying for individual meals can help everyone save a little extra money on the trip.

Takeaway

So this was all about Spiti and how you can plan a budget-friendly yet fun trip to this wonderful destination. While on your journey, always make sure to practice all the safety precautions and take utmost care of your belongings. And if you’re traveling via your own vehicle, carry spare tires, fuels, and a tool kit to tackle any last-minute breakdowns. More so, one last thing – keep some cash with you as card and UPI payments may not be possible in many areas due to poor internet connectivity. 

Rest, happy journey!

Read More : Planning the Perfect Spiti Road Trip

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :

Q. Is it hard to drive in Spiti?

A. Driving in Spiti can be tricky because of the bumpy and narrow roads, high up in the mountains. Hence, it’s important to plan well, have a strong vehicle, and have some experience driving in hilly regions.

Q. What medicines should I take to Spiti Valley?

A. It’s a good idea to carry basic medicines for things like headaches, stomach problems, and altitude sickness. It’s best to ask a doctor for advice based on your health and travel plans.

Q. What precautions should I take for Spiti Valley?

A. When going to Spiti, it’s important to get gradually adapt to the high altitude, drink plenty of water, dress warmly in layers, drive carefully on the mountain roads, and be ready for fewer facilities in remote areas.

Q. Does Spiti Valley make it hard to breathe?

A. Because Spiti is so high up in the mountains, some people might feel a bit short of breath at first. But don’t worry and take it easy, drink lots of water, and talk to a doctor if you feel really unwell.

Q. What do people in Spiti Valley drink?

A. The local drink in Spiti Valley is called butter tea or “po cha.” It’s made with butter, tea leaves, water, and a bit of salt, which gives it a unique taste, loved by locals and visitors alike.

Q. What is Spiti famous for?

A. Spiti Valley is known for its stunning views, ancient monasteries, and rich culture. Situated in a high-altitude desert with a strong Buddhist influence, it’s a favorite spot of most adventure freaks.