The name “Spiti” actually means “the middle land”, which is a reference to how the valley rests between both Tibet and India.

Located in a remote part of Himachal Pradesh, it is currently open to tourists and as such, it might be a place you would love to visit in the future.

Covid-19 guidelines for Spiti Valley

While its borders were closed off completely last year, as of June 2021, Himachal currently allows domestic tourists without any RT PCR test results.

However, tourists are advised to always wear masks, sanitise and avoid crowds of not more than 20 people. Anyone entering the state will also need to get an e-pass by registering online.

All shops remain open from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday, but they will remain closed over the weekends. Only stores that sell essential goods operate during the weekends.

All the same, it is highly advisable to get your Covid-19 tests done before visiting Spiti Valley, as this will help reduce the spread of the virus.

Best time to visit Spiti

Spiti Valley is open throughout the year, except during occasional landslides and heavy snow-falls. The best time to visit the valley is between mid-May to September.

Winters can be very harsh here, as temperatures drop to -24°C and if you decide to travel in April or at the start of May, chances are you might face some challenges with road closures due to heavy snowfall.

Chances of AMS?

There is a chance that you might get acute mountain sickness (AMS) as it is a high altitude zone, but if you are traveling from Shimla, then chances of AMS are lesser. Still, make sure you are well hydrated and do not exert yourself too much.

Getting to the valley

You can reach Spiti by two ways. The first is through Manali and as mentioned above, the other is from Shimla.

Travelling through Manali is much quicker and shorter compared to Shimla. However, you can also fly into Delhi or Chandigarh and then take an overnight bus to Shimla.

You can also drive to Spiti Valley but do note that the drive isn’t an easy one. Alternatively, you also can hire a car from Delhi to Chandigarh. The most budget-friendly option to reach Himachal is by travelling with an inter-state bus service.

Accommodation options

For a great experience, you should consider staying near the Indian Himalayas as stay options here are both cosy and affordable.

There are plenty of decent options from US$10 to US$16 (800 to 1,200 Indian rupees), home stays included.

Other accommodation options include hotels, tents and huts, but do bear in mind that temperatures in this region can be challenging, especially when it rains or snows.

Food and beverage

One of the best reasons for visiting Spiti Valley is down to its Himachali food, which you can sample just before entering the valley.

Himachali food, like Siddu, Kadhi Chawal and Rajma Chawal cuisine, is definitely worth trying. Non-vegetarians will definitely enjoy Himachali mutton-gravy as well.

Once you enter Spiti Valley, be prepared to explore Tibetian cuisine. You can try momos, thukpa, butter tea and many more local delicacies. The cost of food will hardly exceed US$20 (1,500 Indian rupees) per day, for two people.

Getting around Spiti

If you are driving all the way from Delhi or Chandigarh in your personal or rented car, then you are sorted.

On the flipside, if you are looking for a cheaper option, fear not as Spiti is well-connected thanks to the regular Himachal State Transport Buses.

The only drawback with using these state buses is that they reach almost by evening and leave early in the morning, so you won’t really get enough time to enjoy the place.

One workaround, especially if you are on a tight budget, is to consider renting a motorcycle or a scooter in Kaza. This way, you will have more time to enjoy the sights.

Things to do in Spiti Valley

• Experience the majestic Himalayas: Himachal offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains and pine tree-covered routes that will leave you in amazement – it is truly a photographer’s paradise.
• Different food and culture: Once in Spiti Valley, you will see the rich diversity of cultures from Shimla, Manali and Tiber. It will be an eye opener, especially if you’ve never visited this part of the world.
• Traditional homes: Spiti Valley still remains relatively untouched by modernisation. As such, you will enjoy experiencing some traditional riches, such as the local mud houses which are cosy, comfortable, warm and environmentally friendly.
• Photography: If you are an avid shutterbug, then Spiti Valley will be your playground, as it is blessed with the clearest skies, especially at night, which makes it a great location for stargazing.
• Snow leopards: Pin Valley National park is home to the mysterious snow leopard which can also be found in Tabo, Hikkim and Komic. Apart from the leopard, Spiti is also blessed with Himalayan ibex and red foxes, making it an animal lover’s paradise too.
• Hiking: There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from, all of which will allow you to explore remote villages and landscapes.
• Spirituality: It goes without saying that Spiti Valley offers ample opportunities to get in touch with your spirituality. Here, you will get to learn about Buddhism, meditation and the other sacred rituals of the locals.

Amit and Anindita are Indian Travel bloggers who blog at Travel Like We Do. They talk about affordable travel in India and abroad. They are still travelling and capturing their moments.