INTRODUCTION TO SPITI VALLEY
The region is close to the well-known Ladakh lies a gorgeous and breathtaking region that is surrounded by stunning landscapes brimming with rich heritage , called Spiti valley. Ever wondered where you can take off-road for a vacation towards Himachal Pradesh? If so, Spiti is the ideal place for you. Locally referred to by the name of “Little Tibet” or the “cold desert mountain valley”, Spiti is nestled between India and Tibet. When travelers travel to Spirit it is usually seeking out quick trips, less time to get there, travel in a tight budget, with people they know or are comfortable traveling through rough roads, have visited Ladakh and are looking to avoid crowds. If this ticks all of your boxes and you are not sure what you’re to be waiting around for? Let’s take a look at the essentials you need to be aware of prior to your trip to crystal clear rivers and famous highlands.
CLIMATE
As one of the most densely populated regions of India and being surrounded by mountains of high snow The the heavy Himalayan snow blocks valleys of the mountains and makes it difficult for vehicles to travel through. We recommend making the journey in the late spring from the end of May until the end of September. As temperatures rise and the snow begins to melt, it gradually softens and melts away to reveal open road travel into the valley. You can enjoy the sun for around 250 days an entire year, while winter can be a nightmare. The temperature can drop down to -30 degrees Celsius and natives are forced to resort to using alternative heating equipment and cozy up by the flame with their loved family members. A lot of natives celebrate praises and family-oriented events during the winter months. They stock up on local liquor and food items.
MAKE IT SPITI
Two roads make their way to the Trans-Himalayas region of Spiti The first one is from Shimla by using Kinnaur valley as well as the other route from Manali. The latter should take two days at a minimum, ending each day at Kalpa and Reckong Peo. Additionally, it provides the chance to gradually adjust to the altitude. The final phase takes around 12-14 hours, depending on the street conditions.
WHAT to take?
It is important to remember that this is a mountain desert that is cold The climate is extremely. Extreme in both directions as the sun could be a danger to your skin, and the cool regions will give you goosebumps. It is recommended to pack layers of clothing and wear full-sleeved T-shirts, sun cap, sunglasses, and any other protection from the sun that you can manage to afford. Walking shoes are essential.
ME MYSELF, ME AND FRIENDS
The peace and tranquility, as well as the new villages on every turn along with the most beautiful tributaries makes it ideal to take a solo driving trip with your friends. While the towns appear remote, they are the home of friendly locals and offer a welcoming getaway especially for solo travellers. However, there are some challenges it is possible that your trip may involve a variety of weak transportation services, to getting a ride from strangers, and then ending up without a good guest house. You can also jump into special tours to Spiti that consist of a variety of experiences, including the climbing experience, culture or traveling.
GETTING Permits
Travelers who are planning to visit Spiti coming from Shimla or Manali are not required to obtain permits to get into Spiti. Travelers who are on their own and entering Spiti by the Kinnaur route from Shimla require internal line permits because this route leads you to the Tibetan outside. Grants are available at Reckongpeo, close to Kalpa and can take a few hours before they are granted.
TRANSPORT AVAILABILITY
There is only BSNL SIM cards purchased within Himachal Pradesh work in Spiti mostly within Kaza (Spiti capital) as well as a small portion of the towns that are lower. However, there is a single digital bistro was opened in Kaza which draws on the military satellite for an online association that allows you to recall the old dial phone that your grandmother used to have.
HOMESTAYS IN SPITI
A lot of families are located in Spiti provide their homes as well as guest houses for tourists, with the help of Ecosphere an initiative for social change that aims at the development of the region. Additionally, these houses are stunning set against the backdrop of the Himalayas, which makes it an unforgettable experience. The only thing that isn’t memorable are the bathrooms in Spiti which are filthy and de-treating soil in nature , particularly if you have to sit on the ground to cover the gap.
ALTITUDE AND AFITNESS
The altitude of Spiti ( 3300-5000m) is a must for every traveler regardless of whether it’s your first time climbing this height. It is recommended to climb upwards slowly, either via Shimla with a stop on the majority of the routes in Kinnaur or by staying the night earlier in Manali along the route taking the Rohtang Pass.
MONEY
You may find one or two ATMs within Kaza however their operation is usually slow. It’s therefore easy to transfer enough cash from Shimla/Manali. There is however not a cash-changer in Spiti.
All you have to do is know about people! Prior to traveling, you should always conduct research and have excellent local knowledge. We would love to hear how we can help.