Lahaul Spiti means the ‘Country of the Gods’ and is a wondrous creation of Himachal Pradesh. The beauty of this spot remains flawless, with gorgeous sights to witness ahead. The Lahaul Valley and Spiti Valley converged in 1960 and were hence called the Lahaul Spiti District. The fact that the...
Lahaul Spiti means the ‘Country of the Gods’ and is a wondrous creation of Himachal Pradesh. The beauty of this spot remains flawless, with gorgeous sights to witness ahead. The Lahaul Valley and Spiti Valley converged in 1960 and were hence called the Lahaul Spiti District. The fact that the place ranks 4th in the race of least populated districts of India is exactly why you should visit it. This is because you will be able to find peace and calm among its remote villages and cultivation fields. To kickstart your travel process, check out Lahaul Spiti tour packages offered by Travel Tourister now!
The two valleys of Lahaul and Spiti are connected through the Kunzum La, the name of a mountain pass. The district is elevated at a height of 4,551 metres. The Lahaul Spiti District excels in everything it offers. They are proficient in providing top trekking routes and mountaineering facilities for tourists. They are also knee-deep in Buddhist culture and historical significance. The famous Tabo Monastery in Spiti will leave a positive imprint in your hearts.
Suraj Taal, or the ‘Lake of the Sun God’ is another marvel’ where you can witness mesmerizing views that leave you feeling satisfied. We bet you are going to fall in love with the Tibetan culture here. Lahaul Spiti hosts the Pin Parvati National Park. Here, you can find an exclusive range of exotic species like Tibetan Wild Fox, Snow Leopards, and much more. Certain villages like Kibber and Losar are too good to miss out on. An interesting fact about Lahaul Spiti’s Gue is a well-preserved mummy kept there. So, Lahaul Spiti is the combination of everything, from culture and solitude to delicacies and cultivation. This makes for a fantastic reason to visit the place now!
Keylong is the district headquarters of Lahaul Spiti and feels like a breath of fresh air. It is located above the Bhaga River at an elevated level of 3,156 metres. It lies on the main route from Rohtang Pass to Baralacha Pass. Keylong is a cultural hub where all commercial activities take place seamlessly. The famous monasteries situated here include Kardang Monastery (built in the 12th century) and Shashur Monastery (built in the 16th century).
Check out the glorious glacial lake here known as Deepak Tal, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and hills all around. The Keylong market is also famous here, featuring in selling shawls, mufflers, stoles, ponchos, and caps. The Kaylong Temple is another masterpiece, offering a unique blend of nature with culture.
Top Attractions
Baralacha Pass, Suraj Tal, Shashur Monastery. Deepak Tal
Elevation Level
3,156 m
Activities Offered
Camping, Mountain Biking, Hiking, River Rafting, Mountain Pass Trekking
Nearby Locations
Jispa, Tandi, Sissu Village, Trilokinath
Transport Options
Bus, Taxi, Car
Best Time To Visit
June to October
Trilokinath- A Religious Convergence of Hinduism and Buddhism
The grandeur and delicate temple of Triloknath was established in the 10th century as a commission of Hinduism and Buddhism. In the temple, there is only a single deity worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists. The holy sanctum here houses Lord Shiva, a six-armed deity, appearing as Trilokinath. There exists another statue above this one, known as Avalokiteshvara. The temple also includes a granite Lingam and a Nandi bull guarding the Lingam, all in an eye-pleasing way. There also exists a Buddhist prayer wheel here.
Earlier, Trilokinath was also known as Tunda Vihar. You are going to be in awe by looking at the way things function here. The temple’s architectural build is done in Kashmiri-Kannauj style. Even the pillars of the temple are works of art representing Dharma and Paap. Every August, a festival called Pauri is organized here. The festival goes on for three days, and both Hindus and Buddhists participate in the worshipping of Trilokinath.
Top Attractions
The idol of Shri Trilokinath Ji, image of Amitabh Buddha, the Buddhist prayer wheel
Elevation Level
2,760 metres
Activities Offered
One temple in the whole world where both Hindus and Buddhists worship the same deity.
Nearby Locations
Chicham Bridge, Tabo Monastery, Suraj Tal
Transport Options
Bus, cab
Best Time To Visit
Around August
Udaipur- Miraculous Land of Himachal Pradesh
Excluding the whole dreamland of Rajasthan-Udaipur, this Udaipur of Himachal Pradesh carries its charisma. It is located on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River of Lahaul Spiti at an altitude of 2742 metres. It derives its name from the great king Udai Singh of Chamba. Udaipur of Himachal Pradesh is primarily known for hosting the glorious Mrikula Mata Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga.
People who are into trekking and camping must check out Udaipur while visiting Lahaul Spiti. We bet you are going to love trailing down adventurous activities whilst enjoying the breathtaking views that Udaipur offers. Keylong is just 53 km away from Udaipur, making Udaipur a must-visit when you travel to the district headquarters. Also, the Sach Pass is just 65 km away from this icon of Himachal Pradesh.
Top Attractions
Trilokinath Temple, Markula Mata Temple
Elevation Level
2,742 m
Activities Offered
Trekking, Camping, exploring the Tabo caves
Nearby Locations
Zanskar Mountain Range, Keylong, BaraLacha La, Suraj Tal
Transport Options
Train, Bus, Car
Best Time To Visit
March to June
Baralacha La- The pass connecting two magnificent structures
The Baralacha La is an 8-km pass that serves as a division of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers. This pass makes the two rivers flow in opposite directions till the time they converge at Tandi. Both the Pir Panjal and Zanskar ranges meet at this very mountain pass. It also allows Manali and Keylong to connect with Leh by offering an elegant highway option.
The Great Suraj Tal lies on the western side of Baralacha La. This spot is just a fantastic combination of hues. With the browns from the mountains and the turquoise lake shining in all its glory, this is a sight to behold. One can engage in camping by the lakeside while soaking in the night sky through a fantastic night of stargazing. The Zing Zang Bar is another excellent observation point from where you can witness incredible views alongside the Manali-Leh highway.
Top Attractions
Suraj Tal, Pir Panjal, Zanskar ranges
Elevation Level
4,890 m
Activities Offered
Trekking, Camping, Visiting Monasteries
Nearby Locations
Keylong, Tayul Monastery, Jispa
Transport Options
Public Bus, Taxi
Best Time To Visit
April to October
Shashur- A Highly Revered Buddhist Art Piece
Shashur Monastery is a legendary temple and learning site that excites learners from all around the globe. It is just 4 km away from Keylong and is a must-visit if you are in search of the monastery charm. The Shashur Monastery was built in the 17th century and is surrounded by pine landscapes and glistening mountains. The name- ‘Shashur’ means ‘blue pines’ and is a radiating piece of excellence.
Since it lies amidst the hilly Himalayan terrains, one must visit it to live up to the unique and magnificent experiences here. It is believed that the founder of this monastery, Lama Dewa Gyatsho, lived here till his demise. It also features more than eighty Buddhist Siddhas and a statue of Namgyal. The monastery becomes exquisite during the festival of Shashur Tsesha, which involves costume dances and colourful masks worn by monks.
Top Attractions
5 m Thangka- mesmerizing silk painting embroidered all over
Elevation Level
6,000 m
Activities Offered
Festivals like Shashur Tsesha, Interacting with monks
Nearby Locations
Lahul, Key Gompa, Tabo Monastery
Transport Options
Bus, Taxi, By Foot
Best Time To Visit
October to February
Suraj Tal- A Turquoise Glistening Lake
The Suraj Tal is a glacial lake which is no less than a natural wonder of Himachal Pradesh. Located near the Baralacha La Pass, you can easily reach this spot through the Manali-Leh Highway. If you want to experience the magic of this location, visit during the winter season. This is when the waters freeze entirely, making the waters icy blue. You will also be able to witness the crystal clear reflections of the snow-capped mountains here, which remain aesthetically pleasing.
Suraj Tal also holds the title of being India’s third-largest lake. If you are into trekking, you can come here as this place hosts many trekking trails nearby. The lake is believed to be a part of the Bhaga River. It proceeds to join the Chandra River, thus forming the Chandrabhaga River. People from Leh Ladakh often visit Suraj Tal for a day of fantastic sightseeing.
Top Attractions
Manali-Leh Highway
Elevation Level
4,883 m
Activities Offered
Photography, Trekking, Camping
Nearby Locations
Baralacha La Pass, Tandi, Kunzum Pass
Transport Options
Car or Bus
Best Time To Visit
April to May
Guru Ghantal Monastery- A Spiritual Haven of Himachal Pradesh
The Guru Ghantal Monastery is believed to be the oldest monastery in Lahaul, built around the 8th century. Situated at the hilltop while overlooking the rivers Bhaga and Chandra at Tandi, the monastery has an idol of goddess Vajreshwari Devi. It also houses the marble head of Buddha Avalokiteshvara, along with a wooden idol of Buddha.
The Drukpa monks and nuns look after this monastery. It also houses valuable treasures marked with incredible architectural buildings. There also exists an image of the Goddess Kali in black stone and idols of Guru Padmasambhava and Brijeshwari Devi. There is an annual Ghantal festival hosted here, during which there is an extraordinary celebration of the 15th lunar day.
Top Attractions
Thangka paintings, Wooden idols of Lord Buddha, marble heads of Avalokiteshvara
Elevation Level
3,020 m
Activities Offered
Sighting of idols, statues, libraries, and musical instruments
Nearby Locations
Tupchiling Village, Kaza, Tabo Monastery
Transport Options
Taxi, Bus, Private car
Best Time To Visit
May to October
Tandi- A Mesmerizing Village in Lahaul Spiti
Tandi is situated in the Pattan Valley and is the meeting point of the two rivers, Chandra and Bhaga. Many historical stories shed light on the history of Tandi. One such legend says that it was at this path from where the Pandavas and their bride Draupadi were ascending towards heaven. Draupadi could not do the same and transformed to human form exactly here. Another legend denotes that Chandra was the Moon’s daughter while Bhaga was the Sun’s son. They decided to get married, and at that exact spot, they sanctified their marriage.
Tandi is known for being surrounded by the Zanskar and Pir Panjal ranges, drowning in their incredible beauty. The place is a pictorial icon. It dives in hues during autumn, turns evergreen during summers, and becomes magical during snowy winters.
Top Attractions
Zanskar and Pir Panjal Ranges
Elevation Level
2,567 m
Activities Offered
Camping, Witnessing Waterfalls, Visiting Monasteries and Temples
Nearby Locations
Keylong, Sissu Waterfall, Lahaul Valley
Transport Options
Bus, Taxi, Car
Best Time To Visit
May to October
Sissu Village-
This village of Himachal Pradesh overlooks the Chandra River and is surrounded by green terraces and wildflowers. It extends to 9 km and also houses unique destinations like the Spiti Valley. There exists a small monastery here which worships Lord Ghepan and specializes in getting rid of demonic powers in the village. Bright wildflowers mark spring here, whereas summers are great for trekking and camping in the lush landscapes. Autumns cause the leaves to turn golden, and winters appear straight out of a dream.
You can go for a short hike at Sissu waterfall, which is situated beside Chandra Lake. You can also camp at Sissu Lake, surrounded by the calm and serenity one needs in their life. Take a drive to Keylong Market, which is not more than a 48-minute journey. Here, you can come across a variety of items like handicrafts, shawls, garments, and food.
Top Attractions
Sissu Waterfall, Sissu Lake
Elevation Level
3,130 m
Activities Offered
Trekking, Boating, Ziplining, Camping
Nearby Locations
Keylong, Anjani Mahadev, Solang Valley
Transport Options
Bus, Car
Best Time To Visit
April to July
Jispa- A Quaint Stop To Discover
Jispa is a small village located at the convergence of two streams that merge the Bhaga River. It is known to house several stupas and a large dry riverbed that is prone to an extended courtyard. The Leh-Manali highway is the most convenient route to reach Jispa. You can also visit Keylong as it is at a distance of about 20 km. On the other hand, Darcha is just 7 km away from Jispa.
This place remained underrated for quite some time but now, it is gaining prominence. You will also find basic amenities and hotel facilities here, making it a decent place to stay. If you are looking forward to discovering Buddhist stupas, this place must remain at the top of your list.
Top Attractions
Camping grounds, natural beauty, basic standard of living
Elevation Level
3,200 m
Activities Offered
Camping, Stargazing
Nearby Locations
Keylong, Darcha
Transport Options
Bus, Taxi
Best Time To Visit
April to September
Best Things To Do In Lahaul Spiti
Visit The Mummy Village
The Mummy Village is a place where a plethora of unique and ancient traditions are practised. As the name suggests, the village hosts about 12 mummified figures and is believed to be half a century old. These mummies were naturally preserved and were connected to an ancient tribe known as Bhotia. When visiting the Spiti Valley, engage with the locals to learn more about this ancient practice.
A Delicious Lunch In Monasteries
Another exciting and unique experience you can engage in is having lunch at monasteries. Monasteries like Tabo Monastery and Key Monastery host lunches, and people are welcome to eat. They do so to gather enough money to keep the monasteries in fit condition, up and running. There are usually vegetarian dishes, which include some local delicacies like rice, pulses, momos, and even thukpa.
Make A Wish With The Wishing Stones
You can find wishing stones, also known as Mani Stones, at the Spiti Valley. These stones have flat surfaces covered with Buddhist inscriptions. There is a local belief that if you spin the prayer wheels and stack the Mani stones at holy sites, the results will be favourable to you. This will bring you good luck and attain enlightenment, which, in Buddhism, is the highest honour.
Sit By The Suraj Tal Lake
The Suraj Tal Lake of the Lahaul Valley is a definition of real beauty. It is regarded as a sacred water body. Also, it is believed that if you take a dip here, your soul will be cleansed of all sins. You can casually spend your time sitting by the lake and soaking in the mesmerizing views.
Trekking At Lahaul Spiti
When it comes to offering trekking trails, no one can beat Lahaul Spiti. The Hampta Pass Chandratal Trek takes you through the Chandra and Kullu Valleys. The Goecha La Trek is a famous one in Lahaul and Spiti. The Miyar Valley Trek is a comparatively difficult one as it involves passing through steep peaks and rocky paths.
Visiting Monasteries For A Spiritual Renewal
The Key Monastery is one of the largest and most famous monasteries of Lahaul Spiti. It trains around 300 Lamas on an annual basis and is knee-deep in Thangkas, manuscripts, stucco images, wind instruments, and weapons. The Tabo Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that hosts nine beautiful temples too. Other famous monasteries include Kardang Monastery, Tayul Monastery, Gemur Monastery, and more.
Go For A Shopping Spree At Kaza
Kaza is the capital of Spiti Valley and is known for selling unique items. These include souvenirs, thangkas, prayer flags, singing bowls, handmade woollen shawls, and sweaters. They also specialize in offering Tibetan delicacies like thukpa, momo, and butter tea.
Go Fossil Hunting
Spiti Valley is the best place to enthral the history enthusiast in you and find some of the oldest rock formations. You can also know about the significance of each find you make, allowing you to deepen your knowledge of geology and history.
THINGS TO DO
LOCATION
ELEVATION LEVEL
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Visit the mummy village
Gue, Spiti Valley
3,048 m
May to June
Lunch in monasteries
Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery
Key Monastery- 4,166 m
Tabo Monastery- 3,050 m
All year round
Make a wish with Wishing Stones
Lahaul Spiti
3,000 m
May to October
Visit the Suraj Tal Lake
Lahaul
4,883 m
May to October
Trekking
Lahaul Spiti
4,270
May to October
Visiting Monasteries
Tayul Monastery, Gemur Monastery
Tayul Monastery- 3,900 m
Gemur Monastery- 3,370 m
May to June
Shopping at Kaza
Spiti Valley
3,650 m
June to August
Fossil Hunting
Langza
4,400 m
May to October
Best Time To Visit Lahaul Spiti
The best time to visit Lahaul Spiti is mainly during the summer season, which ranges from March to June. This is because you are successfully able to avoid any heavy snowfall and icing difficulties. Not only are the routes more straightforward to navigate but there are fewer crowds, too.
Summer Season (May to June)
This is the most ideal time to visit Lahaul and Spiti. Due to reasons like icy roads, tremendous snow blockage, and others, summer is the perfect season. Also, the temperature does not cross the limit of 8°C to 15°C. The weather remains cool and chilly, and you can freely opt for outdoor activities like trekking. Roads are clear as well, helping you enjoy the journey ahead.
Monsoon Season (July to September)
Lahaul and Spiti experience little to no rainfall. The temperature lies between -5°C to 8°C. This is because they fall in the rain shadow region of the Himalayas. However roads in Kinnaur and Manali are prone to experience landslides. So, we recommend visiting during early July to steer clear of any landslides or road damage.
Winter Season (October to April)
Lahaul Spiti Tour Packages experiences exceptionally harsh winters where the temperature falls as low as -17°C. It can get even lower than that in some villages of Spiti. But, if you are an absolute lover of snow, this place will be like a winter wonderland for you.
SEASON
MONTHS
TEMPERATURE
WEATHER CONDITIONS
Summer Season
May to June
8°C to 15°C
Cool and chilly
Monsoon Season
July to September
-5°C to 8°C
Little to no rainfall, chilly conditions
Winter Season
October to April
-17°C to -2°C
Extremely harsh and cold
How To Visit Lahaul Spiti?
By Air
The nearest airports are Shimla Airport and Bhuntar Airport in Kullu Valley.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Spiti is in Chandigarh. You can also take a train to Kalka, located near Spiti Valley.
By Road
Manali- You can take a taxi or bus from Delhi to Manali. From there, share a private taxi to Kaza.
Shimla- Take a bus or train from Delhi to Shimla. Then, hire a taxi or go for a bus to reach Reckong Peo. Lastly, share a private cab to Kaza.
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