Winter transforms Spiti Valley into a frozen paradise. Visiting in the winter months is not for the faint-hearted, but for those who seek solitude, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes, this is an unparalleled experience. Here’s everything you need to know about your winter trip to Spiti, from a day-by-day itinerary to essential tips.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Chandigarh to Narkanda (180 km | 6-7 hrs)
Start your journey early from Chandigarh and drive to Narkanda. This route via Shimla offers stunning views of snow-covered mountains. Narkanda, located at 2700 meters, is a quiet hill station known for its apple orchards and skiing in winter. Spend the night here, enjoying the cool breeze and getting acclimatized to the higher altitudes you will experience in the coming days.
Public transport: There are many buses directly from Chandigarh ISBT to Narkanda. Otherwise you can take a bus from Chandigarh ISBT to Shimla and then another bus to Narkanda. You may book Himachal Transport (HRTC) Buses from this official link.
By own vehicle: Via NH5, well-maintained but can be slippery in winter.
Difficult sections: Snow and black ice on the route between Shimla and Narkanda can make driving tricky, especially in January-February. Avoid driving without proper snow chains if traveling in winter. Check weather updates regularly.
Stop for food: Solan, Shoghi, Chharabara.
Places can be visited enroute: Yadavindra Garden near Pinjore, Tara Devi, Shimla, Kufri, Fagu.
Places to be visited nearby: You can Explore Kasauli, Naldehra, Mashobara, Tattapani, Chail, Khara Patthar as per days and time available.
Day 2: Narkanda to Reckong Peo (165 km | 6-7 hrs)
After breakfast, head towards Reckong Peo, crossing through scenic landscapes along the Sutlej River. Reckong Peo, located at 2400 meters, offers incredible views of the Kinner Kailash range. It’s a relatively offbeat destination compared to Shimla and Manali but equally captivating. Visit the ancient temples and monasteries and don’t forget to try the local apples. Overnight stay in Reckong Peo.
Public transport: Regular buses are available from Narkanda to Reckong Peo. Otherwise you may need to change buses at Rampur.
By own vehicle: Via NH5, passing through Rampur and Jeori. Well-paved but narrow roads in some sections.
Difficult sections: Taranda Dhank: Narrow, steep roads with cliffs. Nigulsari: Prone to landslides in bad weather.
Stop for food: for lunch break: Rampur, Jeori, Badhal. For tea break: Tapri.
Places can be visited enroute: Rampur Bushahr, Taranda Mata Temple, Taranda Dhank, Karchham Dam.
Places to be visited nearby: Hatu Peak, Tanni Jubbar Lake, Sarahan, Sangla, Chitkul, Kalpa.
Day 3: Reckong Peo to Tabo (160 km | 6-7 hrs)
Leave early in the morning for Tabo, the gateway to Spiti. The road follows the Sutlej River and as you travel further, the scenery changes from lush green to barren, rocky terrain. Tabo is home to the ancient Tabo Monastery, founded in 996 AD, known as the “Ajanta of the Himalayas” due to its intricate murals and stucco images. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest functioning Buddhist enclaves. Stay overnight at Tabo.
Public transport: Daily bus service from Reckong Peo to Tabo, but the journey is long (9-10 hours). Bus service may be affected in winters due to heavy snow, so check timings in advance.
By own vehicle: Via NH5 and SH30, passing through Khab and Nako.
Difficult sections: The road near Malling Nallah can be treacherous due to landslides and ice during winter.
Stop for food: Nako: A good stop for lunch, with small eateries offering basic food.
Places can be visited enroute: Khab Sangam, Nako Lake, Nako Monastery.
Places to be visited nearby: Gue Monastery
Day 4: Tabo to Kaza via Dhankar (65 km | 4-5 hrs)
Start your day by visiting Tabo Monastery and Tabo Caves. Then start for Dhankar Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff. The views from Dhankar of the Spiti and Pin river confluence are breathtaking. The monastery is a significant spiritual center in Spiti and its location makes it a photographer’s delight. Afterward, continue your journey to Kaza, the commercial and administrative capital of Spiti. Overnight at Kaza, located at an altitude of 3600 meters.
Public transport: Limited bus services from Tabo to Kaza; timings should be confirmed locally. There is almost no bus service for Dhankar.
By own vehicle: A scenic drive through Spiti Valley on SH30. A detour to Dhankar is required before reaching Kaza.
Difficult sections: Narrow roads near Dhankar, especially during winter due to snow and icy patches.
Stop for food: Dhankar: A small café near the monastery for tea and snacks.
Places can be visited enroute: Dhankar Monastery, frozen Lingti Waterfall.
Places to be visited nearby: Pin Valley.
Day 5: Kaza – Explore Kee Monastery, Chicham Bridge, Kibber (40-50 km round trip)
Spend the day exploring some of Spiti’s most iconic landmarks. Start with Kee Monastery, the largest and most famous monastery in Spiti, offering panoramic views of the valley. Then, head to Chicham Bridge, the highest suspension bridge in Asia, and further on to Kibber, one of the highest inhabited villages in the world. The drive to these destinations is scenic, though roads can be snow-laden. Return to Kaza for the night.
Public transport: No direct public transport to Kee, Chicham or Kibber from Kaza in winters. You may need to hire a private taxi from Kaza.
By own vehicle: Easily accessible by personal vehicle, but roads can be icy and narrow in winter, especially near Chicham.
Difficult sections: Narrow, icy roads and snow can be tricky around Chicham Bridge and Kibber during winter.
Stop for food: Stock up before the trip as there are few options near these remote villages.
Day 6: Kaza – Hikkim, Komik, Langza (30-40 km round trip)
Begin your day by visiting Hikkim, home to the world’s highest post office. You can even mail a postcard from here! Continue to Komik, the highest village in the world with a motorable road, and finally to Langza, famous for its towering Buddha statue that overlooks the village and surrounding snow-capped peaks. The region is also a great spot for fossil hunting. Return to Kaza for the night.
Public transport: There is no regular public transport to these villages. Hire a local taxi from Kaza.
By own vehicle: The roads are narrow and winding. Snow and ice can make the route difficult, especially in winter, so use snow chains and a 4×4 vehicle if possible.
Difficult sections: Steep inclines and hairpin bends, especially around Hikkim and Komik, are challenging in snow.
Stop for food: Carry snacks, as these remote villages have limited or no eateries. Return to Kaza for meals.
Day 7: Kaza to Reckong Peo (210 km | 7-8 hrs)
It’s time to head back towards Kalpa. The return journey offers the same stunning landscapes but with different light conditions, making the scenery appear even more dramatic. You’ll pass through the same charming villages and stop for breaks along the way. Overnight stay in Kalpa.
Public transport: Daily bus service from Kaza to Reckong Peo, but the journey is long (10-12 hours). Bus service may be affected in winters due to heavy snow, so check timings in advance.
By own vehicle: Follow the SH30 and NH5. The road is long but manageable, although snow and ice may create challenges in winter.
Difficult sections: The road near Malling Nallah can be treacherous due to landslides and ice during winter.
Stop for food: Nako: A good stop for lunch, with small eateries offering basic food.
Day 8: Kalpa to Chandigarh (350 km | 8-9 hrs)
The final leg of your journey takes you back to Chandigarh, filled with memories of your winter expedition to the Spiti Valley. Make sure to leave early, as it’s a long drive.
Public transport: Several buses are available from Reckong Peo to Chandigarh, typically taking 12-15 hours. Timings vary, so check locally.
By own vehicle: Via NH5, passing through Rampur and Shimla. Roads are generally well-maintained but narrow in some sections.
Difficult sections: The stretch between Reckong Peo and Jeori can have steep curves and winter ice may make driving challenging.
Stop for food: Badhal, Rampur.
Best Season to Visit Winter Spiti
Spiti’s winters are harsh, with temperatures dipping as low as -30°C at night in some places. The best time for a winter trip to Spiti is between December and February, when the snow is at its peak and the valley is blanketed in white. While the roads are treacherous, the beauty of the snow-covered landscape, frozen rivers, and peaceful monasteries makes it worth the challenge.
Why Winter?
- Fewer tourists, offering more solitude and a chance to experience Spiti’s raw beauty.
- Unique winter landscapes that are completely different from what you’d see in summer.
- A chance to experience the Spitian lifestyle in one of the most challenging seasons.
How to Reach Spiti in Winter
-
By Public Transport: Reaching Spiti by public transport in winter is tough, as bus services between Reckong Peo and Kaza can be irregular or halted due to snow. You can take a bus from Chandigarh or Shimla to Reckong Peo and hire a local vehicle for the remaining journey.
-
By Own Vehicle: It’s highly recommended to drive a 4×4 SUV or a vehicle equipped with snow chains, especially for the section between Kalpa and Kaza. Be prepared for challenging conditions such as icy roads, low visibility, and occasional roadblocks due to heavy snowfall.
-
By Taxi: You can hire a local taxi or private vehicle from Shimla or Reckong Peo, but make sure the driver is experienced in winter driving in Spiti. A skilled driver is crucial for safely navigating the difficult terrain.
Difficult Sections and Challenges
- Malling Nala: One of the most notorious sections of the route, especially in winter when it gets covered in snow and ice. It requires careful driving and sometimes waiting for the road to be cleared.
- Frozen Rivers and Glacial Waterfalls: Waterfalls along the way will be frozen, creating scenic beauty but also slippery sections.
- Limited Services: In winter, many hotels and guesthouses remain closed, and the availability of fuel and basic amenities becomes scarce. Always carry extra fuel, food, and water.
Things to Carry for a Winter Spiti Trip
- Clothing: Layered clothing is key to surviving Spiti’s winter. Thermal inners, fleece jackets, down jackets, waterproof gloves, woolen socks, and windproof pants are essential.
- Footwear: High-quality waterproof trekking boots with good insulation are a must.
- Medications: High-altitude medication like Diamox to prevent AMS (acute mountain sickness) is necessary. Always consult a doctor before taking any medication.
- Essentials: A solar power bank, flashlight with extra batteries, sunglasses (to prevent snow blindness), and lip balm are important as electricity can be intermittent.
- Documents: Carry multiple copies of ID proofs, which are required at checkpoints.
Fitness Requirements
- Winter in Spiti means thin air and extremely cold weather, both of which put a strain on your body. A moderate level of fitness is essential, with the ability to walk long distances and endure cold temperatures.
- Prepare with cardio exercises like jogging, hiking, or cycling, and practice deep-breathing exercises to build lung capacity, helping with the high altitudes.
Permissions Needed
- Indian citizens don’t need any special permits to travel to Spiti, except for the Inner Line Permit required for foreign nationals to visit areas close to the Tibetan border, such as Tabo and Kaza. These permits can be obtained from the District Collector’s office in Reckong Peo or Shimla.
Nearby Places to Explore
- Pin Valley National Park: Famous for its wildlife, including snow leopards, the park remains covered in snow during winter.
- Nako Lake: The lake freezes over completely, creating a surreal sight amidst snow-capped peaks.
Must-Do Experiences in Spiti
- Stay in a Homestay: Winter offers a chance to live with local families and experience their traditional lifestyle.
- Photography: Capture the stark beauty of the frozen Spiti Valley, snow-capped peaks, and ancient monasteries.
- Winter Festivals: Experience local festivals like Losar, the Tibetan New Year, celebrated with traditional dance, music, and food.
Things to Avoid in Winter Spiti
- Avoid Night Travel: Roads are more dangerous at night, with the risk of black ice, reduced visibility, and extreme cold.
- Do Not Underestimate the Cold: Hypothermia and frostbite are real dangers. Keep yourself warm and dry at all times.
Optional Add-Ons If Time Permits
- Visit Gue Monastery: Home to a 500-year-old mummified monk, the monastery is often inaccessible in deep winter but is worth the visit if the weather allows.
Local Food to Try
- Thukpa: A warming noodle soup perfect for the winter cold.
- Yak Butter Tea: Known as Po Cha, this salty tea made with yak butter is a traditional favorite.
- Chhang: A local alcoholic drink brewed from barley, perfect for warming up after a day in the cold.
Things to Buy
- Handmade Woolen Clothes: Local woolen socks, gloves, and scarves make for great souvenirs and keep you warm during your trip.
- Spices and Tea: Buy authentic Himalayan herbs, spices, and traditional tea blends to take home.
A winter trip to Spiti is an unforgettable adventure, full of challenges but immensely rewarding. Whether it’s the serene snow-covered monasteries, the warmth of local hospitality, or the sheer beauty of the untouched landscape, Spiti in winter will leave you with memories of a lifetime.