10 Best Magnificent Tourist Places To Visit in Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Himachal & It is considered as a paradise for nature lovers because the beauty of Spiti Valley is untouched. If someone wants to experience the culture of Spiti then you must visit the monasteries. There are many exciting activities that will give an adrenaline rush to adventure lovers.
Spiti Valley is on the border of India-Tibet and can be visited by various means of transport but only in summer because in the winter season the place becomes dangerous to travel for tourists. Here we listed some of the best places that a tourist must visit to explore the culture, heritage and adventure lover can trek during Spiti Valley Tour.
Spend a Blissful Vacation in Spiti Valley
- Dhankar University
- Dhankar Lake
- Key Monastery
- Tabo Monastery
- Chandra Tal Lake
- Trilokinath temple
- Shashur Monastery
- Pin Valley National Park
- Suraj Tal
- Shopping places in Spiti
1. Dhankar University Spiti Valley
Dhankar Monastery is built at an altitude of 12000 feet and it is situated dangerously on the edge of a cliff. The monastery is listed in the world’s 100 endangered monuments. Not only the views of the majestic landscape, but the place is also famous for statues, museums, and murals. One can hike a 2 km distance to reach the Dhankar lake.
Visiting hours = 10:00AM – 5:00PM
Entry fee = Free
Trip Duration = Around 1-2 Hour
2. Dhankar Lake
Dhankar Lake is situated near Dhankar Monastery. You can visit the monastery and take a private cab to reach the lake. The place is perfect for a picnic and if you will spend a day at the lake you can see the sky changing colors. The crystal clear lake reflects the sky colors that enhance the beauty of the place.
Visiting hours = 10:00AM – 5:00PM
Entry fee = Free
Trip Duration = Around 1-2 Hour
3. Key Monastery
Key Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery that is over thousands of years old. The monastery is the largest in the district and for lamas, the place is a religious training center. Over 300 lamas get receive education here. The architecture of the monastery is unforgettable and within the building, one can see paintings, instruments, manuscripts, and weapons that were used for the protection of the monastery.
Gandhola Monastery, Tayul Monastery, Tangyud Monastery, Kardang Monastery, and Kungri Monastery are the best monasteries to visit in Spiti Valley.
Visiting hours = 8:00AM to 6:00PM
Entry fee = Free
Trip Duration = Around 1-2 hours
4. Tabo Monastery
The Tabo Monastery is the oldest monastery in Tabo village. The monastery’s walls are decorated by ancient paintings and murals just like Ajanta Caves. At Tabo Monastery one can indulge in Chakar Festival and can also enjoy several activities that are arranged here for the tourists.
Visiting hours = 8:00AM to 6:00PM
Entry fee = Free
Trip Duration = Around 1-2 hours
5. Chandra Tal Lake
The beautiful Chandra Tal Lake is a perfect place for camping lovers. There are many Hindu Mythological stories related to Chandra Tal Lake and that what makes the place a must to visit. you must visit the place in the evening to witness the beauty of the sunset that is reflected by the lake. The trek of Chandra Tal Lake is organized for visitors to make them experience the picturesque views of mountains.
The trek will take you through the Rocky Mountains, blue lake and vast landscapes. It is so easy that even a beginner can complete it but surely the tourists must have a high fitness level and stamina. You can contact the hotel staff and trek organizers to make a list of items that you need to carry on a trek for safety and comfort. The lake can be reached by any motor vehicle and the Kunzum Pass is the nearest motorable road to Chandra Tal
Visiting Timings = 8:00AM – 6:00PM
Entry fee = Free
Trip Duration = Around 2-3 Hours
6. Trilokinath Temple
Trilokinath Temple is a beautiful temple in the Spiti district and this is the only place where Buddhists and Hindus worship together. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Buddhists consider the deity as Arya Avalokiteshvara. The temple is a must-visit for devotees and people who snow-capped peaks. The architecture of the temple is really beautiful and has been built in pagoda style. On entering the temple one can see a white shrine and a Nani bull in the middle.
Visiting hours = 6:00AM – 8:00PM
Entry Fee = Free
Trip Duration = Around 1-2 Hours
7. Shashur Monastery
Shashur monastery is a beautiful place and is surrounded by blue pine trees, rivers, mountains, and towns. The monastery was built in the 17th century and the architecture is remarkable. You must visit the monastery in July to enjoy the Chham dance festival which is famous among locals.
Visiting hours = 6:00AM – 8:00PM
Entry Fee = Free
Trip Duration = Around 1-2 Hours
8. Pin Valley National Park
Pin valley national park is home to many endangered species of flora and fauna. Inside the park, one can also see wide species of wild animals like Snow leopards, snowcocks, Siberian ibex and lots more. The whole national park is surrounded by lush green dense forests and there are many medicinal plants that grow here. A trek is also organized here for visitors to explore the park and have forever memorable experience.
One can contact the park officers or hotel staff to get indulge in the activity and can also hire certain items that will be used while trekking.
Visiting hours = 9:00AM – 6:00PM
Trip Duration = Around 1-2 hours
9. Suraj Tal
It is a photogenic place and is perfect for picnic lovers. The place is located near Baralacha Pass and is frequently visited by trekkers, photographers and nature lovers. It is famous for sunrise and sunset views because the lake reflects the sun, which makes the place picture perfect. May to October is the best time to visit and there is no need to hire any guide to reach the place.
Visiting hours = 9:00AM – 6:00PM
Entry fee = Free
Trip Duration = Around 1 hour
10. Shopping places in Spiti
Keylong market is the best place for shopping in Spiti and in the market one can shop winter clothes and daily use items. One must dine at Spiti to enjoy the authentic taste of food and do not forget to have a Spiti tea that is most famous in town. Tibetan shops in the market are famous for gems and jewelry they sell. The style of jewelry is what makes it different from others.
Visiting hours = 10:00AM – 4:00PM
Trip Duration = Around 1 hour
Entry Fee = INR10
Frequently Asked Questions?
A. Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airport as there are no direct flights to Spiti valley. if you want to visit the Spiti valley then you must visit via road because it will be much adventurous, and you can also enjoy the beauty of places that will come along the way. There are public buses and cabs that you can hire but it is recommended that you must visit Himachal by private vehicle.
A. There is no special type of food in Spiti but you will surely get the best quality. There are small Dhabas and hotels in Spiti that serve tourists. If you are in town then do not forget to have Spiti tea that is famous among locals. Dragon restaurant, Sachin Kunga Restaurant, Café Kunzum top, Sol café, Hotel Mehfil are some of the best restaurants in town.
A. During the summer season because in winter the place is kept closed for tourists to ensure their safety.
A. Yes, Spiti valley does receive snowfall but the weather becomes harsh to travel around the town and can also be harmful.
A. Spiti valley is famous for monasteries, lakes, and temples. There are more than 5 monasteries and around 9 temples.
A. Driving on the Spiti Valley roads needs experience because the roads are narrow, steep and during the winter season the roads become more dangerous to travel.
