Winter Spiti Tour from Mumbai and Pune: Embark on an extraordinary Spiti Valley circuit tour starting from Mumbai or Pune, venturing into the heart of the Indian Himalayas. This captivating journey promises a tapestry of rugged landscapes, mystical vistas, and rich cultural encounters across a sequence of enchanting destinations.
Spiti Valley, located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is a remote and stunning mountain desert region. It’s known for its barren landscapes, ancient Buddhist monasteries like Key Monastery, and picturesque villages like Kaza and Tabo. The valley offers unparalleled opportunities for trekking, exploring Tibetan culture, and enjoying the raw natural beauty of the Himalayas.
Key Attractions:
- Sangla Holi: Kinnaur Holi is one of the most unique celebrations in India, and something everyone should witness at least once in their lifetime to understand India’s true diversity.
- Key Monastery: One of Spiti’s largest and oldest monasteries, situated on a hilltop near Kaza. It houses a valuable collection of Buddhist scriptures, thangkas (paintings), and artifacts.
- Tabo Monastery: Known as the “Ajanta of the Himalayas,” Tabo Monastery is renowned for its ancient frescoes and sculptures dating back to the 10th century.
- Dhankar Monastery: Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the confluence of Spiti and Pin rivers, Dhankar Monastery offers stunning views and a glimpse into Buddhist heritage.
- Kibber Village: One of the villages with the highest inhabited in the world, Kibber offers insights into traditional Spitian culture and lifestyle.
- Cultural Heritage: Spiti Valley is predominantly inhabited by Tibetan Buddhists, and their culture and traditions are well-preserved in the monasteries, festivals, and local customs.
Experience the transformation of Spiti Valley from a remote wilderness to a must-visit destination! Discover its unique attractions like the world’s highest post office in Hikkim, Asia’s highest suspension bridge in Chicham, and more. Begin your journey from Shimla, passing through picturesque Kalpa and reaching Tabo with its ancient monastery. Explore Ki and Dhankar Monasteries, soaking in breathtaking views and rich history. End your adventure at Chitkul, the last border village, and savor local delights at Akhiri Dhaba. Don’t miss out on this unparalleled journey in the Himalayas
Dates: 8 March 2025 to 15 March 2025 (Ex-Delhi)
- Cost: 20500/- Tripple sharing
(3500/- Person Extra in case of Double sharing required.)
Winter Spiti Valley Circuit Tour Highlights:
- Visit the region where the scenery throughout the trip is drop-dead gorgeous and calls for a life-changing experience
- Experience the traditional blend of Buddhism and Tibetan culture and interact with the locals of Himalayan villages
- Relive your adventurous side by taking a drive through one of the World’s Most Dangerous Roads
- Send a postcard from the ‘Highest Post Office’ in the World to your loved ones and make them proud
- Lean on to the edge of Asia’s highest suspension bridge – Chicham Bridge, to capture the sight of a truck that appears ant-like
- Drive to the ‘World’s Highest Motor-able Village’ – Komic and feel like you are on top of the world
- Capture a time-lapse of the changing colors of Kinner Kailash mountain peaks as painted by the sun’s rays
- Travel to the Last Village of India at Chitkul and plan your lunch at ‘Hindustan ka Aakhri Dhaba’
Winter Spiti Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Saturday, 8 March 2025 – Delhi Arrival → Shimla (Overnight Drive ~12 hrs)
- Evening: 7 pm Meet at Majnu Ka Tila or ISBT Kashmiri Gate to board the overnight travel bus to Shimla.
- Tip: Ensure warm clothes and snacks for the journey as it can get chilly.
√ Include: Transport to Shimla.
Ø Exclude: Dinner, Lunch, Personal expenses, Insurance, Medical evacuation/costs, and anything not included.
Day 2: Sunday, 9 March 2025 – Shimla Acclimatization & Sightseeing
- Morning: Arrive in Shimla, check your hotel, and relax after your journey.
- Sightseeing Highlights afternoon:
- The Ridge & Mall Road: Enjoy a leisurely walk with picturesque views.
- Christ Church: Admire the neo-Gothic architecture of this iconic landmark.
- Kali Bari Temple: A peaceful spot amidst Shimla’s bustling streets.
- Evening: Rest and Briefing + Prepare for the journey ahead.
√ Include: Transport, Breakfast & Dinner & Tripple sharing stay.
Ø Exclude: Lunch, Personal expenses, Insurance, or Medical evacuation/expenses, and anything not included.
Day 3: Monday, 10 March 2025 – Shimla → Tabo via Nako (Approx. 320 km / 10–12 hrs)
- Early Morning: 6/7 am Start your drive toward Spiti Valley.
- Sightseeing on the Way:
- Sutlej River Views: Drive alongside the gushing river.
- Kinnaur Gateway: Marvel at the rock-cut roads at Kinnaur.
- Khab Sangam: Witness the confluence of the Spiti and Sutlej rivers.
- Nako Village: Stop for tea and visit Nako Lake and the Nako Monastery.
- Visit the Tabo Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient murals and frescoes.
- Evening: Reach Tabo and check into your guesthouse.
√ Include: Transport, Breakfast & Dinner & Tripple sharing stay.
Ø Exclude: Lunch, Personal expenses, Insurance, or Medical evacuation/expenses, and anything not included.
Day 4: Tuesday, 11 March 2025 – Tabo → Kaza via Dhankar & Pin Valley (Approx. 50–60 km / 4–5 hrs)
- Morning: 7 am Depart for Kaza, stopping at key spots en route.
- Sightseeing Highlights:
- Dhankar Monastery: Perched on a cliff with breathtaking views of the valley.
- Pin Valley National Park: Visit Mudh Village, the last motorable village, and explore the serene surroundings.
- Late Afternoon: Arrive in Kaza and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk around Kaza’s market to experience local life.
√ Include: Transport, Breakfast & Dinner & Tripple sharing stay.
Ø Exclude: Lunch, Personal expenses, Insurance, or Medical evacuation/expenses, and anything not included.
Day 5: Wednesday, 12 March 2025 – Kaza Full-Day Sightseeing
- Morning: Begin your exploration of Kaza the heart of Spiti.
- Sightseeing Highlights:
- Key Monastery: The largest monastery in Spiti, known for its spiritual significance and architecture.
- Kibber Village: A picturesque high-altitude village surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
- Chicham Bridge: Asia’s highest suspension bridge.
- Langza Village: Famous for its giant Buddha statue and ancient fossils.
- Hikkim: Send a postcard from the world’s highest post office.
- Comic Village: One of the highest motorable villages in the world.
- Evening: Return to Kaza and relax.
√ Include: Transport, Breakfast & Dinner & Tripple sharing stay.
Ø Exclude: Lunch, Personal expenses, Insurance, or Medical evacuation/expenses, and anything not included.
Day 6: Thursday, 13 March 2025 – Kaza → Chitkul & Holi Celebrations at Kamru (Approx. 225–250 km / 9–10 hrs)
- Morning: 6/7 am Start early for the long drive back toward Kinnaur.
- Afternoon: Reach Chitkul, the last inhabited village near the Indo-China border.
- Holi Festivities: Head to Kamru Village, known for its traditional Holi celebrations, including local songs, dances, and vibrant colors.
- Evening: Stay overnight at Kamru or Sangla.
√ Include: Transport, Breakfast & Dinner & Tripple sharing stay.
Ø Exclude: Lunch, Personal expenses, Insurance, or Medical evacuation/expenses, and anything not included.
Day 7: Friday, 14 March 2025 – Sangla Holi Celebration (Day 2)
- Morning: Immerse yourself in Holi festivities in Sangla, celebrating with the locals.
- Activities & Sightseeing:
- Baspa River Walk: Enjoy the serene river flowing through Sangla Valley.
- Kamru Fort: Explore this ancient fort with its traditional architecture and cultural significance.
- Visit Batseri Village, known for its apple orchards and wooden craftsmanship.
- Evening: Rest at your hotel and enjoy the festive vibe.
√ Include: Transport, Breakfast & Dinner & Tripple sharing stay.
Ø Exclude: Lunch, Personal expenses, Insurance, or Medical evacuation/expenses, and anything not included.
Day 8: Saturday, 15 March 2025 – Sangla → Shimla → Delhi (Overnight Volvo)
- Early Morning: Depart from Sangla for Shimla (approx. 8–9 hours).
- Afternoon: Arrive in Shimla and board the Volvo bus back to Delhi.
- Evening: Overnight journey to Delhi, concluding your trip.
√ Include: Transport, Breakfast.
Ø Exclude: Lunch, Personal expenses, Insurance, or Medical evacuation/expenses, and anything not included.
Day 9: Sunday, 16 March 2025 Delhi Arrival (Overnight Volvo)
- Early Morning: Arrival in Delhi. Book a Return train flight after 9/10 am
Travel Tips:
- Start Early: Long drives and unpredictable road conditions require early departures.
- Clothing: Carry warm layers, as temperatures in Spiti and Sangla can drop significantly.
- Local Food: Try traditional Spitian and Himachali dishes, especially thukpa and momos.
- Permits: Ensure all required permits (e.g., for Spiti) are arranged beforehand.
- Connectivity: Limited mobile network; BSNL works best in remote areas.
Include:
- Accommodation on a Trippel sharing basis (Homestay / Guesthouse) – 7 nights – 1 Night at Shimla,1 Night at Tabo, 2 Nights at Kaza, 2 Night at Sangla.
- Transfers for round trips between Delhi to Shimla.
- Non-AC Tempo Traveller & Experience Local Driver guide for tour
- Breakfast and Dinner as mentioned in the itinerary
- Basic First Aid and 1 Oxygen Cylinder
- Inner Line Permits.
- Environmental and wildlife fees
- Guide and Expertise charges.
Exclude:
- Travel (Train / Air) to Delhi and back.
- Anything which not covered in the inclusion
- Any kind of Personal Expenses
- Any damage to the property
- Soft drinks / Mineral Water / Cold Drinks
- Lunch & Extra meal or other orders
- Laundry & cleaning services or Personal tips
- Entrance Fee, Camera fee, Any Ride
- Any unforeseen expenses due to any condition beyond the itinerary.
- Medical/Insurance/Evacuation Expenses
- Medical Emergency Evacuation at any point own expenses.
Very Important Notes:
- The sequence of the day-wise itinerary may change depending upon daily tour departure time, re-schedules/restrictions or road blockage, Govt rules, heavy snowfall, and all other unforeseen natural and travel-related conditions or vehicle issues due to extremely bad road conditions.
- If there is any unprecedented hike in the cost of travel/stay/govt fees or any other circumstances that are beyond the organizer’s control due to any natural calamities. The additional cost incurred will be payable by the traveler in addition to the original package cost.
Every traveler must have done a Rapid-Antigen Test as per current regulation ( Jan’ 2022)
- Smoking, Alcohol, Drugs, Narcotics any kind of intoxication, firearms, and gambling are strictly prohibited. Please do not litter, we believe in the saying, “When you go to the nature/mountain leave only your footprints and bring back only memories” The leader’s decision will be final and binding on all members. No Arguments will be entertained.
- Due to remote areas, there might be electricity issues. Kindly cooperate.
- Delays in the above schedule can be considered as vehicle breakdowns, health issues of participants, or any other unforeseen condition beyond the organizer’s control. Request to cooperate.
Things to carry:
- Performance Clothing Lightweight Long Underwear – 2 pairs of Tops & Bottoms(in case the weather gets cold).
- Should be made of moisture-wicking synthetic material (capilene, polypropylene or Merino Wool.) Snug fit is important. Lightweight is preferable as it is more versatile (worn single in warmer conditions and double layer for colder).
• Light Fleece Jacket/ – 1
• Thick Fleece Jacket – 1
• Wool Trousers – 1
• Woollen sweater – 2
• Down Jacket – 1
• Shirt / T- Shirt-3
• Insulating Layers
• Lightweight Insulating gloves – 1 pair of fleece or wool.
• Wool or Synthetic Socks – 3 pairs of lightweight socks. check fit over feet and inside boots as it might be required to wear 2 pairs of
socks on some days.
• Wool/Synthetic Hat -1. Make sure your ears are covered.
• Sandals / Slippers – 1 pair.
• Sun Shades / Glasses – 1 pair(important).
• Strong shoes. Any type preferably lightweight (Good Sports Shoes are also good)- 1 pair.
Personal Equipment
- Sunscreen SPF 25(or more if needed) 2 small tubes.
- Note: Sunscreen older than 6 months loses half of its SPF rating, make sure that you have new sunscreen.
• Lipbalm – 1 stick.
- 1 Litre Water Bottle – At least one bottle with 1 litre capacity. Bottles should be wide mouth and of hard, transparent plastic BPA free plastic or water bag or bladder systems.
• Headlamp/small torch with Spare batteries-1
• Toiletry Bag. Basics: Small Towel, Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Baby Wipes. Include two rolls of toilet paper. ( One can get toilet paper and other basic items in Leh as well)
• Hand Sanitizer or Other alcohol-based hand cleaners. A small bottle