Spiti Winter Safari

Tour Highlights

An amazing drive for the adventure seekers who dare to do things differently. Spiti is a magnificent valley of near-celestial splendour hidden just beyond the alluring veil of Kinnaur Mountains. Those seeking a respite from the hectic pace of daily life will find a haven in this sparsely populated region. With stunning views of towering, snow covered mountains you'll find yourself in amazement wherever you go. Picturesque valleys, otherworldly lunar landscapes, generations old Buddhist monasteries, massive glaciers, lakes, gushing and frozen rivers, high altitude lakes, time-worn terrains, and most importantly, the warm hospitality of the local folks which will ensure you brave the cold with aplomb.

Itinerary:

Day 1 - Chandigarh – Thanedar, Altitude: 2,350 M, Distance: 200 km, Time: 5 ½ - 6 hrs.

Take a scenic trip from Chandigarh to Thanedar through Shimla, Kufri, and Narkanda. Relax at your room at our mountain lodge Banjara Orchard Retreat or spend the evening by the bonfire taking in the beautiful sounds and fragrant smells of the cold winter orchards!

Day 2 - Thanedar – Sangla. Altitude: 2700 m. Distance: 145 km. Time: 5 hrs

After breakfast, we’ll descend to the Sutlej Valley's base and then make our way higher up to Kinnaur, the beloved land of fairy tales. To get to our mountain resort in the Baspa Valley in this magic land, we'll also go through Sangla Valley. The day will be filled with beautiful scenic routes and panoramic views. You can enjoy the rest of the day and evening in peace, by the warm light of a bonfire or cosying up in the comfortable Retreat rooms in Banjara Camp & Retreat.

Day 3 - Exploring Sangla

Taking a stunning long drive to Chitkul, which is the final Indian settlement before Tibet's border begins towards the east, we will be immerse in the bounty of nature and also visit Nagasthi, the border outpost. As the Chitkul region is more than 11,000 ft above sea level, exploring the area is a must for getting used to the altitude as we embark even higher up in our journey. Sightseeing done, we’ll retrace our steps back to the mountain resort for a cup of tea, but not after we have taken a peek around the nomadic Rakcham hamlet.

Day 4 - Sangla – Giu (Tabo). Altitude: 3,300 m. Distance: 206 km. Time: 7 – 8 hrs

After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll depart towards Spiti's snow clad mountains. You'll notice a dramatic change in scenery when we approach the Upper Kinnaur region, as the deep green coniferous forests dissolve into a cold desert landscape reminiscent of the extra-terrestrial surfaces we have only ever seen in pictures. A small stop at Nako village to have a look at the beautiful lake that supposedly hides half of this small hamlet in its waters. Moving on, right after we cross Sumdo, we’ll take a 7-kilometer side trip to Giu to witness a 14th-century monk's mummy in meditation pose that has been astonishingly well preserved – so much so that its teeth are still visible behind the hollowed-out lips. Exciting, right? Taking a turnaround, then we’ll head back toward Tabo and visit the almost 1,000-year-old monastery that’s seen generations pass by its doors. Of course, only after we’ve cleaned up and rested at Standard Rooms in Phuntsok Homestay.

Day 5 - Tabo – Dhankar – Kaza - Altitude: 3,800 m. Distance: 65 km. Time: 3 hrs

Once we've had our fill of breakfast, we’ll go farther into Spiti, to take in the views of some of the most beautiful snow-covered mountain desert scenery in the country, if not the world. We’ll also take a detour to see the Dhankar monastery, built in the 16th century, with a Gompa (loosely, fortification) that is over 1000 years old. After arriving in Kaza and checking into Sakya Homestay, we’ll just take some time to acclimate ourselves to the altitude, spending the evening relaxing, taking walks or sitting by the bonfire.

Day 6 - Kaza – Key – Chicham. Altitude: 4,150 m. Distance: 20 km. Time: 1 hour

Heading out right after breakfast, before seeing the stunningly built gompa in Key village, we'll stop at the recently constructed yet gorgeous Sakya Tangyud Monastery. Then, continuing on to Kibber, the region's largest high-altitude settlement, we’ll cross a surreal suspension bridge over a 1000-foot-deep ravine to reach the high-altitude hamlet of Chicham, which is part of the Kibber WLS. While you're free for the remainder of the day, we recommend taking advantage of the stunning night sky and gazing at the stars that are invisible in the city.

Day 7 - Chicham

After breakfast, we’ll go out for a trek with our team of expert scanners and scouts who will assist you in your search for winter wildlife, including red fox, blue sheep, ibex, and who knows? Maybe even the elusive snow leopard! At some point later in the evening we'll make our way up to Langza, a scenic settlement famous for its gigantic, mighty Buddha statue as well as its fossils, spend some time stargazing and then travel back down to Chicham for supper at the Tethys Himalayan Den.

Day 8 - Chicham – Kalpa. Altitude: 2,960 m. Distance: 235 km. Time: 8 – 9 hrs

Grabbing a quick bite to eat for breakfast, we’ll head on our way home. In Kinnaur, around Powari, we’ll get off of the highway and go up for about 30 minutes beyond Reckong Peo to reach Kalpa, a hilltop town. From there, we can njoy breathtaking views of the Kinner Kailash Massif from the top of Mount Kinner and spend a peaceful night at the Super Deluxe Rooms in The Grand Shamba – La.

Day 9 - Kalpa - Chail Hills. Altitude: 1,450 m. Distance: 270 km. Time: 8 – 9 hrs

Today, we’ll visit Narkanda and Chail before making our way to the cosy mountain resort at Banjara Mountain Retreat in Chail's pleasantly cool environs with more comfortable temperatures.

Day 10 - Chail Hills – IXC. Distance: 100 km. Time: 3 hrs

After a restful morning, we’ll drive via Kandaghat and Solan to Chandigarh Airport from where you can safely fly back home.

About Spiti

Surrounded by the Himalayas on three sides and at a height of 12,500 feet above sea level, the Spiti Valley in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, located 412 kilometres from Shimla, is the country's coldest location. It is home to some of the oldest monasteries in the world, some of which date back more than 1,000 years. In fact, there are few monasteries in the world as old as Tabo Monastery, which is also favoured by the Dalai Lama. Komic Village, Langza Village, Lhalung Monastery, Tabo Caves, Tabo Monastery are all situated in the Spiti Valley. Dhankar Lake is also one of the attractions of the place, and can be reached via a 1.5-kilometer stroll along the Spiti River from the Dhankar Monastery. It is a tranquil spot where you can relax and unwind in the cold mountain air.
State: Himachal Pradesh
Weather: From March to June, the temperature in Spiti fluctuates between 0 to 15 degrees Celsius, while in winter the temperature stays below freezing point Closest airport: There is no direct air service to the Spiti Valley region of India. Bhuntar, a town near Kullu, is the closest airport, located 245 kilometres away.
Railway station: At a distance of 360 kilometres from Spiti Valley, Joginder Nagar Railway Station is the closest railway station. Best time to visit: From March through June is the finest season to visit Spiti Generally spoken language: Bhoti, Hindi, English and Sanskrit Altitude: 4,270 m

INCLUSIONS

We provide you with half board meals and comfortable accommodation at select lodges / retreats / camps. This is combined with exclusive, snow-tyre chains equipped 4x4 SUVs, and deluxe rooms on double occupancy. Also there are the permit and guiding at Kibber Wild Life Sanctuary.

ACTIVITIES

The winter safari to Spiti valley is a perfect experience if you're looking for some raw outdoorsy fun. On this trip enjoy the adventurous drive, wildlife spotting, bird watching and star gazing. Also, besides the breath-taking views of nature that you will photograph endlessly, get a glimpse of the monks' simple lives as you wander through the halls of Buddhist monasteries. Warm up around bonfires in the evening.

About Destinations:


Thanedar

About 80 Kms from Shimla and after a slight detour from Narkanda comes this quaint little fruit growing village of Thanedar. It is the village that famed Himachal Pradesh into an Apple growing state. It’s at a height of about 2400Mtrs ASL facing the valley and the sunset. It’s a perfect hill station for short relaxing stays with some amazing nature walks. Thanedar is a typical Himachal Village with nets thrown over terraced apple orchards to protect the trees from hail and maybe even birds. It’s a sleepy little single street town with houses and orchards on both sides.

State: Himachal Pradesh

Weather: It’s pleasant days and cold evenings from April to June with max temperatures at 27 DegC and lows at around 16 DegC. Monsoons come by Mid June and stay on until end of August with moderate to heavy showers and chances of landslides. Winters are quite cold with snow expected during December / January when temperatures can dip close to and sub zero. Closest airport: Technically Shimla (96 Kms / 3.15 Hrs) but realistically the only option is Chandigarh airport (197 Kms / 6 Hrs) Closest Railway Station: Technically Shimla (96 Kms / 3.15 Hrs) but realistically the only viable option is Chandigarh railway station (197 Kms / 6 Hrs) Best time to visit: April to November Generally spoken language: Hindi,Punjabi and Himachali. Altitude: 2300 Mtrs ASL approx.

Sangla

One of the most scenic valleys of India, surrounded by snowcapped peaks and the gushing river Baspa meandering through the slopes gurgling across the prosperous apple growing villages located at a height of 2620Mtrs ASL in the Kinnaur District of Himachal Pradesh. It’s another world, full of nature’s bounties, scenic vistas, glacier treks, village walks, apple orchards, star gazing, fishing for trout and more such adventure activities. It is about 17Kms from Karcham and 160 Kms from Narkanda.

State: Himachal Pradesh

Weather: As it’s a valley the weather is enjoyably cold throughout the year except winters as the winters do get to extremes with snow fall and sub-zero temperatures but is has it’s own charm. Summer peaks at 32 DegC with lows of 8-10 DegC. Monsoons - July and August, can receive heavy, regular rainfall and is avoidable as it worsens the road conditions and keeps you indoors mostly. Closest airport: Technically Shimla (245 Kms / 8Hrs) but realistically the only option is Chandigarh airport (334 Kms / 10 Hrs) Closest Railway Station: Technically Shimla (223Kms / 7Hrs) but realistically the only viable option is Chandigarh railway station (330 Kms / 10 Hrs) Best time to visit: March to June the September until November. Generally spoken language: Hindi, Punjabi and Himachali. Altitude: 2620 Mtrs ASL approx.

Chail

45 Kms from Shimla lies this lush green hill station blessed with dense Deodar and Pine forests. Compared to both Kufri and Shimla it is much less crowded, much quieter, more green and has scenic views because of which it is perfect for travelers looking for stays slightly off the beaten track. Rich in Wildlife Chail is popular amongst wildlife enthusiasts who visit the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, home to the Barking Deer, the Black Bear, the Sambhar Deer, the Leopard and a long list of resident and migrant bird species.

State: Himachal Pradesh

Weather: Pleasant summers with highs of 32 DegC and lows of 16 DegC. Monsoons get cooler with rains coming in in July & August. The hill station becomes very scenic with the greens all washed, dramatic with the clouds around but it also brings in some landslides which do at times create road blocks. Winters can get very cold and you can expect to experience good amount of snow with sub zero temperaures. Closest airport: Technically Shimla (61Kms / 2Hrs) but realistically the only viable option is Chandigarh airport (106Kms / 3.30Hrs) Closest Railway Station: Technically Kalka (83Kms / 3Hrs) but realistically the only viable option is Chandigarh railway station (100Kms / 3.30Hrs) Best time to visit: April to June and then September until November. Generally spoken language: Hindi,Punjabi and Himachali. Altitude: 2620 Mtrs ASL approx.

Kalpa

On the Shimla-Kaza highway is this small but picturesque village, just above Reckong Peo in the Sutlej River Valley. Surrounded by towering mountains this village is well camouflaged and just suddenly appears on approach. Providing scenic views of the Mount Kinnaur Kailash, Raldang, and Jorkanden Peaks it’s haven for nature / mountain lovers, photographers. Experience a homogenous mix of Hinduism and Buddhism, walk around apple orchards, feast yourselves on some delicious Tibetan Food. Enjoy a serene experience.
State: Kinnaur District in the state of Himachal Pradesh.
Weather: Thanks to its high altitude Kalpa has stretched winter from October to May. July to August brings in heavy rains. Temperatures during winters can dip to approx.. minus 15 DegC and there is lots of snow during this time, have heard of snow of up to 5-7 feet. Summers are short and even this period you need warm clothes with max temperatures hovering around + 20-24 DegC. Closest airport: Kullu/ Bhuntar Airport (225 Km) or Shimla Airport (445 Km) are the nearest airports to travel to Kalpa. Closest Railway Station: Nearest rail head for Kalpa is Shimla Railway Station, which is 244 km away. By Road: Kalpa has good road connectivity. Best time to visit: Prefer June but July to September are also doable except the rains can disturb travel plans. Generally spoken language: Hindi,Punjabi and Himachali. Altitude: 2960 Mtrs ASL approx.

Tabo

On the banks of the Spiti River lies this tiny cold desert town called Tabo. It is a part of the Lahaul Spiti District and is situated between Reckong Peo and Kaza at a height of 10000 some feet. Tabo is surrounded by Buddhist Monasteries. It’s actually the oldest Buddhist enclave in this Himalayan Region. Tabo is about the Monastery spread over 6300 Sq.Mtrs. with 9 Temples and Gompas, murals and sculptures on walls depicting the history and culture of the Himalayan Region. Visitors can stay within the compounds of the Monastery. Although Tabo does have private, budget accommodation and basic veg, non-veg meals available.
State: Lahaul & Spiti District in the state of Himachal Pradesh.
Weather: Short Summers extending from May to August with max temperatures of around 29 DegC. Winters stretch from mid- September to April with heavy snow falls and temperatures dipping to minus 45 DegC. Climate of Tabo is very unpredictable all round the year, can suddenly go from open and sunny to cloudy and grey. Closest airport: The nearest airport to Tabo is Kullu which is 249 kilometres away. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi. Closest Railway Station: The Kalka Railway Station is the nearest railhead located at a distance of 452 km from Tabo. Best time to visit: May to October Generally spoken language: Hindi and English are understood and spoken Altitude: 3300 Mtrs ASL approx.

Kaza

On the plains of the Spiti Valley, at the corner of Himachal Pradesh sits this sub-divisional headquarters of the remote Spiti Valley. Blessed with Shimmering rivers, streams, scenic landscapes, also some green patches scattered around, surrounded by mountains, Kaza is a magical city with Monasteries, Gompas, interesting cafes, eateries. It’s actually a great blend of the traditional and modern. Split into Old Kaza and New Kaza this amazing city will fill your holidays with a myriad range of experiences.
State: Lahaul & Spiti District in the state of Himachal Pradesh.
Weather: Very comfortable Summers during May to June end where you can stroll around the city. Pleasant temperatures not dipping below 15 DegC. Winters are harsh with extremes of minus 25 DegC and heavy snowfall - mid October / November to April. Monsoons are also very intense and has heavy downpours causing landslides. Closest airport: Bhuntar Airport -The nearest Airport is Bhuntar Airport or Kullu Manali Airport, roughly 250 Kms from Kaza. This Airport is well connected to many major cities like Dharamshala, Chandigarh, New Delhi and Shimla. The second nearest Airport is Shimla Airport, roughly 445 Kms from Kaza. Closest Railway Station: The Kalka Railway Station is the nearest railhead located at a distance of 465 km from Kaza. Best time to visit: May to October Generally spoken language: Hindi and English are understood and spoken Altitude: 3800 Mtrs ASL approx.

Chandratal

Tso Chigma, The Moon lake, Chandra Taal. This mystical, crescent shaped, placid lake is surrounded by mountains and meadows perched at a height of 4300 Mtrs on the Samudra Tapu ASL in the Spiti part of the Lahual Spiti. A favourite amongst adventure seekers, trekkers. The treacherous terrain and the harsh weather stops no one from visiting this pristine peace of natural beauty which gets surrounded by wild flowers and some wildlife as well during summers Chandra Taal is a peaceful getaway from any off beat, nature lover.
State: Spiti in the state of Himachal Pradesh.
Weather: Due to it’s altitude Chandra Taal remains cold throughout the year. Monsoons bring in heavy showers which cause landslides around disrupting travel both for trekkers and road transport. What needs more emphasis is the impacts of oxygen deficiency, low atmospheric pressures, harsh radiations, extreme cold conditions etc.. The average snowfall recorded is 75cm. The winters dips down to around minus 40°C. making it one of the coldest regions of the country. Closest airport: Bhuntar Airport near Manali is approximately 180 km from Chandra Taal Lake. Closest Railway Station: The Kalka Railway Station is the nearest railhead located at a distance of 370 kms. Best time to visit: Summers – June mainly but travel up to September is possible but not without rains disrupting your travel plans Generally spoken language: Hindi and English are understood and spoken Altitude: 4300 Mtrs ASL approx.

Manali

One of the most dense and popular tourist hill stations of Himachal Pradesh and also the gateway to Spiti from Rohtang Pass, Manali has lots to offer from shopping to cafes, restaurants, adventure activities, sightseeing options and more. It’s a scenic destination with River Beas gurgling through the hill town, blessed with apple orchards, dense green – oak, deodar and pine forests, temples and towering snow-capped mountains. Populated with hotels of all categories and all budgets from the very basic to the ultra-luxurious and even the boutique, unique home stays Manali has a long list of offerings for all kinds of travellers. It is a great place to rejuvenate after a long and asking itinerary through Lahaul-Spiti.
State: Himachal Pradesh.
Weather: Warm summers (April- June end) peaking at about 32 degC, Heavy rains during monsoons which start in July and go up to Spetmeber end. October brings in the winter and there definitely is heavy snow fall with temperatures dropping to about minus 7 DegC. Closest airport: Bhuntar Airport near Manali is approximately 10 kms. Closest Railway Station: The Kalka Railway Station is the nearest railhead located at a distance of 260 kms. Best time to visit: Mainly Summers – but can be visited throughout the year with only snowfall during winters as an exception which can block roads. Generally spoken language: Hindi and English are understood and spoken Altitude: 2050 Mtrs ASL approx.