Spiti Valley

This 14-day itinerary takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, from the popular hill stations of Shimla and Manali to the remote, serene valleys of Sangla, Kalpa, and Spiti. The route offers stunning views, rich cultural experiences, and a touch of adventure, especially with a stop at the stunning Chandratal Lake.

Day 1: Arrival in Shimla/Narkanda (1 Night)

• Arrival in Shimla: Start your journey from Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. If arriving early, you can explore Mall Road, The Ridge, and Christ Church for a taste of Shimla’s colonial past.
• Travel to Narkanda: Narkanda is just a 2-hour drive from Shimla and is a serene, less crowded hill station known for its apple orchards and stunning views.
  • Highlights: Visit Hatu Peak for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Hatu Mata Temple. You can also take nature walks through the pine forests and orchards.
  • Overnight stay in Narkanda.

Day 2-4: Sangla (2 Nights)

• Day 2: Travel to Sangla: Depart for Sangla Valley, located about 160 km from Narkanda (approx. 6-7 hours). The drive is scenic, offering breathtaking views of the Sutlej River and the surrounding mountains.
  • Highlights: Visit Kamru Fort and the nearby temple dedicated to Kamakhya Devi.
  • In the evening, relax by the Baspa River, surrounded by lush greenery and the majestic Himalayan peaks.
• Day 3: Explore Sangla Valley:
  • Batseri Village: Visit this charming village to witness traditional Kinnauri architecture.
  • Take a walk or short trek along the Baspa River or visit Chitkul, the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border, known for its beautiful landscapes and clear mountain streams.
  • Overnight stay in Sangla.

Day 5-6: Kalpa (2 Nights)

• Day 4: Travel to Kalpa: Kalpa is located about 40 km from Sangla (2-3 hours), offering stunning views of the Kinner Kailash mountain range.
  • Highlights: On arrival, visit Suicide Point for thrilling views and take a stroll through Roghi Village, which is known for its traditional wooden houses and terraced farms.
  • Enjoy a relaxing evening watching the sunset over the Kinner Kailash range.
• Day 5: Explore Kalpa:
  • Visit the Narayan-Nagini Temple Complex and explore the Chini Village for a deep dive into the local Kinnauri culture.
  • You can also visit the Hu-Bu-Lan-Kar Monastery, an ancient Buddhist monastery.
  • Take leisurely walks around the village or enjoy a short hike to soak in the peaceful surroundings.

Day 7-8: Kaza (2 Nights)

• Day 6: Travel to Kaza: The drive to Kaza (200 km from Kalpa) will take you through stunning mountain roads, remote villages, and dramatic landscapes. This region is part of the Spiti Valley, known for its barren beauty and unique Tibetan-influenced culture.
  • Overnight stay in Kaza.
• Day 7: Explore Kaza and Surrounding Areas:
  • Visit Key Monastery, the largest monastery in Spiti Valley, perched on a hill overlooking the Spiti River.
  • Drive to Kibber Village, one of the highest inhabited villages in the world. You can also visit Chicham Bridge, one of the highest bridges in Asia.
  • Explore Hikkim (home to the world’s highest post office) and Langza Village, known for its fossil-rich landscape and a giant Buddha statue overlooking the valley.

Day 9: Chandratal (1 Night)

• Travel to Chandratal Lake: After breakfast, embark on the journey to Chandratal Lake, one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in the region. The lake is about 100 km from Kaza and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and a crystal-clear, blue lake.
  • Highlights: Once at the lake, you can take short walks around it, enjoying the pristine beauty and peaceful ambiance. The changing colors of the lake, as the day progresses, are mesmerizing.
  • Overnight Camping near Chandratal Lake. Camping under the starry skies at this altitude is a magical experience.

Day 10-12: Manali (1 Night)

• Day 10: Travel to Manali: Begin your descent towards Manali via the Kunzum Pass and Rohtang Pass, both of which offer incredible views of the snow-clad peaks. The distance from Chandratal to Manali is around 120 km and can take 6-7 hours.
  • Upon arrival in Manali, you can relax and explore the vibrant Mall Road and local markets.
  • Overnight stay in Manali.
• Day 11: Explore Manali:
  • Visit the famous Hadimba Temple, a unique temple dedicated to the goddess Hadimba, set amidst dense cedar forests.
  • Explore Vashisht Hot Springs and the Manu Temple. You can also spend some time by the Beas River or visit Solang Valley for adventure activities like paragliding or zorbing.
  • Overnight stay in Manali.

Day 12-14: Journey Back

• Day 12: Begin your journey back home, either to Shimla or directly to your starting point, based on your travel plans.
• Day 13-14: Depending on where you’re traveling back to, these last days can be for any additional stops or rest before concluding the trip.