Manali to Spiti Valley: Travel Guide

While Himachal Pradesh is home to a dozen different monasteries, this spectacular place is not just the biggest, but also the oldest one around. A must visit tourist place in Spiti Valley, the Key Gompa is encircled by picturesque mountains and soothing valleys. A wonderful example of monastic architecture and decorated with beautiful paintings, murals, manuscripts, and wind instruments.

Perched at a staggering altitude of 4200 meters above sea level, you have to witness the unparalleled beauty of Chandratal to believe it. A sanctuary from the lightning fast city life, this lake is slowly becoming one of the most attractive tourist places in Spiti valley. With the spellbinding backdrop of majestic mountains and meadows covered with gorgeous wildflowers, the lake is the perfect place to click Instagram worthy pictures.

India's highest cold valley National Park, this place was constructed to preserve the unique natural flora and fauna of Himachal Pradesh and is named after the gorgeous Pin River and acts as an interface between the Lahul and Spiti Valley. Against a backdrop of barbarous, rugged snow-covered mountain peaks of the Spiti Valley, the national park is home to Himachal's ferocious predators, the snow leopards, and their prey, the ibex.

The terrain is rough and precarious, so train hard and get into those fitness programs before you undertake this captivating journey. The sanctuary also witnesses a strong spiritual influence due to the presence of Buddhist monasteries around the area.

Location: Near Kaza.

Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM throughout the week.

Third highest lake in India and 21st highest in the world, the Suraj Tal is a divine water body surrounded by barbaric bare mountains and soothing valleys. It is a common belief that anyone who takes a dip in the pristine emerald waters of the lake is cleaned off their sins.

Whether you want to visit the Suraj Tal for spiritual reasons or to simply revel in the unsurpassed natural charm – you won’t regret it. An absolute haven for avid trekkers, the lake offers an asylum to refresh and recharge during the hectic Manali-Leh trek. Adrenaline junkie motorcyclists and mountain bikers will find this place a wonderful stopover on their journey.

Kunzum Pass is your high road to adventure, connecting Lahaul and Spiti valleys at an altitude of 4,551 metres. With 15 thrilling hairpin bends, it offers an adrenaline rush amidst the snow peaks and valleys. The temple of goddess Kunzum Devi stands guard here, blessing the travellers. It is a haven for bikers, trekkers, and photographers seeking extraordinary sights and thrilling experiences.

Discover the stunning Kunzum Pass where you can enjoy breathtaking views and thrilling adventures amidst the beautiful Himalayas with Spiti Valley Packages.

Tabo Monastery is one of the most wondrous places to visit in Spiti Valley. Founded a millennium ago, the temple is a unique amalgamation of history, culture and natural splendor. In the cold barren deserts of Tabo valley, the monastery appears as a sanctum from the brutality of barbarous rocky mountains around.

It houses centuries worth of Buddhist culture, tradition and heritage – a treat for history and cultural buffs. For those of you interested in art and handicraft – witness the amazingly preserved paintings, murals and sculptures. Or just kick back and take in the healing environment as calmness ascends over your being.

Discover the peaceful Tabo Monastery in the Himalayas with Spiti Valley Packages, where you can explore ancient Buddhist traditions and enjoy stunning mountain views in a serene setting.

Nestled in one corner of the beautiful Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, Kaza happens to be a tranquil and serene destination in Spiti Valley. Packed with majestic snow-covered mountains, bubbling rivers, picturesque landscape, and shimmering streams, this dreamy place is no less than a paradise on earth. 

The entire town of Kaza is categorized into 2 parts – New Kaza and Old Kaza. While the former accommodates the king’s palace, the latter is home to government offices. The presence of historical wonders, monasteries, and gompas adds a sense of magic to this charming town. At present day, the Himalayan town of Kaza features an exotic amalgam of ancient culture and modernity that is sure to leave every traveler totally awestruck and spellbound.

The pristine locales and mountainous terrain of Kaza lure tourists who are interested in experiencing spirituality as well as adventurous activities. The place even forms a base camp from where travelers can venture to experience activities such as mountaineering and trekking. Some well-known trails that start from the town of Kaza include Pin-Bhaba, Parang-La, and Pin-Parvati. In addition to trying adventure sports and visiting various Buddhist shrines, tourists flocking here also like to take a walk to the small villages nearby Kaza town, which offers an exciting and unique experience.

One can access Kaza from Lahaul Valley and Kinnaur Valley. While the latter route stays open all year round, the former route only opens during the summer season. Winter season in this destination comes with extremely low temperatures that make the weather of the town immensely cold. During this time, the locals prefer staying indoors and only venture out in case of absolute urgency. They always keep food supplies stocked up for this time of the year and utilize the whole time indoors by producing handicrafts.

The town of Kaza is blessed with a plethora of decent accommodation facilities and food outlets, helping tourists in having a comfortable vacation. All the elements put together, make tourism flourish in this small Himalayan destination.

Tucked atop a small hill at an impressive altitude of 4100 meters above sea level, the Dhankar, with its dazzling blue waters, is one of the most popular places to visit in Spiti Valley. The lake sits at the end of the famous Dhankar Lake trek known for its treacherous paths, rocky snow-capped mountains, and incomparable vistas. Adventure enthusiasts and photography lovers are enchanted alike by the magical realism of the trek.

The Dhankar Fort Monastery sandwiched between Spiti and Pin rivers offers a special spiritual touch as it plays hide and seek on the trail. And once you reach the lake, the rare and diversified views will make your jaw drop!

Location: Near Rohtang Pass connecting Kullu and Lahul. 

Timings: No timing restrictions.

Kibber is a village located in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh at an elevation of 4270 meters. This village is surrounded by stunning mountains and landscapes. The Tibetan-style houses in Kibber, built with stone and bricks, are impressive to see. The village's landscape is unique in the Spiti Valley, featuring fertile fields that yield abundant crops, even for trading. Also called Kyibar, it is famous for the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary and the Kibber Monastery.

Dhankar Monastery is located in Lahaul and Spiti Valley at 3,894 meters. It is recognized as one of the hundred most endangered monuments in the world. This monastery is also known as Dhangkar Gompa, and it was built around 1000 years ago by Lama Lha-od. It is one of the primary Buddhist centres and tourist attractions in Spiti. The Monastery also houses centuries-old Buddhist paintings. Visitors can experience the amazing beauty of Spiti Valley from the Dhankar Monastery.

Nako village, situated in the Himalayan mountains, is a tranquil getaway that captivates visitors with its beauty and quiet. This charming community, encircled by majestic peaks and verdant surroundings, provides an insight into the way of life in the Himalayas. For those looking for peace and natural beauty, Nako is the ideal location because of its gorgeous surroundings and welcoming residents. Nako village promises a memorable experience in the heart of the Himalayas, whether you choose to explore the village's meandering lanes or just take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

The Nako Lake is located in Nako village of Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh. Situated at an altitude of 3662 meters, it is famous for its dense willow forests and beautiful mountain views. This lake in the Nako village is a pilgrimage destination for Buddhist followers. Legends say that Lord Padmasambhava (one of the founding fathers of Tibetan Buddhism) meditated here, making it sacred. So, no one is allowed to bathe, swim, or put their feet in the waters of the Nako Lake.

Location: Nako Village, Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh

Timings: It can be visited at any time.

Entry Fee: No entry charges

Tabo is a small village in the Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh. It is a treasure trove of culture and is home to the Tabo Monastery which is also known as the "Ajanta of the Himalayas." This ancient village is surrounded by snowclad Pir Panjal mountains and it is a great place to learn about Buddhist culture as well as traditions. Tabo is also an excellent destination to visit for those seeking tranquillity and historical exploration.