Spiti isn’t for beginners. It’s not your classic hill region. But if you’re up for an adventure, the high-altitude desert in the Himalayas can be one of the most exciting places to visit. Surreal mountainous landscapes, monasteries that date back hundreds of years, and stunning glacial streams make up this valley. Here’s a handy guide on the best time to visit Spiti Valley.
What is the best time to visit Spiti Valley?
Between June and August is the ideal time of year to visit Spiti. This is the busiest travel season, and the valley’s summer months bring great temperatures, bright skies, and no snow, which means that all of the area’s roads are open and usable. In Spiti, the snowmelt starts in April and May. While there may be less tourists in Spiti at this time of year, there is a greater likelihood of snow-related road closures, which could make it more difficult for you to move throughout the valley.
The finest months to take road trips to Spiti Valley are also June through August. Choose this window of time if you’re going to drive down or go riding with your friends, as this is when the road from Manali to Kaza and Chandratal usually opens up. Because of the possibility of landslides, the monsoon season, which runs from July to September, is not the best time to come.
When does it snow in Spiti Valley?
Due to its great altitude, Spiti stays chilly all year round; however, during the winter, temperatures can drop as low as -20°C. Snow usually falls in places like Kaza from January to March. Due to the bitter weather and closed roads, visiting the valley during this time can be very difficult. In addition to trekking and riding being more difficult and dangerous in the winter, the lakes and streams freeze over. In the event that you want to go during the winter, remember to pack warm layers of clothes and adequate hiking equipment.
What is the best time to go stargazing in Spiti Valley?
The ideal times to go stargazing in Spiti Valley are during the summer, from May to July, when bright heavens make for excellent visibility. Because the starry sky reflects across the waters of Chandratal Lake, both Kibber and Chandratal Lake are well-liked locations in Spiti for stargazing. If the skies are very clear, you can even see the Milky Way from Spiti.
How many days are enough for Spiti Valley?
Plan an eight-day journey to Spiti Valley to really experience the area, as getting to Spiti takes some time. You will have ample time to travel, acclimate, tour Kaza and Kibber, see Chandratal Lake, and visit monasteries like Tabo and Dhankar.
How to get to Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley can only be reached by road through Manali or Shimla. Fly to Chandigarh first if you’re coming from Shimla, then drive to Kinnaur (which goes through Kalpa and Nako before arriving at Kaza and Spiti). It is only possible to travel from Manali to Kaza in the summer. The closest airports to Manali are Bhuntar and Kullu-Manali; however, depending on your point of departure, you might have to fly to Chandigarh due to limited connection.
