A Spiti Valley Tour Package is ideal for those who want to see breathtaking landscapes, old monasteries, and the special culture of the cold desert. But since Spiti is far away and at a high altitude, you need to plan your trip well.
From deciding on the best time to visit to making sure that you are well prepared with the right equipment, these 10 tips will make sure that you have a wonderful time on your trip.
Contents
- 1 Choose the Best Time for Your Visit
- 2 2. Watch the Route Choices
- 3 3. Acclimatization is Key
- 4 4. Choose the Best Type of Tour Package
- 5 5. Search for Permits and Documents
- 6 6. Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity
- 7 7. Bring Sufficient Clothing for the Winter
- 8 8. Select Stays Judiciously
- 9 9. Make Your Sightseeing Schedule Wisely
- 10 10. Respect the local environment and culture.
- 11 Final Thoughts
Choose the Best Time for Your Visit
The best time to book Spiti Valley packages varies based on what kind of experience you’re looking for:
Summer (May to September): It is the best season to visit Spiti since the roads are snow-free and the weather is pleasant. You are able to spot green valleys, flowing rivers, and blue skies. The day temperature is between 15°C and 25°C, ideal for sightseeing.
Winter (October to April): If you wish to witness Spiti in snow, then winter is the time to visit. But it drops as low as -20°C, and most hotels and homestays close down for the winter. You may also face roadblocks due to heavy snowfall.
If you want a comfortable and easy trip, it is best to plan your Spiti Valley Tour Package in the summer season when the roads are good and the weather is nice.
2. Watch the Route Choices
Two major routes can be used to access Spiti Valley, and both offer a distinct experience:
Through Manali: This is a shorter but more challenging route. You drive over Rohtang Pass (3,978m) and Kunzum Pass (4,551m), two of India’s highest drivable roads. The ride is thrilling but challenging due to the high altitude.
By Shimla: This is a longer but smoother route. It slowly acclimatizes you to the higher elevation, which may lower the risk of getting Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You get to drive through scenic towns like Reckong Peo, Kalpa, and Nako, slowing down your pace and making it more enjoyable.
If you prefer a more adventurous and quicker journey, travel by the Manali route. If you prefer a peaceful and safer journey, travel by the Shimla route.
3. Acclimatization is Key
As Spiti Valley is 3,500 meters and higher in elevation, the air is thinner and oxygen is in less quantity. If your body is not accustomed, you can suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), and its signs are headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath.
To prevent this:
- Spend one day in Shimla or Manali prior to visiting Spiti so that your body becomes acclimatized to the transition.
- Drink lots of water to keep yourself hydrated and don’t consume alcohol.
- Do not overdo everything during the initial two days of your tour.
- Select a Spiti Valley Tour Package that will acclimatize you slowly to minimize health risks.
Don’t underestimate acclimatization, for it can sabotage your holiday!
4. Choose the Best Type of Tour Package
There are a number of Spiti Valley Tour Packages, including Spiti Valley Honeymoon Packages, and the best one to select depends on your travel preference.
Budget Backpacking Tours: Best for single travelers or backpackers who do not care about staying in modest accommodation and traveling together.
Luxury Spiti Tours: They offer luxury accommodations, customized travel, and vacation travel experiences for those who want a hassle-free journey.
Adventure Packages: Suitable for adventure-hungry tourists who wish trekking, cycling, or camping to be included in the schedule.
Personalized Private Tours: Ideal for couples, families, or groups of individuals seeking a personalized experience with adjustable tour schedules.
Ensure that you buy a package comfortable for you as well as suitable for your tourism objectives.
5. Search for Permits and Documents
Indian tourists do not require any special permission for most locations in Spiti. Foreigners do require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for visiting some location, including:
Kaza is the administrative capital of Spiti.
- Chandratal Lake
- Tabo and Dhankar Monasteries
Always check whether your Spiti Valley Tour Package includes the required permits, or else get them booked in advance to save you last-minute hassles.
6. Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity
Spiti Valley has very little mobile connectivity as opposed to urban cities. It only has BSNL and Jio, although they do not function well in far-off villages.
No internet available in most areas: Don’t count on Google Maps or internet reservations. Print maps and essential documents before your trip.
Extremely scarce ATMs: Withdraw enough money from Manali or Reckong Peo as ATMs in Spiti are scarce in number and functioning.
Tell your family that you will have limited communication so they won’t worry if they can’t contact you.
7. Bring Sufficient Clothing for the Winter
Spiti weather can be tough, so pack accordingly. What you need to pack is the following:
- Dress warmly, even in the summer – It cools down fast at night.
- Trekking shoes – Necessary for hiking over rough terrain.
- Sunscreen, shades, and lip balm – The sun could be rather unforgiving at altitudes.
- Medications and first aid kit – Bring AMS medication, pain killers, and general medicine for nausea.
Being prepared makes you enjoy a good trip without any issues.
8. Select Stays Judiciously
- Spiti accommodation is mixed according to your comfort and affordability levels:
- Homestays in rural villages allow you to share local food, culture, and hospitality.
- There are guesthouses and hotels in Kaza and Tabo, providing basic amenities.
- Chandratal camping – Good for the adventurous type but warm clothing is a must.
- Select one of the Spiti Valley tour packages with facilities for stay as per your preferences.
9. Make Your Sightseeing Schedule Wisely
Spiti Valley is simply amazing to travel to, so make sure your tour package includes:
- Key Monastery is the biggest and most famous monastery of Spiti.
- Chandratal Lake – A peaceful high-altitude lake with sparkling waters.
- Pin Valley is a haven for wildlife photographers and nature lovers.
- Langza, Hikkim & Komic – Picturesque villages at high altitude and special destinations.
- A proper schedule reminds you to visit the must-see tourist spots of Spiti!
10. Respect the local environment and culture.
Spiti is a sacred land with a predominantly Tibetan Buddhist culture. Just follow these rules: Respect monasteries – Remove your shoes, be silent, and do not take pictures first. Practice eco-friendly traveling practices. Avoid using plastic, throw away garbage in the right way, and do not litter.
Support the locals – Buy handmade souvenirs, eat in local restaurants, and stay in homes to give the locals economic benefit. Travel responsibly so that Spiti’s pristine beauty remains untouched for the generations ahead.
Final Thoughts
A Spiti Valley Tour Package can be a wonderful one if planned properly. By opting for the correct season, a suitable tour package, and preparing yourself for high-altitude traveling, you can have a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Whether you are traveling alone, are an adventure enthusiast, or are traveling with family, Spiti will surprise you with its untamed beauty and peaceful landscape. Ready to explore the chilly desert of India? Pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to Spiti Valley!