Why You Should Visit Spiti Valley In Winter?

During the winter, Spiti turns into a paradise for snow sports lovers as they get to enjoy various adventure activities such as snowboarding and skiing at the ski resorts. You can also attend various celebrations and traditional festivals, like the Tibetan New Year and Losar, and interact with the locals to learn about their way of life.
Climate and Weather of Spiti Valley In Winter

Spiti Valley in November: November marks the arrival of winter in Spiti Valley and the weather is not as extreme as the peak winter months. Daytime temperatures during this month range from 0°C to 10°C and at night it often reaches below freezing point. The Spiti Valley tour in November is considered the best as you get to have an intimate experience and can soak in the breathtaking beauty of the valley.
Spiti Valley in December: December marks the peak winter season in Spiti Valley with heavy rainfall and unbearable temperatures. The Spiti Valley Winter temperature in December ranges from -5°C to 5°C during daytime, and it drops between -15°C and -20°C at night. Due to the extreme weather conditions, only a few regions like Dhankar, Lhalung, and Hikkim are accessible.By planning the Spiti Valley tour in December you can attend Dechang Festival.
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How to Reach Spiti In Winter

By Air: To reach Spiti Valley you can board a flight from both the Kullu and Shimla airports. The Kullu airport is closer but the road route may be blocked. So you’re advised to reach the Shimla Airport and then you can reach Spiti Valley by road.
By Train: You won’t be able to complete the journey to Spiti Valley solely by train as the nearest train station is either Shimla or Kullu. In the Kullu Manali area, the roads are not that good so you can catch a train to reach Shimla. From Shimla, you will have to catch a taxi or bus to reach Spiti Valley.
Public Transport: You can get only one or two buses from these checkpoints- Delhi – Chandigarh – Kalka – Shimla – Rohtang Pass – Narkanda – Kaza – Spiti Valley. So you’re advised not to rely solely on public transportation in winter to reach Spiti Valley. You can hire a taxi to reach Spiti Valley from the above-mentioned checkpoints.
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Things to Do on Spiti Valley Winter Trip

2. Trekking: If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure then trekking through Spiti Valley’s snow-covered landscapes can be your go-to choice. The hamlets of Langza, Hikkim, and Komic are ideal for trekking in winter and you get to enjoy panoramic views of frozen rivers and snow-capped mountains.
3. Camping: Camping in Spiti Valley in this weather is the best way to experience the raw beauty and wilderness of the region. You can set up your camp near a frozen river or valley and admire the countless stars at night. Set up a cosy campfire to get some respite from the chilling weather.
4. Spotting Snow Leopard: Embark on an expedition to spot the snow leopard in the mountains of Spiti Valley with the help of experienced trackers. The chance of spotting snow leopards increases in winter as they descend to lower elevations searching for food. You can scan the cliffs and rocky slopes for any signs of movement of these elusive creatures.
5. Indulging in Local festivals: Get an insight into the traditions and rich cultural heritage of the locals by attending the popular winter festivals. You can attend the Ladarcha Fair and see how traders take part in the barter of goods and the Lossar Festival which marks the Buddhist New Year. Enjoy the dance performances of masked monks by attending the Chaam Dance Festival.
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Places to Visit on Spiti Valley Winter Trip

2. Key Monastery: Key Monastery is situated on top of a hill and is Spiti Valley’s largest monastery. In winter the surrounding landscapes of this monastery are blanketed in snow adding to its beauty. You can explore the collection of scriptures, ancient murals, and beautiful paintings and witness the snow-covered landscapes from the top of this monastery.
3. Chandratal Lake: Chandratal Lake in winter transforms into a frozen wonder captivating the visitors with its magical beauty. You can pitch your tent near the lake and appreciate the beautiful scenery and snow-covered landscapes. Witness the reflection of the surrounding mountains on the lake’s icy surface.
4. Chicham Bridge: Perched at a height of 2820 meters, Chicham Bridge is an architectural marvel and Asia’s highest suspension bridge. This bridge connects two beautiful villages Chicham and Kibber and offers fantastic views. You can walk over the bridge and enjoy breathtaking views of the frozen valleys, rivers, and snow-capped mountains.
5. Kibber Village: Kibber is one of the highest villages in the world bordered by limestone rock mountains. It is one of the best places to visit in Spiti Valley in winter as you can spot snow leopards that reside here. You can also trek in and around the village taking in the panoramic views of the frozen lakes and remote valleys.
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Tips for visiting Spiti Valley in Winter

- During winter the mobile network coverage is very poor in Spiti Valley so you’re advised to buy a BSNL sim but you won’t get internet services even with that.
- You are recommended to keep important medical supplies like bandages, ointments, paracetamol tablets, and more with you to stay prepared for minor issues.
- Keep a check on the updates about any kind of road blockages as some areas may face landslides or get blocked in winter.
- The weather is unpredictable in winter in Spiti Valley so pack enough warm clothes so that you can stay warm and well-protected from the extreme weather.
- Hot water and electricity may not be available in the accommodations in Spiti Valley due to extreme winter conditions so you may have to live with bare necessities.
- Pack ample instant food as finding a restaurant may be difficult in winter.
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Things to carry while visiting Spiti in Winter

- Pack fast-drying and easy-to-clean clothes like pants, T-shirts, and hiking pants.
- Carry warm clothing items like woollen coats, sweaters, thermal undergarments, shawls, and scarves.
- Bring along a waterproof and lightweight backpack.
- Keep a medical kit including bandages, pain relievers, personal prescription medications, allergy medications, a first aid kit, and emergency medications.
- Carry ample water and food supplies, like energy drinks, energy bars, dry snacks, tablets that purify water, and portable water purifiers.
- Ensure you have waterproof hiking or winter boots that keep you comfortable.
- Keep liners for sleeping bags, sleeping bags, and inflatable pillows.
- Pack hygiene essentials like Toilet soap, Liquid detergent, Soap, Facewash, Hand Sanitizer, Toothbrush, Towels, Toilet Paper, Toothpaste, Shampoo, Tissues, Wet wipes, etc.
- Bring along trekking Gear like Torchlights, Sleeping tents, Trekking equipment, Multi-tools and knives, lighters or matchsticks, and Navigation devices like satellite devices, GPS, or compass for remote areas.
- You must keep travel and personal identity documents like your driver’s license, Aadhar Card, etc., and permits required for visiting Spiti Valley’s restricted areas.
- Carry cash, debit card, and credit card.