Spiti Valley – The White Paradise
Adorned by snow capped mountains and picturesque sceneries, Spiti Valley is a cold desert valley set high in North eastern Himalayas. The term Spiti literally means ‘the middle land’ due its strategic situation between India and Tibet. This place is perfect to enjoy the natural beauty untouched by human existence and indulge in the quietitude of the region.
According to Wikipedia, Local population follow Vajrayana Buddhism similar to that found in the nearby Tibet and Ladakh regions. The valley and surrounding region is one of the least populated regions in India and is the gateway to the northernmost reaches of the nation. Along the northern route from Manali, Himachal Pradesh or Keylong via the Rohtang Pass or Kunzum Pass respectively, the valley lies in the North Eastern section of the Indian state Himachal Pradesh, and forms part of the Lahaul and Spiti district. The sub-divisional headquarters (capital) is Kaza, Himachal Pradesh[2] which is situated along the Spiti River at an elevation of about 12,500 feet (3,800 m) above mean sea level.”
Being getaway to one of the highest reaches of the country, a journey to Spiti is an adventurous ride. The ever changing weather and the narrow mountain roads make it difficult to reach to the region but once reached the place is definitely worth the pain. Just like Leh, adrenaline junkies often attempt a bike ride to Spiti Valley as well giving them their dose of adrenaline rush. Rightly called an adventure lover’s paradise, there are several trekking trails as well, all of which start from Kaza. These treks take you to peaks from where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the mighty Himalayas. A trek along the Spiti River from Dhankar Monastry
to to Dhankar Lake will serve you with picture postcard landscapes. The mountain ropeway from Kibber to ChIchum is a fun filled ride giving bird’s eye view of the villages below and the fascinating mountain peaks. A majority of the population of this valley follows Vajrayana Buddhism and thus there are several pretty monasteries that decorate the region. The Key monastery is one of the biggest and the oldest of all monasteries in the region. Housing the idol of Buddha in ‘dhyan’ position, this monastery also has a collection of ancient murals and books which makes it one of the important tourist attractions. Other important monasteries of the region include Shashur Monastery, Gandhola Monastery, Tabo Monastery and Kungri Monastery. The crescent shaped Chandratalai Lake, the photogenic Suraj Tal Lake and high Kunzum Pass which connects Kullu and Lahaul Valley from Spiti Valley are other notable places to be visited in the Spiti Valley. The local markets offering local ornaments, ceramic utensils, wool and pashmina cloth items and more never fail to attract the tourists. The Tibetan shops are a good option to buy souvenirs which will always remind you of this adventurous escapade. The most advantageous fact about the region is that the footfall of tourist is low and the one gets enough space and time to introspect amidst the serene landscape and relish the real and simple pleasures of life. For the best deals on tour packages in India, click here.