Mr Chhatrapal Verma
Hosted by SkyHike
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All About It
A Winter Spiti Expedition is a journey into one of the most remote, rugged, and breathtaking landscapes in India, where adventure meets the raw beauty of the Himalayas. The Spiti Valley, often referred to as the “Middle Land” between India and Tibet, becomes a snow-covered wonderland during winter, offering a truly unique experience. Here's what you can expect during such an expedition:
Winter transforms Spiti into a breathtaking white desert, with snow-capped mountains, frozen rivers, and serene villages. The challenging roads, often icy and closed in some areas, demand a 4x4 vehicle, while temperatures can plunge below -30°C. The quiet, isolated winter offers a sense of exclusivity, with few tourists around to explore monasteries like Tabo or Langza. Staying in homestays provides an intimate experience of Spitian culture, with hearty meals like Thukpa. Unique opportunities, like ice trekking on the frozen Spiti River or spotting wildlife like the elusive snow leopard, add to the adventure. The region’s spiritual serenity and extreme conditions create an unforgettable journey.
Highlights
- Kinnaur & Kinnaur Gate: Gateway to Spiti, known for scenic beauty and apple orchards.
- Chitkul: The last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibetan border.
- Chitkul Temple: Ancient temple dedicated to the local deity.
- Kalpa: Picturesque village with views of the Kinnaur Kailash range.
- Kalpa Monastery: Spiritual center offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Nako Monastery: A peaceful, ancient monastery in Nako village.
- Gue Village: Famous for its mummy, dating back to the 600s AD.
- Tabo Monastery: Known as the "Ajanta of the Himalayas," rich in Buddhist history.
- Dhankar Monastery: Perched on a cliff, offering awe-inspiring views.
- Key Monastery: Iconic structure and a center of Tibetan culture.
- Chicham Bridge: World’s highest bridge, connecting villages.
- World’s Highest Post Office: Located in Hikkim.
- Hikkim: Home to the world’s highest post office.
- Komik Monastery: One of the highest monasteries in the world.
- Langza: Famous for its Buddha statue and fossil hunting.
- Buddha Statue: A giant statue overlooking Langza village.
- Lingti Waterfall: Serene, untouched beauty in the valley.
Who should attend?
Winter trips to Spiti Valley can be a unique and exhilarating experience. Here are the types of travelers who should consider a winter trip to Spiti:
- Adventure Enthusiasts: Those looking for a unique, challenging, and off-the-beaten-path adventure. Winter Spiti offers snow-covered landscapes, frozen rivers, and remote, quiet villages.
- Snow and Winter Lovers: Ideal for those who enjoy cold weather and snowy environments. Winter in Spiti is known for extreme cold and mesmerizing snow-laden scenery.
- Cultural Explorers: People keen on experiencing the local culture and traditions of the Spitian people. Winter brings a unique, peaceful vibe, with fewer tourists and an opportunity to witness authentic village life.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Perfect for photographers looking to capture dramatic landscapes, frozen lakes, monasteries against snowy backdrops, and starry skies.
- Spiritual Seekers: Winter in Spiti is a calm, peaceful time to visit ancient monasteries like Key Monastery or Tabo Monastery and enjoy a spiritual retreat in an otherworldly setting.
- Offbeat Travelers: Those who prefer less touristy destinations and seek unique experiences will enjoy the charm of Spiti in winter, away from the crowds.
Day 0 - Delhi/Chandigargh to Shimla Overnight Journey (346 km, 7-8 Hours)
Bus (A/C Volvo Bus)
Stay Not Applicable
Meals Not Applicable
- Day 0 applies only if you opt to start your journey from Delhi/Chandigarh.
- Our departure from Delhi takes place between 7 PM and 10 PM, with pick-up points across various locations.
- We travel in a Volvo AC bus equipped with semi-sleeper or chair seats.
- You have the option to upgrade to a sleeper seat for an additional cost.
- There will be a pit stop for dinner at a decent roadside restaurant. (Dinner is on your own).
- Afterward, we’ll head out on an overnight journey to Shimla.
Day 1 - Reach Shimla & Transfer to Sangla/Rakchham via Kinnaur Gate (236km, 7-8 Hours) Overnight stay at Sangla/Rakchham
Kinnaur Valley
Sangla/Rakccham
Private Vehicle (Innova crysta)
Hotel
Dinner (Traditional Meals)
- Begin your journey with a morning departure from Shimla to Sangla/Raksham at 7 AM in a comfortable Tempo Traveller/Sedan.
- Embark on the road from Shimla towards the serene villages of Sangla and Raksham.
- Make a refreshing stop at Narkanda for a quick break, and enjoy a delicious breakfast (at your own).
- Take a moment to soak in the picturesque views of Narkanda, known as the "Apple Capital of India."
- Continue your drive along the scenic route, passing through Narkanda and Rampur on the Indo-Tibetan Highway, offering stunning landscapes at every turn.
- As you approach Kinnaur Valley, pass through the Kinnaur Gate, A rock tunnel famously known as the "Gateway of Kinnaur."
- Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayan landscape as you traverse through the rugged terrains and verdant valleys.
- The 236 km journey will take approximately 7-8 hours, winding through the majestic mountains.
- Arrive at your destination in Sangla or Raksham by evening, and check in to your hotel for a relaxing stay.
- As the day winds down, enjoy a cozy bonfire with your group, sharing lively conversations and stories around the warm glow of the fire.
- After a long day of travel, indulge in a hearty dinner and unwind, ready to rest for the night.
Shimla
Kinnaur Gate
Rakccham
Day 2 - Sangla/Rakccham to Chitkul Excursion and Journey to Kalpa (82 km, 2-3 Hrs) Overnight stay at Kalpa
Chitkul Temple
Kalpa
Kalpa Monastery
Private Vehicle (Innova crysta)
Hotel
Breakfast, Dinner (Traditional Meals)
- Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on your scenic journey to Chitkul.
- Depart from Sangla or Raksham and drive towards Chitkul, enjoying the picturesque views along the Baspa River.
- Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes and lush greenery characteristic of the Kinnaur Valley.
- The distance from Sangla or Raksham to Chitkul is approximately 15-30 km, and the journey takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Arrive in Chitkul, the last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibetan border.
- Explore the Chitkul Temple, dedicated to the local deity, and wander through the charming village.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, soaking in the stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains.
- Capture the serene beauty of Chitkul, often referred to as the “Last Village of India.”
- If time permits, savor some local Himachali cuisine at a cozy eatery or dhaba.
- In the afternoon, continue your journey from Chitkul to Kalpa.
- The distance between Chitkul and Kalpa is approximately 68 km, with an estimated travel time of 2-3 hours.
- En route, visit the peaceful Kalpa Monastery and immerse yourself in its spiritual ambiance.
- Take a stroll through the village of Kalpa, enjoying the magnificent views of the Kinnaur Kailash peak, which are particularly enchanting at sunset.
- If time and road conditions allow, we will explore the Narayan Temple in Roghi Village, located about 6 km from Kalpa.
- The Narayan Temple, dedicated to Lord Narayan, is an important spiritual site for locals, known for its traditional architecture and tranquil atmosphere.
- Conclude your day by relaxing in Kalpa, resting after a day filled with exploration and natural beauty.
Chitkul
Chitkul in Snow
Kalpa
Kalpa Sucide point
Day 3 - Journey from Kalpa to Tabo (160 km, 3-4 Hrs) Overnight stay at Tabo
Nako Monastery
Gue Village
Tabo Monastery
Private Vehicle (Innova crysta)
Hotel
Breakfast, Dinner (Traditional Meals)
- Begin your day with the serene beauty of a morning sunrise, followed by a delicious breakfast at your hotel before setting off on your journey to Tabo.
- Drive through the mesmerizing landscapes of the Himalayas, witnessing the stunning shift from lush green valleys to the rugged terrain of Spiti Valley.
- If time and weather allow, make a stop at Nako Lake & Nako Monastery. Take a peaceful stroll around the lake, immersing yourself in its serene beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
- Capture breathtaking photographs of Tabo Lake, with its stunning backdrop of towering mountains.
- Explore the Nako Monastery, nestled near the lake. This ancient site is known for its captivating murals and historical artifacts.
- Take a moment for quiet reflection or meditation at the Nako Monastery, enveloped in its peaceful surroundings.
- Another optional stop If time and weather allow, visit the Gue Monastery in Gue Village. The 500-year-old mummy of Sangha Tenzin, a Buddhist monk who passed away in the 1500s, is preserved here.
- After visiting Nako and possibly Gue, continue your journey towards Tabo.
- Today’s drive covers approximately 180 km and takes around 5-6 hours, offering you stunning views along the way.
- Arrive in Tabo by late afternoon or early evening and check in to your hotel.
- After settling in, visit the renowned Tabo Monastery, often referred to as the “Ajanta of the Himalayas” for its ancient murals and statues.
- Spend some time exploring the monastery complex, absorbing its rich history and spiritual ambiance.
- Enjoy a delectable dinner either at your hotel or at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of local cuisine.
- End your day with a relaxing reflection on the day’s adventures, as you wind down for a peaceful night.
Nako Lake
Nako Monastery
Gue 500yrs mummy
Tabo
Day 4 - Tabo to Kaza excursion (48 km, 2-Hrs) Overnight stay at kaza
Key Monastery
Chicham Bridge
Private Vehicle (Innova crysta)
Homestay
Breakfast, Dinner (Traditional Meals)
- Begin your day early with a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Tabo.
- After breakfast, we will explore the historic Tabo Cave.
- Next, visit the Dhankar Monastery, a breathtaking structure perched on a cliff at an elevation of 3,894 meters. Dating back to the 12th century, this is one of the oldest monasteries in the Spiti Valley.
- Dhankar Monastery is renowned for its remarkable architecture and rich cultural heritage.
- Explore the monastery’s main prayer hall, which features exquisite murals and ancient Buddhist artifacts.
- From the monastery’s elevated position, enjoy panoramic views of the Spiti Valley and the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers.
- After visiting Dhankar Monastery, we will head towards Key Monastery, also known as Ki Monastery. At an altitude of 4,166 meters, it is the largest and most famous monastery in the Spiti Valley.
- Key Monastery is a significant center for Buddhist learning, housing a vast collection of ancient scriptures and artifacts.
- If we arrive early enough, you can attend the morning prayers to soak in the monastery’s serene spiritual atmosphere.
- Next, we will visit the Chicham Bridge, one of Asia’s highest suspension bridges, standing at 13,500 feet. This bridge connects the villages of Chicham and Kibber.
- Take a walk across the bridge and immerse yourself in the stunning views of the deep valley and surrounding landscape. Don’t forget to capture breathtaking photos of the scenic beauty.
- After the visit, we will proceed to Kaza for an overnight stay.
- The total journey will cover more than 100 km and take approximately 4-5 hours.
- Arrive in Kaza by early evening, where you can unwind and freshen up at your hotel or guesthouse.
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at your accommodation or explore the local Himachali cuisine in Kaza.
Dhankar Monastery
Key Monastery
Chicham Bridge
Kaza
Day 5 - Kaza Sightseeing Day (77 km, 5-6 Hrs) Overnight stay at kaza
Hikkim
Komik Monastery
Langza
Buddha Statue
Private Vehicle (Innova Crysta)
Homestay
Breakfast, Dinner (Traditional Meals)
- Start your day early with a refreshing breakfast as we embark on our exciting Kaza exploration day.
- Our first stop will be Hikkim, where we’ll visit the World’s Highest Post Office. Here, you can send postcards to loved ones from this iconic location, the highest post office in the world.
- After sending your postcards, we’ll head to Komik to explore the serene Komik Monastery. The monastery’s peaceful atmosphere, particularly in the winter, combined with its stunning architectural backdrop of snow-capped mountains, makes it a perfect spot for capturing breathtaking photographs.
- If time permits, interact with the local monks or villagers, gaining insights into their winter lifestyle and cultural traditions.
- Next, we’ll drive to Langza.
- In Langza, we’ll visit the majestic Buddha Statue, which stands tall amidst the snow, offering stunning views of the surrounding valley. The peaceful ambiance here is ideal for reflection and photography.
- Langza is also renowned for its fossil-rich terrain. While winter may make exploration a bit challenging, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the area’s fascinating geological history.
- Capture the breathtaking winter landscapes—snow-covered hills and the charming, remote village, which adds to the allure of this picturesque destination.
- After exploring these enchanting spots, we’ll return to Kaza for an overnight stay.
- In total, we’ll cover approximately 80 km with a 3-4 hour drive.
- End the day with a warm dinner at your hotel or homestay, or enjoy a local eatery serving traditional dishes like soothing soups and hearty stews, perfect to warm you up after a day of exploration.
Summit
Worlds Highest Post Office
Worlds Highest Post Office
Langza
Day 6 - Kaza to Kalpa Via Lingti Waterfall (213 km, 8-9 Hrs) Overnight stay at Kalpa
Reckong Peo
Private Vehicle (Innova crysta)
Hotel
Breakfast, Dinner (Traditional Meals)
- Start your day with a delicious local breakfast at your homestay or hotel before embarking on your journey to Kalpa.
- En route, we’ll stop by the beautiful Lingti Waterfall, which may be partially frozen in winter, creating a magical scene of shimmering icicles and tranquility. It’s the perfect spot for photography and soaking in nature’s beauty.
- After exploring Lingti Waterfall, we’ll continue our drive towards Kalpa.
- We’ll take a brief break at Reckong Peo, and if time allows, you can visit the local market and enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Kinnaur Kailash.
- The total distance covered will be approximately 216 km, with an estimated driving time of 6-7 hours.
- After a full day of exploration, unwind and relax in the peaceful surroundings. Enjoy a hearty dinner at your hotel, featuring traditional Kinnauri cuisine such as Tibetan dishes or the local staple of rice and lentils.
Lingti Waterfall
Kalpa Monastery
Day 7 - Kalpa to Shimla Drive & Overnight journey in Bus towards Delhi/Chandigarh (231 km, 7-8 Hrs)
Private Vehicle (Innova crysta (Kalpa to Shimla))
Stay Not Applicable
Breakfast (Traditional Meals)
- After completing the entire journey, depart from Kalpa to Shimla.
- The distance is approximately 231 km, with a travel time of 7-8 hours.
- As you drive from Kalpa to Shimla, you’ll pass through stunning mountain vistas, terraced fields, and quaint villages. The road descends into the Sutlej Valley before winding upwards towards Shimla.
- You are expected to arrive in Shimla between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, depending on traffic, road conditions, and any stops along the way.
- Once in Shimla, feel free to explore the town at your own pace. If your Volvo bus to Delhi or Chandigarh departs in the evening, you’ll have a few hours to discover the sights of Shimla.
- The Volvo buses usually depart from Shimla in the evening, around 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
- The bus ride from Shimla to Delhi takes approximately 10-12 hours, while to Chandigarh, it takes around 8-10 hours. Expect to arrive by early morning the next day.
Day 8 - Reach Delhi by morning
Bus (A/C Volvo Bus)
Stay Not Applicable
Meals Not Applicable
- Reach Delhi by morning.
- Bring home a lifetime of memories.
Meet your host
SkyHike
- Verified Host
- Logout's Trusted
- Traveler's Choice
SkyHike is proud to be India's pioneering travel community, offering unparalleled experiences for adventure enthusiasts and travel lovers alike. Certified by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and the Ministry of Tourism, Uttarakhand Government, SkyHike stands as a beacon of trust and excellence in the travel industry. As a direct operational entity, SkyHike is dedicated to curating the best travel experiences for our clients. From hand-picking the most exquisite stay options to selecting the finest culinary delights, every aspect of your journey is meticulously planned to ensure utmost satisfaction. Our mission is to share incredible lessons and experiences and create unforgettable memories for each traveler.
See SkyHike's other listingsInclusions
Volvo bus transfers from Delhi/Chandigarh to Shimla and back with Semi-sleeper seats.
Entire sightseeing and local travel by Tempo Traveler.
6 nights of accommodation as follows: (1N in Chitkul, 2N in Kalpa, 1N in Tabo, 2N in Kaza)
All inner-line permits are required for the trip.
- All meals as per the itinerary for the rest of the trip.
Any kind of Driver Expenses
A team captain will accompany the group throughout the trip for assistance and coordination.
Oxygen Cylinder & Medical Kit: An oxygen cylinder & Medical Kit will be available 24x7 in the vehicle in case of emergency.
Exclusions
GST
Food and Beverages
Personal Expenses
Unforeseen Costs
Any services or items not explicitly listed in the inclusions section are not part of the package.
HOW TO REACH
Delhi is well-connected by all modes of transportation, including flights, trains, and buses. Here's how you can reach Delhi from anywhere in India:
By Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport, DEL
Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport is one of the busiest airports in India and is well-connected to major cities across the country. You can take a direct flight to Delhi from almost any major city in India. Once you arrive, you can hire a taxi, use ride-sharing services, or take the metro to reach your destination in Delhi.
By Train: New Delhi Railway Station, NDLS
New Delhi Railway Station is a major hub in India's railway network. Trains from all parts of the country, including express and superfast trains, connect to this station. Traveling by train to Delhi is convenient and cost-effective. Other major railway stations in Delhi include Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI) and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station (NZM).
By Bus: Inter-State Bus Terminals (ISBTs)
Delhi has several major bus terminals, including Kashmere Gate ISBT, Anand Vihar ISBT, and Sarai Kale Khan ISBT. These bus terminals are well-connected to cities and towns across India. You can choose from government-run buses or private bus operators based on your preference for amenities and budget.
Policy and more
- 👉 If cancellation is made 30 days or more before the Date of Travel, 25% of the total Booking Cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
- 👉 If cancellation is made between 29 days to 16 days before the date of travel, 50% of the total Booking Cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
- 👉 If cancellation is made between 7 days to 15 days before the date of travel, 80% of the total Booking Cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
- 👉 If cancellation is made within 7 days before the date of travel, the total booking cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
- 👉 If payment is not made as per the schedule provided in the first booking confirmation Email, Sky Hike reserves the right to cancel the booking after attempting to get in touch with you. Refunds will be issued as per the package cancellation policy.
- 👉 Transfer your Trek/Trip (any Trek/Trip, within 2 months of your Date of Travel) to your friend before 15 days of your Date of Travel.
- 👉 You can only Transfer your Trip or Trek to those friends or People who haven’t booked any trip with us in a given time period.
- 👉 70% cash voucher in the form of 'HikeCoin' for any other Trip/Trek for one year, If we are informed before 20 days of the date of travel. (1 Rupees = 10 HikeCoin)
- 👉 80% cash voucher in the form of 'HikeCoin' for the same Trip/Trek for one year. If we are informed 20 days before the date of travel, (1 Rupee = 10 HikeCoin)
- 👉 The applicable refund amount will be processed within 10 business days.
Terms and Conditions
- 👉 While entering passenger names during the booking process, Do ensure that they exactly match the names on the travel documents (e.g. Aadhar Crad/PAN card/ Passport/Voter ID card/Any Identity Card) that you will be carrying for the Trip/Trek.
- 👉 The passenger names in the booking form should be exactly as per Adhar Card. Sky Hike will not bear any liability for the name change fee if incorrect names and ages have been added at the time of booking.
- 👉 In case your package needs to be canceled due to any natural calamity, weather conditions, etc. SkyHike reserves the right to deny a refund request in the event of a disaster, depending on the nature of the disaster and its impact on the organization.
- 👉 Sky Hike reserves the right to modify the itinerary at any point, due to reasons including but not limited to Force Majeure events, strikes, fairs, festivals, weather conditions, traffic problems, cancellation rescheduling, closure of /entry restrictions at a place of visit, etc. While we will do our best to make suitable alternate arrangements, we will not be held liable for any refunds/compensation claims arising out of this.
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