This adventure will take you from the scorching heat of the North India plains to the interior regions of the Mighty Himalayan Deserts of Spiti Valley and Ladakh. We will pass through the highest motor able Passes of the world with snow walls, picturesque locations of the villages of Spiti Valley to scattered remote areas of the Ladakh villages. Encounter incredible, gentle, easy to interact, outgoing, helpful, hard-working, God-fearing, people of these regions. Savor legendary hospitality of the natives of these regions.
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Departure from New Delhi Railway Station and the Trip Calls off at Indira Gandhi International Airport of New Delhi
6.30 AM.
On this day, we will assemble at Shalimar Bagh Metro Station and board our vehicle for travel to Shimla/Theog. On the way, at a convenient place, we will halt for breakfast and lunch. We will reach Shimla/Theog in the evening.
After breakfast, we will proceed for Sangla/Chitkul. The route will pass through beautiful scenic Deodar Forests, snow-capped peaks of the mountains, and the sun playing hide and seek with the ever-present clouds. We will reach Sangla in the evening, overnight stay will be in Sangla.
On this day after breakfast we will visit Chitkul, the last village of Indian Territory and move to Kalpa.
Chitkul: It is nestled on the banks of Baspa River in surreal surroundings along with great views of Kinner Kailash ranges. Chirping of birds and fresh breeze will greet you. It boasts of beautiful cafes and ancient temple. It is at the altitude of 11,330 feet.
Kalpa: Kalpa is a town in Kinnaur District with an altitude of 9721 feet. In the morning, as the sun rises, it is quite an experience to watch changing colors of snow-covered Holy Kinner Kailash. The peaks of Kinner Kailash are red in the morning, greenish in the afternoon, and orange in the evening. This spectacle is visible from every nook and corner of this beautiful settlement. It changes color from white to pink in the morning and then to orange in the evenings.
Life at this hamlet is slow and relaxing, with followers of Hinduism and Buddhism residing in perfect Harmony. It is much greener than Spiti as one can see apple orchards, Pine nuts trees, and plum trees in abundance. Still, in winter, it also engulfs itself in the cloak of pure white snow. Looking at white snow-covered peaks is an experience of total amazement at Kalpa. Overnight stay will be in Kalpa.
In the morning after breakfast, we will be moving towards Tabo, and on the way, we will visit Nako and Gue Monastries.
Gue Monastery: People generally do not grant proper attention to this tranquil Monastery. Mummy is preserved naturally in this Monastery. When we think about mummies, only the Egyptian mummies come to our minds. Here, the mummy is preserved without using any chemicals and is more than 500 years old. A young Lama died due to the avalanche. Due to snow, the body didn’t get affected, and the process of mummification took place naturally.
Villagers still believe that the mummy brings prosperity to the village and guards the village against climatic vagaries.
Nako: Nako is a small scenic village located near the Indo-China Border. The Nako Lake, 11,500ft above sea level, surrounded by a group of trees in the backdrop of prayer flags fluttering on rooftops of the houses, provides an exciting spectacle.
Tabo: Tabo is home to Tabo Monastery that is a thousand years old. It is the second-largest Monastery in this region and is a Tibetan religious center for the natives. It is a museum with rare pages of history. We’ll be visiting this Monastery shortly after the arrival and take a quick stroll around. We’ll be calling it a day by staying overnight at Tabo.
After breakfast, we will be moving to Mudh Village, and on the way, we will visit Dhankar Monastery.
Dhankar Monastery: A village and a Buddhist temple, Dhankar Gompa/Monastery is situated 12774ft in Spiti Valley above Dhankar Village. It’s a fort-like structure on a cliff giving the most spectacular view of the rivers Spiti. The magnificent location and topography of this Gompa can have an everlasting impression on anyone.
Pin Valley: We will be moving further 50km away to Pin Valley. Located in the cold desert habitat of Spiti Valley, within its unexplored slopes and colorful mountains is the famous Pin National Park. There lies much rare wildlife like Snow Leopard and Siberian Ibex. The landscape changes from Barren Rocky Mountains to lush green fields of the natives with enchanting views all around. Pin valley wraps itself with many varieties of flowers in the background of Turquoise blue waters of the Pin River. The number of streams coming down from the colorful mountains is a sight to never-ending delight.
Mudh: 14,500ft in Pin Valley, where the Pin River flows in the form of mesmerizing blue ribbons, lies a small village with minimal population called Mudh. It’s known for its arid immersing landscape. We will undertake a walking tour of this peaceful hamlet. One can chit-chat with the natives to learn about their way of life in this surreal, picturesque hamlet. Overnight stay will be in Mudh.
On this day, after breakfast, we will be moving towards Kaza, and on the way, we will visit Langaza, Hikkim, and Komic. These hamlets are the highest villages in Asia and provide a panoramic perspective to the Spiti Valley.
Langaza: This 15km drive to Langaza is one of the most scenic drives ever you have undertaken. We’ll be experiencing some of the most beautiful scenes, such as snow-covered mountains in the backdrop of magnificent Buddha statue and a sprawling swath of barren land. It is famous for the marine fossils found here in abundance. We will stop at this place for some time to appreciate the rustic beauty of this place. After that, we will continue our adventure.
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Hikkim: Just a half an hour drive, Hikkim is the nearest village connected to the road. The simplicity and quietness of this village stand out. People here use stones and wood to build houses and structures themselves, which is quite impressive. It also has the world’s highest post office to send greetings to one’s loved ones.
Komik Village: Being the highest village globally, Komik, at an altitude of 15,500ft above sea level, is no ordinary village but has a lot more to offer. Just 4 km away is the Komik Monastery. One can visit and talk to the monks and learn regarding their way of life and its challenges in sub-zero temperatures at Komik monastery.
Also, there is an excellent Volleyball Court outside this Monastery where the Lamas play volley ball. One does have a chance to participate in volley ball match.
Overnight stay will be in Kaza.
On this day, we will be visiting some of the highest villages of Spiti Valley. After that night stay will be in Kaza.
Key Monastery: Just fourteen km away is Key Monastery. It is the largest Monastery of Spiti Valley. It does not look like a planned structure. However, still, it is very well integrated into its surrounding mighty, rustic landscape. It is a treat to even an ardent traveler.
It is the seat of learning of Buddhist studies and withstood the onslaught of Mongolian invaders, frequent landslides, and vagaries of climatic conditions with an altitude of 4166 meters.
It has three floors with walls covered with beautiful mural paintings and one story for monks’ residences. It’s famous for the training given to Lamas in Buddhist literature, and the wind chime orchestra is a unique ensemble. After reaching, we will observe and appreciate beautiful Murals, ancient manuscripts, and wind instruments forming the musical orchestra. We’ll then move on to the next spot called Kibber Village.
Kibber Village: A narrow valley on the summit of limestone rock. The Kibber Village is a small village with a small population. Still, the location and surroundings are out of the world, high in Spiti Valley. It is widely famous for its monastery and wildlife sanctuary. After reaching there, we’ll be having a small trek around this cold desert village and visiting Chicham Bridge, one of the world’s highest bridges.
Kaza: Kaza is the sub-divisional headquarters in the Spiti Valley. Kaza is located 11989 ft above sea level and is the highest and largest commercial center of Spiti Valley and boasts of a very ancient monastery and great Café’s. Overnight stay will be in Kaza.
On this day, we will be moving from Kaza to Chandra Taal, the moon-shaped lake passing through Kunzum Pass.
Kunzum Pass: It connects Spiti Valley to Lahaul Valley and is at the height of 15000 feet. It provides 360 degrees of panoramic views of the mighty mountains with snow-covered peaks and waterfalls. There is a temple at the top dedicated to the local deity Kunzum Mata. All the vehicles stop here to pray for their safe onwards journey.
Chandra Taal: The turquoise blue, crystal clear water, multicolor surrounding snow-capped mountains, and carpet of green meadow dotted with numerous varieties of flowers surrounding the parameter of this moon-shaped lake is an incredible lifetime experience. The color of the water of this lake changes at different times of the day, presenting a wholesome adventure. It is at the height of 14,100 feet.
The sunset with the changing colors of snow-capped peaks is an immersing adventure.
Apart from the mesmerizing beauty of the lake, the journey from Kaza to Chandra Taal itself is the most thrilling and exciting adventure full of surreal scenic beauty.
Overnight stay will be in camps.
On this day, we will move from Chandra Taal to Keylong/Jispa early in the morning. The water level rises due to the rising sun, melting snow, creating difficulty to pass the water channels coming down from the mountains.
Jispa: This place is at the altitude of 3200 meters on the way to Ladakh. People going to Ladakh make night stay at this place for their onwards journey on the bank of Bhaga River, originating from Bara Lacha Pass. The sound of the flow of the river is quite soothing in the silence of the wilderness. We will visit the village in the morning to see women folks fetching water and children going to school. One can chit-chat with them to know more about their daily chores, hardships, and culture.
Overnight stay will be in Jispa.
On this day, we will move from Jispa to Sarchu, which is also a halting place on the way to Leh. The splendor of barren and remoteness of this adventurous drive is an epic of excitement, awe-inspiring, and full of unmatched landscapes.
We will stop at Suraj Taal (Lake) for a brief session of photography. The road is a continuous ascent with several hairpin bends up to Bara Lacha Pass. Admire the 360 degrees fabulous views from Bara Lacha Pass at the height of 4892 meters. Continue the descent to Sarchu, our night halt.
Suraj Taal: lake of the Sun God is the third highest lake in India and is the source of Bhaga River at the height of 4800 meters, just below Bara Lacha Pass. The lake with its crystal clear greenish water, breath takings surrounding views with the silence of wilderness is just awe-inspiring with authenticity. It qualifies for a photoshoot session for happy memories.
Bara Lacha Pass: The pass act as a boundary between Lahaul district in Himanchal and Leh District of Ladakh. Ice walls, ice tunnels with a serpentine black strip of road, where ever one can look out will find snow everywhere. The misty landscape, rustic surroundings, unspoiled, authentic environment, and photogenic surroundings are some of the highlights of this adventurous location.
Due to its high altitude, one should be very careful about AMS and drink a lot of water to remain hydrated throughout this adventure. Overnight stay will be in camps.
Sarchu: At the altitude of 4400 meters, this will probably be the highest place on earth where one had spent the night with a cold breeze, perfect for star gazing at the camping site. In some way, it is similar to Ladakh and around 240 km from Leh, the capital of Ladakh.
Generally, travelers rushed to Leh from Jispa. Still, at Adventure Delight, we strive that our guests appreciate the Icey winds, changing surreal landscape, high mountain passes, twisting road with numerous hairpin bends, crystal clear lakes at their own speed. All these experiences are not possible if we drive straight to Leh from Jispa. Moreover, the sunrise in the morning is spectacular from the Sarchu campsite.
On this day, we will be crossing high mountain Passes like Nakee La 15,547 feet, Lachang La (16,600 Feet), and Baralacha La (17,469 feet). The journey is full of excitement and amazement, with rugged mountains, snow-clad passes, and scenic topography. We will make a brief halt at all the passes on the way for photographic sessions of your memorable adventurous journey. At Tanglangla, due to scarcity of oxygen causing breathlessness, we will have a brief halt. The spectacular rock formations will greet you with their majestic splendor on the descent from Tanglang La towards Leh. It will be a long journey, and we will be reaching Leh in the evening. Overnight stay will be in Leh.
Tanglang La: This is the second-highest motorable pass globally, with piercing chilly winds, resulting in freezing temperature but beautiful sights all around. Snow walls, snow tunnels, and all-white wherever one can see. one must carry sufficient warm clothes to withstand cold winds in minus degree temperatures. It is also advisable to have camphor to avoid breathlessness.
The Capital of Ladakh has many gompas. This day adventurers will be free to visit sites around Leh like Shey Palace, Patthat Saheb Gurudwara, and stroll in the primary Market or visit on foot old Leh City at their own pace. At the same time, Adventure Delight staff will get processed all the permits and permissions required to visit incredible destinations of Ladakh.
After breakfast, we will proceed for Nubra valley crossing the highest motorable pass of the world, Khardung La (18380 feet). Halt at North Pullu, the base camp for Siachin Glacier for breathtaking landscape and photographic sessions. Visit Hundar, famous for the Bactrian camels with a double hump. Enjoy the ride at an extra cost. Visit Diskit Monastery and be amazed at its location. Then proceed to the camping site for an overnight stay.
Nubra Valley: It was part of the ancient silk trade route between India and China. The flat plateau, dunes, gigantic mountains backdrop of blue sky in the company of greenish waters of Shyok river the unique setting of this place is difficult to describe in words. Nubra Valley’s rugged mountains, stark slopes, and Shyok Rivers flowing beside is heavenly bliss for all adventurers and is a paradise for photographers.
Diskit Monastery or Gompa: It is a hilltop monastery facing Shyok River towards Pakistan. It has a Giant Buddha statue called Maitrye Buddha. Tibetan Buddhists believe in reincarnation. Hence this statue is of Future Buddha or Maitreya Buddha. The reason for its creation was to promote world peace and the protection of Nubra Valley.
The statue of Buddha is quite colorful and is a treat to the eyes and soul. Still, the sights from the top offer stunning views of mighty mountains, deep valleys, and especially the living rooms of the monks behind the statue cut out like steps from the mountain.
On this day we will move to Pangong –Tso. The high altitude lake at 4350 meters is a saline lake that completely freezes in winters. It is 134 meters long, and sixty percent of the same lies in Tibet. The waters of Pangong Tso do not flow into an outer water body like a river or ocean. It is a self-contained lake with crystal clear water.
It is famous for its changing colors from blue, green, and red at different times. The sunrise and sunset are mesmerizing. In the morning, the color of the snow-capped mountains changes from white to blood red. In the evenings, the water of the lake sparkles like pearls and is a sight to behold.
The reflection of the brownish mountains with white snow on the top reflects in the blue waters of the lake. It is out of a world experience. Overnight stay will be at Pangong Tso.
On this day, after breakfast and witnessing one of nature’s wonders, the sunrise, we will move for Leh. On the way, we will visit Hemis Monastery. Overnight stay will be in Leh.
Chang La Pass:It is a high-altitude pass that we have to cross to reach Leh. It is 5360 meters high. It is snow-covered most of the time of the year.
One should not stay at the top for more than 20 minutes due to a lack of oxygen and can experience breathlessness. We will halt at this place just for a moment to take pics for our memory and move to our next destination.
Hemis Monastery: It is on the hilltop at the Gateway town of Hemis Wild Life Sanctuary. It dominates the surrounding area. The priest of Nalanda Monastery in Bihar escaped the plundering army of the Turkish to this serene location in ancient times. It is the wealthiest monastery with a copper statue of Lord Buddha and Guru Rinpoche (The reincarnate of Lord Buddha) and stupas made up of gold and silver. It is a very well-maintained monastery that houses a museum. One can have a sight of rare Tankas with artifacts and ancient manuscripts. The top portions are the residence for the Buddhist Nuns, Chomaling, which offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding valley.
It is without any doubt a fantastic combination of spiritual experience and an exciting natural landscape, which leaves an unforgettable mark on every visitor.
On this day, we will start for the Kargil. On the way, we will briefly halt at Patthar Saheb, Magnetic Hill, Confluence of River Zanskar, and Indus. Lamayuru (The Moon Land) is also on the way to Kargil. Overnight stay will be in Kargil.
Patthar Saheb Gurudwara: It is a serene place and house of worship of Khalsa Panth proudly maintained by the Indian army with legendry hospitality. Irrespective of caste, creed, or religion, everyone gets Langar and Prasad.
Magnetic Hill: The surroundings of this place create an optical illusion as if the car is moving up towards the hill. It has got a beautiful landscape.
Lamayuru (The Moon Land): In the middle of Leh and Kargil trans Himalayan road lies this wonder of nature. It has got unique topography like the surface of the Moon, hence the name Moon Land. It feels like you are on a different planet. Just above the road is an ancient Monastery and is famous for its unique frescoes. From the top of the monastery, one can have a look at the entire unique landscape.
We will move to Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir, through Zozila Pass and Sonmarg. The barren brown mountain will give way to snow-covered mountains at Zozila Pass and ultimately to beautiful green meadows of Sonmarg of this photogenic Srinagar-Leh highway. We will be arriving in the evening at Srinagar. Overnight stay will be in Srinagar.
Zozila Pass: It is purely incredible, out of this world, daring, exhilarating, magnificent, and exceptionally photogenic at the altitude of 3528 meters.
Sonmarg: It is a historical trade outpost on the ancient Silk Route between India and China. The complete contrast between Ladakh and Kashmir is quite striking. Barren high mountains of High Altitude desert Ladakh giving way to green-carpeted meadows, tall pine trees, aqua blue crystal clear water, flocks of sheep grazing on the green fields of Kashmir. In the background of snow-capped mountains, a symphony of flowing Indus River adds to the charm of this exciting and fantastic destination which generates a surreal feeling.
The first half will be free to visit Shalimar, Nishat Gardens, etc., in Srinagar, and in the afternoon, we will catch a flight to Delhi. Tour concludes. If informed in advance, we at Adventure Delight will be more than happy to make your further travel arrangements.
Available dates for booking: 2022-06-17, 2022-10-01
Ans. Spiti Valley is a Trans Himalayan desert situated in the North-Eastern part of Himachal Pradesh in India. The average altitude of Spiti Valley is 3500 meters. Spiti means ‘Middle Land.’ It is positioned between Tibet and India.
Ans. The best time to visit Spiti Valley in India is May to October. It presents unique landscapes at different months of the year. The month of May is for the snow lovers when the gigantic mountains are all draped in white snow. June to September is for the people who would appreciate greenery and mountains devoid of white snow. The month of October is for the people who would like to witness the dark brown spectacle of the mountains with white snow tops in the backdrop of a clear blue sky. There is a minimal amount of rainfall in Spiti Valley. Due to this fact, the monsoon period of July to September is also perfect for visiting Spiti Valley. The ardent wildlife enthusiasts can visit Spiti Valley in winters when wild animals like snow leopards come down from the high mountains in search of food. But in winters, some time temperature can drop to minus forty degrees.
Ans: Yes. It is pretty safe to visit Spiti Valley for solo lady travelers. The people are helpful, hospitable, and easy to talk to in the Himalayas.
Ans. In Spiti Valley, ATM facility is scarce. It is available only in Kaza, the headquarter of Spiti Valley. One shall carry sufficient cash for this adventure.
Ans. Yes, there is no prohibition in Spiti Valley.
Ans. Light woolens in the summer and monsoon months and heavy woolens in the winter months to be carried to Spiti Valley and Ladakh trip.
Ans. There are only a few basic hotels restricted to Kaza, but the availability of homestays is widespread. While staying at homestays, one has an excellent chance to interact with the local population and understand their culture, way of life, and beliefs.
Ans. There are two routes from Delhi to visit Spiti Valley. One is Delhi-Shimla-Recong Peo- Spiti Valley, and the other is Delhi –Manali- Spiti Valley. The best route is visiting via Shimla as the altitude gain is gradual. Chances of AMS are minimized unlike through Manali as one gain altitude from 6000 feet in Manali to 10000 feet in Spiti Valley increasing the chances of AMS.
Ans. Yes. Spiti Valley presents numerous attractions in the form of world-famous monasteries, i.e., Tabo, Key, Komic. High altitude crystal clear lakes like Chandra Taal, which changes color at different times, wildlife at Pin Valley and Kibber with the highest bridge in the world. It also offers out-of-the-world picturesque trekking routes, snow clad high mountain passes, and the best part is the world-famous hospitality of the local population. One is delighted to visit the unique topography of the colorful mountains. It is also a paradise for bird watchers. It presents something to everyone. All these attractions qualify this paradise of nature must-visit for an everlasting lifetime experience.
Ans. No, not at all. Spiti valley is a crime-free region, and facilities for tourists are augmented.
Ans. The Shimla-Spiti route was part of the Hindustan Tibet Road, which used to connect India with Tibet. It was known as one of the most dangerous roads in the world. Still, the situation is changing with the building of dams and the Atal Tunnel beneath Rohtang Pass. The roads are pretty upgraded. Still, four wheels SUV is recommended due to the steep gradients of the roads in Spiti Valley.
Ans. It is the union territory in India bordering Tibet, Himachal Pradesh, and Kashmir.
Ans. There are regular flights to Leh from Delhi. By road, one can reach Ladakh via Manali-Leh (The capital town of Ladakh) and the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh route. The second route is advisable by road as one gains altitude gradually, reducing the chances of AMS.
Ans. Nubra Valley is in the Union Territory of Ladakh in India. It is 150 km away from the capital city of Leh across the highest motorable pass of the world, Khardung-La.
Ans. Nubra valley is famous for Bactrian camels, Diskit monastery, dunes, colorful Shyok river, and gigantic mountains with light and shadow play. It is a paradise for photography enthusiasts and all tourists with myriad tastes.
Ans. The Pangong Lake lies around 220 km from Leh across Changla Pass on India China border. It takes about six hours to reach Pangong Lake from Leh. It is approximately 160 km long, and one-third of the Pangong Lake is in India, and the rest is in China. The altitude of Pangong lake is 4350 meters.
Ans. It is famous for its quality of changing colors at different times of the day. In the morning it looks blue, in the afternoon it looks grey, and in the evening it appears red. It is one of the highest saline water lakes in the world. During the evolution process of the Himalayas, saline seawater got trapped and without an outlet. It took the shape of a lake. Pangong Lake has no aquatic life because it freezes totally during winters and is a brackish water lake.
Ans. In comparison to Ladakh, Spiti Valley is small, but it bundles lakes, monasteries, wildlife, and spirituality in an immersive experience. In contrast, Ladakh is vast, and the villages are far apart. It is easy to interact with people in Spiti Valley. Due to the distant location of Ladakh villages, it is a little bit difficult to gain knowledge about their cultural way of life. But from the tourism point of view, both these destinations offer numerous attractions and have charm of their own.
