DAY 1 - Drive from Chandigarh – Shimla, (7,238 feet / 3-4 hours / 113 KM)
Upon arrival at Chandigarh Railway Station/Airport, you will be greeted and assisted before being driven to Shimla, known as the Queen of hills in the heart of the Himalayas. The town is named after goddess Shyamala Devi, an incarnation of Kali, and boasts a variety of tudor bethan and neo-gothic architecture from the colonial era, along with numerous temples. Shimla's rugged mountain landscape, beautiful snowfalls, and pleasant weather make it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
After the 3.5-hour drive, you can explore the town on your own. In the afternoon, visit popular attractions such as Christ Church, Gaiety Theatre, Scandal Point, Lakkar Bazaar, and Bandstand. Those interested in heritage can also witness some British architecture that reflects the town's past.
In the evening, you will have the option to visit Jakhu temple, where you can listen to birds chirping, encounter monkeys, and feel the cool breeze of the mountains. Located on Shimla's highest peak, Jakhoo hill offers a breathtaking view of the Shivalik Ranges and Sanjauli town. The hill is 2.5 km from the Ridge in Shimla and stands at an impressive height of 2,455 m (8,000 feet) above sea level. At the summit lies an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, surrounded by playful monkeys eagerly awaiting visitors who come bearing food. The towering 108-foot (33-meter) statue of Hindu deity Lord Hanuman stands at a staggering elevation of 8,500 feet (2,591 meters), making it one of the highest statues in the world and surpassing even the Christ Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Enjoy dinner and spend the night at your hotel in Shimla.
DAY 2 Drive from Shimla – Sarahan – Sangla – Chitkul, (8,900 feet / 6-7 hours / 246 KM)
Following breakfast, depart the hotel and travel to Sangla. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit the well-known Bhima Kali temples in Sarahan. These temples are constructed in the traditional Kinnauri style using stone and timber to withstand earthquakes. There are two towers, one of which has been recently rebuilt while the other dates back to the 1920s (located on the left). The top floor of this tower houses a highly revered shrine dedicated to Bhimakali, a local variation of Kali, decorated with a beautiful silver-filigree awning. The distinct curved and peaked roofs showcase the Tibetan influence on Kinnauri architecture, which becomes more prominent as you journey further up the valley. On your right, you will also see the Lankra Vir Temple, where human sacrifices were once performed until the 18th century.
Following your initial excursion, carry on with your journey to the Sangla valley, located in the district of half horse half men. Along the way, make a stop at Batseri Village where you can cross an old-fashioned bridge over the Baspa River and explore its charming cobble-stoned streets and the local Badri Narayan temple. Next, head to Kamru Fort – a five-story tower-style fort situated on a 55 square-foot stone platform and built by Dev Puran. The intricately designed wooden porches and small temple within the fort are sure to captivate you in this delightful region.
Following lunch, we were ready to embark on our journey to Chitkul. This small village is the final settlement in India before the border, home to a population of approximately 700 people. Here, you can admire the Nila range and witness the magnificent Baspa River begin its gentle flow through India and Tibet. At an elevation of 3450m, Chitkul is a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Take a leisurely stroll to the local shrine of the Goddess 'Mathi', a stunning 500-year-old architectural wonder built by an unknown individual. Dinner will be served at our hotel in Sangla, where we will also spend the night.
DAY 3 Drive from Sangla to Kalpa to Nako, (12,000 feet / 6 – 7 hours / 140 KM)
After breakfast, leave the hotel and travel to Reckong Peo, the district capital of Kinnaur. This is where we can obtain the necessary permit to enter Spiti valley. Once all formalities are taken care of, we can continue our journey up the 7-kilometer zigzagging road to Kalpa village. It is a charming destination with breathtaking views of the Kinner Kailash and Jorkandan Peaks looming above.
While in Kalpa, you can explore the beautiful Kinnauri-style shrines or visit the vibrant Samdrup Choeling Gompa. Just next to Kinner Kailash stands a 79-foot high pillar resembling a Shivalinga. It is famous for its color-changing abilities as the day progresses.
Starting from Kalpa and driving along the Hindustan-Tibet Highway, we will reach Nako. On the way, you'll notice a dramatic shift in scenery from vibrant green to barren brown as we navigate the famous and dangerous roads. Passing through Pooh, the final place for fuel, we continue on to Kinnaur's last village - Nako. Here, we will have dinner and spend the night at a guest house.
DAY 4 Drive from Nako – Tabo – Dhankar, (12,774 feet / 4 – 5 hours / 94 KM)
Following breakfast, depart from the hotel and travel to Dhankar with a stop at Gue village along the way. Gue is renowned for its monastery, which houses a naturally shriveled monk who has been there for over 500 years. According to legend, the monk, named Sangha Tenzin, shriveled himself in order to protect his village from a wave of scorpions. After exploring Gue village, continue on towards Tabo - also known as the 'Ajanta of the Himalayas'. Here you can visit the 1010-year-old Tabo Monastery, a UNESCO world heritage site famous for its ancient paintings depicting the life of The Buddha as well as complex depictions of gods and deities. The monastery also features life-size statues of bodhisattvas in a unique blend of western Tibetan, Indian, and Kashmiri styles.
Continuing on your journey, make your way to the stunning hill town of Dhankar. This former capital of the Royalties of Spiti Valley, also known as the Nono, once governed the dust-colored wildernesses of this area. Transport yourself back in time as you explore the 1200-year-old Dhankar Gompa, perched precariously between rugged peaks on the edge of a cliff. If you have the time and energy, take an hour-long hike above the village to see the breathtaking turquoise Dhankar Tso or Lake, offering panoramic views of the valley and the majestic Mane Rang peaks (6593 meters). After a day full of adventure, enjoy a delicious dinner and spend the night at a cozy homestay in Dhankar.
DAY 5 Drive from Dhankar – Lalung – Demul – Kaza, (14,435 feet / 4 – 5 hours / 92 KM)
After having breakfast, proceed with check-out from the hotel. Take a brief drive to Lalung, known for its iconic three-surrounded Buddha effigy that symbolizes his ability to look in all directions simultaneously. The name Lalung translates to "Land of God" and is situated at the base of the Tangmar Mountains. The locals believe that their deity resides in these mountains, and the mountain's colors vary from shades of red, yellow, and brown depending on their God's mood. Explore one of the oldest gompas in Spiti Valley, believed to have been built by angels in one night according to the natives. Afterwards, continue your journey towards Demul, a breathtaking village located at an altitude of 4400 meters. Known for its seclusion and peacefulness, this charming village has less than 50 families residing in it. You can take some time to discover the unique appearance of the village on your own or opt for a short yak safari. On day five of this tour through Spiti Valley, you will head towards the beautiful high villages of Lalung and Demul.
Later in the day, take a chauffeured ride to Kaza, known as the bustling hub of the Spiti valley.
Enjoy a delicious dinner and spend your evening at the hotel in Kaza for an overnight stay.
DAY 6 Drive from Kaza – Komik – Langza – Kaza, (14,800 feet / 2-3 hours / 50 KM)
Enjoy the high-altitude weather in Kaza, an administrative center of the Spiti Valley, after breakfast. Become acquainted with the area before embarking on your first drive to Komik, the highest village in Asia. Meaning 'eye of a snow cock', this hamlet sits at an impressive height of 4513m and is home to 84 people who live in isolation for most of the year. Explore the mesmerizing Komik Lundup Chhemo monastery, one of the world's highest, set against a stunning backdrop. Next, head to Langza, another high altitude village in Spiti belonging to the Sakyapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. With a population of 137 people living in 33 households, Langza is home to a 1000-year-old ancient temple that you can visit during your leisurely stroll through the village. Here, you can also travel back in time as you discover fascinating fossils from millions of years ago when Spiti was covered by the Tethys Sea. End your day with dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel in Kaza.
DAY 7 - Drive from Kaza – Ki Monastery – Tashigang – Gette – Chicham – Kibber.
Following breakfast, complete the check-out process at the hotel before being driven from Kaza to the quaint village of Kibber. This narrow valley, perched atop a limestone rock at 4205m, is renowned for its motorable roads and even has its own polling station during elections. Next, head to the ki Gompas to catch a glimpse of the numerous Buddhist monks and nuns that reside there, as well as visit the on-site cafeteria. Afterward, commence the initial leg of the journey towards Langza hamlet, where fascinating relics of ancient sea creatures from the Tethys Sea have been discovered.
Dinner & Overnight stay at home stay in Kibber.
DAY 8 Drive from Kibber – Losar – Kuzum La – Chandratal Lake, (14,000 feet / 5-6 hours / 110 KM)
After enjoying breakfast, depart from the hotel and embark on a scenic drive to Chandratal Lake. At Kunzum La, visit a beautiful temple before making your way to the breathtaking lake. Its shimmering blue waters will captivate you and it is believed to echo the magnificent snow-capped peaks.Next, we make our way to Chandratal Lake, a breathtaking sight in the heart of the high Himalayas. This stunning blue lake sits at an elevation of 4300 meters above sea level and should not be missed on a full moon night. Its name, Chandra (Moon) and Taal (Lake), comes from its crescent shape. Witness the magical transformation of the lake's color from clear shades of blue to vibrant emerald greens as dusk falls. Dinner and overnight accommodations will be provided at a camp near Chandratal.
DAY 9 - Drive from Chandratal Lake – Batal – Chattru – Rohtang La – Manali.
Following breakfast, depart from the hotel and travel from Chandratal Lake to Lahaul Valley. Along the way, make a stop at Batal for a cup of tea at a charming teashop managed by an elderly couple. Afterwards, continue on the Kaza-Manali highway and take a break for lunch in Chatru. The scenic drive will then lead you through Rohtang Pass before arriving back in Manali, completing your unforgettable Spiti Valley trip. Dinner and overnight accommodations will be provided at a hotel in Manali.
DAY 10 - Drive from Manali – Chandigarh. (291 KM / 7-8 hours)
Following breakfast, depart the hotel and travel to Manali. Upon reaching Chandigarh, you will be taken to the Chandigarh Railway Station or Airport for your next destination.
