Skeptical about Winter Spiti? Here's all you need to know.

Tucked away in a blanket of thick cottony snow as far as your eyes can see, Spiti in winters is a destination where horizon is a myth, as you can never tell where the skies begin and the land ends. Spiti attracts a multitude of travelers towards its fascinating beauty. There's an untold thrill of visiting the place during winters. Winter, in fact is the best time to witness the local life of Spiti.

Travelling to Spiti in Winters

The only way to reach Spiti in the winter is from Shimla via the NH-22 highway through Kinnaur. Rohtang Pass and Kunzum La are both closed in the winters, making travel from Manali an unviable option.

Weather Conditions

Life comes to a standstill in Spiti during winters. There's a nerve crunching drop of - 25 degree celsius. The oxygen levels drop during winters. Hence, you need to be physically and mentally fit to be able to make through this expedition. It isn't easy to explore Spiti during winters. But, the views of the majestic snow-bounded mountains you'll witness, are worth every penny you spend. It is suggested to walk short distances and consume food in order to keep the body warm.

Permits required to visit the Spiti Valley

No permit is required to visit the valley for an Indian National. But you will be required to fill in few details at Akpa and Sumdo check post. So it is recommended to carry at a valid photo ID proof.

Ways to travel within Spiti

The entire Spiti valley is covered with thick sheets of snow including the roads. Even though efforts are made to clear snow from the roads leading to Key monastery, Kibber, Kaza and Tabo quite frequently, still there is a lot of fresh snow. You can either drive through on your own or else, the only option you're left with is, hitchhiking.

Accommodation during Winters

It is very hard to find Guesthouses or Hotels during this time of the year as most of them are closed. Homestays are the only option you're left with . You can find a homestay around the place which will cost you around 500-1000 Rupees per day.

Places to Visit

Roads to the high altitude villages of Demul, Langza, Kibber, Hikkim, Komic are sometimes open. It is possible to visit Lhalung, Gue village, Dhankar & Losar. However, going to Pin Valley can be a dicey affair because it is located on a different route and there are chances of getting stuck.

Things to keep in mind before you head out on the Expedition

It gets very cold during the winter months. You’ll need to be mentally and physically fit in order to be able to handle through this high-altitude terrain.

As the temperature drops to negatives, there’s a possibility that it’ll take several hours to start your car.

The pipelines freeze and there’s no water supply hence there won’t be any toilets with running water, instead there will be dry toilets. In case of heavy snowfall, roads could be closed.

There are banks and ATM’s in Kaza and Tabo, but mostly they are closed during winters, it is recommended to carry enough cash. Do not expect much of the medical facilities when travelling to Spiti Valley in winters.

Carry enough spare batteries as there is no guarantee of electricity. Also, keep batteries and mobile in warm places whenever possible. Batteries exhaust rapidly in cold conditions.

Be careful while walking on roads and always keep a watch on the adjoining mountain. Landslides and avalanches are quite frequent.