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The route to Spiti Valley from Shimla to Kinnaur is open in February. The route from Manali to Chandratal opens only by late May. Even on the Shimla route, you can expect occasional roadblocks due to snowfall. So, you need to keep a few extra days and plan your journey carefully.
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Spiti transforms into a brilliant wonderland covered in powdery-white snow during winters each year. Sights like frozen lakes, waterfalls, and snow-covered mountains dotted with pugmarks of snow leopards are common. Visiting Spiti in winters is a once in a lifetime opportunity especially for travellers who love extreme winter adventures and enjoy activities like snow trekking, frozen waterfall climbing, and viewing the elusive snow leopard. The valley, due to the absence of crowds, is quiet and calm. During the winter months, Spiti can be approached only from the Shimla side. Since the place is almost landlocked due to heavy snow cover, be prepared for a tough trip physically as well as mentally. Duration of winter: Winters in Spiti extend for 5 months i.e. from October to February.
Average Temperature: The average temperatures range between 0°C in the day to around -40°C in the night. Pros:
- Spiti is not visited by many travellers during the winter months, making it the perfect time for those who are seeking mountainside solitude. - For those interested in experiencing extreme winter adventures, this is the best time to visit Spiti valley to explore winter treks here and even catch live snowfall.
- Those interested in wildlife can hope to spot snow leopards during this time. Con’s:
- The weather is extremely harsh and brutal during winters. Those who cannot handle the blood-curdling cold should avoid venturing to Spiti in winters.
- Almost all the hotels, cafes, and markets are closed during winters. Your best bet will be homestays. You shouldn’t expect great facilities at this time. - Whichever hotels and homestays are functional will charge exorbitant prices. Don’t expect a budget stay during winters.
- Due to heavy snow, most of the roads will be blocked or in bad condition. They are slippery due to frost, slushy mud, and water crossings. Keep a few buffer days in hand if travelling during these months to avoid delays caused due to these conditions. - Due to sub-zero temperatures, don’t expect running water. You will have to make do with dry toilets and must be prepared to go for many days without taking a bath. - There are electricity fluctuations during this time. Bonfires or warm kitchen areas will be your place to be!
- The ATMs might be out of order due to the valley being cut-off and unavailability of electricity. - The phones will have intermittent coverage due to heavy snow cover. So prepare to remain cut-off for a while. In winters, Spiti is accessible only from the Shimla side. The available route passes through Shimla – Narkanda – Rampur – Kalpa - Nako-Giu Village - Tabo Village – Dhankar - Pin Valley (Mud Village) – Kaza - Chandratal Lake: This lake transforms into a frozen wonder in winters. Visit it to see the expanse of stark whiteness backdropped by dark mountains and blue skies. - Gue Village: The village is famous for the intriguing mummy of a Buddhist monk who started mummifying his body while he was still alive. This was discovered during an earthquake in 1975 and is visited by people from all over the country. - Kibber: This village, surrounded by mountains, is famous for its snow-covered vistas in winter. Don’t miss to see the Tibetan-style houses, ancient monasteries, and wildlife like Blue Sheep, Tibetan Woolly Hare, Snow Leopards, and Ibex. Places to See During Winter:
- Chandratal Lake: This lake transforms into a frozen wonder in winters. Visit it to see the expanse of stark whiteness backdropped by dark mountains and blue skies. - Gue Village: The village is famous for the intriguing mummy of a Buddhist monk who started mummifying his body while he was still alive. This was discovered during an earthquake in 1975 and is visited by people from all over the country. - Kibber: This village, surrounded by mountains, is famous for its snow-covered vistas in winter. Don’t miss to see the Tibetan-style houses, ancient monasteries, and wildlife like Blue Sheep, Tibetan Woolly Hare, Snow Leopards, and Ibex. - Chicham Bridge: Credited as the highest bridge in Asia and the second highest suspension bridge in the world, this bridge stands at a height of around 13,500 ft., this architectural marvel is a must-visit.
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