Spiti Backpacking Trips
Snow-covered monasteries, frozen landscapes and cosy village homestays: Winter Spiti backpacking trips for the truly adventurous.
1 trip
Why go to Spiti
Spiti Valley is a high-altitude cold desert in Himachal Pradesh, and in winter it becomes a silent white wonderland. Ancient monasteries like Key and Tabo sit under snow, villages such as Hikkim, Komic and Langza feel frozen in time, and the night skies are some of the clearest you will ever see. The road in winds through Kinnaur, past Sangla, Chitkul and Nako. This is raw, remote travel, and that is exactly the appeal.
Best time to visit
Spiti can be visited in summer, roughly May to October, when both the Shimla and Manali routes are usually open. Winter, from about December to February, is for those who want snow and solitude, with very low temperatures and basic facilities. In winter the Manali side is closed, so travel is via Shimla and Kinnaur.
How to reach
Shimla is the usual starting point for winter trips, with road connections from Delhi and Chandigarh. Chandigarh has the nearest major airport, and Shimla has a small airport and the toy train from Kalka.
Our Spiti trips
Our Winter Spiti backpacking trip is 6 nights / 7 days, starting from ₹16,999 per person. It begins with an AC bus from Delhi to Shimla, then travels by tempo traveller through Sangla and Chitkul, Khab and Nako, to Chicham Bridge and Key Monastery, the villages of Hikkim, Komic and Langza, and back via Kaza and Kalpa. Stays in winter are mostly simple village homestays with hearty local food, and facilities like running water can be limited. Trips run every Friday, with groups usually between 8 and 50 travellers, many travelling solo.
When is the best time to visit Spiti?
Summer (roughly May to October) is easier travel, while winter (about December to February) is for snow, frozen landscapes and very few tourists.
Is Winter Spiti suitable for first-timers?
It is doable if you are prepared for extreme cold and basic stays. It suits travellers who want real adventure more than comfort. If you have any medical condition, check with your doctor before travelling to high altitude.
How many days do I need for Winter Spiti?
About a week, since the route via Shimla and Kinnaur is long. Our Winter Spiti trip is 6 nights / 7 days, starting from ₹16,999 per person.
What are the stays like in winter?
Most hotels close in winter, so stays are mainly village homestays. Expect simple, warm rooms, basic bathrooms and limited running water.
What should I pack for Winter Spiti?
Heavy down jacket, thermals, woollen socks, gloves, a warm cap, waterproof snow boots, sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm.
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