Winter Spiti- many uncertainties and worries arise when an adventurous idea of visiting Spiti during the winter months of the year occurs to mind. Concerns such as whether the roads will be open, whether a place to stay will be available, what the temperature will be like, where I’ll get food and water, etc. Spiti, which is pronounced as Piti in Bhoti, is a high-altitude area of the Himalayas situated in the northeastern region of the Himachal Pradesh state in northern India.
Going to Spiti Valley during the winter is an entirely unique experience. There are numerous benefits to visiting Spiti Valley in the winter, in addition to the exceptional experience.
One of the main reasons you should visit Spiti Valley in the winter is its unmatched beauty. You will undoubtedly carry the memories of the breathtaking frozen rivers, the gorgeous scenery, and the snow-capped mountains with you forever. The desert region, which changes into a wintry paradise in the winter, also provides breathtaking backgrounds for Instagram-worthy photos.
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Spiti in winter is that there are fewer crowds. The area becomes congested in the summer because Spiti Valley is a well-liked vacation spot. But, the number of visitors drops dramatically in the winter, making it possible to take in December’s serene beauty of Spiti without the throngs of people. You can engage with the locals and get a more genuine feel for the area.
Have you ever dreamed of traveling to magical places via a walk-in closet? Sure, I’m talking about Narnia here! Instead of waiting for a mystical door, enter Spiti, our very own winter wonderland, by purchasing a ticket. All the daring souls will be in awe of Spiti in the wintertime, with its snow-capped mountains, frozen rivers, and a million stars overhead
This is our comprehensive guide explaining what to do on your winter Spiti trip 2024
How to reach winter Spiti ?
It’s difficult to get to Spiti in the winter, and using public transportation the whole way is not recommended.
Narkanda is the first place you would visit on your way to Spiti; it is accessible from Shimla. Shimla is connected to major cities like Delhi through flights.
Should you choose to travel by train, you must choose the Kalka-Shimla route, which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Shimla, you’ll need to take a bus or a taxi to get to Narkanda.
Next on the list is the Kinnaur district village of Kalpa, which is renowned for its apple orchards. There are occasions when snow blocks the roads leading to Kalpa. On your way to Kaza, the Spiti Valley headquarters, you can make stops at the villages of Nako and Tabo.
There are buses that run from Peo to Nako and beyond on a daily basis, but since it’s winter and you’re not used to driving in the snow, it’s best to take a guided Spiti tour.
After arriving at Kaza, spend a day exploring the historic monasteries and learning about Buddhist culture. If Pin Valley isn’t closed because of severe weather, you can also go there.
You can also ride over to the villages of Spiti—Kibber, Komic, Hikkim, Key, and Langza—if the weather permits and the roads are clear.
How bad can the weather get during the winter Spiti ?
In the winter, Spiti Valley can get pretty frozen—both the weather and the surroundings. October through March are shoulder months, when nighttime lows of minus 10 to 30 degrees cause fewer visitors.
It is anticipated that the sun will appear less often and that there will be a lot of snowfall and fog.
A list of things to do in Spiti during winter:
It would be like walking into a frozen village to visit Spiti in the winter. There would be very few or no tourists, and life would be stagnant. You will be able to personally feel the “old village charm.” In addition to taking in the breathtaking views of mountains and valleys blanketed in snow, you can engage in the following activities when visiting Spiti in the winter:
- Try your hand at snowshoeing in the hamlets of Komic, Langza, and Hikkim. Make sure you bring a villager or guide from the area.
- Snow Leopards are a well-known feature of Kibber Village.
- See a glimpse into the wintertime lives of the people who live in the Spiti Valley.
- Discover more about Spiti’s customs and culture
What common problems arise during the winter Spiti ?
In Spiti, road closures occur frequently during the winter.
The closed roads would probably be one of the most common problems you would encounter in wintertime Spiti travel. Though it happens very infrequently, heavy snowfalls or blizzards can cause road closures for a few days, a few weeks, or even months. Although the roads from Spiti valley up to Kaza are known to be maintained by BRO, it is advisable to be ready for the worst.
Wi-Fi and limited or nonexistent power
The lack of mobile signals and electricity during the winter is another issue that Spiti residents frequently deal with. PS: Connections from MTNL and BSNL may occasionally offer a glimmer of hope.
It is possible that the majority of ATMs won’t work. Thus, endeavor to always carry enough cash with you, even in case you become stranded due to non-availability of transportation and need to survive for a whole month.
Freezing temperatures and minimal accommodations
Temperatures in Spiti during the winter can drop as low as minus thirty degrees, particularly in December and January. Elevated areas such as Nako would undoubtedly send shivers down your spine. Not just the extremely low temperatures are making you shiver.
There would be very few options for a winter stay in Spiti Valley because the majority of the hotels and dining establishments would be closed. Don’t expect even the most basic amenities when traveling, such as bottled water (or even just water—forget hot water—in the restrooms). If there are any local homestays, that would be the ideal place to stay.
Absence of prompt medical attention
Do you have a medical background? In that case, avoiding a winter trip to Spiti is advised. At this time of year, the valley would be largely closed. Road closures and little to no electricity will make it impossible for you to get emergency medical assistance. The closest assistance you can probably think of is Shimla.
Problems with driving in winter Spiti
There are certain things to watch out for when organizing a wintertime self-drive trip to Spiti Valley. First of all, Spiti is not the place to experiment or test your skills if you are a beginner who wants to try mountain riding, especially during winter.
It would be simpler to skid since the sides of the roads would be covered in ice and snow, especially when applying brakes. To ride the narrow, winding roads of Spiti, you have to be an expert because there is gorge on one side and snow on the other. Additionally, since there won’t be many open mechanic shops, you should be ready to perform all mechanical handiwork. Here are some useful suggestions If you intend to travel to Spiti by car in the winter:
- Due to severe temperatures, you may need to run the engine all night, so make sure your fuel tank is full. An additional battery can be carried for emergency situations.
- Always drive cautiously; otherwise, you risk driving off cliffs in a hurry.
- Pit stops should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
- It can be difficult to go uphill, especially when it’s snowing. Try to start the inertia before you start up the icy hill, rather than adding more gas. After you’re up, slow down and descend the hill gradually.
List of things to pack for a trip to Spiti in winter:
WARM CLOTHING
Bring along anything that will keep you warm, such as gloves, mufflers, thermals, sweaters, and jackets.
- Thermals: Pack warm but light thermals that you can wear while sleeping as well
- Heavy Woolens: Include heavy woolens such as sweatshirts, fleece jackets, and windproof jackets
SUNGLASSES & SUNSCREEN
During winter Spiti , it is essential to protect your eyes and skin from the harsh conditions.Put on some glasses to prevent snow blindness in your eyes.
- Sunglasses: Pack good quality UV sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays at high altitude
- Sunscreen: Apply a good quality sunscreen lotion with a rating of SPF30 or higher to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays
- Lip Balm: Dry and cold weather can make your lips dry. Carry glycerine, a lip balm, or Vaseline to keep your lips moisturized
FIT SHOES AND SANDLES
Make sure your shoes are sturdy enough to endure ice and are suitable for hiking in the snow. Don’t forget to include enough warm socks in your bag to prevent Jack Frost from biting your toes.
NECESSARY MEDICINES/FIRST AID KIT
When doing winter Spiti, it is essential to be well-prepared with an emergency kit and necessary It is imperative that you carry the medications you need. To ensure that you don’t forget it in the hurry, always remember to pack this first.
WATER BOTTLE
When your doing winter Spiti,carrying a water bottle is essential to stay hydrated. However, it is recommended to avoid using plastic bottled water in Spiti Valley due to the environmental impact. According to a report by The Shooting Star, an estimated 300,000+ plastic bottles are dumped in Spiti every season You can also include a few water bottles in your pack because dehydration is common in mountains.
Things to consider before doing winter Spiti
Do I need to make travel plans?
With a few safety measures, all the excitement, adventure, and fun can be experienced. Although spontaneous travel may seem like a scary idea, it’s always a good idea to have a well-thought-out plan before you go. Whether or not things turn out as planned is irrelevant. Having said that, you should also be psychologically ready to make impulsive choices.
Should I bring cash?
Make sure you bring enough actual cash with you. Finding a functional ATM would be impossible given the likelihood of becoming stranded in nearby villages without access to electricity or other forms of transportation.
Is Spiti’s wintertime weather predictable?
Was there ever a period of predictable weather? Not in my opinion! Nevertheless, it’s always a good idea to pay special attention to weather forecasts and to be ready. Additionally, make sure you have all the clothes you’ll need for your winter vacation in Spiti—a few extra pairs won’t hurt.
Private or public transportation?
In the winter, public transportation would not be frequently available. Therefore, using buses or shared taxis to move around Spiti is not advised unless you have a month or two to spare.
In reference to personal transportation (autos and bicycles), consider if you are capable of operating a vehicle through the snow-covered mountain passes. If you said “yes,” then by all means do so; if not, consider joining a group of knowledgeable people. Regardless of the means of transportation you choose, remember to stop occasionally to acclimate yourself to the environment. Read more: https://waywardwayfarer.com/spiti-valley-winter-travel-guide/
Can we visit Spiti Valley in winter?
Yes, you can travel to Spiti Valley during the winter. It is crucial to remember that Spiti Valley’s winters are severe and can be difficult because of the intense snowfall, bitter cold, and spotty internet. However, one can enjoy the Spiti valley in the winter with the appropriate planning.
In the winter, is Spiti open?
Absolutely, Spiti Valley is open in the wintertime. The valley is accessible, but you should be aware that there may be limited connectivity because of the heavy snowfall and blocked roads. Notwithstanding these obstacles, the valley is still accessible, and one can enjoy themselves to the fullest by visiting the must-see locations and engaging in winter activities.
For Spiti Valley, which month is ideal?
The ideal time of year to visit the Spiti Valley largely depends on your interests, the things you want to see and do, and your preferences. But, the months of June through September are thought to be the best times to visit the valley because this is when summer officially begins and the snow starts to melt, making it simple to navigate the valley.
Conclusion
Adventure seekers can have a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience during the winter Spiti . Numerous activities are available to visitors, including stargazing, fossil hunting, winter trekking, snowboarding, and skiing. In Spiti Valley, the winter season lasts from December to March, during which time the nighttime low can reach -30°C. Notwithstanding the difficulties, the valley is a captivating travel destination because of its genuine culture and snow-covered scenery. Visitors can explore the breathtaking winter wonderland and have an unforgettable winter adventure with the right planning and preparation. In continuation we will read second part of winter Spiti -Things to do in winter Spiti / Places to visit.
