Often called “Little Tibet of India, Spiti is nestled in the trans-Himalayan region of Himachal Pradesh. Spiti Valley is a land of stark beauty, high-altitude deserts, and ancient Buddhist culture. With its rugged mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and ancient monasteries, Spiti offers an adventurous escape for travelers seeking solitude, spirituality, and raw natural beauty.

Geography and Overview

Best time to visit 

Top Attractions in Spiti

Top Attractions in Spiti

Key Monastery (Ki Monastery)—The largest monastery in Spiti, perched on a hilltop overlooking the Spiti River. A center of Buddhist learning, it houses ancient scriptures, murals, and meditation halls.

Tabo Monastery—Known as the “Ajanta of the Himalayas,” Tabo Monastery is over 1,000 years old and contains exquisite frescoes and stucco statues, reflecting Spiti’s deep-rooted Buddhist heritage.

Kaza—The district headquarters, Kaza is a bustling hub with markets, homestays, and trekking base camps for exploring the valley.

Pin Valley National Park – A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, the park is home to snow leopards, Himalayan ibex, and Tibetan wolves.

Langza Village – Famous for its fossil-rich terrain, Langza offers a glimpse into Spiti’s geological history and provides stunning mountain vistas.

Dhankar Monastery and Lake—A cliffside monastery overlooking the confluence of Spiti and Pin rivers, Dhankar is perfect for photography and spiritual reflection.

Chandratal Lake—Known as the “Moon Lake,” this high-altitude lake is a popular trekking destination and camping site surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

Komik and Kibber Villages—Some of the highest inhabited villages in the world, offering insights into local life, traditional houses, and monasteries.

Things to Do in Spiti

Spiti’s culture is strongly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. The people are warm, hospitable, and adhere to ancient rituals, festivals, and monastic practices. Local cuisine is simple and nourishing, featuring thukpa (noodle soup), momos, barley bread (tsampa), and butter tea, ideal for the cold climate. Festivals like Losar (Tibetan New Year) and Chham dance festivals showcase Spiti’s unique cultural heritage.