15 Best Places To Visit In Spiti For A Marvellous Adventure

Places to visit in Spiti will offer you a journey through the roof of the world. Spiti Valley lies right in the heart of towering ranges of the Himalayas, untouched by time. The raw, rugged beauty sprawled everywhere, and the ancient monasteries here form an enigma for adventurers and spiritual tourists.Prepare for those breathtaking landscapes, rich Buddhist culture and the most mesmerising remote destination of India. Embark on this beautiful journey to Spiti, an enchanted land.

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Top 15 Places To Visit In Spiti

Here are the top 15 places to visit in Spiti Valley, a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural richness and adventure:

1. Tabo Monastery

Tabo Monastery includes various temples and a museum with several historical artefacts.

Photo: Akhila Srikanta Rao / Wikimedia Commons

One of the top tourist attractions in Spiti, Tabo Monastery is recognised for its ancient murals and rich cultural heritage. The foundation of the monastery dates back to 996 AD, thereby earning it the description “Ajanta of the Himalayas” for its exceptional frescoes based on Buddhist themes. Located in the village of Tabo, it stands shining as a major spot in the Spiti tourist places list. Within this ancient site are various temples and a museum with several historical artefacts, making the entire monastery complex an imperative cultural and spiritual destination.

Major Attraction: Ancient murals and sculptures dating back over a thousand years
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport, about 235 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 220 km away

2. Dhankar Monastery

One of the best places to visit in Spiti is this monastery with breathtaking views of the Spiti Valley.

Photo: Gerd Eichmann / Wikimedia Commons

One of the prime tourist places in Spiti is represented by the dramatically perched Dhankar Monastery on a cliff. It is a 12th-century monastery. Its unique location and historical significance make it an essential stop on the Spiti tourist places list. Visitors can enjoy the panoramic, breathtaking views of the Spiti Valley and the nearby lake of Dhankar, another local attraction. Dhankar Monastery combines spirituality and natural beauty, making it one of the most favoured activities among those interested in the cultural and natural beauty of the region.

Major Attraction: Its dramatic cliffside location, ancient artefacts and the stunning view from the monastery
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport, about 250 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 230 km away

3. Chandra Taal Lake

Chandra Taal Lake has crystal clear water, surrounded by towering mountains reaching the sky.

Photo: Pawanranta / Wikimedia Commons

Chandra Taal Lake, or the “Moon Lake,”is a high-altitude lake that lies at an altitude of 4,300 metres. It fascinates visitors with its crystal clear water, surrounded by towering mountains reaching the sky. Camping and trekking are famous activities around this lake. Its crescent shape and tranquil environment make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. For those planning a Spiti trip, Chandra Taal Lake offers incomparable natural beauty and peace.

Major Attraction: Its pristine blue waters and breathtaking high-altitude scenery
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport, about 240 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 220 km away

Suggested Read: Chandratal Lake In Winter

4. Spiti River

Spiti river, one of the best places to visit in Spiti, renders great rafting opportunities.

Photo: Nitinram Velraj / Wikimedia Commons

The Spiti River snakes through the valley and offers some of the most breathtaking views among places for a Spiti trip. Known for its rugged beauty, the river provides good opportunities for adventure sports in the form of rafting. The dramatic gorges and serene waters only increase the attraction to the natural essence enshrined within Spiti.

Major Attraction: The river’s picturesque setting and adventure activities like river rafting
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport, about 220 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 200 km away

5. Kunzum Pass

Kunzum Pass offers captivating panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Photo: Gerd Eichmann / Wikimedia Commons

The Kunzum Pass, located at an altitude of 4,590 metres, is a significant gateway among tourist destinations in Spiti. This high mountain pass offers captivating panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and holds a special place in any Spiti trip. Additionally, there is a small temple dedicated to Kunzum Devi, which enhances the spiritual beauty of the area. The Kunzum Pass provides an exhilarating experience of the Himalayan landscape.

Major Attraction: Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and the small temple dedicated to Kunzum Devi
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: A few hours
Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport, about 225 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 210 km away

6. Kibber

One of the best places to visit in Spiti, Kibber is one of the world's highest motorable villages.

Photo: Gerd Eichmann / Wikimedia Commons

Kibber is tagged as one of the world’s highest motorable villages and features on the Spiti tourist places list. It stands at an altitude of approximately 4,270 metres, with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, and forms a halt that should not be missed on any Spiti trip. The seclusion of the village and its traditional architecture provide a unique insight into high-altitude life. Kibber is one of the places people would love to visit in Spiti, a place of natural beauty and cultural importance that would never be left out of attention in this Spiti Valley.

Major Attraction: One of the highest motorable villages in the world and its scenic views
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport, about 220 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 200 km away

7. Pin Valley National Park

Pin Valley National Park provides an opportunity for visitors to see the rare snow leopard.

Photo: Inferno_33 / Shutterstock / Image For Representation

The Pin Valley National Park is one of those Spiti tourist places where nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts find their paradise. This park is well known for its rough terrain and diverse fauna, which also provides an opportunity for visitors to see the rare snow leopard. The kind of breathtaking ecosystem and scenic beauty that this park offers make it a must-entry in the list of places to visit in Spiti.

Major Attraction: Diverse wildlife (including the snow leopard) and rugged landscapes ideal for trekking
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport, about 240 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 220 km away

Suggested Read: National Parks In Himachal Pradesh

8. Giu Mummy

Giu Mummy, one of the unique places to visit in Spiti, has a naturally preserved monk.

Photo: tovsla / Shutterstock / Image For Representation

The Giu Mummy is a naturally preserved monk and it’s the most unique and peculiar place for Spiti trip. Discovered in the village of Giu, this naturally mummified monk is one of the rarest and most interesting artefacts, offering a completely different cultural experience. The preservation of the mummy reflects ancient Tibetan practices and sets it apart. Among all the places to visit in Spiti, the Giu Mummy is truly fascinating as it provides a profound insight into the spiritual and historical significance of the region.

Major Attraction: The naturally mummified monk and the unique village setting
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport, about 250 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 230 km away

9. Langza Village

Langza Village has a land rich in fossils and the colossal Langza Buddha Statue.

Photo: Madhumita Das / Wikimedia Commons

This village has some major attractions, such as land rich in fossils and the colossal Langza Buddha Statue. These features make the destination a notable place in the Spiti tourist places list. Perched at an altitude of 4,400 metres, it offers great views of the mountains and valleys. The village’s archaeological importance and scenic beauty are major reasons for its popularity among visitors exploring places to visit in Spiti. Langza Village offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Major Attraction: The Langza Buddha Statue and the fossil-rich grounds
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport, about 230 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 210 km away

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Spiti Valley

10. Hikkim

One of the best places to visit in Spiti, Hikkim offers spectacular views of the Spiti Valley.

Photo: Sumita Roy Dutta / Wikimedia Commons

Hikkim, known for having the highest post office in the world, is a unique attraction in Spiti. Situated at an altitude of 4,440 metres, this remote village offers spectacular views of the Spiti Valley and provides a rare experience of sending postcards from the world’s highest post office. Hikkim’s distinctive features and scenic location make it a must-visit for travellers. For those exploring places for a Spiti trip, Hikkim offers an intriguing blend of isolation, beauty and cultural uniqueness, adding a memorable touch to any visit to Spiti.

Major Attraction: The highest post office in the world and its remote, scenic location
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: A few hours
Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport, about 220 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 200 km away

11. Key Monastery

A glimpse of the iconic Key Monastery, one of the sacred places to visit in Spiti.

Photo: Samantha Hentosh / Unsplash

The Key Monastery, a famous Tibetan Buddhist monastery, is one of the top spiritual places to see in Spiti Valley. Located at an altitude of 4,166 metres above sea level, the monastery is very close to the Spiti River, creating a picturesque backdrop against the towering peaks. Key Monastery enshrines Buddha idols in the Dhyana position and has a collection of ancient books and murals. The monastery is an ideal destination for spiritual seekers and travellers who want to dive deep into the rich history of Himachal Pradesh.

Major Attraction: Buddhist art and iconography, unique architecture, annual festivals
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, about 200 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 200 km away

12. Suraj Tal

A breathtaking view of Suraj Tal featuring shimmering blue waters and majestic peaks.

Photo: Dhara Prajapati / Unsplash

Suraj Tal, the third-largest lake in India, is one of the charming tourist attractions in Spiti. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lofty hills, and verdant valleys. Suraj Tal translates to ‘The Lake of Sun God,’ defining its spiritual and mythological importance. It is also believed that a dip in this lake cleanses a person of his sins. A perfect abode for adventure junkies, the lake comes en route to the famous Manali-Leh path that is popular for trekking and biking trips.

Major Attraction: Scenic beauty, spiritual significance, trekking
Best Time To Visit: June to September & October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 to 2 days
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, about 130 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 150 km away

13. Sarchu

A mesmerising view of Sarchu, one of the scenic places to visit in Spiti in Himachal.

Photo: Oindrilabhol / Wikimedia Commons

Sarchu, a quaint jewel, lies on the border of Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh and is one of the awe-inspiring places to visit in Spiti. It is also known as Sir Bhum Chun and acts as an overnight stop for people who travel along the Leh-Manali Highway. Decked with the Himalayan mountain range and lush greenery, Sarchu is abundant in natural beauty. This offbeat abode is also an ideal destination for camping, as you can revel in the serene beauty of nature from the comfort of your campsite.

Major Attraction: Gateway to Leh-Ladakh, scenic landscape, adventure and camping
Best Time To Visit: June to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, about 150 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 175 km away

14. Gandhola Monastery

A glimpse of the pristine white Gandhola Monastery, a tourist destination in Spiti.

Photo: Vivek / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Perched on the Tupchiling Village hilltop, at the confluence of Chandra and Bagha Rivers, Gandhola Monastery is the oldest monastery in the Lahaul region. One of the top tourist places in Spiti, the monastery is an ideal destination for spiritual seekers and nature lovers. Founded by Padma Sambhava around 800 years ago, Gandhola Monastery offers a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of the region. The monastery features wooden idols, which stand out from the clay idols found in all other monasteries.

Major Attraction: Historical significance, distinctive architecture, sacred artefacts
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: Half a day
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, about 245 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station, about 360 km away

15. Tangyud Monastery

The famous Tangyud Monastery atop a hill, one of the serene places to visit in Spiti.

Photo: Manish Shah / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Tangyud Monastery, located in the Komic village of Spiti Valley, is one of the highest-altitude gompa in India. The monastery is also popularly known as Sakya Tangyud Monastery and is an important sacred site of the region. The architectural beauty of the monastery is a class apart; it is built in the form of a fortified castle and is adorned with red ochre and white vertical stripes, with a slanting mud wall. It is the perfect place for people who want to learn more about the Buddhist culture.

Major Attraction: Historical significance, architectural marvel, cultural heritage
Best Time To Visit: September to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, about 250 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station, about 400 km away

Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Himachal Pradesh

Places to visit in Spiti are realms of unparalleled beauty and tranquillity, promising an unforgettable adventure. From the serene monasteries to the rugged landscapes, every corner of this high-altitude desert holds a unique charm. While this list offers a glimpse into the best of Spiti, there’s always more to explore. Let TripXL handle the planning and booking, ensuring a seamless journey through this breathtaking region.

Cover Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons

15 Best Places To Visit In Spiti To Explore The Pristine Nature