Welcome to Spiti Valley adventure, where winter transforms this lonely mountainous region into a magnificent wonderland. Spiti, known for its rough landscapes and surreal beauty, casts a spell in winter that entices daring souls looking for an out-of-the-way winter vacation. Join us on an incredible journey as we brave the cold hills, meet warm-hearted people, and appreciate the alluring appeal of Spiti Valley in its frozen grandeur.
Spiti’s Winter Climate
Temperature:
Temperatures in Spiti Valley can drop to sub-zero levels during the winter months of December to February. Temperatures during the day often range from -10°C to 5°C, while temperatures at night can plunge to -25°C or even lower.
Snowfall:
Spiti Valley is blanketed in a heavy covering of snow during the winter. Heavy snowfall occurs frequently, especially in December and January, transforming the entire region into a winter wonderland.
Accessibility on the road:
Most of the high-altitude crossings leading to Spiti Valley, such as Rohtang Pass and Kunzum La, are closed during the winter season due to excessive snow accumulation. The valley is cut off from the rest of the world, and road access is restricted.
Frozen Water Bodies:
During the winter, lakes and rivers in the Spiti Valley, including the famous Chandratal Lake, freeze. These frozen bodies of water add to the bizarre splendour of the terrain.
Challenges:
Winter in Spiti Valley presents various obstacles due to the harsh climate. Due to limited facilities, paucity of resources, and the risk of avalanches, travellers must be well-prepared and travel with expert guides.
Ideal time to visit
The months of October through March are ideal for experiencing winter in Spiti. While the temperature averages approximately 8 degrees Celsius during the day, the mercury drops to -10 degrees at night, when snowfall is at its peak. From October to December, there is little sunshine, but the weather is typically gloomy and foggy, with lots of snowfall. Occasionally, between December and January, the temperature drops below -30 degrees Celsius at night.
Things to Do in Spiti in the Winter
During the winter months, Spiti Valley transforms into a winter wonderland, providing visitors with unique and enchanting experiences. Here are a few of the best winter activities in Spiti Valley:
Experience Snowfall:
Enjoy the enchantment of snowfall in Spiti Valley. As snowflakes slowly blanket the surroundings, watch the environment transform into a pure white wonderland.
Visit Ancient Monasteries:
Explore old monasteries like Key and Tabo, which take on a quiet and tranquil air in winter. Experience spiritual serenity amidst the snowy scenery.
Exploring Frozen Lakes:
Visit Chandratal Lake, which freezes over in the winter. Admire the eerie beauty of the frozen lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Winter Expeditions:
Participate in winter hikes to destinations such as Kibber to Chicham or the Pin Bhaba Pass. Enjoy spectacular vistas of snow-covered landscapes and the exhilaration of winter wilderness walking.
Experience with Homestays:
Stay in traditional Spitian homestays with warm-hearted people. Engage in meaningful conversations, learn about their culture, and sample traditional winter fare.
Stargazing:
Winter in Spiti provides excellent astronomy chances due to clear skies and low light pollution. Take in the beauty of the night sky and stars.
Photography:
Capture the ethereal beauty of Spiti in the winter with your camera. The snow-covered landscapes provide fantastic photographic opportunity.
Local Festivals to Enjoy:
If you go during the winter, you might be able to see local festivals like Lossar, which are celebrated with traditional dance, music, and rituals.
Discover Local Life:
During the winter, immerse yourself in the daily lives of Tuscan villagers. Participate in traditional activities and learn about their way of life in harsh winter weather.
Attempt Local Cuisine:
Thukpa, momos, and butter tea are traditional Spitian foods that provide warmth and nourishment in the chilly season.
Icy Waterfalls Captured:
Experience the fascinating beauty of frozen waterfalls, which are widespread in Spiti Valley throughout the winter.
How to Reach Spiti in winter
By air: Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airport to Spiti. To go to Spiti, you must travel by road from there. Private automobiles are mostly available from Bhuntar to Spiti via Manali.
By road: Because there is no railway service in the valley, the only way to get to Spiti in the winter is by car. Travelling to Spiti in winter by car is not recommended due to the fact that most routes are closed. A thick layer of snow has accumulated on the road, making driving more difficult. Expect inconsistencies in public transport, as well as an excess of private vehicles.
