The adventurous Spiti Valley self-drive tour begins from Chandigarh, from where you drive to Narkanda. Situated at an altitude of almost 9000 feet, Narkanda commands majestic views of the snow line. This destination is also a favorite for thrill-seekers, who want to try skiing or trekking. On reaching the destination, check in at the hotel and sleep through the night.
After freshening up in the morning, embark on a 160-km road trip to Sangla. A small town on the banks of the Baspa River, Sangla is a picturesque and serene place. Many restaurants, cafes, and accommodation options make it an apt stop on the way to the Spiti Valley. Spend the night at the campsite, under the starlit Ladakhi sky.
The next section of the Chandigarh Spiti Self Drive Trip will take you to Tabo. On the way, make a small stop at Nako – a scenic hamlet – known for its namesake lake. Later, continue driving towards Gyu village, which has a 550-year-old mummy, and then head out to the town of Tabo. Positioned on the banks of the Spiti River, this lush town is like an oasis in the middle of the barren land of the Lahaul and Spiti districts. The highlight of this place is the 10th-century Tabo Monastery, built by the revered Tibetan Buddhist, Rinchen Zangpo. On reaching the town, check-in at the hotel and rest for the night.
In the morning, pack your bags and head to Dhankar. Take a shortcut via Latilung and Rama village, to reach the Lingti Valley. Flanked by the soaring Himalayan peaks on all sides, Lingti Valley is an enchanting place. While here, click pictures against the backdrop of snow-clad mountains. Spend some time here, and then move to Pin Valley. Lying in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, the place is renowned for its diversity of flora and fauna. Snow leopard, red fox, Siberian ibex, and marten, along with hundreds of plant species are found here. After capturing the mesmerizing beauty of the valley in your cameras, transfer to the hotel in Kaza, on the banks of the Spiti River, and enjoy a relaxing sleep.
After having breakfast set out on an excursion to Langza and Komik. Langza, a small village in the heart of Spiti Valley, is known for the fossil reserves of marine creatures. These fossils date back to millions of years when the whole region was submerged under the Tethys Sea. Komik is one of the highest villages in Asia. It has only a few houses, and the major highlight of this place is its monastery. If you want, you can also drive to the small Hikkim village.
It may look like any other establishment in the area, but what distinguishes it from the rest is the fact that it has the highest post office in the world. While here, you can send some postcards to your family, telling them about this amazing Spiti self-drive adventure trip. After lunch, pay a visit to Ki Monastery – the biggest Buddhist learning center in the Spiti Valley. Originally built in the 11th century, the gompa was once home to about 350 lamas. Also, visit Kibber, famed as the highest village in the world. Thereafter, retreat to the hotel in Kaza and enjoy a good night’s sleep.
After breakfast, head out for an adventurous rafting experience on the Spiti River, only if weather permits. This will surely make your sojourn even more thrilling and exciting. The high rapids of the river will surely get the adrenaline pumping through your veins. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. You can use this time to go shopping in the local markets. Buy handicrafts and handlooms as perfect souvenirs for this journey. Thereafter, retreat to the hotel and enjoy an overnight sleep.
Relish a hearty meal in the morning, and later head to Chandratal. Often referred to as The Moon Lake, Chandratal derived its name from its crescent shape. Positioned at a height of over 14000 feet above sea level, this pristine lake looks even more charming in the backdrop of high mountain peaks. Spend your day admiring the beauty of the lake, and later move to the campsite to rest for the night.
Savour a delicious meal in the morning and drive to Manali. In the evening, participate in a gala celebration that includes a mouth-watering dinner along with handcrafted cocktails. It is the perfect way to end this memorable tour. Thereafter, sleep comfortably in your hotel room.
Post a delectable breakfast, and drive back to Chandigarh, where this Chandigarh Spiti Self Drive Trip ends.