Spiti Valley, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, high up in the Himalayas. It is a land of ancient monasteries, serene villages, and a world entirely its own. Spiti Valley is a haven for adventure seekers, offering a unique charm and a destination many dream of visiting at least once.
People who have traveled less often wonder ” where is Spiti Valley?” when they hear about this place. Spiti Valley is located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of the state of Himachal Pradesh, in northern India. This is a perfect place for travelers seeking offbeat adventures, spiritual experiences and landscapes found nowhere else.
Best Time to Visit Spiti Valley: 2025
The best time to visit Spiti Valley is from May to October, when the roads are open and the weather is comfortable for traveling, sightseeing and adventure. If you’re planning a trip to Spiti Valley, plan during the summer or early autumn months to experience the raw, real and natural beauty of this remarkable region.
- Avoid traveling during the Monsoon, as the Kinnaur region (entry from Shimla side) can face landslides and roadblocks. Travel is still possible, but it requires flexibility and caution.
- In Winter, Spiti Valley is accessible only via the Shimla–Kinnaur route as the Manali route remains snow-blocked
Spiti Valley Weather
The weather of Spiti Valley is unpredictable and challenging due to its high altitude(3,800 meters / 12,500 feet). Spiti Valley has a cold desert climate as It sees extreme winters, short summers, and minimal rainfall.
- Summer(May to September): Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, while night time temperatures drop to between 5°C and 10°C.
- Autumn (October): Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C, while nighttime temperatures often drop below freezing.
- Winter (November to March): Temperatures range from -5°C to -25°C, with extremely cold days and nights.
- Spiti receives very little rainfall, as it is a cold desert region.
How to Reach Spiti Valley in 2025
There are two ways to reach Spiti Valley: One from Manali and other from Shimla via Kinnaur.
From Manali
The journey from Manali to Spiti Valley is approximately 180-200 km and can be covered in 6-8 hours through the Lahaul region and Kunzum Pass. This route is perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic drives and offbeat stops like Chandratal Lake and Dhankar Monastery.
- Route : Manali → Atal Tunnel → Batal → Kunzum Pass → Lossar → Kaza (Spiti Valley)
- You can travel from Manali to Spiti Valley(Kaza) by bus, taxi or your own vehicle(a 4×4 is preferred due to the rough terrain).
Read my detailed article on traveling from Manali to Spiti Valley by HRTC bus.
From Shimla
The distance from Shimla to Spiti Valley(Kaza) is approximately 400-430 km and can be covered in 10-12 hours. The journey offers stunning views, including the magnificent Sutlej River and the beauty of Kinnaur region.
- Shimla → Narkanda → Rampur → Pooh → Spillow →Tabo→ Kaza (Spiti Valley)
Also check out my detailed guide on traveling from Delhi to Spiti Valley via Shimla by bus
Top Places to Explore in Spiti Valley(2025)
Looking for top places to explore in Spiti Valley? I’ve listed all the top places to visit in Spiti Valley in a dedicated article.
- For a complete list of Spiti Valley’s best attractions, check out my full guide
The Lahaul Spiti region combines Spiti Valley with the Lahaul area, offering travelers a diverse range of experiences:
- Snow-capped mountains and cold deserts
- Tibetan-influenced culture and monasteries
- Offbeat trekking and biking trails
- Stunning landscapes perfect for photography
Must-Have Travel Essentials for Your Spiti Bus Journey 2025
These essentials will help you stay warm, connected, and ready for anything unexpected along the way: