Spiti Valley Expedition

ARRIVAL IN DELHI

EXPLORING HISTORIC LANDMARKS: Your Spiti Valley tour begins in India’s vibrant capital, Delhi. Upon arrival, our land package services commence with a welcome lunch at the group hotel, where you’ll meet your expert guide and fellow travellers. In the afternoon, set out on a private city tour to explore Delhi’s rich history. Visit Qutab Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret, an architectural masterpiece of Indo-Islamic design. Continue to Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning precursor to the Taj Mahal. Drive through New Delhi, where Edwin Lutyens’ grand colonial architecture reflects the city’s imperial past. After an informative briefing by your guide, enjoy a relaxed evening before dinner.

Meals Included: Dinner

DHARAMSALA

THE HOME OF TIBETAN BUDDHISM: This morning, take a scenic flight to Dharamsala, a picturesque hill station set against the dramatic Dhauladhar range. As the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Dharamsala attracts Buddhist pilgrims and spiritual seekers from across the world. Upon arrival, unwind and take in the serene atmosphere at your own pace. Stroll through the town, observe Tibetan influences in daily life, and prepare for deeper cultural exploration the following day.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DHARAMSALA

DISCOVERING THE TIBETAN HERITAGE: Today, immerse yourself in the Tibetan culture of Dharamsala, often called "Little Lhasa." Led by a knowledgeable local expert, visit His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s monastery in McLeod Ganj, the spiritual heart of the Tibetan exile community. Explore the Norbulingka Institute, dedicated to preserving Tibetan craftsmanship, followed by a visit to the Tibetan Children’s Village, which plays a vital role in the education and welfare of young Tibetans. Later, discover the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, where traditional music and dance keep Tibetan traditions alive. The rest of the day is at leisure, with optional visits to Namgyal Monastery, the Kalachakra Temple, and the Kangra Art Museum, which features works by renowned artist Nicholas Roerich.

Meals Included: Breakfast

MANALI

TEMPLES AND MOUNTAIN LANDSCAPES: Begin a breathtaking drive to Manali, a scenic Himalayan town nestled in the Beas River Valley. Travel through the lush Kangra Valley, flanked by the majestic Dhauladhar and Shivalik ranges. En route, stop at Palampur to visit the revered Baijnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Admire the intricately carved stonework and the life-sized Nandi bull statue at the entrance. After a rewarding day of travel, arrive in Manali and unwind amidst its cool mountain air.

Meals Included: Breakfast

MANALI

A CULTURAL AND NATURAL GEM: Once an ancient trading hub on the Ladakh route, Manali is now a haven for nature lovers and adventurers. The town seamlessly blends Hindu and Buddhist influences, making it a fascinating stop on your Spiti Valley tour. With your expert guide, visit the Hidimbi Devi Temple, an ancient cave shrine dedicated to the wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata. Surrounded by towering cedar forests, it is one of Manali’s most revered sites. Later, explore the bustling Manali town, where Indian tourists, backpackers, and monks coexist harmoniously. Stroll through lively bazaars, sample local delicacies, or follow scenic walking trails leading into the surrounding mountains.

Meals Included: Breakfast

KAZA

ENTERING THE TRANS-HIMALAYAN REGION: The real adventure of your Spiti Valley Expedition begins as you cross into the high-altitude Spiti Valley, a remote Trans-Himalayan region reminiscent of Ladakh and Tibet. The journey takes you over the Kunzum Pass (4,550m), offering breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and vast, barren landscapes. With every twist and turn, the scenery grows more dramatic—towering cliffs, glacial rivers, and rugged terrains unfold before you. Upon arrival in Kaza (3,800m), acclimatisation is essential, allowing you to adjust to the altitude while soaking in the surreal beauty of this Himalayan wilderness.

Meals Included: Breakfast

KAZA

EXPLORE SPITI VALLEY: Spiti’s stark yet awe-inspiring landscapes are home to some of the oldest monasteries in the Himalayas. With a local expert, visit Ki Monastery, an ancient fortress-like gompa perched dramatically on a hilltop. Over 1,000 years old, it is the largest religious centre in Spiti and a testament to the region’s deep spiritual heritage. Continue to Kibber, a picturesque high-altitude village and a starting point for trekking expeditions and snow leopard safaris in winter. Experience the unique way of life in these remote settlements before returning to Kaza for a relaxed afternoon.

Meals Included: Breakfast

TABO

THE AJANTA OF THE HIMALAYAS: After breakfast, journey towards Tabo, stopping en route at Dhankar Gompa, a breathtaking 1,200-year-old monastery perched precariously on a cliffside. Inside, discover ancient scriptures, intricate statues, and exquisite Thangka paintings. Upon arrival in Tabo, explore its over-1,000-year-old monastery, renowned for its well-preserved frescoes and sculptures. Often referred to as the "Ajanta of the North," it is one of the most significant artistic and spiritual treasures in the Himalayas. Later, take a stroll through Tabo village, known for its Tibetan-style homes and warm hospitality.

Meals Included: Breakfast

KALPA

SCENIC MOUNTAIN VISTAS AND CULTURAL HERITAGE: Travel to Kalpa, with a stop at Nako Village, where you can visit its ancient monastery and the serene Nako Lake, a high-altitude jewel set against the dramatic backdrop of the Himalayas. Situated above the historic Hindustan-Tibet Road, Kalpa boasts magnificent views of Kinnaur-Kailash (6,050m), one of the most sacred peaks in Hindu mythology. With your guide, explore Kalpa village, home to Sapni Fort, known for its exquisite wooden architecture, the Hu-Bu-Lan-Kar Monastery, and the Narayan Nagini Temple, a sacred site dating back to the 10th century.

Meals Included: Breakfast

SANGLA VALLEY

EXPLORING THE SCENIC SANGLA VALLEY: Today, embark on a short yet scenic drive to the stunning Sangla Valley, a Himalayan paradise where the Baspa River winds through lush forests and dramatic cliffs. The valley is flanked by steep, pine-covered slopes that rise to meet snow-clad summits, creating a picture-perfect setting. Spend the afternoon at leisure—breathe in the crisp mountain air, wander through the charming village, or simply relax and take in the spectacular surroundings of one of the most beautiful hidden gems of the Spiti Valley tour.

Meals Included: Breakfast

SANGLA VALLEY

THE LAST INDIAN VILLAGE: Today, embark on an excursion to Chitkul, the final Indian settlement in Sangla Valley. Nestled along the Baspa River, this remote village is surrounded by dense pine forests and towering Himalayan peaks. Beyond Chitkul, the valley opens into lush meadows with breathtaking views of the Greater Himalayas, marking the border between India and Tibet. Take a short hike along the river to Nagasthi, the last civilian-accessible outpost, where the high-altitude landscapes create a surreal backdrop. In the evening, return to Sangla for a bonfire dinner under a starlit sky, reflecting on the beauty of the Spiti Valley tour.

THANEDAR

THE APPLE CAPITAL OF INDIA: Depart the National Highway and ascend to Thanedar, a serene Himalayan village renowned for its lush apple orchards. En route, stop at Sarahan to visit the sacred Bhimkali Temple, an architectural marvel dedicated to Goddess Bhimkali. Upon arrival in Thanedar, explore the quaint village, enjoy scenic nature walks, or simply relax amidst the tranquility of the Himalayan foothills. As evening sets in, gather around a bonfire, enjoying a delicious dinner with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Shimla

THE QUEEN OF HILL STATIONS: Travel through the picturesque Sutlej Valley to reach Shimla, the erstwhile summer capital of British India. This colonial-era town is perched on multiple hills and boasts one of the longest operational narrow-gauge railway routes in the world. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at your hotel before setting out to explore Shimla’s vibrant markets and charming streets at your own pace. Wander through the historic Mall Road, lined with colonial buildings, bustling cafes, and traditional handicraft shops.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Shimla

Shimla

DISCOVERING COLONIAL HERITAGE: After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Shimla’s colonial landmarks. Visit the elegant Tudor-style Library, the historic Christ Church, the grand Gaiety Theatre, and the Rashtrapati Niwas (Viceregal Lodge), once the residence of British India’s Viceroy. In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time strolling through Shimla’s town centre or visiting Wildflower Hall, once Lord Kitchener’s residence, now a luxury retreat with stunning Himalayan views. For adventure seekers, hike to Jakhu Temple, home to a towering Hanuman statue and mischievous monkeys, or play a round of golf at the scenic Naldehra Golf Course, one of India’s oldest mountain courses.

Meals Included: Breakfast

New Delhi

RETURN TO THE CAPITAL: This morning, transfer to Chandigarh Airport for a flight back to Delhi. Upon arrival, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening, reflecting on the unforgettable journey through the Spiti Valley Expedition.

Meals Included: Breakfast

New Delhi

DELHI DEPARTURE

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your extraordinary Spiti Valley tour.

Meals Included: Breakfast