Things to do during winter in Spiti 

This blog is your guide to uncovering that side of Spiti and turning obstacles into opportunities. We’ll help you see what the things to do during winter in Spiti are. 

Why Visit Spiti in Winter 

During winter in Spiti, you get to see landscapes completely covered in snow, rivers that are frozen, and a sky so clear and wide it feels unreal. While the monasteries in summer are bustling with crowds, winter makes them peaceful and quiet, with prayers and rituals echoing, giving you a closer connection. Villages frozen in time with smoke coming out from wooden stoves and locals drinking butter tea. Winter also brings a rare chance to encounter the biodiversity closely, whether it is the elusive snow leopard, blue sheep, or Himalayan fox. All these things can only be found during winter in Spiti in the best possible way. 

Things to Do in Spiti in Winter 

Here are the things you should not miss during your winter escape in Spiti 

Explore Monasteries and Attend Morning Prayers 

Under the glow of butter lamps, the calming atmosphere of each monastery in Spiti is uncovered. You will get to feel the chants of monks, the clearing of snow from the steps, and no crowd to break the deeply moving connection you are forming with them. You can be visiting the largest monastery in spiti valley known to be the centre for Tibetan Buddhism, Key Monastery. When it is covered in snow, it gives you a rare, authentic glimpse into monastic life and ancient practices. 

If you wish to see a dramatically parched monastery on a cliff, that would be Dhankar Monastery. It, along with the solitude you crave, also gives you a view of the surroundings that is unforgettable.  

Discover the frozen beauty of Chandratal Lake 

Often referred to as “Moon Lake”, it is one of Spiti Valley’s most enchanting destinations, especially during the winter months. Being at an altitude of 4250 metres, the lake stays frozen from December through March. The surrounding snow-covered peaks and the serene, frozen lake offer a surreal and tranquil setting, making it a photographer’s paradise. And overnight, although camping is not allowed, nearby villages like Batal offer a better atmosphere to gaze at the stars without prolonged exposure to harsh winter conditions. 

Spot snow leopards in Kibber and Pin Valley 

As fascinating as it may sound, seeing a snow leopard during winter in Spiti is an experience of a lifetime. You can be standing on a spot where you will get to see the ghost of the Himalayas. On a guided venture by expert trackers and local villagers who’ve known these trails for generations, you’ll be learning its story, its patterns, and its role in this fragile ecosystem. 

Visit the world’s highest villages 

Winter travel to Komic, Langza, and Hikkim is like entering a living postcard, with its white, blue, and gold hues. These are among the highest inhabited places in the world, each sitting above 14,000 feet.  

• Komic, often called “the highest village connected by a motorable road,” offers sweeping views of snow-covered valleys.  

• Known for its enormous Buddha statue and prehistoric fossils, Langza transforms into a tranquil white paradise where the sound of prayer flags fluttering can still be heard.  

• Hikkim is home to the world’s highest post office and lets you send a letter literally from the edge of the world.  

In these places you will get to see how life thrives where most of the world wouldn’t dare to.  

Go on a snow trek 

You can get up close and personal with frozen rivers, high-altitude villages, and unspoiled Himalayan scenery by snow trekking. One popular route is the Chandratal Lake Trek, where you trek from Batal to Chandratal, passing through snow-covered ridges and dramatic cliffs. Another is the Kaza to Kibber Village Trail, which offers incredible views of the Pin Valley National Park and a chance to spot wildlife tracks in the snow. Each trail is challenging but incredibly rewarding, making the silence and solitude of winter truly magical. 

Try snowshoeing and ice climbing 

To go a step further than trekking, you can always go for snowshoeing and ice climbing. Snowshoeing is perfect if you wish to go on high-altitude trails without sinking into deep snow. And if you wish for an even more adrenaline rush, nothing can be better than Ice Climbing on Spiti’s frozen waterfalls and icy cliffs. Both activities combine adventure with breathtaking scenery and excitement. 

How to Reach Spiti in Winter 

Reaching Spiti in Winter is difficult but not impossible; it can be reached with a little bit of planning and being informed about the weather and road conditions before you start.  

Route via Shimla 

The most reliable way is via Shimla. You can reach Shimla from Delhi or Chandigarh by bus or train. From Shimla, you drive through Kinnaur, passing towns like Sarahan, Rampur, and Tapri, before reaching Kaza, the main town in Spiti. This route stays open during winter, although heavy snowfall can sometimes cause delays. 

Route via Manali 

The Manali–Kaza route (via Rohtang and Kunzum Pass) is usually closed in winter because of snow, so it’s not an option until summer. 

Permits, Safety & Local Guidelines 

• Indians need an ILP (Inner Line Permit) to enter certain areas in Spiti. 

• Foreign tourists require a Protected Area Permit (PAP), which can be arranged through registered tour operators. 

• Always carry valid ID and permit copies during your journey. 

• Winter roads can be icy and slippery, so drive cautiously or hire experienced local drivers. 

• Avoid abrupt exertion, stay hydrated, and acclimatise gradually because altitude sickness is common. 

• Notify the local government or lodging establishments of your intended itinerary. 

• Observe local wildlife advice, staying on designated trails and avoiding approaching animals, particularly snow leopards. 

Best Winter Stays 

Choosing the perfect stay for your perfect escape in the wilderness of Spiti in winter is a huge problem. To solve this issue of yours, we bring you Eco Hospitality’s three beautiful properties in different regions of Spiti: Maitreya Regency, Mahamaya Regency, and Maitreya Mud House.  

All hotels of Eco Hospitality are designed to blend comfort with the raw beauty of Spiti’s winter landscapes. Each property emphasises sustainable practices, like solar heating and locally sourced meals, ensuring your stay is eco-friendly while supporting the local community. Our accommodations take the guesswork and stress out of organising your winter vacation to Spiti, thanks to our well-trained staff, convenient location, and winter-ready amenities. 

Conclusion 

Now that you know what winter in Spiti truly offers, don’t you think it’s time to stop picturing yourself having the best time of your life in snow and start experiencing it? Wander through snow-covered monasteries, sip warm butter tea in the highest villages on Earth, and trace the pawprints of a snow leopard. Book your stay with Eco Hospitality on our official website for the best experience, and plan your trip to Spiti in winter today!  

Layer up and let the magic of Spiti transform your winter into something extraordinary.