How To Reach Spiti

About Lahaul-Spiti

The Buddhist arrival in Lahaul-Spiti took place around the 8th century AD along with the Indian Missionary Padmasambhava. Upper Lahaul, Spiti, and Zanskar have been incorporated into the kingdom of Western Tibet. Rinchen Zangpo founded some of the Buddhist learning centers, which include institutes in Spiti Valley & Tabo. Tabo is considered one of the most prominent monasteries in North India. When the kings of Ladakh were defeated by Mongolian and Tibetan armies around the 18th century, the region was divided into surrounding powers. Lower Lahaul came under the kings of Chamba, Upper Lahaul came under the kings of Kullu, and Spiti became a part of Ladakh due to its isolated location. In 1847, the Dogra kings took over Ladakh and Spiti. The British administration took over Kashmir, Kullu along with Lahaul as a subdivision of the Kingdom of Kangra. However, all the regions maintained a healthy relationship with Tibet. Tibetan government in Dharamshala, helped Spiti to retain religious and cultural life. The gompas at Lahaul and Spiti are being maintained and money from the tourism industry and hydroelectricity are used to improve the condition of native people who are affected by heavy snowfall in winters. Lahaul and Spiti district is not only enchanting but quite peculiar. The district is the largest in Himachal Pradesh area-wise but is least densely inhabited thus making it a tranquil location for tourists around the globe. Spiti Valley can also be described as a cold desert in the mountains with its location not far from Tibet. The literal meaning of the word ‘Spiti’ means ‘The middle land’ and the land is between India and Tibet. The floor elevation of the valley ranges from 2,950–4,100 m (9,680–13,450 ft) above sea level which is one of the reasons this valley is untainted. Witness some amazing Buddhist monasteries, fluttering flags, serene landscapes, and several Buddhist monks praying with their wheels. The valley has some of the oldest monasteries like Key and Tabo, which are also known to be favorites of the Dalai Lama. A famous local folk song says “Do not go to Kaza, you will find your love here.”, and it seems true because you will fall in love with this enchanting place

How To Reach Lahul-Spiti

Lahaul & Spiti Valley By Air

Chandigarh(IXC) is the nearest airport to Spiti and there is also an option to go by helicopter, you can find helipads at different destinations like Rampur, Kaza, Nako, and many other places.

Regular flights from New Delhi to Chandigarh: Air India, Vistara, Indigo, Go First.
Regular flights from Mumbai to Chandigarh: Indigo, Vistara, Go First.

Time Taken by fastest flights:

New Delhi to Chandigarh: 45 minutes approximately.
Mumbai to Chandigarh: 2 hours 20 minutes approximately.

Lahaul & Spiti Valley By Train

Kalka(KLK) & Chandigarh(CDG) are the nearest broad gauge railway stations and Shimla(SML) is also the nearest toy train station. (narrow gauge).

Trains from New Delhi to Chandigarh: Unchahar Express, Himalayan Queen Express, Kerala Sampark Kranti Express,etc.
Trains from Mumbai to Chandigarh: Kerala Sampark Kranti Express, Paschim SF Express, Goa Sampark Kranti Express, etc.

Time Taken By The Fastest Train:

New Delhi to Chandigarh: 3 hours 25 minutes approximately.
Mumbai to Chandigarh: 22 hours 20 minutes approximately.

Lahaul & Spiti Valley By Road

The road trip to Lahaul and Spiti is remarkable when it comes to an adventurous trip. A bike trip is a must to do and also the best way to explore Lahaul and Spiti. You can also have an option to take a state tourism bus but for that, you need to be on time.
Planning to visit in April, May, June there is one route open.
There are two routes to reach Spiti Valley.
Via Manali and Rohtang Pass(First route, which is close during winter)
Via Shimal-Reckong Peo-Nako- Tabo via Kinnaur(it is open throughout the year)
Delhi to Spiti distance approx 710 KMs it will take 16Hrs 40minutes to reach Spiti Valley.

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