Summer holidays are going on in which many people plan to visit cold places. In such a situation, many people also like to visit Spiti Valley these days, which is a cold desert located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The word Spiti means 'The Middle Land' because Spiti Valley separates India from Tibet. Situated at an altitude of 12,500 feet, this place has a very low population and is like a paradise for people who like adventure. The beauty of the valley is very soothing to the eyes, the ancient lakes pass and the blue skies here attract people a lot. If you are also planning to visit Spiti Valley, then first know about some of the best places here.
Chandratal Lake
Chandratal Lake is often counted among the most beautiful lakes located at an altitude of about 4300 meters in the Himalayas. This spectacular lake is located on the Samudra Tapu Plateau in the Lahaul region of Lahaul and Spiti district and is the source of the Chandra River. The name "Chandra Tal" (Lake of the Moon) is due to its crescent shape. This lake is one of the two high-altitude wetlands in India that have been designated as Ramsar sites. This lake attracts many adventure tourists.
Kai Monastery
Kai Monastery is a famous Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the Lahaul and Spiti districts of India. Kai Monastery is located at an altitude of 4,166 meters above sea level and is very close to the Spiti River in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. Also known as Kai Monastery and Key Monastery, it is believed to have been founded by Dromton, who was a student of the famous teacher Atisha in the 11th century.
Valley National Park
Valley National Park is located in the Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. The height of this park ranges from 3500 meters to its peak of 6000 meters. In this national park, you will get to see rare animals like Himalayan snow leopards. This park is famous for its incredible track which is the main attraction for the tourists here. In this park, you will get to see more than 20 species of flora and fauna, and the track of this park remains covered with snow most of the time because there is a lot of snowfall here. Many species of birds also live here.
Dhankar Monastery
Dhankar Gompa or Dhankar Monastery is located at an altitude of 12,774 feet above sea level. It is one of the nine major Buddhist holy temples in the region. It was built by the Gelugpa School of Order, which is more than a thousand years old. This monastery is located on a cliff between Kaza and Tabo. An amazing view of the Spiti River can be seen from here. The monastery houses a statue of 'Vairocana' which has four statues of Buddha seated in four directions, along with ancient paintings, murals, and scriptures
Kunzum Pass
It is one of the highest motorable mountain passes in India, located at an altitude of 4,551 m above sea level. This beautiful pass serves as the gateway to Spiti Valley from Kullu and Lahaul and is about 122 km from Manali. From Kunzum Pass, there is a 15 km trek to the famous Chandratal Lake (Moon Lake). It is believed that tourists have to stop near the temple of Goddess Kunzum Devi on the way to pay their respects and seek her blessings to travel safely through the rugged terrain. The belief here is that travelers have to make a full round of the temple in their vehicle.
Kaza
Kaza is the capital of the Spiti district. It is located on the flood plains of the Spiti River. The area is surrounded by mountains on both sides and is the most populated part of Spiti Valley. Apart from the breathtaking views, there are also facilities like rest houses, hotels, health centers, and markets. Every tourist feels peace after coming to this city.
Suraj Tal
Suraj Tal is the third largest lake in India located at an altitude of 4950 meters above sea level. Located in Spiti Valley, Suraj Tal means, ‘Lake of the Sun God’. The stunning lake just below the Baralacha Pass is a must-visit while visiting this region. Suraj Tal Lake is one of the dream-like and photogenic lakes.
Trilokinath Temple
The Trilokinath Temple holds religious significance among both Tibetan Buddhists and Hindus. The temple is located on a rock at the end of a lane in Tunde village. Although you can visit here anytime, the best time to visit is August when the three-day Pauri festival is celebrated here.
Kibbar
Kibbar, also known as Kibber, is a small village located in Spiti Valley at an altitude of 4270 meters in Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and barren landscapes, Kibber claims to be the highest village with a motorable road. Kibber is known for its local monastery and the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. Its high altitude and pollution-free environment make it a perfect spot for photographers.
Tabo Monastery
Standing tall and strong at an altitude of 10,000 feet, Tabo Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries located in the Tabo village of Spiti Valley. It is the oldest monastery in India and the Himalayas that has been continuously flocked by people since its inception. This fascinating monastery is famous as the 'Ajanta of the Himalayas', as the walls of the monastery are decorated with fascinating murals and ancient paintings that look like the Ajanta caves in Maharashtra.
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