Lahaul and Spiti The Middle Land Himachal Pradesh.

Spiti literally means 'the Middle Land', situated between the region of India and the adjoining borders of the Tibet region of China, in the eastern part of the state of Himachal Pradesh. Strictly for trekkers and hikers, this is an adventurer's paradise. The terrain of this place is quite high and difficult. The Lahaul and Spiti district comprises of both the valleys which are separated by Kunzum pass. Popularly known as the cold desert mountain, "Middle Land" or "Little Tibet", Spiti Valley can be more aptly called as Trekking mecca and a virgin paradise. Nestled in the Himalayan range in Himachal Pradesh, this desert terrain is sure to spellbind you. Further inward, ancient monasteries, quaint little habitations, snow-capped mountains, verdure forests, crystal clear rivers and magnificent glaciers make this picture perfect valley all the more enthralling and surreal. The breath-taking views and the untouched natural beauty will make your visit a once in a lifetime experience.

The Lahaul and Spiti district comprises of both the valleys which are separated by Kunzum pass. One of the most unexplored destinations in Himachal Pradesh, Spiti or Spiti valley is located at a very high altitude in the eastern part of Himachal Pradesh. This region is a desert mountain valley and is known for its beautiful monasteries and untouched natural beauty. The terrain of Spiti Valley is highly difficult and the entire region becomes completely isolated during the winters. A visit to Spiti would
remain incomplete without visiting the monasteries here. The Ki/Key Monastery and the Dhankar Monastery are must visits. For adventure enthusiasts, there are a few trekking trails and mountain biking routes that they must go for. The Chandratal lake and Surajtal lakes are some of the most beautiful lakes in the world and are among the highest lakes in the world. This region plays host to a number of festivals which are all celebrated with a lot of fervour, which includes burning of the devil, chaam dance and Pauri festival.

Culture and Traditions of Spiti

Spiti Valley is the middle land between India and Tibet. It has mixed culture and traditions of both the nations. It is a research centre for Buddhist due to its innumerable monasteries and temples. Tabo Monastery is the favourite of Dalai Lama and one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the world. It is home to the few surviving Buchen Lamas of the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism. The life at Spiti often leads to monastic forms of living for most of its inhabitants.People of Spiti are superstitious- they talk of healing trees, spirits and monks possessing magical powers.People celebrate the local festivals and fairs.Tribal fair Keylong coincides with the Indian Independence day, falling between
14th to 16th of August; in which cultural troupes are invited to perform the state arts from Chandigarh, Dharamshala etc. There is also Ladarcha fair held annually in July.Traders from Ladakh, Rampur Busher and Spiti, meet to barter their produce.

Spiti literally means ‘middle land’ as it is bordered by Tibet in the east, Ladakh to the north, Kinnaur to the south east and Lahaul and Kullu to the south.Situated at an average
height of around 12,500 feet above mean sea level, Spiti lies along the Himalayan river of the same name. Cut off from the tourist map because of its remoteness, Spiti, along with its twin valley of Lahaul, has retained its pristine charm. Spiti and Lahaul are sub-divisions in Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh.Even if you are not interested, a trip to villages situated around Spiti can be an interesting experience. Kunzum Pass, the gateway to Spiti, leads to the Bara-Sigri glacier, the second longest glacier in the world.Monasteries and gompas represent the ancient culture and tradition of Spiti. Tabo Monastery, one of the oldest Buddhism centers in western Himalaya, is located here. Murals of Tabo monasteries are quite similar to Ajanta paintings. Lamas practice dance, sing and play musical instrument or enchanting mantras.

Spiti remains snowbound during winter. The closure of Kunzum Pass results in Spiti remaining cut-off from the rest of the country. With temperatures falling below 15 degree Celsius and even
locals remain in their houses and venture out only if absolutely necessary. The locals stock food supplies to last the winter and utilize their time to produce handicrafts.

PLACES TO STAY IN SPITI
Accommodation options are limited. For accommodation; government as well as private guest houses, are available at Kaza, Tabo, Losar, Samd, Poh and Sagna in Spiti.

Homestays, however, are the best way to acquaint yourself with the local traditions and culture. It also helps that your money doesn’t just go to the owner of the home but also to the community.
Homestay facilities are available in six villages – Langza, Komic, Demul, Lhalung, Dhankar and Mikkim.

However, Lahaul and Spiti are the famous attractions in Himachal Pradesh that offer a wonderful experience to all the tourists who visit these places. The lush green valley, the cold desert and the blend of Buddhism and Hindusim make Lahaul Spiti a worth place visiting in India.

Best Time to Visit
Summer season is the best time to visit Lahaul and Spiti which starts from May and lasts till the month of October.

How to Reach

By Air
Kullu Airport at Kullu is the nearest airport. One can board a taxi or rickshaw from the airport to reach the destination.

By Train
Shimla is the nearest railway station. One can hire cabs and Jeeps to reach Spiti. Buses are also available to the destination from the station.

By Road
As there is no access to airport and railway in Spiti, it can only be reached by the means of roads.The roads in Spiti are almost open throughout the year. In any case one can check the itinerary as some of the roads are closed for 6 months.