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Himachal Pradesh

Top Things to Do in Spiti Valley in 2025

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Things to Do in Spiti Valley: Adventure Awaits in the Himalayas

Have you ever dreamed of visiting a place filled with towering mountains, tranquil villages, and clear blue skies? Spiti Valley is an enchanting destination in Himachal Pradesh. Visitors can discover a variety of wondrous things to do in Spiti Valley, such as exploring monasteries, searching for fossils, and stargazing. A thrilling bike trip is one of the best ways to uncover this magnificent region, unveiling breathtaking vistas at every turn. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can choose a Spiti Valley tour package for a smooth and organised journey. Spiti welcomes every traveller with open arms and unforgettable experiences.

Best Things to Do in Spiti Valley

Here, you will find some of the best activities in to enjoy on a Spiti Valley bike trip that create unforgettable travel memories. From serene monasteries to thrilling adventures, everyone will find something to cherish in this destination.

1. Visit Key Monastery

Visiting the ancient Key Monastery, named Kye Gompa, ranks among the top things to do in Spiti Valley. Proudly resting on a hilltop for 1000 years, this ancient Tibetan Buddhist monastery appears like it is a carving of a fairy tale. The monastery consists of peaceful prayer halls where visitors can meet friendly monks and even choose to stay at night. The panorama from the high location becomes truly exceptional during sunrise. A visit to this venue offers educational experiences, and visitors can find both peace and photography opportunities.

2. Explore Chandratal Lake

Among all things to do in Spiti Valley, camping next to Chandratal Lake ranks as one of the most ethereal activities. Under the moonlit sky, the shimmering water creates the illusion of a mirror. During the daytime, the lake exhibits a visible transition from blue to green. The complete surround of snowy peaks and total silence transforms this place into the ultimate spot for observing stars. The destination is accessible after a brief walking trek from the parking area. Stay overnight in camps near the lake for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that feels nothing less than magical.

3. Experience Life in Kaza

Kaza stands as the leading town, which serves as the starting point for every adventure in Spiti Valley. It’s a blend of old-world charm and modern comforts. Visitors can roam through Kaza’s markets, where they can try momos and thukpa alongside opportunities to interact with locals and even rent bikes. Warm food and lovely views await visitors at The Himalayan Café and Sol Café. People planning a road trip or needing basic supplies should make Kaza their first stop because it provides all the necessities.

4. Fossil Hunting in Langza

Fossil hunting in Langza stands as one of the most exciting things to do in Spiti Valley for those who love mysteries. Millions of years ago, this area was under the sea. Now, the mountains hide ancient marine fossils like ammonites and shells. Hire a local guide who will accompany you on hill walks and help you to find genuine fossils sticking out from the rock surfaces. You can choose to purchase ancient fossils from residents, which serve as unique souvenir options.

5. See the Mummy at Gue Village

One of the most unique things to do in Spiti Valley is visiting Gue Village, where you’ll find a real 500-year-old mummy! You can witness a genuine monk mummy that naturally protects itself and is displayed in an enclosed glass case. Some believe that meditation enabled the monk to become self-mummified. The journey to Gue village provides beautiful natural scenery, and the place remains less crowded, making it a hidden destination. This mystical and spiritual site reveals a distinct side of Spiti that stays in your memory forever.

6. Trek to Dhankar Lake

Trekking to Dhankar Lake stands as the supreme peaceful outdoor experience within Spiti Valley. Starting at Dhankar Monastery, you can reach the destination in 1.5 hours by trekking. The lake exists deep within mountain territory, untouched by humans. Very few tourists visit these locations, which means you could become one with the surroundings. You can find the entire area to be an ideal location for a picnic because it allows quiet contemplation of nature. When visiting this site, remember to bring water, snacks, and wear comfortable footwear because the terrain contains stone pathways.

7. Spot Wildlife in Kibber

Looking for adventurous things to do in Spiti Valley? Try spotting snow leopards in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. Kibber maintains its position as the world’s highest permanently settled village and simultaneously serves as a habitat for ibex, blue sheep, and Himalayan wolves. One can observe snow leopards during winter months, and summer offers suitable conditions for hiking. Local guides organise wildlife tours, and even if you don’t spot a leopard, the mountain views and fresh air are worth it.

8. Take a Thrilling Bike Trip

A bike trip rates as one of the most exhilarating things to do in Spiti Valley. Riding through twisting paths while crossing rivers and visiting traditional settlements under the protective gaze of mountains becomes an unforgettable experience. You can stop at monasteries, lakes, and local cafes during your journey.  Riding on two wheels will create a memory you will never forget.

Conclusion

This region of Spiti Valley holds various stunning surprises, along with tranquillity and remarkable scenic views. Whether you are riding through its high mountain roads, walking through quiet villages, or sitting under a sky full of stars, every moment here feels special. Numerous things to do in Spiti Valley welcome all types of travellers seeking adventure, experiencing natural beauty, local culture, and enjoying tranquillity. It’s a place where time slows down, and your heart feels full. So pack your bags, take the road less travelled, and let Spiti Valley fill your heart with unforgettable memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.     What is Spiti Valley famous for?

Spiti Valley is famous for its natural surroundings, ancient monasteries, and soaring peaks.

2.     How many days are enough for Spiti Valley?

A trip of 5 to 7 days is ideal for exploring Spiti Valley, which includes acclimatisation, exploration, and travel across challenging terrain.

3.     Is oxygen low in Spiti Valley?

Yes, Spiti Valley has low oxygen levels because it is located at a height of 4,270 meters (14,010 ft).

4.     Can we see the Milky Way in Spiti Valley?

Yes, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye throughout Spiti Valley from September to February.

Bangalore day trips, Nature & Wildlife, Statewise Travel, Tamil Nadu

A Weekend Adventure: Hiking to Ankushagiri Fort

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On yet another weekend, we were off on yet another hiking expedition. This time, we went to a lesser-known trail on Hosur-Krishnagiri road. The initial plan was to hike to ‘Aiyur Sami Lake’, a day hike organized by the Eco-tourism wing of the Tamil-Nadu tourism department. However, their site was not accepting registrations due to unknown reasons, and hence, we decided to randomly pick a hill around the region on Google Maps and hike it up. That’s when we came across the Ankushagiri fort.

Following the route indicated on Google Maps, we arrived at the base of the start point of the ascent to Ankushagiri. There is a Perumal temple and, hence, a proper space for vehicle parking. Since we arrived on a Saturday morning in the winter months, some pilgrims had already arrived to worship the chief deity here. However, we skipped the temple visit and began our hike toward the fort that was located (once upon a time) on the hilltop.

Ankushagiri Fort and Perumal Temple at Tamil Nadu
The ruins of the ancient temple at the base of Ankushagiri Hike

At the beginning of the hike route, there is an ancient structure, now in a dilapidated condition. Today, the Sanctorum lay empty with wild bushes and creepers taking over what once must have been a grand temple. The motifs on the walls of the two adjacent temple structures indicated both Perumal and Shiva.

Ankushagiri Fort and Perumal Temple at Tamil Nadu
The ruins of the ancient temple at the base of Ankushagiri Hike

We went ahead from there and stopped after a brief walk. We were confused about the correct trail which seemed to split at a point from where either of them needed some more wear. We casually picked a path and continued to walk on the trail where the thorny bushes then opened to a rocky terrain. The rock looked interesting with varying patterns all over.

At the top, there were massive cacti plants dotting the area around an abandoned ancient temple structure. Only the pillars remained with the tall Garuda stambha lying down on the side and a stoneware that appeared to be an urn or a waterpot. Some previous visitors to this place had written ‘Someshwara Swamy Temple’ on the stoneware pot for our reference. We rested beside the temple on the large open rock bed overlooking the landscape. The gentle wind caressed our faces while we watched the hills appear one by one at a distance amid the clearing fog.

Ankushagiri Fort and Perumal Temple at Tamil Nadu
The ruins of Someshwara Swamy temple at the peak of Ankushagiri fort

After relaxing for a while and munching on some fruits and nuts that we had carried with us, we proceeded toward the next part of the hill. The trail was beautiful with a rocky gorge on one side and huge cacti lining the path on the other. There, we arrived at a single electric pole that stood in the middle of a heap of ruins of what appeared to be an old fort. Although a circular marking can still be seen to date, only a few large pillars, a few hero-stones like inscriptions, and a couple of kolam designs engraved on the floor were all that existed for us to decipher what might have been the real grandeur, expanse and the purpose of the structure there. Almost little to no history is available to us about who or how this place had served.

Ankushagiri Fort and Perumal Temple at Tamil Nadu
Ankushagiri Hike

Anyway, it was a very interesting outing for us to explore a place so lost in an area where we were the only humans in kilometers around us. We spent ample time there before descending back to the base. We photographed several other patterns on the rocks before arriving at the same bushy junction where we had chosen to take the random path for our ascent.

Upon our return, we paid a quick visit to the Perumal temple before heading back to the city.