What Spiti feels like in the monsoon: 6 must-do experiences

Spiti Valley is a great alternative to Ladakh if you are keen to take a detour. It is a cold desert with breathtaking views that thrives in rain, and turns into a photographer’s paradise. It’s a must-visit destination during monsoon time, as the clouds over the valley create surreal scenery and even the riverbeds and waterfalls swell during this time. Here are some must-do experiences that will take your trip to the next level.

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Monsoon is the ideal time to visit the monasteries here, when the ambience turns peaceful and is less crowded. You can interact with monks and ask questions about the existence and meaning of life. A must-visit monastery is the Key Monastery located above Kaza; it is the largest monastery in Spiti. It is also known for its beautiful murals, thankas, rare manuscripts, stucco images, and peculiar wind instruments. All those looking for a rejuvenating experience must visit the monasteries of Spiti for some peaceful time.

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This place is home to some of the surreal lakes that you would need to see to believe us. These lakes located in the valley have their own unique charm and beauty. The most famous one is the Chandratal Lake, which is a favourite among adventure lovers, as one has to trek to this lake and the routes are surrounded by natural beauty. Dhankar Lake is also quite popular among tourists, as one can visit the Dhankar Monastery along with it. Both of these lakes have meadows around them, so while trekking in the green mountains of Spiti, one can look at the Himalayan wildflowers too.

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This is one of the most exciting things to do in Spiti Valley. The village of Hikkim is located between Komik and Langza village. It has the world’s highest post office, located at 14,400 ft above sea level. This post office has been in existence since 1983. You can send a postcard back home, which will be a cherished memory for you for a lifetime, and also explore the tiny village of Hikkim and see the culture and conditions of people living in extreme conditions.

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The La Darcha Fair is a celebration of trade and commerce between the Himalayan lands of Lahaul, Spiti, Ladakh, Rampur, Kinnaur, Bhutan, and Tibet. This fair gives you a glimpse of the undiscovered culture, artefacts, handicrafts, and other exquisite goods produced here. This festival mostly takes place during July, the monsoon season. The perfect time to visit Spiti, as it is less crowded, with perfectly green mountains and blooming flora, and you can also experience the vibrant festival of the valley.

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Visiting homestays during monsoon season is the perfect time, as you can build a deeper bond with the host families—an immersive and soulful experience. Hosts would tell you local stories while you relish authentic delicacies of Spiti at these homestays. Mostly, these homestays are mud-brick or stone houses with wood stoves. You’ll get a more authentic experience of traditions and culture if you stay in homestays. Homestays are located mostly in Kaza, Kibber, Langza, or Losar villages of the valley.

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During the monsoon season, you can enjoy the serene beauty and also feel a sense of adrenaline. The landscape shifts from dry desert to roaring waterfalls along the Shimla–Spiti and Manali–Spiti routes, where you can capture loads of aesthetic photos. You can also spot the alpine wildflowers and green meadows while travelling on the road. As the cold air hits your face, if you’re lucky, you might also sight a snow leopard on the road.

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