1. Hampta Pass and Chandratal trek
When it comes to Trekking in Spiti valley, one of the most unmissable trails is the Hampta pass leading up to Chandratal lake. Located at 14000 feet above sea level, the pass connects the Kullu valley to the Spiti Valley.
The trail itself is extremely picturesque. The serpentine path winds across the magnificent Pir Panjal mountains and ends in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas. The variety of landscapes that you experience as the trial progresses is what makes this trek a simply unparalleled experience.
From the green meadows of Kullu and Manali to the bare landscape of the Lahaul region, you can literally feel the ground changing underneath your feet. But what will steal your heart is the destination – the turquoise blue Chandratal lake which has mesmerized many travellers over the years.
The pristine waters of the lake, the disconnect you feel from the rest of the world, the natural splendour of the forests surrounding the lake, and the reflection of the majestic Himalayas in the waters – it will all make you feel as if you have stepped into a fairytale world.
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 days
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
Average Cost: INR 8500 per person
2. Bhrigu Lake Trek
Featuring a significant climb of nearly 6,000 feet from the Gulaba village located at 8,000 feet above sea level to the pristine Bhrigu Lake at a height of 14,000 feet – this Spiti valley trek is known for its adrenaline releasing adventures and picturesque landscapes.
The lush green forests and aromatic orchards of Gulaba village form a pleasing starting point for this trail. As you climb towards the lake, you will get to walk through the beautiful jungles featuring groves and pine and deodar trees.
The snowy peaks of the Pir Panjal mountains will please your eyes and the fresh mountain air will calm your senses. Now, the landscape will start getting more barren as you move upwards.
During the trek, you will also get a glimpse of the Seven Sisters Peaks, the Deo Tibba, and the Hanuman Tibba. What’s more, you will camp at an altitude that is the same as the Rohtang Pass, the highest motorable road in the world. Who wouldn’t want to brag about that!
At the end of the trek is a high altitude glacial lake that will delight and mesmerize you. Legend says that Maharishi Bhrigu used to meditate here, hence the lake is now considered sacred.
If you wish, you can also stop at the hot Sulphur spring near Vashisht on your way back. It will be a calming and relaxing experience to take a dip into the hot water at the spring.
Trek Duration: 4 days
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
Average Cost: INR 7000 per person
3. Kheerganga Trek
One of the easiest Spiti valley trek, Kheerganga trail is perfect for beginners who don’t have a lot of experience in trekking. The achingly beautiful Parvati valley, along with pristine views of the Tosh river, the glacier of Lahaul valley, and the majestic Himalayan peaks await you at this trail.
The trek starts in Barsheni village, the meeting point of Parvati and Tosh rivers. As the trial proceeds, you will be walking along the top of the ridge, and you can expect some tricky terrains like difficult descents, crossing gorges, and walking along the gushing Beas river – but the overall trail is still easier than other trails in the valley.
You will also get to see many interesting sights such as the Shiv temple and the Rudra Nag waterfall which looks like a serpent. Enjoy the views of ancient shrines, and go through quaint tribal hamlets with beautiful wooden homes. You will also get to see many marijuana fields on the path.
Stretched out amongst beautiful green fields and rocky outcrops, the vistas of this trek will leave you spellbound.
Trek Duration: 2 to 4 days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Average Cost: INR 2000 per person
4. Pin Parvati Trek
Starting at the Barsheni village, this Spiti valley trek features a variety of fascinating views of the region.
You will reach the maximum height of 5300 meters during this trek, and you will be crossing the lovely green valleys of Kullu, steep slopes, barren mountains, gushing rivers and dramatic landscapes of the Spiti Valley. The Pin Parvati pass links the Parvati valley of Kullu to the Pin Valley of Spiti, hence the name.
The most exciting part of this trek is that you will get to witness abundant natural beauty in your path. Dense alpine forests and colourful meadows full of flowers await you in Parvati valley. As you head to Rudranath and then Khirganag, you will witness the barren Himalayas and beautiful villages.
Soak in the striking views of snowy peaks as you cross over to Spiti Valley. You can also visit the Pin Valley National Park and the Great Himalayan National Park on your way, where you can catch a glimpse of some indigenous Himalayan flora.
Trek Duration: 11 days
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
Average Cost: INR 5700
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