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Are you considering embarking on a budget trip to Spiti Valley? Well, better book your tickets because this is the only guide you will ever need! Honestly, with summer approaching, the ideal vacation would be a long drive to Spiti.
Among its many attractions are some of the world's highest settlements and the most inaccessible landscapes. But what will truly wow you are the sights of monasteries atop hills and desolate wasteland. Savour all these towering views with a Spiti budget trip! The Spiti Valley, also called "Little Tibet" due to its location high in the Himalayas, is a breathtaking tourist attraction, and a multitude of tourists flock to the place, which is reminiscent of a magical realm.
Our pitch - Spiti on a budget—epic views, tiny bills
Whether you are a first-time traveller or have been away for a while, you should definitely give a budget trip to Spiti Valley a try! Spiti has everything you might want in a vacation spot: stunning natural scenery, a vibrant historical culture, old monasteries, and exciting outdoor activities. All of this has helped boost tourism in Spiti Valley over the years.
The ideal time to visit Spiti Valley
When planning a budget trip to Spiti Valley, it is essential to know the best seasons! The best time to plan your trip is during the summer, when most businesses are open and accessible. The monsoons and harsh winters are not the best times to drive alone (albeit the scenery is quite breathtaking at these times). If you can, go in the summer (April–July) or fall (October–November). Spiti Valley may be reached in two ways: first, via Shimla and Kinnaur; second, by Manali and Kunzum Pass. During winter, the road via Manali is closed (often by the end of October or the beginning of November). Even if this route is available during the summer, it is recommended to go by the Shimla/Kinnaur side to adjust to the high altitude, and then return via the Manali way.
How to get there: Transportation for every budget!
Here is a breakdown of your transportation options for your budget trip to Spiti Valley.
- Taking the Bus: The main town in Spiti Valley may be reached by one of two roads. From Shimla and Manali, you may take a bus to Kaza, your final destination, thanks to the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC). This is the best option for a Spiti Valley budget trip! Daily bus service is available from Shimla to Kaza, and the fare ranges from around ₹500 to ₹600 per person. The journey is adorned with picturesque landscapes and charming towns. Even though there are limited buses on this route, the fee to travel from Manali to Kaza is roughly ₹250 to ₹400. The closing of the Rohtang Pass makes it difficult to board a bus in the winter.
- Ridesharing Vehicles: Take use of the shared taxis that run between Manali and Shimla instead of wasting time looking for a bus to Spiti. On the other hand, you'd have to shell out more cash to get that added luxury. These cabs typically cost between ₹1000 and ₹1500 per person.
Good to know: Your car trip to Spiti has, at best, spotty wifi. In most major cities and villages, you should be able to get a good signal from either Airtel or Jio, so be sure to have enough data. You can stay connected even in the most distant areas thanks to the excellent 3G and 4G connectivity available in major hubs like Kalpa and Kaza.
Welcome to Spiti! You’re here- now where to stay?
The first thing that comes to mind when we travel is accommodation! Hostel costs are starting to match hotel pricing; you may want to look into alternative options if you're searching for a cheaper place to stay. Hostels are our top pick! Zostel Spiti has great, affordable bunk bed alternatives that we highly recommend!
All that travel must have made you hungry – here’s where to eat!
No need to splurge; a more frugal choice would suffice. Some restaurants and foods that won't break the bank and would be the best inclusion for your budget trip to Spiti Valley!
- DIY: If you're considering staying at a hotel or guesthouse, it's advisable to prepare your own food. Kaza's local market has all your grocery needs and more, and it's cheap.
- Savour local food at homestays: Homestays and guesthouses in Spiti Valley provide guests with delicious, freshly prepared meals that reflect the local cuisine. You can ask your host if your homestay already includes the cost of food.
- Nearby Restaurants and Dhabas: How could you possibly visit Himachal and not sample some of the regional specialities, such as butter tea, momos, and thukpa? Oh no! My buddy, you're not paying attention. For meals that cost between ₹150 and ₹250, dine at tiny restaurants and local dhabas.
Need travel itinerary ideas? We've got you!
Take advantage of Kaza's proximity to some of Spiti's top attractions and go on a scenic trip for at least two days. The following are some must-visit locations:
- Hikkim, site of the world's tallest post office Langza, possessor of a magnificent Buddha statue and a number of breathtaking local treks
- Perched on a mountaintop sits Key Monastery, a place of surreal beauty. Komic, renowned as the world's highest settlement, offers visitors the chance to explore the monastery, meet the monks, and even dine at the in-house cafe.