Spiti currently is one of the top travel destinations in India, thanks to its impeccable vistas. And There are lots of dreamy places to visit in Spiti. But there are extremely beautiful places and locales to visit near Spiti which are equally breathtaking and picturesque.
Therefore, I have compiled a list of 31 beautiful places to visit near Spiti which are just mind-blowing. I have experienced the beauty of these places and trust me you’ll surely fall in love with these places as well.
31 Incredible Places To Visit Near Spiti
Spiti valley is full of scenic places. From pretty high altitude villages like Kibber to Ancient monasteries like Dhankar, Spiti has it all. But there are several places to visit near Spiti which are equally picturesque.
So for this list I have considered places near Spiti within 300 km distance from Kaza. So these includes a lot of places in Lahaul and Kinnaur which is quiet obvious as both of them are the neighboring valleys of Spiti
And In case, If you are yet to visit spiti, then these 27 practical travel tips to Spiti will definitely help you out.
1. Chitkul – The Last Village Of India
Chitkul is probably one of the most famous places in Kinnaur and Himachal. The landscape of Chitkul is just otherworldly with huge mountains and beautiful river Baspa at dizzying altitude of 13,000 ft
While most of the travelers include it in their Spiti trip I would not recommend doing so. In fact, Kinnaur can be on its a own, a 10-15 day trip.
Chitkul is around 246 km from Kaza. You have to take diversion from Hindustan-Tibet road towards Baspa valley at Karcham to reach Chitkul. Local buses run from Reckong Peo daily towards Chitkul.
Chitkul is the last village of India bordering Tibet. Known for the exquisite views of High mountains, the overcast and rainy conditions made sure that I was up for disappointment. But this beautiful structure which is probably a fort or temple, really cheered me up.
2. Sangla – The Jewel Of Baspa Valley
Situated at around 9000 ft, this famous Kinnauri hamlet in Baspa valley attracts a lot of travelers every year due its exquisite beauty. Kamru fort in Sangla is one of the famous attractions. Kamru was once the capital of Bushahri Kingdom.
Sangla is around 224 km from Kaza and is located on the same road which leads towards Chitkul.
You have to take diversion from Hindustan-Tibet road towards Baspa valley at Karcham to reach Sangla. Local buses run from Reckong Peo daily towards Sangla.
Sangla located in Baspa valley is one the popular places to visit near Spiti. The monsoon month of July does not really make for good pictures. But trust me the place is indeed picturesque.
3. Reckong Peo – The Administrative Capital Of Kinnaur
Reckong Peo is the most important town and is district headquarters of Kinnaur. The setting of the town is absolutely amazing with high mountains all around.
Since it is the main town in Kinnaur you’ll get the relevant buses to visit Spiti and Baspa valley, As well as to the remote villages of Upper and Lower Kinnaur. It is around 198 km from Kaza on Shimla- Kaza road.
On the way to Kalpa from Reckong Peo. Reckong Peo is the district headquarters of Kinnaur and the one of the biggest towns as well.
4. Kalpa – Witness The Holy Kinner Kailash From This Scenic Village
Kalpa is one of the most amazing places to visit near Spiti. Located at around 9000 ft it is just 10 km away from district headquarters at Reckong Peo.
Kalpa is famous for its incredible wooden temples, Buddhist monasteries and incredible views of sacred Kinner-Kailash peak.
It is situated around 210 km from Kaza. And you can get local bus to Kalpa from Reckong Peo.
5. Roghi – Witness The Breath-Taking Views Of Kinnaur Valley
Roghi is a small village just 5 km from Kalpa and is famous for a scenic point also known as a suicide point due to steep drop for more than 1000 ft.
If you around Kalpa, then this one of the best places to visit to get observe some scary yet picturesque landscapes. Roghi is around 213 km from Kapla.
Roghi is one of the famous places near Kalpa. On the way to village, there is scary gorge which is known as Suicide point.
6. Nako – The Famous Scenic Village Of Upper Kinnaur
Nako is one of the famous places in Kinnaur and is often thought to be a part of Spiti due to its stark resemblance to Spitian landscapes. But in reality it is part of Upper Kinnaur, Hangrang valley to be precise.
Nako acts as stopover for a lot travelers going towards Spiti. Situated at the base of Reo purgyal, the highest peak in Himachal, it offers amazing views of barren high-mountains which resembles to the landscapes of Ladakh.
But there is much more to Upper Kinnaur than Nako. Places like Asrang, Lippa, Nesang, Labrang, Ropa valley, Hango, Leo etc are in real sense some of the offbeat places to visit near Spiti.
Nako is the most famous place in Upper Kinnaur, Hangrang Valley. Most of the people mistake it to be in Spiti, but it is located Kinnaur. The raw of beauty of Nako really mesmerized me.
7. Tso Chigma – The Otherworldly Lake of Lahaul That Needs No Introduction
Tso Chigma or Chandrataal needs no introduction. Some of you might be surprised as to why I have included in the list consisting of places to visit near Spiti.
Tso Chigma is often associated with Spiti due to is popularity with Spit circuit Itinerary, but is actually a part of Upper Chandra valley, Lahaul.
The beauty is of Tso Chikgma is just unreal. And this ethereal high-altitude lake of Lahaul is one of the best places to visit near Spiti. Tso Chigma is around 105 km from Kaza.
Well Tso Chigma or Chandratal needs no introduction. It is probably one of the most popular lakes in Himachal. And indeed it is just ethereal as it is said to be.
8. Batal – Witness The Magical High Peaks And Glaciers From Here
Batal is a small settlement in Lahaul just a few km before or after you cross Kunzum La depends on where you are coming from.
There are a lot of Dhabas here which already provide accommodation for those who wish to stay for a night. From Batal, you’ll get incredible views of high mountains and Bara Shigri glacier. Batal is around 87 km from Kaza.
Batal located just few km beyond Kunzum La is a small settlement and kind of stopover for travelers during the summers. The road to Chandratal diverts from Batal. This was taken on the road some few km beyond Batal. Rainy conditions meant that I could not witness the gargantuan peaks and Glacier like Bara Shigri Glaciers.
9. Gramphoo – Pretty Landscapes Of Upper Chandra Valley That Will Leave Speechless
Gramphoo is a small settlement in Upper Chandra Valley, Lahaul from where the road the Spiti diverts. If you want to enter or exit Spiti via Manali, then you have to pass through Gramphoo.
While most of the people just pass by, I would recommend you to spend at least a few minutes here to observe the stark difference in the landscapes of Lahaul and Spti.
Gramphoo is located at around distance of 136 km from Kaza.
Gramphoo located in Lahaul is actually where the road to Spiti valley diverts. The sight of green from Barren landscapes was very welcoming once we were closer to Gramphoo
10. Rohtang La – The Most Famous Mountain Pass In India
Before the Atal tunnel opened up, you had no choice but to pass through Rohtang La if your were exiting or entering Spiti via Manali. Rohtang La is the most popular mountain pass in our country and its beauty is exactly why it attracts a lot of travelers.
You can get panoramic views of several high peaks of Himachal. You can witness famous Ghepang peak, CB range to name a few.
Rohtang La is located at around 150 km from Kaza and is certainly one of the most beautiful places to visit near Spiti. I would really recommend to visit if have the time.
Rohtang La is probably one the most famous mountain passes in India. This was taken early morning on the way to Lahaul. I was awed by the snowy peaks around and somehow managed to take this picture on a moving bus.
11. Khwaling (Sissu) – Explore The Verdant Land Of Raja Ghepang
Khwaling or more popularly known as Sissu is currently one of the most popular places in Lahaul. Ever since the tunnel has opened a lot tourists visiting Manali have thronged Khwaling which is the north portal.
The landscapes here are absolutely splendid with beautiful river Chandra flowing alongside pretty villages. It is around 155 km from Kaza, And you need to take diversion from Gramphoo towards Khoksar, if you were to visit from Spiti valley.
The main attraction in Sissu is the Palden Lhamo Dhara (waterfall) a beautiful sacred waterfall. Sissu Nursery has also been all over social media due to poplar trees which turn golden during fall making it for awesome Autumn colors which are generally observed in the western countries.
And in case you had the question “Is Lahaul Safe to Visit” then feel free to check out my blog where I have addressed in detail about the safety related questions pertaining to Lahaul.
Thanks to Atal Tunnel, Khwaling or Sissu is currently when one of the most popular places in Lahaul. But fortunately I got to experience the beauty of the place, when there was actually no one visiting Lahaul and I was blown away.
12. Khoksar – Experience The Surreal Beauty Of This Lahauli Village
Located at around 11,000 ft, this small village of Lahaul is the first village you would come across from Rohtang La.
There is a beautiful Buddhist monastery as well in Khoksar. The life in Khoksar is extremely tough especially during winters due to heavy snowfall and most of the villages just head to Kullu to escape the harsh winters.
But that being said, it is an absolute delight to witness this beautiful village for the rest of year. It is around 141 km from Kaza and you need to take a diversion from Gramphoo towards kyelang on Leh-Manali highway.
Khoksar is the first Lahauli village you come cross after diverting from Gramphoo towards kyelang. The place is just mesmerizing and one the best places to visit close to Spiti valley
13. Labrang – Experience The Serene Landscapes Of Chandra Valley
Labrang is a Lahauli village located just above Khwaling (Sissu).You get an incredible birds eye view of Khwaling from Labrang.
The village itself only has a handful of houses. You can also visit the monastery which called Labrang Gompa. It is just around 30 mins from the Sissu or you can even reach by road. Labrang is around 155 km Kaza.
Labrang is a village located just above Khwaling which is famous for its Buddhist Monastery
14. Shurthang – One of The Best Lesser Explored Villages of Lahaul
Shurthang is another one of the pretty Lahauli villages that can be one of the top places to visit near Spiti. You’ll get a good vantage point to observe the holy Palden Lhamo Dhara, high mountains and even Sissu from Shurthang.
Shurthang can be a good place to escape the tourist crowd at Khwaling (Sissu) which has increased exponentially, thanks to Atal tunnel. I really loved my brief stint here and really wanted to stay here.
Shurthang is around 155 km from Kaza . And if you were coming from Kaza via Kaza-Gramphoo road, you need to take a diversion from Gramphoo towards Khoksar and Sissu.
Shurthang is one of the best places to visit near Spiti valley. Located just above Khwaling you get insane views of the valley with River Chandra flowing alongside. I completely fe;l in love with Shurthang such was the beauty of the place.
15. Tangti – The Incredible Tale of Two Magnificent Rivers
Tangti or Tandi is one the most the important places in Lahaul. Chandrabhaga which later becomes Chenab (Askini is the ancient name of Chenab) is born at Tangti as of result of confluence of River Chandra and River Bhaga.
Both Chandra and Bhaga originate at glaciers near Baralcha La, take opposite routes but merge at Tandi to became one of the important tributaries of the great river Indus.
The confluence of both the rivers is really a sight to behold and the beautiful mountains take the landscapes around Tangti to another level. Tangti is located at around 178 km from Kaza.
Tangti or Tandi is the confluence of River Chandra and Bhaga which finally results in the mighty River Chandragbhaga or Chenab. The site is quite important to the locals of Lahaul and also acts as a gateway to Pattan valley and Bhaga valley.
16. Tupchiling – Experience Peaceful Vibes At This Gompa
Tupchiling is one of the famous monasteries of Lahaul and is said to be branch of ancient Guru Ghantal Gompa.
You get to witness the beautiful confluence of Chandra and Bhaga on the way to Tandi from Tuchiling. Tupchiling is around 182 km from Kaza and you need to take diversion from Tangti in order to reach Tupchiling.
Tupchiling Gompa is said to be one of the branches of the ancient Guru Ghantal Gompa. The views that you get while reaching here from Tangti are just surreal.
17. Kyelang – The Administrative Capital Of Lahaul And Spiti
Kyelang is the major town and the administrative capital of Lahaul and Sptii valley. And is the most developed town in terms of tourism.
The incredible Gushal Goh and Lady of Kyelang glacier will always be your companion in areas around kyelang.
You can make Kyelang as your base and explore the wonderful places in Lahaul valley. Kyelang has everything you need as tourist be it hotels, guesthouses, restaurants. Kyelang is around186 km from Kaza.
And In case you are a first time traveler my backpacking guide to Lahaul will surely help plan a hassle free trip.
Kyelang is the biggest town in Lahaul valley and administrative capital of both Lahaul and Spiti valleys. This picture was taken from my hike to Bokar Gompa where in I was treated with such insane birds eye of Kyelang with Gushal Goh peak in the backdrop.
18. Shashur – The Celestial Land Of Blue Pines
Shashur is one of the most important monasteries of Lahaul. In local dialect Shashur means blue pines. From the monastery itself you will be able to witness insane views of Gushal Goh peak and Lady of Kyelang Glacier
The monastery has quite a modern touch to it and has the several murals and status of different forms of Buddha. Shashur is located around 190 km from Kaza and around 5km from Kyelang.
Shashur Gompa was probably one of the favourite places in Lahaul. Being at relatively higher altitude than Kyelang. You get amazing views of the valley from here. In frame is the famous “Lady of Kyelang Glacier”.
19. Kardang – Ancient Capital Of Lahaul That Will Transport You Back in Time
As you might know Dhankar was the ancient capital of Spiti, likewise Kardang was the ancient capital of Lahaul valley. Currently Kardang is quite famous for its Gompa which is the most important Gompa of Lahaul.
From Kardang you get an amazing view of right bank of River bhaga and is great vantage to observe the town of Kyelang.
Kardang is around 185 km from Kaza. And you have to take diversion from Tangti to reach Kardang via Tupchiling Gompa. Kardang Gompa is one of the 7 celestial gompas you must visit on your trip to Lahaul
Kardang back in the day was the capital of Lahaul valley. Currently Kardang is home to the one of the most important monasteries of Lahaul which is Kardang monastery. The monastery has quite a modern touch to it but nevertheless appears majestic with Dril Bu Ri peak as the Guardian. This picture gives an awesome view of right Bank of Bhaga as it is taken from the Gompa.
20. Gemur – Visit Here For Its Majestic Gompa
Gemur is tiny village located just 4 km from the famous Jispa. Located right on the Leh-Manali highway it offers some amazing landscapes with River Bhaga flowing alongside the village.
Gemur is probably one of the prettiest places to visit near Spiti and you have to absoultely visit the Gemur Gompa which is the principle monastery in Tod valley. You get even better views of Jispa from here.
Gemur is around 203 km from Kaza and around from Kyelang towards Baralacha La.
Who wouldn’t love such pretty vistas of Trans-Himalayas right ? This particular picture turned out perfect with Chorten and glaciers in the backdrop, perfectly capturing the beauty of Garsha (Lahaul).
21. Khangsar – Feel The Eerie Vibes At Khangsar Khar
Khangsar is one of the most historically significant places in Lahaul. Back in the day Khangsar was the principle seat of one of the royal families of Lahaul.
Khangsar is located near Gemur and being at an higher elevation you witness the entire town of Jispa and snow-clad mountains from Khangsar.
The main attraction in Khangsar is the 108-room fort which currently is in rickety condition.Khangsar is located around 205 km from Kaza.
Khangsar is one of the lesser known villages of Lahaul I have listed 17 such villages in my blog. Feel free to check it out.
The pretty village of Khangsar really mesmerized me with its vast fecund fields and incredible Khangsar Khar which back in the day was the principle seat of the one of the royal families. A must visit place to visit near in my opinion.
22. Jispa – Enjoy The Serene Vistas At The Bank of River Bhaga
Jispa is quite popular amongst travelers going to Ladakh and it usually acts as a stopover. River Bhaga flows right next Jispa which real makes it quite picturesque with all the high mountains around.
With the tunnel now operational more and more travelers now are exclusively traveling to Jispa to enjoy the splendid scenery. Jispa is one of the best places to travel to near Spiti to be honest.
Jispa is around 207 km from Kaza and around 23 km from district headquarters at Kyelang.
Surreal views of high mountains and the mellifluous sound of a River flowing alongside, what else do you really need. This is exactly what you’ll get in Jispa.
23. Dartse – The Perfect Stopover For Insane Adventures Ahead
Darcha or Dartse is one of the popular places in Lahaul. It usually acts as a stopover for people going towards Zanskar or Ladakh.
Perched at a staggering 11,000 the landscapes are extremely scenic. Dartse is around 217 km from Kaza and around km from Kyelang.
Captured on the way to Barlacha La , some 4 km from the beautiful village of Dartse. Darcha or Dartse is one of the last villages in Lahaul in Tod valley and acts as a gateway to Zanskar and Ladakh.
24. Dozom Tso – Experience Serenity At This Beautiful Lake
Lahaul and Spiti is home to some of the most beautiful lakes in Himachal and India in general. And Dozom Tso is one of them.
The beautiful turquoise colored lake is situated right on the Leh-Manali highway towards Baralacha La near Patseo. And is quite easily accessible.
Dozom Tso is situated at around 229 km from Kaza and around from Kyelang.
Dozom Tso or Deepak is a small yet beautiful lake you’ll spot while going towards Baralacha La. You might even miss if you are not looking carefully.
25. Zing Zing Bar – One Of The Picturesque Places Near Spiti
Zing Zing Bar is a one of the most picturesque located in Lahaul. And is kind of a viewpoint rather than a village or settlement and is located at a dizzying altitude of 14,000.
The multi-colored moutains that you’ll get to see here will just leave you awestruck just I like I was when I saw it. It really reminded of Ladakh like barren different colored mountains.
During summers there are temporary settlements where you can have refreshments. Zing Zing Bar is around 24 km from Darcha and around 239 km from Kaza.
Well after witnessing such multi-colored mountains with high snow-clad peaks I could not believe my eyes and I am sure you’ll have the same reaction as well.
26. Tso Kamtsi – The Scenic Beauty Of This Heavenly Lake Will Mesmerize You
Tso Kamtsi or Suraj is probably one of the most popular lakes of Himachal. And is one of the highest lakes in located at around 16,000 ft above the sea level.
The lake remains frozen for most part of the year and appears different in each season. But the beauty of the lake is just other. By the way I have a whole blog on the high altitude lakes in Lahaul. Feel free to check it out.
Tso Kamtsi or Suraj Taal is located at a distance of 257 km from Kaza and around 71 km from Kyelang.
Tso Kamtsi or Suraj Taal needs no introduction. It is one of the famous lakes in Himachal and also the source of the River Bhaga. In my opinion it is one of the beautiful places to visit near Spiti.
27. Baralacha La – Feel The Adrenaline Rush At Standing Atop This Mighty Pass
Baralacha La is one of the highest motorable passes in Himachal Pradesh located at dizzying altitude of around 4890 m. The high peaks and different colored mountains that you witness from here will surely leave you awestruck.
Baralacha La is located at a distance of around 260 km from Kaza and 74 km from Kyelang. If you are visiting Spiti and have a bit of time, then a visit to this amazing mountain pass located in Lahaul is an absolute must.
28. Margul (Udaipur) – The Jewel of Pattan Valley
Margul or Udaipur is the biggest town in Lahaul after Kyelang. And it also acts as a gateway to remote pangi valley in Chamba and Miyar valley. Margul or Udaipur is sometimes also referred to as Mini-Manali
Margul has an absolutely mesmerizing setting. You can see the snow-clad mountains in the backdrop with beautiful pine forests all around the town owing to its comparatively lower elevation.
Margul is located at around 225 km from Kaza and around 52 km from Kyelang. To reach here from Spiti you need to take diversion towards Khwaling (Sissu) from Gramphoo and then another diversion from Tangti.
Margul or more popularly known as Udaipur is one of the biggest towns in Lahaul. And yes you get will get incredible scenic views of snow-clad peaks from the Bus stop of Margul. Yes you heard it right !
29. Urgos – Experience The Grandeur Of Miyar Valley At This Remote Village
Urgos is one of the most beautiful villages of Miyar valley. I was totally mesmerized by this beautiful little village. And the pretty vistas all really made me fell in love with Urgos.
There is a beautiful monastery as well in Urgos. In fact I have complete backpacking guide on Miyar for those who are visitng it for the first time.
You can reach Urgos by taking a diversion from Udaipur. Urgos is around 250 km from Kaza.
Some places just steals your heart with its splendid beauty and Urgos was one such place for me. This picture is probably one of my favourites and it came out perfect thanks to an amazing autumn morning.
30. Shukto – A Perfect Place To Seek Solitude Amidst Pretty Vistas
Shukto is small village located in Miyar valley of Lahaul. You get to witness amazing Ladakh like landscapes from here. Shukto is one of the best places to visit around Spiti in my opinion.
Location of Shukto is quite remote and offbeat to be honest. And is perfect for those who seek solitude and escape for hustle and bustle. Shukto is around 257 km from Kaza.
By the way, I have a very interesting stance on offbeat places in Himachal like Shukto. Feel free to check it out and let me know your thoughts about it.
Shukto is the last motorable point in Miyar valley of Lahaul. In case you want to spend some time in solitude away from the crowd near Spiti, there is no better place than Shukto.
31. Khanjar – The Last Village Of Miyar Valley
Khanjar is a typical rustic village of Miyar valley and is the last village in the remote Miyar. Rustic villages like Khanjar is one of the 11 reasons why you should definitely visit the incredible miyar valley.
From khanjar you can also trek towards the high altitude meadows of Miyar valley. Khanjar is around 260 km from Kaza. You can only by crossing a wooden bridge which is around 1 km from Shukto.
Khanjar is the last village in Miyar. And can be only reached by foot. But in case you wish to hike and witness even more scenic Khanjar is just the starting point to many such amazing places.
This brings me to end of this blog. Although Spiti has many scenic locales and places to visit, but this places to visit near Spiti are equally scenic if not more. And they surely deserve a visit.
In case, you have any queries, please feel free to reach out in the comments below. I’ll be happy to help you out.
