I have explored various parts of the Himalayas in India. The chardham in Uttarakhand, gardens and lakes of Kashmir, Buddhist ambience of Sikkim, amazing hospitality of Himachalis – the diversity and mountain environment make a rich experience. I have also been to high altitude places a few times but it was only in Spiti that I truly got acquainted with the ‘high’ Himalayas.

This was a trip where I spent 4 days completely in over 10000 ft. Snow clad peaks became common sight. To the extent that after 3 days, we even stopped clicking pics all the time, because every where we looked was a picture worthy, totally fantastic view.

Little Tibet

The proximity to Tibet and the geographical landscape makes this place unique. Tibetan plateau is the world’s highest plateau. And this geographical aspect is breath taking, because even at 15000 ft you feel like strolling on the rolling plateau and you are not on a conical shaped mountain terrain.

Moreover this is desert area – mountainous desert area which makes it a completely unique experience from the other mountains which are generally greener and wetter. There is also a difference in the rock and overall structure of the mountains.

I don’t know what all to write about this place, and also when I write this I am really concerned that increase in tourists in this remote area will not be good for it.

Kaza:

Here you are in the heart of Spiti desert. You can trek around if you have days. Or just take the car to little villages around. It is beautiful.
Stayed at: Sakya Abode highly recommended. You can also contact Tsering bhai of Sakya for car, driver, trip planning and other services.

We visited a bunch of villages like Kibber, Key monastery, Hikkim, Komik and so on. There are even more villages like Chicham that you can visit if you have the time.

Check this post on MapRoute.in