Ever wanted a walk-in wardrobe that could take you to a magical place? I’m talking about Narnia, of course! Why wait for a spectacular entrance when you can purchase a ticket to Spiti’s very own winter wonderland? All those with a thirst for adventure will be in awe of Spiti in the winter with its snow-capped mountains, frozen rivers, and countless stars above.
How To Reach Spiti During Winter?
It is difficult to go to Spiti in the winter, and it is not advisable to do the entire trip using public transportation. Narkanda, which is reachable from Shimla, would be your first stop before arriving at Spiti. Shimla is connected to significant cities like Delhi by airplane. You must use the Kalka-Shimla railway, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site if you intend to go by rail. To go to Narkanda from Shimla, you must either take a taxi or a bus.
The next location is the apple orchard-rich hamlet of Kalpa in the Kinnaur district. There are instances when snow might obstruct the roads leading to Kalpa. On the way to Kaza, the Winter Spiti Expedition‘s administrative center, you may make stops in the settlements of Nako and Tabo. There are a few buses that travel daily from Peo to Nako and beyond, but because it’s winter, it’s usually preferable to take a guided Spiti trip if you’re not used to driving in the snow.
Spend a day in Kaza touring the ancient monasteries to learn about Buddhist culture. If Pin Valley is open and not closed because of bad weather, you can go there as well. You may also travel by bicycle to the Spiti settlements of Kibber, Komic, Hikkim, Key, and Langza provided the weather and roads are clear.
What Are The Frequent Issues Seen In Winter In Spiti?
Road Closures Are Quite Common In Spiti In Winters
The blocked roads would be one of the most likely issues you’d encounter while traveling to Spiti in the winter. Road closures resulting from heavy snowfall or blizzards may last a few days, a few weeks, or even months (even though this is extremely rare). Although BRO is said to maintain the roads heading from the Spiti Valley to Kaza open, it is recommended to travel prepared for the worst-case situation.
Limited Or No Electricity And Wi-Fi
The lack of energy and mobile services is another issue that frequently arises in Spiti during the winter. PS: Connections with BSNL and MTNL may occasionally provide a glimmer of hope. There is a probability that ATMs will generally be inoperable. Thus, make it a point to carry enough cash with you to get by for even a whole month if you become trapped due to a lack of transportation.
Freezing Temperatures With Basic Stay And Facilities
Wintertime in Spiti is notorious for having minus 30-degree lows, particularly in December and January. Upper areas, like Nako, would undoubtedly send shivers down your spine. You get the chills for many reasons than only the extremely low temperatures. There are hardly any options to stay in the Spiti Valley during the winter because most hotels and restaurants are closed. Travel without even the most basic amenities, such as bottled water (or even water, forget hot water, in toilets). If there are any, staying in a local homestay might be the best option.
No Immediate Medical Assistance
Do you have a medical background? If so, you should avoid Winter Spiti Expedition. During this time of year, the entire valley would be mostly closed. You won’t be able to get immediate medical assistance because of the lack of energy and the closed roads. The closest possible aid is presumably in Shimla.
Issues Related To Driving In Spiti In Winter
There are a few things to watch out for if you’re considering a winter self-drive journey to the Spiti Valley. First off, Spiti is not the place to experiment or test your talents if you are a beginner who wants to attempt mountain riding, especially during the winter.
It would be simpler to slide on the roadsides due to the accumulation of ice and snow, especially while applying the brakes. You need to be an expert to ride the Spiti mountains’ twisty, narrow roads, which have snow on one side and a gorge on the other. Moreover, you should be ready to perform any mechanical tasks as there aren’t many open mechanic shops to be found. If you want to travel all the way to Spiti in the winter, keep these guidelines in mind:
- As a result of the excessive temperatures, you might need to keep the engine running all night. Thus, make sure your fuel tank is full. As a backup in case of emergency, you may also bring an extra battery.
- Always take care to drive slowly; else, your haste might send you hurtling into the cliffs.
- Avoid pit breaks until they are absolutely necessary.
- It’s hard to climb a hill, especially one covered with snow. Try to get the inertia going before you start moving up the slippery hill rather than adding more gas. After you’re up, slow down and start to descend the slope.
Take These Precautions Before Your Winter Vacation To Spiti
All the excitement, thrills, and frivolity come with a few safety considerations. Although spontaneous travel can seem terrifying, it is always preferable to have a well-organized strategy in place before you leave. It doesn’t matter whether things turn out as planned or not. Having said that, you should also have the ability to make decisions on the spur of the moment.
Should I carry cash?
Make sure you have adequate cash on you at all times. Finding a functioning ATM would be impossible if you were to become stuck in a remote area without electricity or access to transportation.
Public or private transport?
In the winter, public transportation might not be often accessible. So, it is not advised to use public transportation to get around Spiti unless you have a month or two to spare. In terms of driving a private car, consider if you have the skills necessary to navigate icy mountain routes. If the answer is yes, go for it; if not, attempt to join an expert group. Whatever form of transportation you choose, make sure to stop frequently to acclimatize yourself to the environment.
Last but not least, before you begin your travel to Spiti during the winter, do not forget to visit a doctor for a comprehensive check-up. Having said that, you should be emotionally and physically ready for any unexpected circumstances. You may reserve a spot to Plan the Unplanned’s Winter Spiti Expedition if you’re hesitant about going there alone. To learn more, please visit our website of No Limit Adventures, and book a trip now!
More References :- i) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaza,_Himachal_Pradesh
