Hostels in Spiti, India

Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India -- as remote as it can possibly get, as it lies in the bosom of the Himalayan Mountain range -- beckons you to explore its amazing beauty. With the towering Kunzum La on one side separating it from fertile Lahaul, this little piece of Tibet marooned in India is a tourist's dream come true. Old monasteries perched on crags, lush green barley fields, scattered homes like jewels strewn over green velvet, winding roads that give you breathtaking views along the way, and clear rivers a world apart from present-day pollution -- this is what Spiti is all about. As there are relatively few hostels in Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India, booking in advance is important if you're to enjoy a comfortable and economic stay here.

Despite being more remote than Ladakh, Spiti's roads see many buses and travelers through most of the year. If you love adventure, you should definitely go on one of Asia's greatest road trips, the Spiti-Kinnaur, and traverse some of the country's most challenging roads along with other bikers, motorcyclists, and four-wheelers as prayer flags flutter distantly in the wind. If you'd prefer a more sober form of adventure, go on a jeep safari or plan to go trekking along the region's popular trails and stare in awe at the enchanting landscape and natural beauty as it was meant to be from the beginning of time. Spiti is home to the second longest glacier in the world, the Bara-Sigri glacier, and a trip to the Kunzum Pass will make the view much more interesting. This pass is closed during winter, though, when it is snowbound and cut off from the rest of the country.

Perhaps some of the most eloquent cultural and historical symbols that adorn the landscape of Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India, are the many Buddhist monasteries. One of the oldest centers of Buddhism in the Western Himalayas, the Tabo Monastery, has also found its home in Spiti. It houses several murals, and stands in grand elegance as Lamas sing, dance, chant mantras, or play musical instruments in spiritual symbolism. Not far below runs the turquoise-grey Spiti River as it traverses its way into the Hangrang Valley.

Places to stay in Spiti are relatively few. Homestays and hostels in Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India, let you get acquainted with the region's local culture and traditions, while sampling the local food. Although eating options are limited here, you can enjoy some delicious Indian and Tibetan cuisine served in Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India hostels or in local eateries. The best time to visit Spiti is between May to September when the climate is optimum. Since there is a heavy influx of tourists during these months, make sure you book your hostels in Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India, well in advance to avoid being stranded after you reach.