Located in the cold desert of Spiti Valley, Mudh Village is the last village that's inhabited in the Pin Valley National Park of Himachal Pradesh. Set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and intersected by glacial rivers, the Mud Village is a utopia for those who want to enjoy calmness and the unadulterated mountain beauty. This village, featuring traditional mud houses, flying prayer flags and a landscape that looks right out of a postcard, is a great place to experience the Spitian culture, and thus, a visit to the village is something that you should not miss out on during your Spiti Valley trip
About Mud Village
Mud Village Spiti is located at an altitude of about 3810 metres. It is the last settlement in the Pin Valley and is used as the base to trek to Pin-Parvati Pass and Bhabha Pass. It lies in the Pin Valley National Park, which is a highly biodiverse place, with rare species such as the snow leopard and the Siberian ibex. There is a small Buddhist community in the village that follows traditional ways of life with whitewashed mud houses, barley fields and old monasteries spread around. Mud has basic homestays, warm hospitality and breathtaking Himalayan views, which is why it is a tranquil escape for offbeat travellers
Mud Village Altitude: 3,810 metres above sea level
Location: Inside Pin Valley National Park, Spiti
Base Point: Pin-Parvati and Bhabha Pass treks
Mud Village to Kaza distance: Around 50 kilometres
Best Time to Visit Mud Village
The best time to visit Spiti Valley to enjoy the village is from May to October, when the roads to Spiti and Pin Valley are open and the weather is very cool. The snow melts, the valley becomes green, and trekkers begin to arrive during this time to take routes such as Pin-Parvati Pass and Bhabha Pass. Days are bright, and the Mud village temperature is around 15°C to 20°C, while nights can get chilly. The snow falls heavily in winter (November to April), thus making it impossible to reach Mud by road because of the Mud Village weather in winter. Although the village appears straight out of a fairy tale under snow, it is not recommended for regular travellers due to extreme cold and limited connectivity.
How to Reach Mud Village
The journey to the village is an adventure in itself, and it provides some of the most magnificent drives in the Himalayas. It is a trip that takes you up and down winding mountain tracks, deep valleys and barren land that constitute the crude beauty of Spiti. Although the road is not accessible during extreme winters because of heavy snowfall, summer and early autumn are the opportune times to pay a visit. Mud is accessible to travellers through the main town of Spiti, Kaza, which is also accessible to Manali and Shimla by road.
By Air: Nearest airport - Kullu-Bhuntar (250 km); continue to Kaza and then Mud via Dhankar
By Road: 50 km from Kaza, connected by scenic but rugged routes through Pin Valley
By Train: Nearest station - Joginder Nagar (350 km); proceed by taxi or bus to Kaza and Mud.
5 Places to Visit Near Mud Village
Surrounded by ancient monasteries, pretty valleys and wildlife-rich landscapes, the village serves as the perfect base to explore Spiti like never before. Here are some of the best places to visit in Spiti Valley near the village that capture the essence of this remote Himalayan region.
1. Pin Valley National Park
Mud Village lies within the Pin Valley National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and trekkers. The park is home to rare species like the snow leopard, Himalayan ibex and red fox, along with diverse alpine flora. Its stark landscapes, dotted with prayer flags and icy streams, make it one of Spiti’s most photogenic destinations.
Distance: Within the village
Timings: Open year-round (access depends on season)
Entry Fee: Free
2. Kungri Monastery
Almost 10 km from Mud, Kungri Monastery falls among the oldest religious sites in Spiti's Pin Valley. It was built around the 14th century and is famous for its ancient murals, silk paintings and vibrant Cham dance performances. The monastery also gives in-depth insights into the Tibetan Buddhist tradition and rituals.
Location: Kungri Village, Pin Valley
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Sagnam Village
Sagnam, frequently referred to as the entry point to Pin Valley, constitutes an aesthetically pleasing halt en route to Mud. The settlement is positioned alongside the Pin River, encircled by steep cliffs and cultivated terraces. This location serves as an excellent opportunity for engaging with the local populace, experiencing homestays and observing the customary lifestyle of the Spitian community.
Distance: 12 km from Mud
Timings: Accessible year-round
Entry Fee: Free
4. Dhankar Monastery
Situated majestically atop a hill above the Spiti and Pin rivers, the Dhankar Monastery is one of the most striking attractions close to Mud Village. The ancient monastery houses panoramic views, ancient manuscripts and peaceful surroundings perfect for meditation and picture-taking.
Distance: 32 km from Mud
Timings: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹30 (approx.)
5. Tabo Monastery
The UNESCO heritage site, Tabo Monastery, is one of the oldest operating Buddhist monasteries in the Himalayas and was established in the year 996 AD. Its ancient paintings, stupas and meditation caves put it high up in the list for history and culture enthusiasts exploring Spiti.
Distance: 65 km from Mud
Timings: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹30 (approx.)
Top Things to Do in Mud Village
Mud Village offers a blend of adventure, culture as well and nature-based activities that let travellers truly experience Spiti’s rugged charm. Be it trekking, wildlife spotting or immersing in local traditions, there’s something for every explorer here. Let us have a look at some of the best things to do in Spiti Valley in Mud Village.
1. Wildlife Watching
Spend your days tracking the rare species found in the Himalayas, such as the snow leopard, blue sheep and red fox, in their own territories. Early afternoons and early mornings are the perfect times for viewing the animals grazing or moving through the high meadows.
2. Village Life Immersion
Interact with the local Buddhist people through assisting with day-to-day tasks, viewing traditional farming methods, or attending cultural ceremonies. Living the experience in the mud houses and sharing food experiences with the people provides an in-depth understanding of Spitian society.
3. Monastery Activities
Engage yourselves with local monasteries and partake in the practice of the devotional disciplines like prayer assemblies, chanting and meditation. Acquiring knowledge in local rituals, thangkas, and ancient practices enhances the understanding of the Buddhist tradition.
4. Hiking and Trekking
Opt for guided short treks or treks along the nearby routes, like up to Pin-Parvati Pass. Trekking allows you views of alpine meadows, glacial streams and mountain terrain while enjoying mountain fresh air.
5. Photography and Stargazing
Capture the striking landscapes of Spiti Valley, from barren mountains to flowing rivers. At night, enjoy stargazing under clear Himalayan skies, witnessing constellations and the Milky Way like nowhere else.
6. Cultural Workshops
Join hands-on workshops with the people, such as local handicrafts, preparing local cuisine, or Buddhist art. These are ways of having worthwhile interactions and unique experiences while staying.
7. Nature Walks and Bird Watching
Enjoy quiet strolls in the village and watch migratory birds, high-altitude flora and seasonal animals. Nature walks are perfect for viewing eagles, herons and other species found in the high-altitude environment.
Conclusion
Mudh Village is a hidden gem in Spiti Valley and offers a complete mix of adventure, culture and pure Himalayan beauty. Be it a hiking trip through alpine trails, sightseeing of wildlife species, or experiencing the simple life of the local Buddhist community, every moment spent at Mud Village is memorable. The best time to visit is May to October because this is when the roads are accessible, the weather is pleasant, and tourists get to explore this offbeat and peaceful destination to the fullest.
