Confused about whether vacationing in Spiti Valley in April would be a fantastic choice. Or just surfing to find out everything on Spiti Valley in the month of April? Well, answers to all your questions are comprehensively taken up in this blog on Spiti Valley in April. To start with, April marks the transition phase from a harsh winter to a cool spring, making it one of the best times to experience this remote location in Himachal Pradesh. From weather to reasons, to top places to visit, to must-try activities, to how to reach the valley in April, the blog covers it all to plan out your Trip to Spiti this year only. You just focus on reading it to the end to know every possible detail on the next Spiti trip in April.
Weather in Spiti Valley in April
Usually, the recommended time to visit Spiti Valley are generic summer months July to October, however, exploring Spiti’s beauty in April would be a wholesome unique experience as Spiti Valley temperature in April stays drastically cold ranging between -19 C to -5 C. During April, the valley hardly witnesses 14 hours of sunlight each day, making it an epitome of winter beauty between snow-capped mountains and peaking flora tucked inside the melting snow. April can be your ideal time if you are desirous of foreseeing the winter magic and charm keeping aside whatever unexpected winter might throw at you!! So, adventure lovers!! Winter is your time in Spiti Valley.
Suggested Read: Spiti Valley Road Trip - Things You Need to Know
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Spiti Valley in April
Planning your trip to Spiti Valley in April needs a satisfactory base for it is not the peak season to tour around Spiti. So, even if you might have plenty of personal reasons, here are some generic ones to look up to on why to visit Spiti Valley in April:
1. Awesome Spring Weather: April in Spiti Valley is like the welcoming time of the Spring season, offering a mix of snow-covered landscapes and ideal weather, a good time for travellers who want to experience both seasons.
2. Less Crowded: Unlike the peak tourist season in June to September, Spiti Valley in April is relatively less crowded adding more charm and calm to its beauty in peace.
3. Cost Saver: As it's not peak season, accommodation and travel costs are lower than in the peak summer months.
4. Breathtaking Views: Snow-capped mountains, frozen rivers, and clear blue skies comprise mesmerizing scenery and joy in April.
5. Adventurous Roads: Last but not least, the Shimla-Kinnaur route is said to be the most adventurous road in the world. So if you love adventure-filled road trips, April is an exciting time as the Manali route remains closed, and travellers are bound to take the scenic Shimla-Kinnaur route to reach Spiti.
Suggested Read: How to Plan a Trip to Spiti Valley- A Complete Travel Guide
How to Reach Spiti Valley in April
On and off, there are two main routes to Spiti Valley, one, via Manali and the second via Shimla. But during April, the Manali route remains closed and inaccessible due to heavy snowfall, leaving the main travelling route via Shimla to Spiti. To reach Spiti Valley anytime, you first need to reach Chandigarh, the main point of diversion on the Shimla route. From there, you can rent a private taxi, shared cab, or public bus to reach Spiti. You have the options to reach Spiti through Chandigarh:
1. By Air: The best and quickest mode would be flying to Chandigarh, and then travelling through Shimla-Kinnaur to reach Spiti, Kaza by road.
2. By Train: The second and most affordable option would be to reach Chandigarh/Shimla railway station by train to board an on-road vehicle to reach the main town of Kaza, Spiti.
3. By Road: The last and most popular way to reach Spiti is on an overall road trip, along the magnificent scenic valleys of Shimla, Kinnaur, and last Kaza, Spiti’s main town.
Suggested Read: Spiti India - The Of-beaten Trail Destination for Adventure Seekers
10 Things to Do in Spiti Valley in April
April in Spiti Valley is not the peak season for tourism, but as a winter month, it can be a wholesome spot to try must-dos aligning with winter wonderland. Here is a list of top things to do in Spiti Valley in April along with the best spots to try them at:
1. Visit the Buddhist Monasteries
Buddhist monasteries are one unique feature of Spiti Valley as it is a cultural centre for Buddhist followers and monks. So, one of the best things to do in Spiti Valley in April would be to immerse yourself in spirituality at Spiti’s famous monasteries.
Best Spots: Key Monastery, Kungri Monastery, Tabo Monastery, Lhalung Monastery, Gandhola Monastery, Tayul Monastery
2. Experience the Local Culture
By the way, the whole Himachal characterises a unique culture, but the localities of Spiti have charm exclusive to its region. Try to stay in homestays and interact with the warm, sweet, and friendly locals. You can also visit local temples like Trilokinath Temple, Lhalung Gompa, or Udaipur Temple.
Best Spots: Kaza, Kibber, Darcha, Langza, Dhankar, Gue, and Tunde
3. Road Trip via the Shimla Route
Your connecting road to Spiti from Shimla would be an adventure in itself. Since the Manali route is closed, the Shimla-Kinnaur road offers an adventurous journey through scenic landscapes between the towered snow walls and icy corridors, making it an unreal adventure, and the best thing to do in Spiti Valley.
Best Spots: Shimla, Narkanda, Powari, Nako, Tabo, Kinnaur, and Kaza
4. Stargazing in a Clear Night Sky
The clear night skies of Spiti Valley in April month offer breathtaking views of the stars and constellations. You will be delighted with this amazing must-do simple activity from anywhere in the area.
Best Spots: Langza, Kaza, Kibber, and Chandratal Lake
5. Photography
Not to be mentioned, snapping the best shots of the surrounding valley and yourself would already be topping your best things-to-do list in Spiti Valley. So, do click on snow-covered landscapes, ancient monasteries, and stunning Himalayan scenery.
Best Spots: Kibber, Hikkim, Chandratal Lake, Pin Valley, Key & Dhankar Monastery, Spiti River
6. Trekking
In April, some high-altitude treks like Dhankar Lake might be accessible, offering beautiful views of the valley. You will be amazed by the beautiful uphill climb from the Dhankar monastery to this lake offering the most serene views of the valley, making it the best adventurous thing to do in Spiti Valley.
Best Spots: Kaza, Losar, Udaipur, Komic, Dhankar Lake
7. Wildlife Spotting
The Himalayas are blessed with rare flora and fauna that are not found anywhere else. So, use this golden opportunity to witness exclusive fauna including Himalayan Ibex, Blue Sheep, and the magnificent Snow Leopard in Pin Valley.
Best Spots: Pin Valley, Kibber Village
8. Yak Safari
One of the best things to do in Spiti would be to try out the local Yak Safari paving your way to see the valley with the eyes of the locals have for centuries now. Yes, not everyone there moves on four wheels. These are readily available near most monasteries in Spiti.
Best Spots: Spiti Valley river, Langza, Komic, Kibber, Kunzum Pass
9. Camping under Star-lit Sky
Spiti Valley’s sky turns out to be a real-life painting with thousands of stars painted all over it in the clear blackish-blue skies of April. Indeed, the best place to tent out at night camp feeling like nothing less than being in the sky only.
Best Spots: Kaza, Darcha, Komic, Udaipur
10. Relish Local Cuisine
One ultimate thing to do in Spiti Valley would be to enjoy authentic Spitian dishes like Thukpa, Momos, Tibetan Soup, Thenktuk, Madra, and Butter Tea. And if you want a home-like feel, try out a hot bowl of Maggi at a roadside shack while staring at the awesome Himalayas.
Best Spots: Kaza, Komic Village, Tabo, Hikkim
Suggested Read: Spiti Backpacking Trips
Top Places to Visit in Spiti Valley in April
Knowing the best places to visit in and around Spiti Valley in April will keep your booking and planning targets on point. Get through the following list to learn about the best locations in Spiti Valley:
1. Key Monastery
The most famous monastery in Spiti Valley is Key Monastery, which offers panoramic views and a glimpse into local Buddhist culture. It is 1000 years old and the largest monastery in the valley having more than 100 monks today. It is one of the biggest centres for Buddhist learning and practising.
Location: Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Spiti: 15 kilometres
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Highlights: Entry is Free for all, but you can stay here at a nominal charge of 250 per night
2. Kaza Town
The main town and subdivisional administrative office in Spiti Valley is Kaza, the largest township in Spiti and Lahaul area. It is a perfect spot for exploring local markets, cafes, and traditional Spitian life for most of the places in and around are accessible during April. It can be your best place to witness the most vibrant-colourful local festivals and the Sakya Tangyud Monastery.
Location: Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Spiti: 5 Km
Timings: 24*7
Highlights: Hub of Buddhist Temples, Monasteries, and Trekking along Spiti River
3. Langza Village
Situated at a remarkable height of 14000 feet, Langza Village can be one of the best places to visit in Spiti in April. It is home to the giant Buddha statue and stunning Himalayan views of snow-covered mountains, fossils, mud houses, and rich cultural heritage.
Location: Spiti Valley, Himachal
Distance from Spiti: 14 kilometres from Kaza
Timings: 24*7
Highlights: Famous for Night Camping, Stargazing, and Buddha Statue
4. Hikkim
Hikkim is best known for being the world's highest post office and here you can send a postcard to your loved ones. The village still saves postcards/letters as the medium of communication with outside people, unlike WhatsApp, emails, Instagram, and whatnot in modern cities. You will enjoy a good time here while cherishing your presence and the unique appearance of the place which is of a letter box now.
Location: Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Spiti: 18 kilometres
Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM | Post office stays closed on Sundays & Public Holidays
Highlights: Traditional lifestyle, Building Shaped and Coloured as Letter Box, Surrounding Views
5. Komic Village
An add-on when you visit Hikkim, Komic is one of the highest villages in the world, offering spectacular views and an ancient monastery. It can be a peaceful and cosy place for the village stands out in its whole build-up, appearance, and of course, the unique exclusivity due to its remote location.
Distance from Spiti: 26 KmsTimings: NA
Highlights: Hiking, Camping, Komic Monastery, Panoramic Views, Remotest location
6. Dhankar Monastery
This monastery deserves a special mention for it is built at the highest location in Spiti Valley, offering breathtaking and amazing views of the Spiti Valley. It is one of the main Buddhist destinations in the Valley and India. It will be a cool and peaceful escape to embrace some quality time with oneself in the spiritual atmosphere in April.
Location: Dhankar, Samling, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Spiti: 40 kilomteres
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Highlights: Trekking in Nearby places, Monastery’s peace and Calm, Panoramic Views, Highest location
7. Pin Valley National Park
One best places to visit in Spiti Valley at any time of the year which is open in April would be Pin Valley National Park. It is popular as the national park in the cold desert and for the preservation of endangered snow leopards. And if you are lucky, you might spot a snow leopard and other rare Himalayan wildlife like Ibex, Bharal, Red Fox, Marten, Pika, Bearded Vulture, etc.
Location: Kaza Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Spiti: 30 kilometres
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Highlights: Entry is Free, Rich Flora and Fauna, and Trekking to Major attractions like Tabo Caves, Bhaba Pass, or Dhankar Monastery
8. Kibber Village
One of the major developments in recent years in Spiti Valley is Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, for was established in 1992. The place is famous for being the preservation centre of Snow Leopard. The village is also unique for preserving Tibetan Buddhist culture and legacy.
Location: Key, Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Spiti: 20 kilometres
Timings: 24*7 | Varies for specific attractions
Highlights: Trekking, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Flora and Fauna, Snow Leopard, Buddhist Culture, and nearby attractions like Chicham Bridge, Gete Village, and Key Monastery
Suggested Read: A Guide for Safe Journey to Spiti Valley
Travel Tips To Visit Spiti in April
So now that you know everything you can expect from your April trip to Spiti, just read on these quick and useful tips for a more seamless Spiti Trip:
1. Go Smart with Clothes and Footwear: Even though it's spring, temperatures drop below freezing, especially at night. So pack warm-light clothes and sturdy footwear.
2. Opt for the Shimla-Kinnaur Route: The Manali route remains closed in April due to snowfalls, so plan accordingly.
3. Medicines for High-Altitude Sickness: Pre-adaptation is essential as Spiti is at a high altitude.
4. Mindful of Rare ATMs & Connectivity: You must carry enough cash as ATMs are rare, and mobile networks are not reliable in remote locations.
5. Book Accommodations in Advance: Since Spiti Valley in April is still an off-season, some hotels and homestays might not be functioning, so do an advanced booking.
6. Stay Tuned with Road Conditions: April month is more of a transition period between winter and summer, and roads may be blocked due to late snowfall, so do check before you plan your trip only to get cancelled in the end.
7. Travel with an Experienced Driver: The high-altitude roads are going to be tricky, so having an experienced driver is not only recommended but a must.
8. Embrace Local Culture: Go with modest dressing for Spiti has a rich Buddhist heritage, and respect monasteries and local traditions.
Suggested Read: An Experience in Spiti - Exploring the Hidden Treasures of India
Conclusion
Spiti Valley would be a mystically magical destination to explore in April alongside snow-capped towering mountains, stunning landscapes, adventurous activities, and a solid pinch of cultural richness and solidarity. So, if you have time then you can visit Spiti Valley in April for a unique offbeat destination, April is a great time to witness the beauty of Spiti before the tourist rush begins!
Frequently Asked Questions on Spiti Valley in April
1. Can I find snow in Spiti Valley in April?
Yes, April is one of the best times to see snow in Spiti. Fortunately, Spiti Valley in April is still in its transition zone by shifting from late winter to early spring to early summer. So, yes, you will be able to find snow in Spiti in April with a clean mix of winter and spring characters.
2. Is April good to visit Spiti?
Yes, April can be a good time to visit Spiti for it is not peak season yet ideal time considering the climatic conditions.
3. How to reach Spiti Valley in April?
There is only one route open for accessibility of Spiti Valley in April, which is via the Chandigarh-Shimla route. The other route involving Manali is closed during April.
4. Is it safe to visit Spiti Valley in April?
Yes, Spiti Valley is safe for travellers in April. But, roads can be challenging. So, it is advisable to always check current weather and drive with an experienced driver.
5. Can I reach Spiti from Manali in April?
No, the Manali to Spiti route remains closed in April following heavy snowfall. You shall take the Shimla-Kinnaur route instead if travelling in April.
