Discover the enchanting beauty of Spiti Valley in November
Can you travel to Spiti Valley in November? The short answer is yes. Contrary to popular opinion, Spiti Valley is accessible by road all year round; even in the dead of winter. But if you ask me whether November is the best time to visit Spiti, my answer is a resounding NO. There are a few things you will miss out on and to be honest, November doesn’t have much to offer. Whether or not you plan to travel to Spiti in November will depend upon a few factors that I will cover in this article, along with some tips on how to plan your trip better if you have to.
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Weather in Spiti Valley in November
The two words that best describe the weather in Spiti Valley are ‘cold’ and ‘hard’. It can get so cold that even the taps and pipes freeze, leaving you without running water and having to use buckets for hot water. You need to be prepared for the extreme cold; physically and mentally.
Plan in Early November
Plan your trip in early November, if you can, as the weather will be much colder than it will be later in the month. As winter sets in, the weather will continue to get colder by the day. Traveling in early November will mean you won’t have to deal with as much cold as you would in the later months. You’ll also have a better chance of finding places to stay and other basic amenities.
Disadvantages of Spiti Valley in November
Let’s now look at some of the reasons why November is not a good month to visit Spiti. Manali Kaza Road is at the top of the list. This small road is one of the main attractions of the entire Spiti circuit. It traverses two high-altitude passes, making it one of the most difficult and adventurous roads you will ever travel on. If you plan to travel in November, you will not want to include this route in your itinerary. Chandratal is next in line. Due to the closure of the lake by mid-October, it will have to be excluded from your itinerary.
Since you will be going from and to the city of Shimla you will need a minimum of 1 week for your journey and can’t make it a quick one. The cold will be a challenge on a whole new level. In the winter season the prices of everything increase in Spiti so you may have to pay more for even the most basic items. Black ice can cause severe damage if you are not careful. If the road in front of you is open due to the recent snowfall you will have no option but to wait till the authorities say it is safe to travel on.
Best Places To Visit In Spiti Valley In November
1. Baralacha Pass
One of the world’s most dangerous passes, the Baralacha pass is nothing short of an accomplishment, especially for those who don’t have a heart for trekking. The pass can be reached by bike or trekking. The crossroads of the Pir Panjal mountain range, the Great Himalayan mountain range, and the Zanskar ranges are a sight to behold.
2. Hikkim: World’s Highest Post Office
At an altitude of 4,389 meters, Lahaul is the highest post office in the world. This post office is situated between Komik village and Langza village in Hikkim. This post office can be reached by car or by trekking uphill from Kaza. Lahaul is one of the best places to visit in August in the Spiti Valley.
3. Suraj Tal
The highest lake in India, Suraj Tal is one of the top attractions in the national capital. Suraj Tal Lake is located near Baralacha Pass and offers a panoramic view. For the best views, visitors usually visit this lake in the summer months.
4. Buddhist Monasteries
Spiti is home to many religious communities, which is one of the reasons why it is so popular as a tourist destination. There are many monasteries established along the valley, which you should visit during your visit for the pure experience of bliss. Some of the most famous monasteries in the area are Key Monastery, Kungri Monastery, Kardang Monastery
5. Dhankar Lake
If peace and adventure are what you are looking for, then the Spiti trek is what you need during your trip. Located on a cliff above the monastery at 4,270m, Dhankar Lake is one of the best places to visit through trekking. Even though the trek is difficult, the panoramic views here will make your trip unique.
Tips For Visiting Spiti Valley In November
1. Check the weather conditions: In November, Spiti Valley experiences cold and harsh weather conditions, and the temperature can drop to as low as -20°C. So, it is better to check the weather conditions before planning your trip.
2. Carry warm clothes: Since the temperature in Spiti Valley in November is extremely low, you should pack warm clothes, thermal wear, gloves, caps, and waterproof jackets to keep yourself warm.
3. Carry necessary medicines: The harsh weather conditions in Spiti Valley can be challenging for some people, so it is better to carry essential medicines and a first-aid kit with you.
4. Be prepared for roadblocks: In November, the roads to Spiti Valley may be blocked due to snowfall, so it is better to be prepared for such situations. You can carry some snacks and water bottles with you to avoid any inconvenience.
5. Visit the monasteries: Spiti Valley is known for its beautiful monasteries, and November is the best time to explore them as there are fewer tourists around. Some of the famous monasteries to visit are Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, and Dhankar Monastery.
6. Enjoy the local food: Spiti Valley is known for its unique and delicious local food, and November is a great time to enjoy it. You can try dishes like thukpa, momos, and chhang.
Conclusion
Travelling to Spiti Valley in November also allows for a unique perspective on the region’s natural beauty, as the landscape transitions into a winter wonderland. The snow-capped peaks and frozen rivers create a picturesque setting that is perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts looking to capture the raw beauty of this Himalayan region during the off-season.
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People also ask about Spiti Valley in November
1. Is it safe to visit Spiti Valley during November month?
Yes, it is safe to visit Spiti Valley during November month but be prepared for cold weather and possible road closures due to snow.
2. Is it possible to visit Spiti Valley during November month?
Yes, it is possible to visit Spiti Valley in November, but it is important to be prepared for cold weather and potential road closures due to snow.
3. Are the roads to Spiti Valley open in November?
Spiti Valley roads may be open during November, but due to the heavy snowfall, there is a chance that they will close. It is best to check the road conditions before heading out.
4. What activities can I do in Spiti Valley in November?
There are still plenty of things to do in November, such as visiting the monasteries, getting to know the local people, and seeing the beautiful scenery. However, you may not be able to go trekking or camping in November because of the weather.
5. Are accommodations and restaurants open in Spiti Valley in November?
Some accommodations and restaurants may remain open, but it’s best to check availability and make reservations in advance due to fewer tourists during this time.