Spitti and Lahaul
Spiti, the middle country, is a part of the Western Himalayas, a barren uncompromising land, which is a world away from the world you know.This mountain kingdom is located between Ladakh and Tibet, with Kullu further south to it.The second segment of your journey takes you to Lahaul.Lahaul and Spiti are two subdivisions of a common region, and despite their topographical and cultural similarities, these are two distinctive places with their own identity.Manali,the queen of Himachal Himalayas is but 51 kms south of Lahaul and is connected by the famous Rohtang pass.The tour starts from Delhi and takes you to Shimla by road.Shimla was the summer capital of india during the British Raj. From Shimla make your way to Sarahan.The road takes you through picturesque woodlands and orchards, that are much abundant in this part of the valley. From Sarahan drive to Sangla which is on the banks of river Baspa. Enjoy the breath taking view of the Kinnaur-Kailash from here.This region is famous for its saffron farms.The next halt will be at Nako.This is an ancient village , and is rich in Buddhist history and culture.From Nako, make your way to Tabo, which is another picturesque hamlet, much like Nako and from here to Kaza. Kaza is the gateway to the land of Spitti. Spitti was once known as the 'Forbidden Land' due to its inaccesibility owning to the uncompromising and ferocious terrain. Kaza, like Tabo and Nako, are rich in buddhist culture and there is a resounding Tibetian influence in all walks of life, in these regions. From Kaza, your journey takes you to Keylong which is the head quaters of Lahaul district.Lahaul is higher than Spitti in altitude, and the air here is much thinner. Due to scanty rains, this region provides perfect trekking environment. Spitti and Lahaul are connected by the Kunzam Pass.After Keylong you once again come back to Manali.The terrain in Manali will look soothening to your travel weary eyes, as it is not as overwhelming as Spitti or Lahaul, for the simple reason of being closer to civilisation.