7-Day Nature Itinerary for Spiti in August 2023

1. Day 1: Explore Kaza town
   Starting point: Chandigarh Airport
   7 hours 30 minutes (228 miles) from Chandigarh Airport

   Start your day by exploring the local attractions of Kaza town. Visit the ancient Key Monastery, built in the 11th century and learn about the culture and traditions of the monks. Spend the afternoon at the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary and spot fascinating wildlife such as snow leopards, ibex and blue sheep. End the day with a visit to the Tabo Monastery and witness the grandeur of the architecture.

2. Day 2: Dhankar Lake and Village
   19 minutes (8.2 miles) from Kaza town

   Start your day with a hike to Dhankar Lake and enjoy the ethereal beauty of the clear blue waters and surrounding mountains. After the hike, visit the Dhankar Monastery, one of the oldest in the Spiti Valley. In the evening, explore the Dhankar village and interact with the locals to learn about their lifestyle and culture.

3. Day 3: Pin Valley National Park
   3 hours 26 minutes (96.6 miles) from Dhankar Village

   Embark on a jeep safari to the Pin Valley National Park, known for its unique flora and fauna. Spot the elusive snow leopard, Siberian ibex, and Tibetan gazelle. Take a nature walk along the Pin River and enjoy the serene atmosphere. End your day with a visit to the Fossil Park and explore the ancient marine fossils of the region.

4. Day 4: Komic Village and Tangyud Monastery
   2 hours 20 minutes (57.9 miles) from Pin Valley National Park

   Start your day by visiting the highest village in Asia, Komic. Take a stroll around the village and marvel at the stunning architecture. Visit the Tangyud Monastery and witness the grandeur of the murals and thangkas. In the evening, enjoy a homestay experience with a local family to learn more about their culture and lifestyle.

5. Day 5: Langza Village and the Buddha Statue
   1 hour 58 minutes (34.6 miles) from Komic Village

   Head to Langza village and explore the ancient fossils of Langza. Take a photo with the massive 33-ft high Golden Buddha Statue, overlooking the Himalayas. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Chau Chau Kang Nelda Peak and spend the evening stargazing in the clear skies.

6. Day 6: Chandratal Lake and Suraj Tal Lake
   5 hours 47 minutes (122 miles) from Langza Village

   Embark on a scenic drive to Chandratal Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in the country. Take a short hike around the lake and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Next, visit the Suraj Tal Lake, also known as the 'Lake of the Sun God.' Spend the evening enjoying a campfire beside the lake and stargazing in the clear skies.

7. Day 7: Return to Chandigarh
   11 hours 38 minutes (303 miles) from Suraj Tal Lake

   Head back to Chandigarh and depart for your next destination with unforgettable memories of nature's beauty in Spiti Valley.

Recommendations

Don't forget to visit the Chandra Taal Bird Sanctuary, home to rare bird species such as the snow finch and Himalayan snowcock. Take a day trip to the scenic Pin-Parvati Pass and witness the stunning views of the Himalayas. For adventure enthusiasts, Spiti Valley offers thrilling activities such as river rafting and mountain biking.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Key Monastery (1-2 hours, Free)
• Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary (2-3 hours, INR 500 per person)
• Tabo Monastery (1-2 hours, Free)
• Dhankar Lake and Village Hike (4-5 hours, Free)
• Pin Valley National Park Jeep Safari (6-7 hours, INR 3000 per jeep)
• Komic Village and Tangyud Monastery (3-4 hours, Free)
• Langza Village and the Buddha Statue (2-3 hours, Free)
• Chandratal Lake and Suraj Tal Lake (8-10 hours, INR 5000 per jeep)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 8500 (excluding accommodation and meals)

Check out hotel and flight prices at https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.