Start your trip by arriving in Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Take a relaxing morning walk along the bustling Mall Road, lined with shops and colonial-era buildings. In the afternoon, visit the Viceregal Lodge, a magnificent British-era structure, and explore its beautiful gardens. As the evening sets in, enjoy a leisurely stroll at the Ridge, a spacious open space with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Mall Road: Visit shops and colonial-era buildings. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 2 hours.
Viceregal Lodge: Explore the British-era structure and gardens. Estimated cost: INR 10. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
The Ridge: Enjoy the panoramic views. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Saturday, October 21, 2023: Shimla to Narkanda
Embark on a scenic drive from Shimla to Narkanda, a tranquil hill station known for its apple orchards. In the morning, visit Hatu Peak, the highest point in the region, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. In the afternoon, enjoy a nature walk amidst the beautiful pine forests surrounding Tannu Jubbar Lake. As the evening sets in, relax at your hotel and savor delicious local cuisine.
Tannu Jubbar Lake: Take a serene nature walk. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Hotel and dinner in Narkanda. Estimated cost: Check hotel prices. Time spent: Rest of the evening.
Sunday, October 22, 2023: Narkanda to Sangla Valley
Embark on a picturesque drive from Narkanda to Sangla Valley, one of the most scenic valleys in Himachal Pradesh. In the morning, visit the stunning Bering Nag Temple, known for its architectural beauty and serene surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the quaint village of Rakcham and immerse yourself in its tranquil atmosphere. As the evening sets in, relax by the Baspa River and enjoy the mesmerizing sunset.
Bering Nag Temple: Admire the beautiful architecture. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Rakcham Village: Explore the serene village. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Relax by the Baspa River. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Restaurants
For breakfast, you can visit the charming Cafe 42 in Sangla Valley. They offer delicious pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to the popular Riverside Restaurant located near the Baspa River. They serve a variety of dishes including local Spitian cuisine and international favorites. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at the scenic Batseri Village Restaurant. With its warm and cozy ambiance, this restaurant offers a range of traditional Himachali dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Monday, October 23, 2023: Sangla Valley to Kalpa
Continue your journey to Kalpa, a picturesque town known for its apple orchards and mesmerizing views of the Kinner Kailash range. In the morning, visit the ancient Kalpa Monastery, a spiritual haven offering tranquility and panoramic vistas. In the afternoon, explore the lush apple orchards and try some freshly plucked apples. As the evening sets in, unwind at your hotel while soaking in the serene mountain views.
Kalpa Monastery: Experience spirituality and panoramic views. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Apple orchard visit: Enjoy the lush orchards. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Hotel and relaxation in Kalpa. Estimated cost: Check hotel prices. Time spent: Rest of the evening.
Tuesday, October 24, 2023: Kalpa to Tabo
Embark on a mesmerizing drive to Tabo, a small Himalayan village famous for its ancient Tabo Monastery. In the morning, explore the exquisite murals and sculptures inside the monastery, considered to be one of the oldest continuously functioning Buddhist establishments. In the afternoon, visit the nearby caves and enjoy the serene surroundings. As the evening sets in, witness the captivating beauty of the stargazing in this remote location.
Tabo Monastery: Admire the ancient murals and sculptures. Estimated cost: INR 30. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Exploring nearby caves. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Stargazing in Tabo. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Wednesday, October 25, 2023: Tabo to Chandratal Lake
Conclude your trip with a visit to the stunning Chandratal Lake, a high-altitude lake famous for its mesmerizing beauty. In the morning, hike towards the lake and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic by the lake's shore and take in the breathtaking views. As the evening sets in, bid farewell to Spiti Valley and depart for your onward journey.
Trek to Chandratal Lake: Enjoy the scenic hike. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 3-4 hours.
Picnic at Chandratal Lake: Relax and savor the beautiful views. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Departure from Spiti Valley. Estimated cost: Flight prices vary. Check flight prices. Time spent: Rest of the evening.
Restaurants
If you're looking for a delicious breakfast in Tabo, head to The Monk's Cafe. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly brewed coffee and tea, along with tasty pancakes and pastries. The average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For a satisfying lunch in Chandratal, dine at The Himalayan Kitchen. This restaurant serves a range of delectable Tibetan and Indian dishes, including momos, thukpa, and dal fry. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at The Snow Lion Restaurant in Chandratal. This charming eatery specializes in mouthwatering local Spitian cuisine, such as butter tea, chhang, and buckwheat pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a more relaxing experience in Spiti Valley, make sure to visit the Gue Village, located near Tabo. It is home to the unique and beautifully preserved mummy of a Buddhist monk. Additionally, spend some time exploring the quaint village of Chitkul in Sangla Valley, known for its peaceful ambiance and captivating mountain views. These hidden treasures will provide you with serene and unforgettable moments during your trip.