1. Day backpack (20 – 30 Ltrs): When you are on a local sightseeing tour, you are required to carry only a few necessary items and for that, you need a day backpack as you will leave your bigger one at your designated stay.
2. Floaters or Sandals: When you are spending your day at leisure, a good pair of sandals and floaters will help you to move freely.
3. 1 Down Jacket / Main Jacket: It’s emphasized that you need to carry proper layers so you can avoid getting cold which is why you need to carry an insulated jacket that you can put on over your other clothes.
4. 1 Pair of Thermal: Thermal is a piece of garment that helps in keeping your body warm in cold temperatures. It is a necessary item that you need when traveling to cold regions.
5. Outdoor Shoes: A comfortable shoe is required when traveling outdoors, especially in the mountains. They shouldn’t be chunky, instead, they should be lightweight and sturdy.
6. 3 Quick Dry Tees: You must keep at least three pairs of quick dry tees so that you can wash them in between stops for proper hygiene.
7. 3 Pair of Cotton Socks: Cotton socks are extremely comfortable to move around in and are lightweight as well which is why you can always count on a good pair of cotton socks while traveling. However, keep in mind to change them and avoid wearing them if they are moist.
8. 1 Pair of Woolen Socks: A good pair of woolen socks, especially merino, are comfortable, limit odors and provide adequate insulation from the cold so you can wear them at night.
9. 1 Poncho: A poncho is an evolved form of a raincoat that provides coverage to your body as well as your bag and ensures total water protection from rain.
10. Quick-dry towel: A quick-dry towel will help in maintaining proper hygiene. It must dry quickly because the wet fabric will only increase the chance of bacterial growth.

NOTE: Travellers residing outside Chandhighar are suggested to book trains/flights reaching Chandhighar not later than 2 PM on the trip start date. Similarly, on trip end date, book returning flight/trains leaving post 10 AM.

NOTE: Numerous factors such as weather, road conditions, the physical ability of participants etc. May cause itinerary change. We reserve the rights to change any schedule in the interest of safety, comfort and general wellbeing.

NOTE: The age limit of our group departures is 16 to 42 years due to the power packed itineraries that we provide to our travellers. We can customise trips for travellers beyond the mentioned age bracket.

IRCTC Rules

• Kindly note that Bhatakna makes its tickets from IRCTC certified agents.
• We use intelligent AI-based tools like ConfirmTicket to predict the confirmation probability of your ticket.
• It is essential to note that the tool does not guarantee a 100% confirmation for Waitlisted and RAC tickets and Bhatakna does not hold any control over confirmation of tickets.
• Incase train gets cancelled or the route gets changed due to any reason Bhatakna will not be responsible and alternate solution will be provided at monitory cost.
• We advice to book your trip at least 30 days prior to improve your possibility of getting a confirmed tickets.
• Kindly note that our team members will get in touch with you to provide alternate options for trains where you can hold a chance of a confirmed ticket which may have some monetary difference in the ticket amount which if you confirm to upgrade shall be liable to pay.
• Incase the predictability tool doesn't work and you get a RAC or Waitlisted ticket, team Bhatakna wouldn't be responsible for it.
• Incase the participant wants to cancel the train tickets & opt for flight, the cancellations charges would be applicable.

Pending Payment

Kindly complete your pending payment before 7 Days prior to the departure of the trip.
Incase you fail to pay the second installment the organizer holds the right to cancel your bookings.
Boarding will be denied incase of non payment and the seat will be allotted to someone else.
Incase of non payment the advance amount paid is not refundable.

Must Carry

• Authentic Government ID Card
• Comfortable warm clothing like woolen socks, cap, fleece jackets or warmers, down jacket, toiletries.
• Sunscreen & lip balm, Good U/V protection sunglasses
• Personal Medicines (if any)

Can we go to Spiti Valley in Winter?
Spiti Valley is accessible throughout the year. However, it lives up to its title of being the winter wonderland from December onwards. One can visit Spiti during the winter months to truly experience the charm that it has to offer. Since the terrains are rugged, the layer of snow adds more to the thrill of offroading in the valley which is why many people prefer visiting Spiti Valley in winter. 

How much time does it take to cover the distance from Shimla to Kaza?
The distance between Shimla and Lahaul is 418 Kilometers and it takes about 16 hours to reach, including leisure time and the pit-stops that we make when we are on a Spiti valley winter road trip.

When is the Manali route to Spiti Valley open?
The Manali route to Spiti Valley is open at all times but during the winter seasons, due to heavy snowfall, the roads become slippery and hostile which is why it’s not recommended for a common tourist to embark on a Spiti valley road trip in winter all on their own.

Our skilled on-ground support team, professional trip leads, and experienced drivers are the reason for making this winter Spiti trip not only possible but also safe. 

How cold is Spiti Valley during winters?
The weather in Spiti Valley is cold throughout the year but it is comparatively colder during winter. The temperature drops to -30 degrees. There is no water running in the taps, that’s how cold it gets. But it is during the winter season, especially from February to May that we schedule the winter Spiti valley road trip because the entire valley is covered in a thick blanket of snow. 

What type of food is served during the Winter Spiti trip?
We provide hygienic and nutritious food during the trip. Since the Spiti valley winter trip consists of visiting many villages, we can assure you that every meal of yours would not only be delicious but be cooked from homegrown ingredients, making it ten times better than any meal you’ll ever have. But in case, you have some preferred food type such as vegetarian or food without any onions and such, then we can make arrangements beforehand. You will just have to make sure to inform the same to your handler at the time of booking.

When is Spiti Valley Open?
Routes to Spiti Valley are open all around the year, but there is little distinction. While the Shimla route is open all around the year, the Manali route closes for a brief time due to the closing of Kunzum Pass. Moreover, the Manali route is open from June to October.

• How to reach Spiti Valley in winter?

In the winter, there are several methods to get to Spiti Valley: by road, by air, by vehicle rental, by bus, or by trekking.

By Road, The most common and reliable road route in winter is from Shimla and takes around 10-12 hours.

The Himachal Road Transport Corporation offers regular bus services from Shimla and Manali to Reckong Peo and Kaza (HRTC). The closest airport to Spiti Valley for air travel is Bhuntar Airport, which is situated close to Kullu and Manali. Following your arrival at Bhuntar Airport, you can drive to Manali and then on to Spiti Valley.

• Is Solo Travel to Spiti in Winter a Good Idea?

Solo travel to Spiti Valley can be an excellent idea for certain travelers, however, it comes with its limitations and challenges. Due to the drastic weather conditions, remote locations, road accessibility, and language barriers, it is safe to plan well in advance and be realistic with your preferences & experience, if you choose to go on a Solo trip.

• Are the Roads to Spiti Open During Winter?

Many a time, due to drastic weather conditions and heavy    snowfall, many of the roads and mountain passes can be closed or restricted. The most common routes to Spiti Valley, like the Manali-Kaza road, Kunzum Pass, and Rohtang Pass, are typically closed from late October or early November until late spring or early summer.

• What Exciting Activities Can You Enjoy in Spiti During Winter?

Skiing, Snowboarding, Ice-skating, Stargazing, Camping, Photography, attending local winter festivals, and winter trekking are some of the activities you can partake in on your Winter Spiti Valley tour.

• Can we go to Spiti Valley in winter?

Yes, visiting Spiti Valley in Winter offers a unique experience itself. However, it is important to know that weather conditions can make Spiti Winter trips challenging, as it can affect Road conditions, Food and accommodation availability, cause dipping temperatures, and restrict activities. 

• Is Spiti closed in December?

Spiti Valley experiences a brutally harsh winter in December, due to which many roads and mountain passes can be closed due to heavy snowfall. 

While the Kinnaur route ensures year-round accessibility to Spiti, the frequently utilized pathways to Spiti Valley, including the Manali-Kaza road and routes through Rohtang Pass and Kunzum Pass, are commonly employed. and Kunzum Pass, are usually closed during this period due to the perilous conditions caused by road blockages.

• ·Where is Winter Spiti located?

Winter Spiti denotes the Spiti Valley during the winter season, an elevated desert region situated in the northeastern part of Himachal Pradesh, India. Explore this mesmerizing destination with a customized Himachal tour package..

• When does it snow in Spiti Valley?

Snowfall in Spiti Valley typically begins in late October to early November and continues through the winter months, lasting until March or even early April. The heaviest snowfall in Spiti Valley occurs during December, January, and February, which can often lead to the closure of some of the high mountain passes and roads.

• What are the essential items to include in your packing list for a winter trip to Spiti Valley?

Warm clothing, Winter-wear, medical kit, Backpacks, Permits, food supplies, Trekking gear, Communication devices, Cash and cards, and Basic hygiene essentials are some of the things to pack for the Winter Spiti Valley trip.

• How cold is it in Kaza during winter?

It is extremely cold in Kaza during winter, and the temperatures can drop extremely low, with the town witnessing heavy snowfall. Daytime temperatures in Kaza during the winter can vary but typically range from -5°C to 5°C. Nighttime temperatures can fall to -15°C to -20°C. Winter temperatures in Kaza can often remain below freezing even during the day, especially in the coldest months of December and January.

• Which is the coldest month in Spiti?

The coldest month is usually January. Winters can be harsh in Spiti during January. Daytime temperatures often remain below freezing, and nighttime temperatures drop even further, sometimes reaching as low as -20°C (-4°F) or even colder. Severe winter conditions result in substantial snowfall, causing lakes to partially freeze and rendering numerous roads, remote areas, and high mountain passes impassable. the weather impact.

• Which month is best for Spiti Valley?

The optimal time to explore Spiti hinges on your preferences and desired experiences. If you crave the enchanting winter vistas and are prepared for the exhilarating challenges of the cold, winter is ideal. However, if you lean towards a milder climate and an outdoor adventure, early autumn and summer are the recommended seasons to visit Spiti.

• Why is Spiti Valley so famous?

Spiti is famous for a wide variety of reasons including its beautiful landscapes, pristine rivers, picturesque desert mountains, a unique mix of local culture, delectable local food, warm inviting locals, Tibetan Buddhist cultural influence, ancient monasteries, rich heritage, unique wildlife, for adventurous activities, and also for being a winter wonderland.

• Which is the coldest village in Spiti?

Due to its elevated position, the Komic village, situated among the highest villages globally, experiences the most frigid temperatures in Spiti.

Cancellation for Backpacking Trips

• Cancellation 30 days before the starting date of the trip — Get your full trek fee back in an Bhatakna Cupon OR get a monetary refund with 15% cancellation charges.
• Cancellation between 30 days and 20 days before the starting date of the trek — Get 80% of the trek fee in an Bhatakna cupon OR get a monetary refund with 50% cancellation charges.
• Cancellation less than 20 days before the starting date of the trek — No monetary refund, get 50% of your fees in an Bhatakna Cupoun .
• Cancellation less than 15 days to Departure:No refund will be provided for any amount paid.
• Cancellation incase your not well and could not join:Incase you are unwell it is advisable to take rest however kindly note that you can find a replacement for yourself no refund or transfer is applicable incase of any illness or covid cases