Spiti

If you're an Indian expat living in the UAE and planning to renew your passport or apply for a new one, there's a new rule you need to be aware of— Annexure J . This recent update has caused quite a stir among the Indian community abroad, especially in the Gulf. So what exactly is Annexure J, and how does it impact you? Let’s break it down in plain, simple terms. What is Annexure J? Annexure J is a self-declaration form that Indian nationals residing outside India must now submit when applying for a passport—whether it's a renewal, reissue, or a fresh application. It's a relatively short document, but its implications are important. The form essentially requires the applicant to confirm that they have not acquired citizenship or permanent residency (PR) of another country. In other words, you’re declaring that you're still an Indian citizen. Why This Change? The Indian government says the move is part of efforts to streamline passport services and prevent misu...

Spiti Valley If you're wondering how to start planning your trip, don’t miss this helpful  How to Reach Spiti Valley Guide  that breaks down routes, road conditions, and transportation options from both Manali and Shimla sides. For those who prefer their travel plans to be smooth and stress-free, you can always explore well-curated  Spiti Valley tour packages . These often include accommodations, local guides, transport, and even cultural experiences like homestays and monastery visits—perfect for travelers who want to dive deeper into the local way of life. If you're dreaming of winding mountain roads, crystal-clear skies, ancient monasteries clinging to cliffs, and an overwhelming sense of peace, Spiti Valley might just be calling your name. Tucked away in Himachal Pradesh, India, this cold desert mountain region is an untouched gem that still feels worlds away from commercial tourism. For many travelers, Spiti is a spiritual and scenic retreat that offers raw adventure...

In a quiet corner of Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti Valley, tucked away between snow-capped peaks and prayer-flag-draped trails, lies a tiny village called Hikkim. With just a few mud-brick houses and a harsh climate, it might seem like the kind of place forgotten by time. But Hikkim is home to something truly remarkable—the world’s highest post office. Sitting at an altitude of 14,567 feet (4,440 meters), this modest post office connects one of the remotest parts of India to the rest of the world. It might not look like much from the outside—just a small, two-room house built into the mountainside—but step inside, and you'll feel the beating heart of a community that thrives on connection. Where Time Stands Still, Letters Still Matter In an age of instant messages and emails, the idea of sending a postcard might seem quaint. But here in Hikkim, it’s a cherished ritual. Travelers from across the globe trek up winding mountain roads just to drop a postcard stamped from the “world’s hig...

Bollywood actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood, widely admired for his humanitarian work, recently found himself in the middle of an unexpected controversy. A video of him riding a motorcycle in Spiti Valley without wearing a helmet or any visible safety gear has gone viral on social media, drawing criticism from both fans and authorities. The Spiti police have confirmed that action will be taken as per traffic rules. The actor, who is known for his relief efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic and for helping migrant workers return home, was in the scenic Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh—apparently shooting or traveling for personal reasons. The now-viral video shows him casually riding a Royal Enfield motorcycle through the mountainous terrain. While the backdrop was undoubtedly beautiful, viewers quickly noticed one glaring issue: Sonu wasn’t wearing a helmet. Social media users were quick to point out the irresponsibility of the act. “You help so many people, but what kind of example...

There are mountain passes—and then there’s Kunzum Pass . At a jaw-dropping altitude of 4,551 meters (14,931 feet), Kunzum is not just a gateway to the remote and mystical Spiti Valley, but a rite of passage for every traveler who dreams of conquering the high Himalayas. Whether you're planning your first journey to Spiti or you're a seasoned mountain wanderer, this Kunzum Pass detail guide will help you navigate everything from travel tips and terrain conditions to what makes this pass so spiritually and geographically significant. What Is Kunzum Pass? Located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, Kunzum Pass connects the Lahaul Valley with the Spiti Valley. It’s the main route travelers take when heading from Manali to Kaza—the district headquarters of Spiti. What makes Kunzum unique isn’t just the altitude, but the sheer drama of the landscape. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, wide-open valleys, and endless skies, it offers panoramic views that will lea...

Tucked away in the cold, arid mountains of Himachal Pradesh lies Gue, a tiny village in the Spiti Valley that feels like a secret the Himalayas have long kept hidden. With its windswept landscapes and quiet, soulful beauty, Gue would already be a place worth visiting. But what truly makes it extraordinary is a mysterious resident who has been sitting in silent meditation for over 500 years — a naturally preserved mummy of a Buddhist monk. The Mummy of Sangha Tenzin At first glance, you might think the mummy in Gue is a museum exhibit, but it’s far more intimate than that. Housed in a small glass enclosure inside a modest shrine, the mummy is believed to be Sangha Tenzin, a monk from the 15th century. Local legends say he sacrificed his life to save the village from a deadly scorpion infestation. According to the tale, his body slowly dried and preserved itself while he meditated, possibly through a rare process called self-mummification. Unlike mummies found in Egypt, Sangha Tenzin’...

Tucked away in the remote corners of Himachal Pradesh, the Spiti Valley feels like a place out of time. With its stark landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and endless silence, it’s easy to understand why monks chose this high-altitude desert as a spiritual retreat. Among the many things that make Spiti magical, its ancient monasteries stand out as true treasures—each with its own story, energy, and view of the world. Here’s a guide to some of the most iconic monasteries in Spiti Valley—places where time slows down, and peace whispers through the mountains. 1. Key Monastery – The Heart of Spiti No trip to Spiti is complete without visiting Key Monastery (also spelled “Kye” or “Ki”). Perched dramatically on a hilltop at 13,668 feet, it looks like something from a fairy tale. This is the largest monastery in Spiti and also one of the oldest, believed to be over a thousand years old. When you walk through its narrow, dimly lit corridors, you’ll pass ancient murals, scriptures, and meditat...

If there’s one bike trip that feels like a true escape from the modern world, it’s the ride through Spiti Valley . Rugged, raw, and soul-stirring, Spiti offers an unfiltered Himalayan experience that is not for the faint of heart — but absolutely worth every mile. A Spiti bike trip is not just about the thrill of winding mountain roads. It’s about discovering ancient villages, isolated monasteries, and landscapes that look like they’ve come straight out of a dream. Planning your journey? Here are some of the best places to visit on Spiti bike trip that should definitely make your checklist. 1. Kaza — The Heart of Spiti Kaza is your main base in Spiti — where the fuel, food, and Wi-Fi (sort of) are. It’s a charming little town with a backdrop of mountains that’ll leave you speechless. From here, you can explore the region in different directions. Make sure to take it slow here — both to acclimatize and to enjoy the vibe of high-altitude mountain life. 2. Key Monastery — Spiritual ...

There’s something magical about riding a bike through the mountains—just you, the road, and endless landscapes that shift from green valleys to barren moonscapes. This summer, I finally ticked off a long-pending dream: a bike trip to Spiti Valley. And let me tell you—it was nothing short of life-changing. The Call of Spiti I had heard stories of Spiti Valley’s raw beauty, dramatic cliffs, and quiet monasteries. But no photo or blog truly prepares you for the real thing. Located in Himachal Pradesh, Spiti is often called the "Middle Land" between India and Tibet. It’s remote, rugged, and soul-stirring. Our journey started from Manali. I was with two close friends, and we rented Royal Enfields for the ride. With backpacks strapped tight and hearts full of excitement, we set off. The first stretch from Manali to Kaza is about 200 km, but don’t let the distance fool you—it’s a full-day ride thanks to the broken roads, water crossings, and sharp altitude gains. The Ride and th...

Tucked away in the remote folds of Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti Valley lies a bridge that few travelers talk about—but those who do, never forget. Chimchim Bridge isn’t just a crossing over a river; it’s a quiet slice of connection between rugged mountains, ancient culture, and the solitude that defines this high-altitude desert. Spiti Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes and monasteries that seem carved out of time, has long drawn adventurers, bikers, and seekers of silence. Yet Chimchim Bridge remains off most tourist maps. That’s exactly what makes it special. Where Exactly Is Chimchim Bridge? Chimchim Bridge lies on the road between Dhankar and Mudh Village (in Pin Valley National Park). It connects the stark, brown cliffs of Spiti to the greener, slightly softer Pin Valley—a transition you can literally feel under your feet as you cross. The bridge itself is simple—just a narrow metal structure built for light vehicles and pedestrians—but it spans a deep gorge where the Pin...

If you’ve ever dreamt of traveling to a place that feels like the edge of the world, chances are Spiti Valley is already on your list. And at the heart of it all is Kaza — the valley’s main town, a little outpost of life tucked deep in the Himalayas. But the magic of Kaza isn’t just in where you go — it’s in when you go. After a few trips, some bitter-cold mistakes, and sun-drenched moments I’ll never forget, here’s what I’ve learned as a traveler about the best time to visit Kaza. ☀️ May to Mid-October – The Golden Window If you want to experience Spiti without worrying about snow-blocked roads or life-threatening chills, this is your time . The snow starts melting around late April, and by May, the valley begins to open its arms again. Weather: Clear skies, cold nights, sunny days. Roads: Manali to Kaza route usually opens by June (depending on snow). Shimla route stays more consistent. What to Expect: Open monasteries, accessible villages (Langza, Kibber, Hikkim), foss...