5 super essentials to pack to Spiti Valley

Spiti Valley, the cold Trans-Himalayan desert is home to some of the highest villages in the world and is also one of the best places for an end to end rugged Himalayan road trip. Listed below are the things which you should pack for this road trip but make sure you don’t end up over packing. 

This list is perfect for anyone travelling to Spiti Valley for seven-15 days. 

Spiti Travelling gear:

Spiti Valley experiences cold temperatures all year round, so it is essential to pack warm clothes. Layering is recommended to adjust to temperature changes throughout the day.

Don’t forget to pack items like gloves, scarves, and hats to protect yourself from the cold winds and temperatures in Spiti Valley.

A rucksack of a minimum 50 litres.(Must have)

A day pack to move around with ease.(Must have)

A camera with a minimum of 8GB.(Optional)

Carrying a one litre water bottle along is a great thing for every person who hits the road.(Must have)

A backpack rain cover.

Clothing:

As you will be walking and hiking in rough terrains, it is important to have comfortable and sturdy shoes that provide good grip and ankle support.

Two or three short sleeve cotton T-shirts or shirts during the summer months between October to May.

One half pants and one long pants. Cargo pants are favourable due to multiple pockets and their quick dry quality. Please avoid carrying jeans.

During the winter months from November to February carry winter clothing. Jacket, monkey cap, shawl, thick socks and gloves. Long thick pants will also be ideal.

Sweatshirt. (Must Have)

Three sets of undergarments and three sets of socks. Please avoid white socks.

UV protected sun glares are a must.(Must have)

Cap.(Must have during summer months)

A thin towel is preferred to a thick one as it saves on space in the bag pack.

A pair of shoes that are comfortable and have a good grip. Anklets are preferable.

Slippers or flip-flops. (Must have)

Personal:

The high altitude in Spiti Valley exposes you to strong UV rays. Protect your skin with sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from the intense sunlight.

Toothpaste, toothbrush, soap bars, shampoo sachets or small bottle of shampoo.

Toilet roll.(Must have)

Paper soap, hand sanitizer, detergent soap sachets.

Sunscreen with a minimum of 40 SPF.(Must have)

Body sprays are also good, but glass bottled perfumes are better kept at home.

Mosquito repellent cream.

Two thin Bed-sheets.(Optional)

Accessories:

Carry any necessary prescription medications and a first aid kit. Altitude sickness is common in Spiti Valley, so it is advisable to consult a doctor and carry necessary medications like Diamox.

Power board to charge multiple gadgets is a must as most lodging and boarding places have only one plug point.

A LED torch is a good thing to carry along as the lights tend to go.(Must have)

Ten garbage bags to carry dirty clothes while travelling is good to have. These also help to junk the trash and keep the natural setting clean and green.(Must have)

A small knife while on the road is a safety measure that is advised.(Optional)

 Medical:

Stay hydrated during your trip by carrying a water bottle. Additionally, it is advisable to carry water purification tablets to ensure you have access to clean drinking water.

Glucose powder.(Must have)

Tablets for headaches, diarrhoea, motion sickness.

Bandage.

Cotton.

Aspirin.

Medication for rashes.

Sprain relief plasters.

Personal medication if any.

Spiti Valley has limited electricity supply. Carry a power bank to charge your electronic devices, and an adapter to fit the local electrical outlets.

Most places in Spiti Valley don’t have ATMs, so it is important to carry enough cash for your expenses, including food, accommodation, and local transportation.

– Snacks and energy bars: It is a good idea to carry some snacks and energy bars for times when you may not have access to food or for long journeys.

– Camera and extra batteries: The scenic landscapes of Spiti Valley are a photographer’s dream. Don’t forget to carry your camera along with extra batteries and memory cards.

– Travel insurance: It is crucial to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, especially in remote areas like Spiti Valley.

– Maps and guidebooks: While Spiti Valley may not have well-marked roads and internet connectivity, carrying physical maps and guidebooks can be handy in navigating the area.

Remember to pack light as you may have to carry your belongings during treks and hikes. Prepare well in advance and check the weather conditions before your trip to ensure you are adequately equipped for your adventure in Spiti Valley.