Pin Valley

Pin Valley

Pin Valley National Park lies in the cold desert region of Spiti, at an altitude ranging from 3,300 m (10,827 ft) to 6,632 m (21,760 ft). Spread over 675 sq. km, it is one of India’s most remote national parks and part of the larger Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area.

Known as the Land of Snow Leopards, the park is home to over 20 species of animals and 120 species of birds, including ibex, Himalayan blue sheep, red fox, Tibetan gazelle, golden eagle, and Himalayan griffon. The valley is also dotted with villages, gompas, and fields, showcasing Spitian life amidst stunning wilderness.

Best Time to Visit Pin Valley

  • May – October: Best time for treks and wildlife spotting.

  • July – August: Green meadows, wildflowers, and moderate climate.

  • Winter (November – March): Extreme cold; ideal for snow leopard tracking (with proper arrangements).

Why Visit Pin Valley

  • To spot rare wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard.

  • To trek across one of the most scenic high-altitude landscapes in India.

  • To visit Kungri Monastery, the only monastery of the Nyingmapa sect in Spiti.

  • To experience authentic Spitian village culture in Mudh and nearby hamlets.

Things to Do in & Around Pin Valley

Inside Pin Valley:

  • Wildlife Safari & Trekking – Spot ibex, foxes, snow leopards.

  • Visit Kungri Monastery – A 600-year-old monastery of the Nyingmapa sect.

  • Explore Mudh Village – The last motorable village, a base for treks.

  • Pin-Parvati Pass Trek – A challenging trail connecting Spiti to Parvati Valley.

  • Photography – Capture dramatic cliffs, streams, and vast meadows.

Nearby Attractions:

  1. Dhankar Monastery (32 km) – Built on a cliff above the Spiti-Pin confluence.

  2. Tabo Monastery (40 km) – Known as the Ajanta of the Himalayas.

  3. Kaza (32 km) – Main town of Spiti with cafes and shops.

  4. Langza, Hikkim, and Komic (45–55 km) – Famous high-altitude villages.

How to Reach Pin Valley

  • From Kaza (32 km, 1.5 hrs) – Drive via Attargo Bridge to Mudh Village.

  • From Manali (240 km, 2 days) – Via Kunzum Pass & Kaza (open May–Oct).

  • From Shimla (410 km, 2–3 days) – Via Kinnaur Valley.

Nearest town with facilities: Kaza.

Food & Facilities at Pin Valley

  • Food – Homestays in Mudh and nearby villages serve simple local food (dal, rice, thukpa, momos).

  • Stay – Homestays, guesthouses in Mudh; camping options for trekkers.

  • Shops & ATMs – Very limited; the nearest ones are in Kaza.

  • Network – Weak to no connectivity; BSNL works sometimes.

Travel Tips for Pin Valley Visitors

  • Carry warm clothing, even in summer nights.

  • If trekking, ensure you’re acclimatised in Kaza.

  • Book snow leopard expeditions with local guides in advance.

  • Carry cash – no ATMs in Pin Valley.

  • Keep medicines & snacks handy – remote region with minimal facilities.

Responsible Travel & Local Etiquette

  • Respect wildlife – observe from a distance, no loud noises.

  • Support local homestays & guides – helps community-based tourism.

  • Don’t litter – carry all plastic back to Kaza.

  • Respect monasteries – remove shoes, maintain silence.

Travel eco-friendly – minimise your carbon footprint in this fragile desert ecosystem.