A Winter Journey Through the Silence of Spiti: Gauri Hariprasad’s 8-Day Experience with Thrillophilia
A Winter Call to the Himalayas
For Gauri Hariprasad, a 33-year-old solo traveller, winter has always carried a quiet charm. The idea of exploring Spiti Valley in December was not about chasing dramatic moments or ticking off destinations, but about experiencing the stillness, raw landscapes, and slow rhythm of life in the Himalayas. When she booked the 8-day winter group tour package from Delhi to Delhi with Thrillophilia, her expectations were simple: a safe, well-organised journey that would allow her to experience Spiti comfortably during one of its coldest seasons.
What followed was an eight-day journey that balanced careful planning with authentic mountain experiences, leaving her with memories rooted in calm, connection, and quiet admiration for the region.
From Delhi to the Hills: The Journey Begins
The journey began on the evening of 20th December, when Gauri boarded an AC Volvo from Delhi’s Majnu-ka-Tilla for an overnight journey to Shimla. As the city lights faded and the road gradually climbed into the hills, the noise of daily life gave way to anticipation. By morning, misty mountain views, winding roads, and crisp air welcomed her into Himachal Pradesh.
Shimla, with its familiar colonial charm and cool winter air, felt like a gentle introduction to the journey ahead. Though it was only a transit stop, it set the tone for the days to come, marking the transition from urban spaces to remote Himalayan landscapes.
Through Kinnaur’s Valleys to Sangla
Day two unfolded with a long but scenic drive from Shimla to Sangla. As the route passed through the Kinnaur Valley, Gauri watched dense pine forests, steep mountain slopes, and the Baspa River flowing calmly alongside the road. The changing scenery made the journey feel immersive rather than tiring.
A highlight of the day was the stop at the famous “Hindustan ka Aakhri Dhaba,” where a warm Himachali meal offered both comfort and a sense of location. Sangla, often described as one of the last inhabited villages near the Indo-Tibetan border, felt quiet and untouched. The cold evening, combined with the simplicity of the surroundings, created a peaceful end to a long day on the road.
Stillness and Spirituality in Nako
On day three, the journey continued toward Nako via Karcham. One of the most striking moments came at Khab Bridge, where the Spiti and Sutlej rivers meet in a dramatic confluence. The sight felt powerful yet calming, offering a pause for reflection amid the long drive.
Nako Lake, surrounded by bare winter trees and soft light, provided a serene spot for lunch. Visiting the Nako Monastery and the Chango Gompa, home to a 500-year-old prayer wheel made of yak skin, added spiritual depth to the experience. The night spent in Nako was cold but quiet, highlighting the simplicity and resilience of life at high altitude.
Entering the Heart of Spiti Valley
Reaching Kaza on day four marked Gauri’s entry into the heart of Spiti Valley. The drive included meaningful stops, starting with the Gue Monastery, known for its naturally preserved 500-year-old mummy. This was followed by a visit to the historic Tabo Monastery, often referred to as the ‘Ajanta of the Himalayas.’
The ancient murals, peaceful courtyards, and spiritual atmosphere of Tabo left a lasting impression. By the time Gauri arrived in Kaza and settled in for a two-night stay, the landscape had shifted to stark mountains and wide valleys, reflecting the raw beauty that defines Spiti.
High-Altitude Villages Around Kaza
Day five was dedicated to exploring the high-altitude villages surrounding Kaza. The morning began with a visit to Key Monastery, perched dramatically above the valley, offering sweeping views and a calm that lingered long after leaving.
From there, Gauri travelled to Hikkim, home to the world’s highest post office, where sending a postcard felt symbolic and memorable. Lunch at Komik, one of Asia’s highest villages, was simple yet fulfilling, followed by crossing the Chicham Bridge, the highest suspension bridge in Asia. Despite the cold, the day felt comfortable and well-paced, supported by smooth transfers and thoughtful planning.
From Stark Landscapes to the Calm of Kalpa
Day six marked the journey back toward greener terrain, travelling from Kaza to Kalpa via Dhankar. The Dhankar Monastery, perched on rocky cliffs, stood as a striking reminder of human resilience in extreme conditions.
As the route gradually left Spiti and entered the Kinnaur Valley, the landscape softened. Apple orchards, winding roads, and distant views of the Kinnaur Kailash range welcomed Gauri to Kalpa. Though winter had stripped the orchards bare, the beauty of the region remained undeniable. The overnight stay here offered rest and quiet reflection.
The Road Back and Reflections from the Mountains
The final days involved travelling from Kalpa back to Shimla and then overnight to Delhi. These return journeys carried a sense of calm closure. While Gauri had hoped to witness fresh snowfall during the trip, which did not occur, this remained her only disappointment.
The overall experience stood out for its comfort, reliable accommodation, nourishing food, and strong focus on safety. Throughout the journey, Mr. Sonam Thenley, the group guide, played a key role in making the trip smooth and stress-free. His calm guidance, local knowledge, and attention to detail helped create a sense of ease, especially important for a solo traveller.
Final Thoughts on the Experience with Thrillophilia
Looking back, Gauri describes her winter Spiti journey as very well organised and deeply satisfying. The absence of snowfall did little to diminish the value of the experience, which was rich in landscapes, culture, and meaningful moments.
She expressed a clear desire to plan future trips with Thrillophilia and confidently recommends them to others seeking a dependable, thoughtfully curated Himalayan travel experience. For Gauri, this journey was a reminder that even when nature doesn’t follow expectations, the mountains still offer something lasting, quiet, and deeply fulfilling.
Read More: Thrillophilia Spiti Reviews